The Weekly Post 2/26/15

Thursday February 26, 2015 Vol. 3, No. 1

The Weekly Post

Hot news tip? Want to advertise? Call (309) 741-9790

“We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion” Serving the fine communities of Brimfield, Dahinda, Edwards, Elmwood, Farmington, Kickapoo, Laura, Oak Hill, Princeville, Williamsfield and Yates City

****************ECRWSS*****

PRSRT. STD. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Elmwood, Illinois Permit No. 13

FREE!

Carrier Route Presort RURAL BOXHOLDER LOCAL P.O. BOXHOLDER

Compliments of Our Fine Advertisers!

Elmwood board approves junior high school renovation By BILL KNIGHT

ELMWOOD – The Board of Education on Monday voted 5-2 to contract with a Schaumburg firm to supervise the first step of a $1.5 million renovation of its Junior High School. Performance Services, Inc. will receive $$723,037 to handle mechanical, electrical, plumbing, windows and roofing work, according to the company’s Doug McMahan, who answered questions before the vote. That includes For The Weekly Post

Yates City group aids widows By MICHELLE SHERMAN

From the outside looking in, it isn’t obvious what brings a group of women to the meeting room of the Salem Township Public Library every third Saturday morning. It could be a book club, or a gardening group or a craft circle. But these women carry nothing that indicates membership to their club. At least not outwardly. “I don’t want to be a widow. None of us do,” said Linda Kennelly of Yates City, who leads the Widows’ Club. Kennelly’s husband passed away in March of 2012, and several months later she was in the library talking with Librarian Denise Hayes about the large number of widows living in the area. She suggested forming a widows’ club to reach out to those women. “The next time I was in and we were chatting, she (Hayes) said, ‘I kind of think maybe that’s a great idea,’ ” Kennelly said. Hayes then took the idea to the library Board of Trustees, who agreed it would help expand the library’s outreach. But meetings didn’t begin right away. For The Weekly Post

Continued on Page 3

$200,000 to replace an antiquated, inefficient boiler with two smaller, modular boilers in a space that could accommodate expansion if the need arises, he said. McMahan described the arrangement as a “turnkey” approach guaranteeing the price despite change orders, the performance of the new system, and returning to the District any unused funds. Board member Dean Cantu and vice president Terri Osmulski voted no. They and Board president Tom Conklin –

who voted yes – are running in the April 7 election, along with three newcomers for four open seats. “Given the uncertainty with the state and a feeling this was rushed, I’m not comfortable with moving forward this year,” Osmulski said. Board secretary Bill Frietsch disagreed, saying “We’re not rushing this. We’ve been working on this for six years. The timing’s right; the price is right.” Board member Rick LeHew argued,

ELABORATE CREATION

A monument to love Unique rock garden a lasting tribute By BILL KNIGHT

KICKAPOO – A modest marker in Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria unites the late William and Ethel Notzke, but stone remnants of a more impressive, even extravagant, symbol of their relationship survive in a unique rock garden on U.S. Route 150 between Kickapoo and Brimfield. Winter is the “off season” for visitors, but Cheryl Becker and her husband John are caretakers of sorts for what remains of a massive tribute William built over decades at the site of the old Jubilee Dairy. Arches or flat entranceways, tiny rose quartz stones and shiny feldspar all occupy the nooks and crannies of the walls and

“Postponing this will only cost the taxpayers more money in the future, from materials and lawyers and labor. Interest rates are low right now. I’m ready.” McMahan said work will be bid in April for work to start in May and be finished before Aug. 18, when students return to classrooms. He added that workers will make program adjustments after school starts, but it won’t interfere with classes. To finance the project, the Board auContinued on Page 2

Educators antsy about budget plan By MICHELLE SHERMAN

For The Weekly Post

Gov. Bruce Rauner’s plans for stemming the tide of spending in Illinois was met with mixed feelings across the state, especially for those involved in public education. During his Feb. 20 budget address, Rauner announced more than $4 billion in spending cuts beginning July 1, which will mean over $6 billion in savings to the state of Illinois. Among those cuts is pension funding, which affects public employees in nearly all realms of the state. Included in the proposed $2.2 billion in pension cuts are public school teachers and administrators, even those who were employed by the state prior to 2011. Those employed prior to 2011 are considered Tier 1 employees, meaning they can receive their pension benefits at an earlier age and with fewer years of service than those who were hired later. Benefits for these retirees also are higher than for the Tier 2 retirees. Rauner’s plan would allow these employees to take a lump-sum buyout of their pension before switching to a 401(K)-style plan. There also would be a reduction in cost of living adjustments. “The retirement plans that so many educators have been planning on for years are going to be altered dramatically” if Rauner’s pension reform gets For The Weekly Post

The rock garden above was built by the late William Notzke as a tribute to his late wife, Ethel, between Kickapoo and Brimfield.

rock ropes on the lot. It was the 1930s when William began building, sculpting or shaping tons of stones into a kaleidoscope of shapes here. “It started out, they went to Colorado for a vacation,” says Cheryl, 57, who moved here with John, 65, and their two children 25 years ago next month. “They had two kids, a son and a daughter, and he

brought back trees,” she continues. “He just kept going back and hauling back all of the rocks. It became an obsession. It took 20 years.” Long gone is the dairy, where “the best ice cream in Peoria County” was sold until the 1950s, and where customers enjoyed the view and even picnicked while waiting to buy milk and other products. Continued on Page 8

Continued on Page 2

Page 2

THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

www.wklypost.com

JH: 8th grade graduation changed Continued from Page 1

thorized an Installment Purchase Agreement to pay for the improvements and approved issuing $1.5 million in General Obligation Debt Certificates to do so. First Midstate in Bloomington is handling the transaction. The vote was the same, with Cantu and Osmulski opposing action. In other news: • the Board unanimously approved updating the District’s bullying policy to include written report forms; • the Board also unanimously approved a 2015-16 school calendar that has classes start Aug. 18 and end May 31, with five emergency days built in and March’s Spring Break expanded

from two days to four days; • Counselor Janelle Meyers announced that the Senior Class picked Hannah Huber as recipient of the annual D.A.R. award; • Superintendent Chad Wagner announced that the District’s financial profile is now a 3.55 out of 4, adding that it’s a situation “not due to expenditure problems but revenue problems”; • the Board also changed future 8th grade graduations to a recognition event during school rather than a formal commencement; and, • supported a policy of having semester examinations as a valuable experience to prepare for college.

BUDGET: Meetings started 2013 Continued from Page 1

As of December 1st For a Limited Time Only!

32-Month CD

1.26 Annual Percentage Yield

through the legislature, said Elmwood Community School District 322 Superintendent Chad Wagner. John Asplund, Superintendent of Farmington Community Unit School District 265, agreed, adding he is unsure whether the plan will pass legislative muster. “The (Illinois) Supreme Court has ruled that … the (Illinois) constitution says what the constitution says, and the constitution says your benefits may not be, will not be, diminished.” Though pensions are a big sticking point, Rauner also has proposed the largest amount of funding for K-12 education in Illinois history. While the governor’s plan would not bring general state aid promised to school districts to 100 percent of the foundation level, it is an increase over the past several years. “Additional dollars would help us to support the continued success of our students by providing dollars to programs and expenditures that would have otherwise needed to be cut,” Wagner said, noting CUSD 322 has lost more than $800,000 in GSA since 2009. Asplund is more cautious in enthusiasm over the increase, since the extra money is still $226,000 less than what CUSD 265 should be receiving. “As much as we’re excited that it looks like there could potentially be more” funding, he said, “it’s not enough

($5,000 Minimum) Penalty for early withdrawal

Current IRA Rate 1.01 Annual Percentage Yield As of December 31, 2014

Consult a Bank Employee for more information

We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion

to make us appreciably wealthier.” While pensions and general state aid are getting the most attention, Asplund is concerned about proposed cuts to transportation funding and funding for nationally board-certified teachers. Decreases to the amount of money school districts receive to transport students negatively impacts rural districts, he said. Rural districts tend to cover a larger land area, meaning buses must travel farther. “We can’t continue to take those hits to our transportation fund year in and year out,” he said, noting the state promise of reimbursement to school districts stays at 75 percent of total cost under the 2016 budget proposal. “We have students that don’t have the means to get themselves to school and, soon, we’re not going to have the means to pick them up.” Though funding for transportation has stayed stagnant, the governor plans to “zero out” money to recruit and pay nationally board-certified teachers. The standards and policies to which teachers are held are increasing, but the state does not want to put forth the money to pay them accordingly, Asplund says. “When the government says, time and again, ‘We want excellent teachers,’ it seems like they’re doing the opposite,” he said. “For my three children, right now, I’d have a hard time telling them to be a teacher in Illinois.”

www.wklypost.com

THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

Page 3

THE WEEK AHEAD HOT PICKS This Week!

s Trivia Night – St. Patrick’s Altar & Rosary Society has Trivia Night Saturday (Feb. 28) at Maple Lane Country Club. Dinner at 5:30, trivia to follow. $120 per table of up to 8. Call Kim DeSplinter at (309) 742-8576. Cash prizes.

s Noodles for Poodles – A chicken and noodles dinner to raise funds for SAMS animal shelter will be held Saturday (Feb. 28), 4:30-7 p.m. at United Methodist Church of Elmwood. Cost $8, 10 and under half price, kids 3 and under free.

This Week’s Events

s Story Time – Dangerous Deeds &

0-5 and their caregiver is March 4 from 9-10 a.m. at Morrison and Mary Wiley Library in Elmwood. Call (309) 7422431.

Daring Reads story time is today (Feb. 26) at 6 p.m. at Morrison and Mary Wiley Library in Elmwood, (309) 7422431. s Disaster Workshop – Peoria County's Public Information Officer Jenny Fulton s Doughnut Day – The Elmwood Volwill present “Let's Talk Disasters,” a free leyball Club will sell Krispy Kreme public workshop 6-8 p.m. on Thursday, Doughnuts Saturday (Feb. 28) from 7 March 5 at ICC’s North Campus. a.m. to 2 p.m. at Elmwood Township s Cancer Benefit – A Community Center as a benefit for Dave “Flea” fund-raiser. Cost is $8 Publicize Your Event Linder is Saturday, per dozen. Call us at (309) 741-9790 March 7, at 2 p.m. at or email information about s Fish Fries – St. Wopper’s in Elmwood. your upcoming event to Patrick’s Church in Food, entertainment, martha@wklypost.com. Elmwood has pool tournament, 50-50 fish/shrimp fries Fridays raffle and silent auction. Call (305) 351-2698 or 224-0781. in Lent (Feb. 27 and March 6, 13, 20, s Quilt Show – Cabin Quilters’ quilt 27). Hours 4:30-6:30 p.m. show Saturday, March 21, 9 a.m. to 3 s Free Bread – Free bread is available at Alpha Park Library in Barp.m. Friday (Feb. 27) at 10 a.m. at Elmwood tonville. Free admission. Door prizes. Methodist Church. s Donate Blood – Blood drives will be s Dance & Auction – Jubilee Riders held in the area in March. Dates include 17th annual Dance and Auction for St. March 3 at Brimfield High School, 9 Jude Feb. 28 at Brimfield Legion Hall. a.m. to 2 p.m.; March 6 at Princeville Auction, dancing, silent auction and horse race. Doors open 7 p.m. Southern High School, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Cross plays at 8 p.m. Donation $5. March 10 at Elmwood High School, 10 s Craft Time – All ages are welcome to a.m. to 6 p.m. To make an appointment, make sun catchers March 2 at Brimfield visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800Public Library. 733-2767. s Chess Night – All skill levels wels Cemetery Walk – The first meeting come to play chess Tuesdays at Farmfor the Elmwood Cemetery Walk is ington Public Library, 6-7:30 p.m. March 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the Morrison s Play Group – Play group for children and Mary Wiley Library.

Future Events

NEW LIST - 600 N. FAIRGROUND WAY, ELMWOOD: Move right in to this great 4 BR, 2 full 2 half BA two story with part. fin. basement plus fireplace & 26x22 garage, all on aprox. 1/2 acre fenced yard. Newer: Quartz kitch. countertops, tiled back splash, 1/2 BA in base., fenced backyard, retractable awning over deck and more! $249,900 NEW LIST- FANTASTIC WATERFRONT PROPERTY IN OAK RUN! New road/driveway, cleared trees at bottom, gorgeous views, next to assoc. outlot where no one will build, ready for your dream home, dock & boat! ONE OF THE BEST WATERFRONT LOTS! $159,900 TURTLE CREEK, ELMWOOD: Great investment opportunity with three ranch duplexes, 2BR on each side, laundry hook ups, 1 w/walkout basement, all currently rented. $95,000 each 2100 SUNSET, PEKIN: Great 4BR, 2.5BA home with finished walkout lower level. Newer kitchen has all appliances, fireplace in family room, 2 car attached garage, close to shopping! $144,900 620 N. FAIRGROUND WAY, ELMWOOD: Exquisite newer 5BR, 4BA ranch home with handscraped wood floors, granite countertops, decorative trey ceilings, great room w/stone fireplace & pillars, awesome master suite, finished basement & privacy fenced yard. MUST SEE! $285,000 603 W. MAIN, ELMWOOD: Wonderful remodel, 3BR, 2.5BA home, NEW: huge kitchen/all baths/flooring/gutters/plumbing & more! Master suite, family & living rooms, 2 1/2 car garage, spacious yard. $144,000 405 N. MAGNOLIA, ELMWOOD: 3 BR, 2 BA home with main level laundry, eat in kitchen, spacious fenced back yard & 1-car garage. Great space just needs updating. $72,000 505 N. PINE ST., WILLIAMSFIELD: Great 3 BR, 3 BA ranch on nearly 1 ac. w/mature trees, partially finished walkout basement, vaulted great. room, sliders from kitch. to deck, master suite, main lvl. laundry, close to schools, park! $184,900 PENDING 608 W. Sharon, Elmwood & 11807 Kevin Ct., Brimfield

WIDOWS: Meetings started 2013 Continued from Page 1

“I just kept dragging my feet and dragging my feet,” she said, as she isn’t usually one to organize events. But in the fall of 2013, Hayes told Kennelly she wanted the group to begin with haste, so Kennelly organized the first meeting. “Sometimes we mention our husbands,” said Laurie Leadley of Yates City, who has attended the group from the beginning, “but we don’t sit around feeling sorry for ourselves.” Most meetings, which average between five and 10 participants, consist of

the members drinking coffee and socializing. While grief is always there in the background, it rarely becomes a main topic of discussion. The group also goes out to eat together, and members have taken day bus trips together in the past. “Grief can be pretty devastating,” Kennelly said. “Just to know there’s somebody out there feeling like you feel ... We all feel the same. “We have our little differences, but we all feel grief.”

AUTO/HOME DISCOUNT

A Value Too Good To Pass Up Think you are paying too much for your Auto and Home insurance? Get together with your nearby Pekin Insurance Agent and discover how you can save substantial premium dollars with an Auto/Home Discount. You’ll be pleased to hear that you can save up to 30% on your Homeowners premiums and up to 15% on your Auto premiums—a value that is too good to pass up. Call today about the Auto/Home Discount that will protect your auto and home Beyond the expected.® Elmwood Insurance Agency, Inc.

Agency Name Address Phone Scot Jehle & Janice Nash P.O. Box 827 Elmwood, IL 61529 309-742-2141

scot@elmwoodinsurance.com jnash@elmwoodinsurance.com

www.pekininsurance.com

WE BUY SCRAP METAL!

CURRENT PRICES: (NOTE: All Prices Subject to Change Without Notice) • Aluminum cans ...... $0.60 • Shredder material .... $70 per nt • Unprepared Iron ..... $100 per nt, $110 per nt (over 1000 pounds) • Prepared Iron ......... $130 per nt, $140 per nt (over 1000 pounds)

Located on Illinois Route 78, 1.5 miles south of Canton • Hours: Mon-Fri 8 am - 4 p.m. • (309) 668-3217 • hitchcockscrapyard.com We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion

Page 4

THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

www.wklypost.com

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 - “When someone plays mind games with Les Nessman, they're walking on thin ice.” – Les Nessman

Illinois Press Association Member

Of shocks, Schock, choppers and poems

Mike Cecil Financial Advisor Farmington, IL 61531 Office 309-245-2947 Cell 309-357-1001 mike.cecil@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com

Rambling through central Illinois pondering poetry and politics. uuu The e-mail caught me completely by surprise. Somebody named Paul Singer from USA Today sent a note last Friday that said, “Your 2013 story was critical for my story today on Rep. Aaron Schock. Thanks.” Really? What story? And who is Singer? Turns out Singer is a reporter who somehow got a copy of The Weekly Post from May 2, 2013. On the Jeff cover that day was a picture LAMPE (taken by Amy Davis) of a smiling Schock eating lunch with some pals (plus Tina Scherler of Elmwood, who was serving them) at Hick’ry Stick. Moments earlier they had landed a helicopter in Sweetwater Park. We also ran a picture of the helicopter (above right) which apparently belonged to car dealer Jeff Green. That was significant to Singer, whose story said Schock may have violated House rules by flying in private aircraft for official use. I’m not qualified to speak on big-time national stuff. What still amazes me, though, is that apparently, anybody can land a helicopter in Sweetwater. ... Speaking of Schock, he will visit Elmwood March 21 from 2-4 p.m. at the Presbyterian Church to announce the family that

will live in the Elmwood Habitat for Heroes house. I wonder if he’ll arrive in a car? uuu Last time I flew in a helicopter was while rounding up Canada geese with the Department of Natural Resources near Cuba. The chopper had open sides, like the one from the old TV show “MASH.” That allowed you to lean out and get a good look at the terrain. Those were the best aerial views of strip-mine lakes I’ve ever had – and would be invaluable from a fishing standpoint. Hmm, maybe instead of a pet monkey we’ll buy a Weekly Post chopper, since it’s legal to land in Sweetwater. ... A caller chastised me for getting my facts wrong about Findlay being the smallest state basketball champions. He claimed Hebron (enrollment 98) was smaller than Findlay (enrollment 96), which is wrong. The larger point, though, is that Hebron won it all when there was just one class. That is truly amazing. uuu Most poems are tough for me to

understand. But not all. Late at night, I read a good one tacked up by my desk. It is “Happiness” by Carl Sandburg. We printed it once already, and I fight the temptation to run it every week. See, the words strike a chord with me, which I think is the goal of poems. What means even more is that this version is written by my middle son in pencil, with shaky penmanship and a misspelling or two. The poem has become an anthem to me because it ends, simply, with some Hungarians, a keg of beer and an accordion proving that happiness really isn’t so hard to quantify. ... Speaking of happiness, give Guinness Blonde a chance. ... Kudos to Elmwood Kiwanis for a pancake dinner that produced 20 percent more sales, 50 percent of which goes to the Elmwood Habitat for Heroes Home. ... Does anybody else remember the scene from “WKRP in Cincinnati” when Les Nessman hit himself in the chest while talking to simulate reporting from inside a chopper? Contact Jeff Lampe at 231-6040 or jeff@wklypost.com

FARM CARE

FARM MANAGEMENT • REAL ESTATE SALES • 75.0 +/- acres of farmland & woodland - Approx. half tillable and half wooded, Peoria County near Farmington. $7,500 per acre • Knox County hunting ground and wooded pasture - 28.725+/PENDING acres, $3500 per acre

Call Gene Vaughan Managing Broker

742-2273

We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion

www.FarmCareIllinois.com

www.wklypost.com

THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

GUEST VOICES

A story I should have appreciated

It’s said that everyone’s separated from anyone else on the planet by just six people. The theory, “six degrees of separation,” says that no matter what other person you pick, from President Obama to a groundskeeper at Wrigley Field, from Donald Trump to a hired hand who milks Jon cows, there are GALLAGHER only six people who separate the two of you. In other words, let’s say you want to talk to one of the cameramen on “The Tonight Show.” You know someone who knows someone who knows someone else (do this six times) who eventually knows that cameraman. Whenever this theory has been put to the test, it’s always proved to work, shrinking our world. A few years ago on WGN radio, the host of a show brought this up and offered a prize package to anyone willing to play the “six degrees game.” He picked a celebrity at random and a caller had to make a call to one of his or her friends who might be able to put them in touch with the celeb. Glenn Campbell was chosen and the game was on. Within an hour, the contestant

had called a friend, who called another friend, who called a third friend who called Glen himself. That one didn’t even take six. It only took three. They played it several times, contacting people with varying degrees of celebrity (Donny Osmond was one, a not-so-famous baseball player whose name I can’t recall was another). The only person they weren’t able to reach was Dustin Hoffman, although the final person in the chain claimed to know him but just couldn’t reach him. I got to thinking about this and remembered back to a time in my childhood that is becoming more and more special as time goes on. I am separated from Abraham Lincoln by just one person. Now it’s true that I can’t contact Lincoln since he’s been dead now for 150 years, but I did manage to meet someone who had met the 16th President in person. I was in first grade at the time and my mom had a job at the Knox County Nursing Home in Knoxville. I’m not sure what her job was (she wasn’t a nurse), but she had a lot of contact with patients. One afternoon after school, she announced that she was going to take me to meet a former slave. It seems that a little old lady had just

arrived at the home and she was 106 years old, about 100 older than me. Mom thought it was a cool thing that I could actually meet and talk with someone who was a century older than me. I wasn’t impressed. I was too worried about missing Captain Ernie’s Cartoon Showboat to worry about talking to a slave. I didn’t even know what a slave was. The memory is now more than 50 years old and covered with a few cobwebs, but I remember the old lady, sitting in her wheelchair, wrapped in a blanket. Her skin was as black as coffee, wrinkled everywhere. She wore thick glasses, had few teeth, and spoke with a southern accent as thick as fudge. For the most part, I hid behind my mom, and only looked out at her occasionally, even though she kept beckoning me closer. I don’t remember a lot of what she said, but she claimed that she had been a little girl about my age at the end of the Civil War, and that she and her family had been somewhere around Washington, D.C., in the war’s closing days. She claimed that the President patted her on the head as he made his rounds. To prove her point, she patted me on the head with one of her gnarled hands, and it scared me to death.

To the Editor: There are two closely held, widely believed, narratives about rural America. The national media narrative, with roots in the 1980’s farm crisis, is fatalistic. Rural places are dying. It lives on at the Brookings Institute and the New York Times, fueled by demographics showing decades of population decline across much of rural America. The other narrative is woven by small town boosters. They point to new demographic data showing 3049 year olds returning to small towns. They talk with passion about new businesses and housing

shortages. The challenge is, neither narrative is wholly accurate. The truth is far more complex. The fatalists, caught in a crisis mind frame, are wrong. Rural America will not return to a vast buffalo commons anytime soon. Meanwhile, the boosters lead with great local successes while brushing over underlying trends. To build a vibrant small town future in America, we must understand clearly what challenges we face and where emerging opportunities exist. Many small towns are losing

population, yet young families moving in often cannot find housing. Much small town infrastructure is in decline, but contractors, plumbers and electricians have more work than they can handle, often with new construction. Small town grocery stores are under pressure but community-led efforts to retain grocery stores have seen dramatic success. America’s small town reality is complex. Some places thrive, others struggle. And in every small town there is a mix of success and challenge. Understanding these dynamics is the only path to a vibrant future. – Brian Depew, Center for Rural Affairs

Page 5 10107 W. Route 150, Edwards - $145,000 Brick ranch, 2 BR, 2 BA with full basement. OPEN HOUSE, Sunday, March 1 – 2-4 p.m. 6903 N. Buckeye Dr., Edwards - $322,500 5 BR, 3.5 BA, finished walkout basement 12317 W. Farmington Rd., Hanna City - $94,900 3 BR, 1 BA, Full Basement 11217 N. Oakwood Dr., Peoria - $149,000 Nice 2 BR, 2 BA condo 407 N. Walnut St., Elmwood - $67,000 3 BR, 1 BA, Fenced yard 30 Acres, Knox Road 300N - $250,000 233 E. Van Buren, Brimfield - $30,000 1515 Meadow Ave., East Peoria - $49,900 1523 Meadow Ave., East Peoria - $39,900 3821 N. Townhouse Rd., Hanna City - $349,000 3 BR, 4 BA, brick ranch on 11.289 acres with lake 101 E. Second St., Glasford - $70,000 Move-in ready 3 BR ranch Lot 3 Wayside, 1.8 acre, Trivoli - $47,000 Call Debbie Windish 309-303-1853 111. W. Main, Yates City - $135,000 Halls Tavern, Great investment opportunity! 1,600 SF Bar, full kitchen, rented apartment

Thinking of Buying or Selling? Please Call!

(309) 678-9010 janetrosecrans@gmail.com

Continued on Page 8

Rural America: It’s complicated, really complicated

NEWELL’S AUCTION & FARM REALTY (309) 358-1218

Debbie Newell, Broker/Sales Ron Newell, Broker/Auctioneer

NEW LISTING! 511 Happy Hollow Dr., Dahinda is a 2-3 BR, 2 Bath Ranch with full walkout basement located in small private lake community. Newer kitchen and baths. Priced at . . . . . $74,000 PENDING! 305 N. Oak, Williamsfield

Color Photos at www.williamsfield.org

STEWART’S FAMILY RESTAURANT Tuesday-Sunday 6-2 Closed Monday

SMITHERS UPHOLSTERY

For all your Upholstery Needs!

30 E. Fort St. Farmington, IL 61531

309-635-6250

smithersupholstery@hotmail.com

Humane Society of Fulton County Zeke is your typical, 2-3 year old, mellow tom cat. Zeke is ready to retire from the stray cat life and move into a nice warm home with lots of love and attention. All cat adoptions include spay/neuter, microchip, vaccinations (including rabies if 16 weeks or older), fl fleea treatment, and de-worming. Stop by the shelter today to meet your new best friend!

•Breakfast All Day •We Can Accommodate 309-362-2408 Large Groups 18925 West Farmington Rd. •Home Style Cooking Trivoli, IL

C o m e m e e t Z e ke o r a n o t h e r o f o u r g r e a t a n i m a l s du r i n g o u r a d op t i o n h ou r s : S at , S u n , M o n , We d , F r i 1 - 4 p m a nd Tu e s d ay e v e n i n g s 5 - 8 p m .

We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion

22988 Il Highway 9 Canton, IL 61520

3 09-6 47 -507 7

Page 6

THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

PALACE THEATER

Elmwood, IL • 309-742-4211 In Digital Cinema!

Starts Friday

The Wedding Ringer

Tickets $5

Fri. & Sun. - 7:15 pm Sat - 7:15, 9:10 pm Mon.-Thurs. - 7:15 pm

Matinee $4

The SpongeBob Movie

R

Sat.-Sun - 2:30 pm

Spencer Curtale, Owner Serving All of Central Illinois Residential • Commercial • Farm Free Estimates!

309-691-0276 office 309-222-1152 cell

TLC Childcare in Elmwood

1 full-time opening 6 wks-4 yrs We have 1 School-aged opening 28 years combined 2 large playrooms experience Large fenced in playground Lessons taught daily

(309) 742-4453

PUBLIC RECORD NOTE: Charges are merely an accusation. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Gilson man dead after truck-train accident

WILLIAMSFIELD – Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of a truck-train accident Saturday (Feb. 21) that killed a Gilson man. A pick-up truck belonging to Cole R. Steele, 20, of rural Gilson was northbound on Knox Road 2100E, hit a railroad crossing arm about one-quarter mile north of Knox Highway 18 west of Williamsfield, and crashed into a westbound BNSF train at approximately 10:10 p.m., according to the Knox County Sheriff’s Department. The accident wasn’t reported until after 11 p.m., when the damaged truck was discovered on the tracks by crew members on an eastbound train, police said. Steele was pronounced dead at the scene by the Knox County Coroner’s Office. Also in the truck was 22-year-old Andrew B. Stone of Knoxville, who was transported to OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria.

Laura man dies after head-on crash

Brian McVey Licensed Plumber #058-129370

New Construction Replacement Repairs

www.wklypost.com

LAURA – A Laura man on Thursday (Feb. 19) died as a result of injuries sustained in a head-on collision on Illinois Route 78 near the intersection with Illinois Route 90, according to the Peoria County Sheriff’s Office. Carl Carter, 50, of 22915 W. Lorance Rd. was pronounced dead at the scene at 6:52 p.m., said Peoria County Coroner Johnna Ingersoll. He’d been northbound on Route 78 when his 2008 Ford Ranger drifted into the southbound lane, where it collided with a 2014 Honda Odyssey driven by Dennis Headley, 45, of Princeville. Headley and a passenger, Sonja Headley, 45, of Princeville, were transported by BYE Ambulance to OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Firefighters from the Brimfield Community Fire Protection District also responded.

Williamsfield teen arrested for child abuse

WILLIAMSFIELD – A 19-yearold Williamsfield man this month was charged with aggravated battery to a child, a Class X felony, in connection with injuries suffered by an infant he was watching at his girlfriend’s East Peoria home in November. Austin Senders is accused of Senders causing injuries to the 2-month-old boy, including bruises on the arms, chest, shoulder and abdomen, and a broken leg, Police say Senders in a Feb. 11 interrogation conceded he apparently caused injuries to the infant while the mother was working. Senders said he was playing video games at her home when the baby “became fussy” and interrupted him, according to prosecutors. Senders is being held in the Tazewell County Jail on a $50,000 bond. He’s scheduled to appear in court on March 12. If convicted, Senders could be sentenced to a prison term of six to 30 years.

Deputy foils alleged lawn tractor robbery

PRINCEVILLE – A sheriff’s deputy on routine patrol about 11:20 p.m. Wednesday (Feb. 18) reported witnessing two men apparently pulling a lawn tractor onto a trailer at German Bliss Equipment in the 600 block of West Spring Street, where several robberies have been reported. As the deputy approached, the suspects fled on foot and apprehended was Donnie Calvert, 52, of Peoria, who didn’t identify the other man. The truck involved, a 1993 Ford F-150, is registered to the fiancé of Calvert’s son, said police, who reported arresting Calvert for motor vehicle theft, possession of burglary tools, tampering with a security system, criminal trespassing and resisting arrest. Court records show Calvert faces a Feb. 19 charge of conspiracy (theft), a Class 4 Felony, and has a

preliminary hearing on March 19.

Man arrested for arson

ELMWOOD – Cameron Hogue, 35, of Elmwood on Feb. 21 was arrested for arson and criminal damage to property in connection with a fire apparently set with an accelerant on a wooden privacy fence in the 300 block of West Hawthorn Street. The fence has been the subject of a property dispute between other neighbors. Hogue was transported to the Peoria County Jail.

Police reports

• Rhaven Payne, 23, of Tremont on Feb. 18 was ticketed for failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident after the 2005 Ford Escape she was driving struck the rear of a 2011 Ford Explorer driven by Deborah Butler, 55, of Hanna City, who was stopped in the northbound lane of Kickapoo-Edwards Road waiting for another car to turn. • Roberta Stone, 47, of Elmwood on Feb. 19 was cited for reckless driving and driving in the wrong lane after the 2012 Ford F150 she was driving eastbound on West Mound Street in Elmwood struck a parked car, causing it to strike a third vehicle. She has a Notice To Appear on March 11. • David Hanley, 45, of Kickapoo, on Feb. 20 was arrested for Criminal Trespass to a Residence and transported to Peoria County Jail. • Brett Siefferman, 26, of Laura, on Feb. 21 was ticketed for improper lane usage, operating an uninsured vehicle and failure to report an accident after his 2007 Pontiac Torrent was found abandoned along Illinois Route 78.

Deer accidents

• Jan. 29 – Joseph Holt of Princeville on Illinois Route 78 near Walnut Creek Road in Millbrook Township. • Feb. 15 – Rhea Breese of Wyoming on North Princeville-Jubilee Road near Brimfield-Jubilee Road in Jubilee Township. • Feb. 18 – Shelby Courtney of Avon on Heinz Lane near Gensler Lane in Kickapoo Township. • Feb. 20 – Timothy Camper of Monmouth on U.S. Route 150 near Thousand Dollar Road.

Open Saturdays 10 am to 4 p.m. 112 E. Main St • Elmwood Owner, Sandy Cantu Independent Watkins Consultant

309-712-9680 elmwoodemporium.com

We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion

www.wklypost.com

THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

Page 7

Elmwood scholastic bowl wins sectional BUSHNELL – The Elmwood High School Scholastic Bowl team won its Class A Masonic Academic Bowl Sectional in Bushnell on Feb. 21. Elmwood won all six of its matches at the sectional, an academic knowledge competition sponsored since 1982 by the Masons of Illinois. The goal of the tournament is to provide positive recognition for academic excellence. The team defeated Monmouth United, Astoria, VIT and Bushnell-Prairie City in preliminary matches, defeated Cuba in the semifinal and Monmouth United in the final. Elmwood is one of 30 teams that won their sectional and will move on to compete at the Masonic State Championship on Sat-

We’ve got everything YOU need from floor to ceiling...

The Elmwood Scholastic Bowl team consists of (Back row, left to right) Ronee Sharp, Arissa Huffcutt, Deanna Cantu and Lauren Stufflebeam. (Front row, l to r) Ian Armbruster, Abby Altheiser, Taylor Armbruster, Ian Davison and Gabe Inskeep.

urday, March 7, at Bloomington High School. Elmwood Horeb Masonic Lodge 363 paid for the Elmwood squad to participate.

Elmwood Scholastic Bowl also competed in the Masonic State Tournament in 2013 and 2014. The team is coached by Rusty Koll.

PLUS all the little things in between! • Paint • Custom Window Treatments • Furniture • Pictures • Flooring Wood, Ceramic Tile, Carpeting, Laminate • Accessories and More

GALLAGHER: Listen up Continued from Page 5

Looking back on the incident, I wish I’d been a little bit more appreciative of what she had to offer. She had lived in a time that none of us will ever come close to fully understanding. I think about her often, believe it or not. I think of our younger generation and how sometimes they don’t have time to sit and listen to the old stories that old folk tell.

That’s too bad because they might be missing one heck of a story. Some time when you don’t have much to do, volunteer at a nursing home. Talk to the residents. Ask them questions about their youth and how they grew up. You’ll never know what you might find. It may not be someone who met President Lincoln, but it may be something just as cool.

We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion

17 South First Ave., Canton | 309.647.3283 www.crawfordshomefurnishings.com

professional design assistance and installation available

Page 8

THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

Your Professional Independent Insurance Agency Peg Bivens, CPCU

131 N Public Square Knoxville

Call

Today!

www.leag.biz

Home

Ingle Business

Li f e

Heating • Cooling • Geothermal Sales • Service • Installation

309-639-2400

BRIMFIELD – It sounds too good to be true. According to a consultant who spoke at Brimfield Unit School District 309‘s Feb. 19 meeting, it is possible to increase energy efficiency by revamping the aging heating and ventilating systems at Brimfield Grade School. Such an overhaul is estimated at $1.4 million. But there could be enough savings -- coupled with creative financing -- to cover the costs and avoid raising taxes. Her company will guarantee results and take care of everything for the next 20 years. “I know you are all aware that building is in need of some serious upgrades,” said Tiffany Duncan of TRANE. School board members appeared intrigued, but not entirely persuaded. By all accounts, the grade school boiler has been more than a little cranky this frozen season. It’s the fancy finances that cause a pause. “I don’t think there’s any doubt to say a new heating system would save some money,” cautioned Superintendent Joe Blessman. “The money we would save on heating, we would probably lose on cooling.” Scott Bauer, a member of the building committee, thinks it’s For The Weekly Post

(309) 289-4137

Auto

Brimfield discusses grade school upgrades By TERRY BIBO

Agency Principal

Health

www.wklypost.com

worth checking. A feasibility study would take 45 to 60 days, according to Duncan. “It’s free,” he said. “There’s no cost to us.” Board president Dave Harmon said evaluating the “pretty complex concept” in such a report would be beyond the board’s expertise. There could be expenses for an outside assessment. TRANE’s Scott Hardwick said other school districts have spent between $500 to $2,500 to have engineers or other experts review results for them. With the boiler’s lifespan unknown, but definitely limited, Hardwick countered that it might be wise to be proactive. “I have to be convinced how we’re going to afford it,” said Blessman. Board members appear open to being convinced. On a unanimous voice vote, with Mark Hoerr absent, they agreed to a feasibility study. On a related note, the board would also like to hear more about possible changes to the school calendar. Ideally, HVAC upgrades would mean the grade school, as well as the high school, would be air conditioned. In the interim, Blessman has been meeting with a committee to adapt the school calendar to avoid hot weather in August. So far, his suggestions to trim

days at Thanksgiving and Christmas have been unpopular. But board members tabled a proposed 2015-16 calendar which mirrors the current schedule, advising him to get “creative” and try again. “I don’t think four grades over here in the air-conditioned high school get to hold eight grades hostage,” Harmon said. In other business, although there were questions about the cost, board members approved up to $14,930 to install the new sign at the high school. A contractor said that electrical work might have been covered under the original agreement. Unless there was a change order, which is unclear, the original contractor may need do it. Dan Heinz had asked Blessman to see if Illinois Central College students could do the work to get experience, which would defray costs. Blessman said he had not done so, since he has concerns there would be no recourse for the district if something went wrong. “I still think it’s fiscally irresponsible,” Heinz said, casting the lone vote against the motion. Blessman noted funds to be used were donated, not taxpayer funds. ICC has since said it is unable to take on the project. TERRY BIBO can be reached at terry.bibo.freelance@gmail.com.

ROCK: Visitors still stop by to see the display Continued from Page 1

“He was no particular religion, and he wasn’t a card buff,” she says, pointing to some heart, club, diamond and spade shapes worked into the structure. “He just picked stuff and did it.” “There were stone wagon wheels and stone flower pots that sat all over,” says Cheryl who with John now runs the Best Buds Garden Center in West Peoria. The last big project was a huge arch that William built as a monument to his wife when she passed away in 1963. “When the dairy barn was [still] up, you’d go out there and sit and get

3

Weeks Until Spring

2 1/2 ton, 13 seer Air Conditioner and 96%, 60,000 BTU Furnace

JUST $3,883!

Complete Basic Installation

an idea as to where his head was,” she continues. “You’d think, ‘He was really bizarre.’ But the more you look at the rocks, the more you think, ‘Hey, these are pretty.’ “My kids were obsessed with them,” says Cheryl, whose kids are now 34 and 35 and out on their own. “They couldn’t go out in the yard and walk around without bringing a rock in the house. It’s like, ‘Hey, Mom, check this one out. This one’s cool.’ Well, yeah, it is.” The Beckers’ home is private property, but people still stop by. “When Jubilee Park has something, a family reunion or some private

function, people assume it’s part of the park,” she says. “People stop; any excuse to come in the driveway. If you want privacy, you close the little red gate. “You get two types,” she continues. “There’s the type that’ll just kind of pull over and gawk, or get out and take a quick picture and off they go. And then there’s the type who drive right up and knock on your door at 8 o’clock Sunday morning and say, ’What the hell’s the story here?’ They want you to drop everything and come out and give them the tour and tell them everything that’s going on.” Cheryl understands. “I drove by it when I

EB Buildings & Lumber Co.

Visit our Full Retail Do-It Best Hardware Store, Lumberyard & Rental Center

Cheryl Becker and Luci are used to visitors. Photo by Bill Knight.

was six,” she remembers. “I was fascinated. When it came up for sale, I thought, ‘Well, the rocks just happen to go with it.’ “Now, it’s gotten to the point where, yeah, I can

Are Here are Some Mumofs the Many Items We Offer e! H er

Gift Shop • Pottery • Clothing Toys • Plants & Much More! 610 N. Santa Fe Ave., Princeville, IL Mon-Fri 7 am-6 pm, Sat 7:30 am-4 pm

(309) 385-2025 • www.ebbuildings.com

We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion

We custom design each building to our customer’s specific needs.

www.wklypost.com

THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion

Page 9

Page 10

THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

www.wklypost.com

BRIEFS

Concert, book reading set for Palace Theatre

ELMWOOD – Cathy Reynolds will perform a free program for children called “Adventures of Little Mike” on Saturday, March 14. at 10:30 a.m. at the Palace Theatre, 122 W. Main St. The concert and book reading, will be free to the public and all children 10 years and under will receive a free copy of Reynolds’ book “Little Mike Reynolds Takes A Hike.” The roughly one-hour concert will involve faith-based songs, hula hooping, bubbles and a special reading of the book displayed on the movie screen. Youngsters will also get a chance

to meet Little Mike, the subject of the book.

Sheriffs’ Association offers $500 scholarships

March 15 is the deadline to apply for a $500 scholarship to be awarded by Fulton County Sheriff Jeff Standard as part of the Illinois Sheriffs’ Association’s statewide $53,000 scholarship program. Scholarships are for students wishing to pursue higher education during the 2015-2016 academic year and are to be applied to tuition, books and fees only. Applicants must be permanent Illinois residents, scholarships must be used at institutions of higher learning within the State of Illinois, and students must be enrolled as full-time students during the 20152015 school year (excluding summer session). Applications are available at local Sheriff’s offices or online at www.ilsheriff.org. Fulton County applicants must complete the application; answer the essay question and return all

documentation to the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office by March 15. (The material must be postmarked by this date).

Foodshare Canathon set for March 8 in area

The Peoria Area Anti-Hunger Coalition’s 31st Annual Foodshare Canathon will be Sunday, March 8. The Coalition is recruiting volunteers to do the door-to-door collection from 1 to 4 p.m. Hundreds of volunteers are needed to canvas area neighborhoods in Peoria, Bartonville, Princeville, Creve Coeur, Pekin, Chillicothe, Lacon, East Peoria and Morton. Volunteers will meet at University United Methodist Church, 2818 North University in Peoria to obtain name tags, bags and maps. Other Kick-off areas include the First Assembly of God Church in Chillicothe. To volunteer to help collect food, contact Pepper Bauer at (309) 6975762 or e-mail her at pepperbauer@att.net

Peoria, Fulton, Knox Counties Health Dept. Food Inspections – Jan. 1-31, 2015 Establishment Benny’s Corner Jen’s Place Subway Faith Bible Camp Yates City Deli & Bakery Princeville Grade School Princeville High School Pop of the Morning Christ Alive Church

Address 18 W. Fort St., Farmington 36 E. Fort St., Farmington 102 W. Main St., Elmwood 849 Knox Rd. 2200 E., Yates City 101 E. Main St., Yates City 602 N. Town Ave., Princeville 302 Cordis Ave., Princeville 82 Oakridge Ct., Dahinda 9320 W. Route 150, Edwards

We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion

Date Jan. 9 Jan. 13 Jan. 13 Jan. 20 Jan. 20 Jan. 20 Jan. 20 Jan. 23 Jan. 26

Score 93 81 final 91 95 94 99 100 98

Establishment bar & grill bar & grill restaurant kitchen restaurant school school kitchen restaurant

www.wklypost.com

THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

FDA ‘compounding’ problems for pharmacists By BILL KNIGHT

ELMWOOD – Patients who use medications from compounding pharmacies may face higher prices and longer wait times if new guidelines issued by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration take effect. Compounders make drugs prescribed by doctors for specific patients whose needs aren’t met by commercially available drugs. But increased FDA oversight, facilitated by a new law expanding the agency’s authority, could translate to delays and costs. The FDA maintains the rules are key “to protecting public health.” But compounding pharmacist Cathy Windish of Elmwood Pharmacy says the FDA’s actions would “definitely” affect prices and acFor The Weekly Post

cess. “Under their proposals, there’d be so much more testing – sent to a FDA lab – and that could add two weeks,” she says. “People are going to fall through the cracks.” Most concerning are two requirements. First, the FDA wants to limit interstate shipments at 30 percent of the overall business of traditional compound pharmacies. The other proposed mandate concerns expiration dates for repackaging biologics, which are injected or infused. The new guideline would require a biologic that’s mixed or diluted by a traditional compounder to be administered to a patient within four hours unless microbial testing is done. In that case, there would be a 24-hour time limit. The FDA’s increased scrutiny is

traced to a 2012 fungal meningitis outbreak that claimed dozens of lives tied to the New England Compounding Center in Framingham, Mass. Since then, the FDA stepped up its inspections. “That was an isolated incidence,” Windish says. “That was really about a drug manufacturer not doing their job. Also, the State Board of Pharmacy and the FDA knew and looked the other way.” Windish concedes the tragedy was “a big deal,” but says proposed guidelines have less to do with safety than with competition. “Compounding pharmacies have been a thorn in the side of the big drug manufacturers,” says Windish, who’s talked to Congressional aides about the issue. “I don’t know when we’d be affected. I’ve heard

CLASSIFIED AND LEGAL ADS FOR SALE • MASSAGE CHAIR: Earthlite Avila II Massage Chair, excellent condition, carry case shows wear, instruction manual included. Sale price $350 firm, cash. Call (309) 338-7367. • GRANITE COUNTER: Solid slab, 37 x 87, (309) 231-6040. • FISHING ROD: Shimano Stimula 7-foot, heavy, fast action, bait casting rod. $20. (309) 741-9790. • PROM DRESSES: Variety of styles, colors. Sizes 2 & 4. (309) 231-4212. • LIGHTNING RODS: Two antique copper lightning rods with glass balls; one w/weather vane. $50 each. (309) 231-3350.

HELP WANTED • WANTED TO HIRE: Petroleum Transport Driver. Local hauls, home daily. Preferably 2 years

Classified Rates Classified ads cost $5 for up to 20 words and must be prepaid. Call (309) 741-9790 or visit 115 W. Main St. in Elmwood. work experience with tanker hazmat endorsement. Must have clean DMV. We offer health insurance, vision insurance, paid vacation, and simple IRA. Please call (309) 8792221.

WANTED • HUNTING LAND: Seeking deer and turkey hunting property in Knox or Peoria County, (309) 231-6040. • DUCK DECOYS: Seeking antique duck decoys. Will pay cash. (309) 741-9790.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON ROSEFIELD TOWNSHIP BUDGET NOTICE is hereby given that a tentative Budget and Appropriation Ordinance for the Township of ROSEFIELD, in the County of Peoria, State of Illinois, for the fiscal year beginning April 1, 2015, and ending March 31, 2016, will be on file and conveniently available to public inspection from 9:00 O'Clock A. M., to 5:00 O'Clock P. M. weekdays, at the ROSEFIELD TOWN HALL, located at 16221 W. Southport Rd., Brimfield, Rosefield Township, Peoria County, Illinois, or by appointment by contacting Martin E. May, Rosefield Township Clerk, at (309) 634-6164, from and after the 6th day of March, 2015. NOTICE is further hereby given that a PUBLIC HEARING on said Budget and Appropriation Ordinance will be held at 7:15 O'Clock P. M., the 8th day of April, 2015, at the ROSEFIELD TOWN HALL and that final action on this Ordinance will be taken by the Board of Town Trustees at a meeting to be held subsequent to the Hearing. DATED this 19th day of February, 2015. MARTIN E. MAY, Rosefield Township Clerk.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CONCERNING THE INTENT OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF COMMUNITY UNIT SCHOOL DISTRICT NUMBER 210, KNOX, PEORIA AND STARK COUNTIES, ILLINOIS TO SELL $1,050,000 GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS (ALTERNATE REVENUE SOURCE) PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Community Unit School District Number 210, Knox, Peoria and Stark Counties, Illinois (the “District”), will hold a public hearing on the 9th day of March, 2015, at 7:30 o’clock P.M. The hearing will be held at the District Office Board of Education Room, 325 West Kentucky Avenue, Williamsfield, Illinois. The purpose of the hearing will be to receive public comments on the proposal to sell bonds of the District in the amount of $1,050,000 for the purpose of improving the sites of and altering, repairing and equipping the existing school buildings and facilities of the District, including, but not limited to, driveway and parking lot improvements and roof repairs. By order of the President of the Board of Education of Community Unit School District Number 210, Knox, Peoria and Stark Counties, Illinois. DATED the 9th day of February, 2015. Vicki Massie Secretary, Board of Education, Community Unit School District Number 210, Knox, Peoria and Stark Counties, Illinois

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF ILLINOIS , PEORIA COUNTY, in Probate In the Matter of the Estate of SARAH L. BOWKER, Deceased.

) ) )

NOTICE OF LETTING FOR CEMETERY MOWING CONTRACT PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that the Trustees of the ELMWOOD TOWNSHIP CEMETERY BOARD are accepting sealed bids for mowing, cleaning and maintaining the ELMWOOD, LEHIGH, and SOUTHPORT CEMETERY grounds including all undeveloped land in such Cemeteries, for the period commencing on April 1, 2015 and concluding on March 31, 2018. The contractor shall furnish all equipment, labor and fuel necessary to mow and maintain the cemeteries, shall carry Liability and Workers Compensation Insurance and shall be responsible for removing all waste and debris from the cemeteries. The bids shall be submitted for all cemeteries for the entire term of the contract. The Bid Form and a copy of the Contract, which the successful bidder will be required to enter into, may be obtained by contacting Glenn Moody, at 211 West Butternut Street, Box 304, Elmwood, Illinois 61529, Telephone No. 742-4971 or 219-4970. Anyone interested in submitting a bid for such Contract shall submit his or her written, sealed bid on or before 12:00 O’Clock Noon, Friday March 13, 2015, to GLENN MOODY, Elmwood Township Cemetery Board Trustee, 211 West Butternut Street, Box 304, Elmwood, Illinois 61529. The sealed bids will be opened at a Public Bid opening and the contents will be announced at a Public Meeting of the Cemetery Board Trustees to be held at 9:00 O’Clock A.M., on Tuesday March 17, 2015 at the MASONIC HALL,112 North Magnolia Street, Elmwood, Illinois, 61529. The Trustees reserve the right to reject any and all bids. DATED this 23rd day of February, 2015 ROBERT CAFFERTY, Clerk of the Board of Elmwood Township Cemetery Trustees.

Place your CLASSIFIED for $5 or LEGAL AD for $4 per column inch in The Weekly Post Call Shelly at (309) 741-9790

No. 15-P-46

NOTICE OF CLAIM DATE Notice is given to creditors of the death of SARAH L. BOWKER. Letters of Office were issued to EUGENE N. JORDAN, 1020 Manypenny Avenue, Bayfield, Wisconsin 54814, as Executor, whose attorney is THE CORDIS LAW OFFICE, LLC, Attorneys at Law, 129 North Walnut Avenue, P. O. Box 445, Princeville, Illinois 61559. Claims against the estate may be filed in the Circuit Clerk's Office, Peoria County Courthouse, Peoria, Illinois, or with the representative, or both, on or before the 19th day of August, 2015 or if mailing or delivery of a notice from the representative is required by Sec. 18-3 of the Probate Act of 1975, the date stated in that notice. Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the clerk must be mailed or delivered by the claimant to the representative and to the attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed. DATED, February 13, A.D. 2015. EUGENE N. JORDAN, Executor of the Estate of SARAH L. BOWKER, Deceased. The Cordis Law Office, LLC Attorneys for Executor 129 North Walnut Avenue P. O. Box 445 Princeville, IL 6l559 309/385-46l6

Page 11

BY: (S) Daniel M. Cordis Attorney for Estate

NOTICE OF LETTING FOR PARK MOWING CONTRACT PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that the Trustees of the MILLBROOK TOWNSHIP are accepting sealed bids for mowing, cleaning and maintaining the LAURA and ELMORE Park grounds including all undeveloped land in such Parks, for the period commencing on April 1, 2015 and concluding on March 31, 2016. The contractor shall furnish all equipment, labor and fuel necessary to mow and maintain the parks, shall carry Liability and Workers Compensation Insurance and shall be responsible for removing all waste and debris from the parks. The bids shall be submitted for each park separately on a per mow basis for the entire term of the contract. The Bid Form and a copy of the Contract, which the successful bidder will be required to enter into, may be obtained by contacting DANNY POWELL, Township Supervisor, Post Office Box 22, Laura, Illinois or at Telephone No. 309645-1324. Anyone interested in submitting a bid for such Contract shall submit his or her written, sealed bid on or before 12:00 P.M., Monday, March 9, 2015, to DANNY POWELL, Township Supervisor, in person or by mailing said bid DANNY POWELL, Township Supervisor, Post Office Box 22, Laura, Illinois 61451 The sealed bids will be opened at a Public Bid opening and the contents will be announced at a Public Meeting of the Township Board of Trustees to be held at 7:30 P.M., on Tuesday March 10, 2015 at the Millbrook Township Community Center, 20923 West Cedar Street, Laura, Illinois 61451. The Trustees reserve the right to reject any and all bids DATED this 20th day of February, 2015 BOBBIE PHILBEE, Clerk of the Board of Millbrook Township Trustees.

CLAIM NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE TENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF ILLINOIS , PEORIA COUNTY In Re ESTATE OF JERRY N. SEWELL, Deceased.

) ) )

No. 15-P-42

NOTICE is given to creditors of the death of JERRY N. SEWELL on December 28, 2014. Letters of Office were issued by the above entitled Court to EDWARD D. SEWELL, of P. O. Box 58, Buda, Texas 78610, as Executor, whose attorneys of record are WHITNEY & POTTS, LTD., 118 West Main Street, P. O. Box 368, Elmwood, Illinois, 61529-0368. Claims against the Estate may be filed in the Circuit Clerk's Office, Peoria County Courthouse, Peoria, Illinois, or with the representative or both on or before the 21st day of August, 2015, or if mailing or delivery of a Notice from the representative is required by Sec. 18-3 of the Probate Act of 1975, the date stated in that Notice. Every claim filed must be in writing and state sufficient information to notify the representative of the nature of the claim or other relief sought. Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred. Copies of a claim filed with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered by the claimant to the representative and to the attorney within ten (10) days after it has been filed and shall file with the Court, proof of any required mailing or delivery of copies. DATED this 30th day of January, 2015. EDWARD D. SEWELL, Executor of the Estate of JERRY N. SEWELL, Deceased. WHITNEY & POTTS, LTD. Attorneys for the Executor 118 West Main Street P. O. Box 368 Elmwood, Illinois 61529-0368 Telephone: (309) 742-3611

We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON ROSEFIELD TOWNSHIP ROAD DISTRICT BUDGET NOTICE is hereby given that a tentative Budget and Appropriation Ordinance for Road Purposes of the Township of ROSEFIELD, in the County of Peoria, State of Illinois, for the fiscal year beginning April 1, 2015, and ending March 31, 2016, will be on file and conveniently available to public inspection from 9:00 O'Clock A. M., to 5:00 O'Clock P. M. weekdays, at the ROSEFIELD TOWN HALL, located at 16221 W. Southport Rd., Brimfield, Rosefield Township, Peoria County, Illinois, or by appointment by contacting Martin E. May, Rosefield Township Clerk, at (309) 634-6164, from and after the 6th day of March, 2015. NOTICE is further hereby given that a PUBLIC HEARING on said Budget and Appropriation Ordinance will be held at 7:00 O'Clock P. M., the 8th day of April, 2015, at the ROSEFIELD TOWN HALL, and that final action on this Ordinance will be taken by the Board of Town Trustees at the Public Hearing. DATED this 19th day of February, 2015. MARTIN E. MAY, Rosefield Township Clerk.

NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to "An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State," as amended, that a certification was filed by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Peoria County on February 10, 2015, under the Assumed Name of Jubilee Junction with the business located at 10020 W. Route 150, Kickapoo, IL 61528. The true name and residence address of the owner is: Bryon Hasty, 9806 W. Route 150, Kickapoo, IL 61528

Page 12

THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

ª¥á Ð× / ªü[@×n

1 ×

ª¥ì n¥á

OBITUARIES

Óªª z ü ª / Ó ªª ¥e Ó ì # ×n ü Óª

ª n

² ¦ 9Á

ª¥Á Ó Á ¦ Ú /@áÁ ¦ ᪠¥ªª¥

@ ¥ /áÓnnáb @ n×QìÓ b Z ã ã sܦé

Donna Brewer, Local Representative (309) 742-4661

Carpet • Vinyl • Hardwood Laminate • Ceramic

MERRICK FLOORCOVERING, INC. 116 E. Main St., Elmwood, IL 61529

(309) 742-8608 JOE MERRICK

PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION

Duane Patton

ãÛÛs Ü

ªìÓ×a

www.wklypost.com

BRIMFIELD – Duane A. Patton, 79, of Brimfield passed away on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015 at 12:15 pm, at the Unity Point Methodist Hospital in Peoria. He was born on Dec. 29, 1935 in Edwards to Carl and Julia Bowen Patton. They preceded him in death. He married Joy A. Keyser on August 17, 1957 in Edwards. She survives. Also surviving are two children Mark (Susan) Patton Patton of Brimfield, Kevin (Angie Courtney) Patton of Excelsior Springs, MO, one brother Dale (Pat) Patton of Mackinaw, two grandchildren, Carly Rose Patton, John “J.T.” Patton and one great grandchild Zooey Patton. Also preceding him in death is one son Douglas and one brother Donald. Duane owned and operated Kickapoo Valley Farms throughout his lifetime. He attended the Brimfield United Methodist Church and was involved in the Edwards United Methodist Church. He served as a school board member for 12 years for the Elmwood School District. He was a member of the Wheelers and Dealers Square Dance Club. A visitation will be held today on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015, from 5-8 p.m. at the Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood with a funeral service on Friday, Feb. 27, 2015 at 1 p.m., at the funeral home. Burial will be at the Cottonwood Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the BYE ambulance, Brimfield Fire Department or the Illinois CancerCare Foundation. To view his memorial video tribute or to leave online condolences please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com.

Kenneth Allen

BRIMFIELD – Kenneth D. “Pops” Allen, 72, of Brimfield died Feb. 21 at UnityPoint Health-Proctor in Peoria. Survivors include his wife Betty

This Week’s Obituaries • Kenneth Allen, 72, Brimfield • Dean Canady, 88, Princeville • Carl Carter, 50, Laura • Polly Duggins, 88, Princeville • Robert Kindilien, 69, Chillicothe • Shirley Murray, 75, Plano, Texas • Duane Patton, 79, Brimfield • Rodney Philbee, 65, Galesburg • Harry Price, 87, Princeville • Nadene Ryner, 70, Oneida

Lenora Kell; children, Mary “Kathy” Hippen of Peoria, Lorie (Kenny Rynearson) Vance of Brimfield, Lisa Allen of Brimfield and Keith (Rhonda Strappe) Allen of Brimfield; six grandchildren; one great-grandson; and three siblings. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. today (Feb. 26) at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood, with burial in Brimfield Township Cemetery. Leave online condolences at www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.

Dean Canady

PRINCEVILLE – Dean Richard Canaday, 88, of Birmingham, Iowa, formerly of Princeville, died Feb. 19 at the Jefferson County Health Center in Fairfield, Iowa. Survivors include his daughter, Mary (Joe) Canaday-Grayof Wyoming. Funeral services were Feb. 23 at Raymond Funeral Home in Birmingham, with interment in Maple Hill Cemetery at Birmingham. Condolences may be expressed in care of legacy.com.

Carl Carter

LAURA – Carl Woodrow Carter, 50, of Laura died on Feb. 19 in Laura. Survivors include his father, G.W. Carter Sr. of Princeville. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish, especially with a loyal hunting dog by his side. He trained and raised German shorthair pointers. A funeral service was held Feb. 25 at Davison-Fulton WoolseyWilton in Peoria, with burial in Swan Lake Memory Gardens in Peoria. Leave online condolences at www.woolsey-wilton.com.

We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion

Polly Duggins

PRINCEVILLE – Polly A. Duggins, 88, of Toulon, formerly of Princeville, died Feb. 16 at UnityPoint Health-Proctor in Peoria. Survivors include her daughter, Diana Sue Donath of Princeville. Funeral services were Feb. 19 at Haskell-Hott Funeral Homes in Princeville, with burial in Prospect Cemetery in Dunlap. Leave online condolences at www.haskellhott.com.

Robert Kindilien

PRINCEVILLE – Robert “Bob” M. Kindilien, age 69, of Chillicothe, formerly of Princeville, died Feb. 17 at the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria. Cremation rites were accorded and a memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 28, at Schmidt-Haller Burial & Cremation Services in Peoria, with visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Swan Lake Memory Garden in Peoria. Condolences may be expressed in care of legacy.com.

Shirley Ann Murray

PRINCEVILLE – Shirley Murray, 75, of Plano, Texas, sister of a Princeville woman, died Feb. 16. Survivors include her husband, Keith Murray, and a sister, Mary (Ray) Kitterman of Princeville. A celebration of life was held on Feb. 25 at the First United Methodist Church in Plano. Leave online condolences at dignitymemorial.com

Rodney Philbee

BRIMFIELD – Rodney “Rodd” Philbee, 65, Galesburg, died Feb. 17 at home. Survivors include his husband, Lewy Neal of Galesburg, sisters Ollie (Andy) Stenger of Brimfield and Bobbie Philbee of Elmore; and daughter Devon (Ty) Johnson of Abingdon. A visitation was Feb. 20 at HurdHendricks Funeral Home in Knoxville. Cremation was accorded. Leave condolences at www.hurdhendricksfuneralhome.com Obituary Policy: We print basic obituaries for free. Longer obituaries cost $1 per column inch and $5 per picture. Call 309-741-9790.

More Obituaries, Page 13

www.wklypost.com

THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

Page 13

1. GEOGRAPHY: Where is the U.S. Naval Academy located? 2. AD SLOGANS: What company promoted its products with the slogan, “Nothin’ says lovin’ like something from the oven”? 3. ART: Who painted a series of famous works of his garden at Giverny? 4. TV: What is the name of the city in TV’s long-running soap opera “All My Children”? 5. LITERATURE: Who wrote the novel “Dragon’s Teeth”? 6. MUSIC: What rock group originally recorded the song “Layla”? 7. FOOD & DRINK: What other spice is similar in flavor to mace? 8. COMICS: What was the name of Superman’s superdog? 9. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What was the first name of the pirate known as Captain Kidd? 10. HISTORY: In what year was Malcolm X assassinated?

Answers

FOR ANSWERS SEE PAGE 14

1. Annapolis, Maryland 2. Pillsbury 3. Claude Monet 4. Pine Valley 5. Upton Sinclair 6. Derek and the Dominos 7. Nutmeg 8. Krypto 9. William 10. 1965 (c) 2015 King Features Synd., Inc.

MOVIES

1. Fifty Shades of Grey (R) 2. Kingsman: The Secret Service (R) 3. The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge Out of Water (PG) 4. American Sniper (R) 5. Jupiter Ascending (PG-13) 6. Paddington (PG) 7. Seventh Son (PG-13) 8. The Imitation Game (PG-13) 9. The Wedding Ringer (R) 10. Project Almanac (PG-13)

2015 King Features Synd., Inc.

Princeville library district holding Civil Rights series in March PRINCEVILLE – The Lillie M. Evans Library District is hosting a series of programs focusing on the theme, Created Equal: America’s Civil Rights Struggle. The first in this series will be “Grassroots Activism in America” on Tuesday, March 3 at 1:30 p.m. at the Princeville Heritage Museum, 325 N. Ostrom Avenue. Dan Sullivan will lead a guided discussion focusing on grassroots activism, and how it continues to be employed today. Dan recently retired from Princeville High School after 30 years

as a history instructor, coach and athletic director. This program will incorporate documentary film clips. Created Equal: America’s Civil Rights Struggle is made possible through a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities, in partnership with the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. Films provided through the grant include: The Abolitionists, Slavery by Another Name, The Loving Story, Freedom Riders and Freedom Summer. All are available at the LME Library. In addition to the Created Equal pro-

OBITUARIES Harry Price

PEORIA – Harry H. Price Jr., 87, died Feb. 18 at his home in Peoria. Survivors include son Matthew (Pam) Price of Princeville. A funeral service was Feb. 22 at CumerfordHurd Funeral Home in Peoria, with burial in Mount Hawley Cemetery. Leave online condolences at www.cumerford.com.

Nadene Ryner

WILLIAMSFIELD – Nadene Ryner, 70, of Oneida, mother of a Williamsfield woman, died Feb. 15 at home.

Survivors include her husband, Carl “Tom” Ryner, and two daughters, Renee (Robin) Fay of New Windsor and Tina Ott of Williamsfield; a sister; four grandchildren; and a great- granddaughter. Cremation was accorded and a memorial service held on Feb. 20 at the Community of Christ Church in Galesburg, with a private family burial in the Oneida Cemetery to be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made at www.hp-w.com.

grams, the LME Library is hosting a series of video presentations. All video presentations are part of the Presidential Primary Source Project, a series of free, 50-minute, interactive programs focusing on human and civil rights themes. The first video presentation will be on Wednesday, March 4, at 2 p.m. at the Lillie M. Evans Library, located at 207 N. Walnut, Princeville. The program, Civil Rights and the Lincoln Memorial: On the 150th Anniversary of Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address is presented by the National Mall and Memorial Parks. In honor of

the anniversary, Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address will be used as a starting point for a conversation about his views and what he hoped for the country with the ending of the Civil War. All programs are free and open to the public. The Lillie M. Evans Library is one of the 473 institutions across the country awarded the Created Equal films and programming grants. More information can be found on the LME Library’s website at lmelibrary.org.

AREA CHURCHES BRIMFIELD St. Paul’s Lutheran Church The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod “Liturgical & Reverential” Pastor Michael Liese 204 W. Clay St., Brimfield (309) 446-3233 Sun. Divine Service: 10 am Sun. School: 8:45 am Bible Class: 8:45 am 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 Fun Night: 6 pm

EDWARDS 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 Elmwood Baptist Church 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

We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion

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 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

FARMINGTON First Presbyterian Church of Farmington 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 New Hope Fellowship Assembly of God Pastor Tom Wright 1102 N. Illinois Route 78 Farmington (309) 245-2957 Sun. Worship: 10 am Wed. Worship: 7 pm

YATES CITY Faith United Presbyterian Church Reverend Marla B. Bauler 107 W. Bishop St., Yates City (309) 358-1170 Worship: 9 am Sun. School: 10:15 am Thurs. Choir: 7 pm

Page 14 ,

THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

PUBLIC AUCTION Located at: 1001 E. Fort Street, Moose Lodge In Farmington, IL. - Across from McDonalds on Rt.116 Saturday, February 28th 2015 @ 10:00 a.m. Indian Artifacts (artifacts found in Farmington area)-FossilsVintage Fulton Style Windshield Visor-BB Guns-Jewelry-14K Sterling--Watches-IH Items-McCormick Deering Fob-Display Case Items-Pocket Knives-Chicago World’s Fair TapestryPaintings/ Prints/Comics/Paper-Post Cards-Lots of Paper/Books-Antique Furniture-Antiques-Glass-Cambridge Glass-Westmoreland Red-Ethan Allen Glass-Lead CrystalRuby-China-Pottery-Collectables-Primitives-Toys-RedlinesBikes-Hobart Com’l Meat Saw-Appliances-Washer & Dryer-Furniture-Household-Welders-Chainsaws-Tools-Sockets-Wrenches-Battery Charger-Stihl Gas Trimmer-Shop-Fishing Poles-Reels-Yard & Garden

To view complete sale bill & pictures; www.culverauctions.com or auctionzip/culver.com Auctioneers Note: This is a great offering of some outstanding items. Two Rings will be run so bring a friend. Must have current FOID to bid on ammo. Statements day of auction supercede all others. Terms: Cash-Check-Debit Not Responsible For Accidents Lunch Stand Restrooms

Owners: Pat Threw-Farmington, IL & Estate of William “Bud” Plumer, Farmington, IL Culver Auction Service Lic#440.000447 Greg Culver Farmington. IL 61631 ph:309-370-5305 Tim Placher Lacon, IL. Lic#440.000339 Jimmy Johnson Lic#441.001594-Andrew Whitsitt

FULTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

The Fulton County Merit Commission will accept applications for placement on the deputy eligibility roster. Applications, along with 3 letters of recommendation, must be submitted to the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office, 268 W. Washington, Lewistown, Illinois 61542, no later than March 20, 2015. Applications are available at the Sheriff’s Office at the above address between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday thru Friday and online at www.fultonco.org. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, 21 years of age, possess a high school diploma or equivalency certificate and have a valid driver’s license.

Salary Range: $39,936.00, plus benefits Fulton County is an Equal Opportunity Employer

CALL US TODAY

309.981.1048 Membership One time fee of $20 per card Yearly rate per month $25.99 24 Hour Gym Access

9805 Primr ose, Ed war ds, I L 61528

www.wklypost.com

BOYS: Big win for Billtown in finale

point of the aforementioned big lead and constant playing time of the entire Trojans’ roster by Coach Josh Fugitt, many Elmwood players got points for the night. Matthew Jehle had 19, followed by 14 from Jack McKinty. Tyler Meyers scored 10 and added 5 boards. “We grabbed 33 rebounds, quite a few of them being under our own basket, so we’re giving (our team) additional scoring opportunities,” Fugitt said. The Trojans finished strong in both conferences, 4-1 in the ICAC and 12-1 in the Prairieland, with that one setback in each conference being the same game, a regular season loss in early January to Brimfield. McKinty was chosen to play in the Canton allstar game and McCabe Coulter is an alternate. Farmington Despite a regular-season-ending week of two losses to strong opponents, Farmington coach Jeff Otto was upbeat. “We’re taking great kids who’ve worked very hard into the Knoxville Regional, and we are not ready for the season to be over,” said coach Otto. Last Friday the Farmers not only faced a 26-2 team, but also an undefeated opponent at home on their senior night. After a sizzling start of triples from Swearingen and significant contributions from Eric Higgs and Blake Mattson successfully attacking Brimfield’s 1-3-1 trap, the Brimfield juggernaut appeared like so many times before. “Their defense adjusted at halftime, forcing us into turnovers, and in defending them, it’s like picking our poison, especially when it comes to (Carson)

Cuevas and (Jace) Swietek,” said coach Otto. Farmington finished 12-14 overall and 7-6 in the Prairieland. At Farmington’s Senior Night in their previous game that week, Max Balagna, Josh Lozier and Matt Williamson – who will also represent Farmington in the Canton Kiwanis game –were honored in the final home game. Princeville Last week was a tough one for Princeville, which had been playing so well since the Christmas break. Senior Night on Tuesday Feb. 17 honored Tim Hefler, Mitchell Janssen, Trent Kielion, Hunter Nauman, Mikey Sheets and Tom Smith but ended in a buzzer-beating loss to Ridgewood. Then last Thursday it seemed Princeville had to go up against Williamsfield and the Bombers’ entire history. That game marked the final home game for Williamsfield – which enters a coop with ROWVA next season – and was also senior night, posing a very daunting task for the Princes. Despite 30 points from Nick Kraft, Williamsfield won, 66-62. Princeville (16-10) bounced back last Friday to gain second place in the Lincoln Trail at 8-1 with a 57-43 victory over Monmouth United. Brendan Streitmatter and Kraft each scored 15 in the win. Williamsfield In Billtown’s bittersweet final home game as the Williamsfield Bombers, the team took on a very good Princeville team. Coach Bob Anderson’s team

PUZZLE ANSWERS

was highly energized and led by as many as 15 early in the fourth frame. Princeville made a 170 run to threaten Billtown’s big night, but the Bombers had a late run of their own at 7-0 to finish off the 66-62 win. “We sucked it up in the end with a couple of big plays and clutch free throws,” Anderson said. Tyler Jones led

Williamsfield with 23 and Garrett Wight had 17. The final senior players for Williamsfield (20-11) were Easton Beard, Drake Chandlee, Ethen Hunt, Jones, Nick Kertz and Tim Lynn. Jones will also play in the Canton Kiwanis contest. Williamsfield finished 2-3 in the ICAC conference.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Donovan McCoy, Elmwood

I asked Elmwood High School senior Donovan McCoy, a Trojans running back, what he immediately thinks of or does when he scores a touchdown. His answer was immediate. “I go to my blockers and say thanks,” he said. That’s the teamwork of the game of football. It began for Donovan at the young age of 4, watching highlights on ESPN. It culminated in a fouryear Trojan career on some of the best teams in Elmwood-Brimfield football history. As a running back (more specifically, a wing back), Donovan prefers running over defenders rather than avoiding would-be tacklers. Donovan has had some major supporters through his football years, in the names of Patrick and Tammy McCoy (his parents) and his uncle, Brian Morse. His favorite movie is “Varsity Blues,” not surprisingly, a movie about football. Donovan is a Philadelphia Eagles fan. His favorite of those ESPN highlights he watched at age 4 were of now retired Eagles running back Brian Westbrook, thus his total Eagles connection. Donovan’s favorite school subjects are physical education and trigonometry, a very interesting combination! He participates in Elmwood FFA and is a member of National Honor Society. Lifting weights is Donnie’s favorite pastime, and he would like to turn that into a career as a strength and conditioning coach. To achieve this goal, Donovan plans on attending Illinois Central College, followed by Western Illinois University. The two-time Prairieland all-conference running back advises future Trojan gridders, “Lift, get strong.” Beating Trojans’ nemesis Mercer County to open this past season is the biggest thrill of his prep career. Donovan will most miss his teammates upon graduating, including the blocking they provided for him. In the theme of the great team game of football, McCoys’ teammates will miss the touchdowns he got for them! – Phil Johnson Sponsored by Elmwood Insurance Agency, Inc.

CryptoQuote Answer The difference between intelligence and education is this: intelligence will make you a good living – CHARLES KETTERING

Hunters entered in The Great Outdoors’s first annual coyote hunt on Feb. 7 pose with some of the coyotes they shot.

We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion

www.wklypost.com ,

THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

ALL SPORTS ROUNDUP

Area girls will play in all-star basketball game CANTON – Several girls basketball players from The Weekly Post area will get one last chance to continue their high school hoops careers in March. Players selected for the annual Canton Kiwanis All-Star game included Ryleigh Keith of Brimfield, Abby Frietsch and Ashley Perryman of Elmwood and Hannah Jostes and Paige Pasley of Farmington. Shyann Jones of Elmwood is an alternate. Farmington coach Jimmy Jordan will direct the South team in the all-star game. College signings – Elmwood senior Frietsch has signed to play

Elmwood senior Abby Frietsch will play college basketball at Eureka College for new coach Steve Thompson.

basketball with Eureka College for next year.

In other college news, Elmwood senior Tucker Blum will play baseball at Carl Sandburg College. Et cetera – Brimfield girls basketball coach Maribeth Dura was named co-coach of the year for the fifth time in eight years for this region in IESA junior high basketball. ... High school baseball and softball practice starts March 2 and the first games can be played starting March 16. ... The Illinois High School Association board approved keeping the girls volleyball state finals at Illinois State University. Email area sports information to jeff@wklypost.com.

Page 15

SALE

<RXU %LUGV DQG %XGJHW :LOO /RYH ,W

Sale ends March 6, 2015

REGIONALS: Farmington routs West Central Continued from Page 16

Ethen Hunt led Billtown with 20 points and Garrett Wight added 13. “(Hunt) played well and did a nice job on the glass for us, which was important because they’re always physical,” Billtown coach Bob Anderson said.  Billtown won a meeting with Princeville last Thursday, 66-62. Wednesday’s winner plays Friday at 7 p.m. in the regional title game at Wethersfield High School. At Knoxville Farmington used energy, aggressive defense and team play to defeat West Central, 68-50, Monday night. Farmington (13-14) led by as

many as 30 in the second half and coach Jeff Otto provided a lot of playing time for his entire roster. “The win was ignited by our man, full-court pressure in the first half. We scored off of it, and we also mixed good long-range shooting with passing inside for easy baskets,” said coach Otto. Eric Higgs and Trey Swearingen led the defensive attack against West Central that resulted in easy layups, giving the Farmers as much as a 19-4 advantage in the first quarter. Midway through the second period, West Central briefly got within 24-15 with two three-balls, but it was short-lived as Higgs,

Swearingen, Caleb Gilstrap and Blake Mattson were able to score close and from long range. A well-executed play led to a Swearingen score behind the arc with three seconds left in the first half to send the Farmers into the lockers ahead 43-22. Farmington’s lead reached 54-24 in the second half. West Central had an 8-0 streak in the last minutes to seal the score. Higgs finished with 23 points, while Swearingen had 17 for the Farmers, who played Wednesday vs. Mercer County, hoping to reach Friday’s Class 2A regional final. – Phil Johnson contributed to this report.

7323 Radnor Peoria 7 323 N Ra dnor Rd, P eoria Hours on-Sat 10-6, 10 0-6, Sun N oon-4 Hours:: M Mon-Sat Noon-4 90-3232 ww w.wbu.com/peoria 6 www.wbu.com/peoria 690-3232

T HE G R EAT O UT D O O R S 20 5 E as t Ma i n S t . K n ox v i l l e , I L P. O. B ox 5 61 448

( 309 )38 8- 015 9

Ne w a n d Us e d F ire ar m s, L iv e B ai t & Tr a ppi n g Su ppl ie s

B r a d l e y S m o k e r • F F L Tr a n s f e r s L e s B a e r Cu st om • Hi s tor i c al A r m o r y HOURS: Mon, Tues, Wed & Fri 10 am-5:30 Thurs 10 am-6, Sat 10 am-2 Sunday 10 am-12

• Terry Howarter • Denise Shepherd life@greatoutdoors3.comcastbiz.net

live bait & trapping supplies Bradley smoker & FLL transfers New & used firearms

We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion

THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

Page 16 Hot news tip? Want to advertise? Call (309) 741-9790

Weekly Post Sports

www.wklypost.com Text Your Scores To (309) 231-6040 or email news@wklypost.com

Area teams face regional rematches

BILLTOWN BOMBERS FINALE

By JEFF LAMPE

PEORIA – The fourth showdown of the season between the Brimfield and Elmwood boys basketball teams is set. And this time, the winner takes all. The teams won Tuesday to advance to a 7:30 p.m. clash tonight (Feb. 26) in the semifinals of the Peoria Heights Class A Regional. “Both teams want it a lot, it’s just going to come down to who executes best and makes smart decisions,” Brimfield coach Scott Carlson said. No. 2 seed Brimfield (272) defeated Peoria Heights, 61-34, and No. 3 seed ElmNovak wood (25-5) outslugged Peoria Quest, 50-38. Brad Novak led Brimfield with 14 points and Carson Cuevas had 13. Elmwood played a zone against Quest and was up just 16-15 at halftime. Things got physical in the second half, with Isaiah Groeper punched in the face at one point. “In all my years I’ve never been part of a game where a kid actually got connected with hard on a punch,” Elmwood coach Josh Fugitt said. “It was wild.” Groeper was not hurt on the play, but the Quest player was ejected and left the court swearing to earn a double-technical. Matthew Jehle then hit four free throws to break open what had been a tight game. “Matt looked like the best player on the floor,” Fugitt said of his high-scorer, who had 15 points. Groeper scored 14 and Jake Roberts tallied 11 and grabbed 7 rebounds. Brimfield is 2-1 against Elmwood this year. Thursday’s winner advances to the title game against top-seed Peoria Christian or Delavan. Elsewhere in regional action... At Kewanee Princeville and Williamsfield also won their way into a rematch. The Princes (17-10) beat Galva, 75-35, while No. 3 seed Williamsfield (21-11) downed Stark County, 54-40. Nick Kraft had 20 points to lead Princeville. For The Weekly Post

Last Thursday marked the final home game for the Williamsfield Bombers basketball program, which next year will coop with ROWVA. Billtown fans turned out in force to honor the team and coach Bob Anderson (above) who had the gym dedicated in his honor and received a plaque for his 600 wins. Photos by Stephanie DeWitt (top) and Collin Fairfield (others). Billtown beat Princeville, 66-62.

Brimfield boys unbeaten in ICAC, Prairieland By PHIL JOHNSON

Brimfield’s boys basketball team racked up two more league titles and did so in impressive fashion, going unbeaten in the ICAC and Prairieland conferences. That looked to be in doubt for a little while last Friday, as the Indians (26-2) found themselves down 18-4 to a very hot shooting Farmington team. But Brimfield rallied on Senior Night to defeat their Prairieland opponents, 71-59. Actually, it didn’t take Brimfield that long to get hot themselves as the For The Weekly Post

first quarter concluded at 18-12. It was a night of long range shooting from both teams, as the Farmers would connect for seven threes in the first half, and aptly named Trey Swearingen had seven in the game. The Indians’ Jace Swietek contributed four 3-balls, and Carson Cuevas continued his consistency as Brimfield began the third quarter ready to pounce. They did by finally grabbing a lead with just over three minutes gone by. From there, Swietek and Cuevas continued their assault and the Indians led by as many as 15 in the final frame.

Brimfield finished 13-0 in the Prairieland and 5-0 in the ICAC. Two individuals off the team, Nate Wallace and Cuevas, were honored by being chosen to play in the Canton Kiwanis Senior All Star game in March. Elmwood A mixed zone and man-to-man full press on Friday crushed the Havana Ducks early to the tune of a 25-4 lead, that resulted in Elmwood (24-5) cruising to a 74-37 victory in its last regular season game. With the press called off at the Continued on Page 14

We Cover The News of West-Central Illinois With A Passion

Continued on Page 15