Thursday July 13, 2017 Vol. 5, No. 20
The Weekly Post
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Trend shows rural areas losing people, opportunities By BILL KNIGHT
The nation’s rural population declined again last year, according to recent Census data, and statistics also show fewer jobs to attract new residents, in a chicken-or-egg dilemma. Does population loss contribute to fewer employers, or does less job opportunity discourage staying or locating in small towns? In The Weekly Post area, Fulton County has lost 18.7 percent of its population since 1980; Knox has lost 17.3 percent; and Peoria lost 7.4 percent. In the 1980s, America’s trouFor The Weekly Post
ble spots seemed to be cities, with crime, violence and drug problems, plus slow economic growth due to factories and other employers moving to the suburbs. Meanwhile, the country’s smallest counties used to be on an upswing, generating about one-third of all new businesses in the 1990s, according to the bipartisan Economic Innovation Group. But cities rebounded. Rural areas didn’t, or couldn’t. Today – using factors ranging from poverty and teenage births, to deaths due to cancer and heart disease, disability
benefits, etc. – rural areas attractiveness to residents ranks below cities, suburbs and small metro areas, and steady population declines aren’t helping. “Taking a long, wide view from even before 1900, the trends for large swatches of rural America and its communities have been challenging and largely debilitating for many and beneficial for a few,” says Timothy Collins, assistant director of the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs from 2005-2016. “The whole economic system is tilted toward urbanization.” Collins, now retired and oper-
New principal
ating Then and Now Media in Bushnell, offers three general observations. “First, the history of rural communities can be viewed in terms of their ability to adapt to mainly urban-driven events that took them out of relative isolation and moved them into regional, national and international economies,” he says. “Global competition is not new, and U.S. agriculture has long been part of the mix. “Second, the byword for American agriculture has been ‘efficiency’ to increase farm inContinued on Page 8
CORN IMPROVING
Farmington board OKs Mason By BILL KNIGHT
FARMINGTON – New Superintendent Zac Chatterton told the Board of Education on Monday he recommends continuing with existing District goals such as “50 percent of students meeting or exceeding PARCC” (Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers standards), and the Board approved a new high school principal to replace Brad Hulet. “These are just target goals, and I hope we’ll have action items soon,” added Chatterton, who said he would prepare action steps for discussion at the Board’s September meeting. The board unanimously approved Kris Mason as principal. Mason, who’s worked at Limestone and Dunlap in Peoria County and with the Illinois State Board of Education, has a contract through 2020. In other business, Research Center specialist Ryan Lambert made a presentation on an ambitious For The Weekly Post
plan, “Makerspaces,” to expand student opportunities in a hands-on environment in the Research Center. Centered on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) learning, the approach would supplement traditional book-oriented, classroom learning to encourage creativity. After seeing first-hand the possibilities during a visit to the Illinois Math and Science Academy in Aurora. Lambert met with Chatterton and discussed adapting the concept to Farmington. “They have an IN2 center – for Inquiry and Innovation – and I thought I’d like to do something bigger here, for excelling learners and also ‘lower’ learners,” Lambert said. Open work spaces would permit students to work on many projects individually or in groups, Lambert said, from circuitry, robotics, art and drones, to entrepreneurial skills. A Makerspace ideally “prepares locally, excels globally and builds a Continued on Page 6
The Illinois corn crop has rebounded, with 65 percent of the crop in good or excellent condition as of last week. Photos by Jeff Lampe.
Corn crop in key period By LAUREN QUINN
URBANA – After a tough start to the season, including an unusually cool, wet May followed by hot, dry weather in early June, the Illinois corn crop has rebounded a bit, with 65 percent of the crop in good or excellent condition by last week. That’s up from the May ratings, but still lower than ideal, leaving U of I Extension
many wondering how the season’s slow start might affect silking and yield potential. “One consequence of the spring weather as corn enters the critical pollination period is the short plant height in many fields, especially in central Illinois,” says Emerson Nafziger, professor in the crop sciences department at the University of Illinois. “Plants in many fields Continued on Page 2
FULTON COUNTY Total square miles: 883 Persons/square mile: 41.18 Population 43,734 1980 2015 35,699 2016 35,536 KNOX COUNTY Total square miles: 720 Persons/square mile: 72.35 Population 1980 61,625 2015 51,441 2016 50,938 PEORIA COUNTY Total square miles: 631 Persons/square mile: 298.81 Population 1980 199,839 2015 186,221 2016 185,006
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THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, July 13, 2017
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CORN: Water and sun key for pollination Continued from Page 1
are 1 to 2 feet shorter than normal as tassels begin to emerge. “Later-planted (including replanted) fields have a few weeks to go before they pollinate, and can still get to their normal height if they have enough water.” Plants are short for this stage of development due to an unusual combi-
nation of factors. May’s cool, wet soils caused slow root growth, and when warm, dry weather hit in early June, the smaller-than-normal root systems couldn’t keep up with the evaporative demand from leaves. Nafziger says that although good yields are possible on short plants, really high yields – 250 bushels per acre or more – are more likely on
Billtown adds new board member WILLIAMSFIELD – Doug Baird was appointed to fill the school board term of Bob Rask on Monday, after the Williamsfield School board accepted Rask’s resignation. Baird will have a key vote when he is seated at his first official meeting on Aug. 7. Board members Chuck Ingle and Vicki Massie each received three votes in an election for a new board president, a twoyear term previously filled by Rask. In other business, the board: • moved to implement a random student drug testing program starting Jan. 1, 2018; By Weekly Post Staff Reports
• voted to allow home-schooled students to participate in middle school events starting this fall; • opted to add seventh-grade girls basketball as an exploratory sport for the upcoming school year; • approved the 2017-18 Student Handbook and Athletic Code and Academic Eligibility updates; • set food prices: breakfast $1.50, elementary lunch $2.50, 5-12 lunch $2.75 and faculty lunch $3; • added standing board committees for finances and facilities; • heard $2,000 was spent to replace bulbs in lights at the ball diamonds, where 48 of 52 lights work.
plants that are at or above normal height. Despite heavy rain earlier in the season, soil nitrogen levels were nearly as high in June as they were in 2016, and leaf color remains good. It is unlikely the crop will run out of nitrogen as long as there is adequate water in the soil to carry the nutrient to the roots. “The largest concern now, as it almost always is at this time of year, is having enough water and sunshine to maintain photosynthetic rates in order to get the high kernel numbers needed to produce high yields,” Nafziger says. “Very good pollination conditions – plenty of rainfall, good sunshine, and average temperatures – can overcome some of the negative effects of the season so far, but will need to last for two weeks or so after pollination in order to keep kernels from aborting. “We simply can’t know how this will end until we can count kernels and assess the state of the canopy by the time kernels start to add dry weight, about a month from now. We remain optimistic.”
Correction
In a story in the June 22 issue of The Weekly Post, it was incorrectly reported that Rosefield Township purchased a new wheel loader. Township trustees actually sold the wheel loader to Hoerr Construction for $30,500, according to Township Supervisor Mike Windish. Bids for the loader were opened at a meeting in mid-June. The newspaper erred.
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THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, July 13, 2017
THE WEEK AHEAD HOT PICKS This Week!
s Juggling Show – Juggling Jeff performs Friday (July 14), 10-11 a.m. at Brimfield Public Library. All ages welcome. s Movie Night – “The Sandlot” shows Friday (July 14) at dusk at the Yates City Central Park Gazebo. Popcorn and water provided. Bring chairs, blankets. s Farmers Market – Vendors gather every Friday (including July 14) at Elmwood’s Central Park, 4-6:30 p.m., through September. s Band concert – The Elmwood Municipal Band will play Sunday (July 16) at 7:30 p.m. at Central Park. Concerts continue Sundays through Aug. 6.
This Week’s Events
s Family BINGO – Bingo held at 6 p.m.
brary. All ages welcome.
Future Events
today (July 13) at Morrison & Mary s Adult Crafts – Make embellished bottles at Farmington Public Library on July Wiley Library in Elmwood. 19 from 6-7 p.m. Supplies provided, regs Poetry Slam – Teens’ Night Out poistration required. Come back Aug. 16, 6etry slam today (July 13) at 7 p.m. at 7:30 p.m. to finish. Morrison & Mary Wiley Library in Elms Adult BINGO –Bingo held on the third wood. s Free Bread – Free bread available at Thursday of each month (including July 20), 10 a.m. at Salem Township Library Elmwood Methodist Church every Friin Yates City. day (including July 14), s Make Crafts – Make 10:30 a.m. Publicize Your Event Fabric Magnets at MorriFree bread available Call us at (309) 741-9790 son & Mary Wiley LiTuesdays (including or email information about brary, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. on July 18) at Harrison your upcoming event to July 22. Hall in Brimfield at 10 news@wklypost.com. s Historical meeting – a.m. (309) 696-4542. Elmwood Historical Sos Bee Seminar – Free seminar by Master Gardener Bill Baker on ciety meeting 7 p.m., July 25 at Lorado Taft Museum. Public welcome. RefreshThe Life and Times of Bees Saturday ments served. (July 15) at 10 a.m. at the Illinois Central s Hunter Safety – Free hunter safety College Horticulture Building, East Peoclass July 27-28 at St. Mary’s of the ria. Open to the public. Wood in Princeville, 5-10 p.m. Food s Yoga – Yoga classes Mondays at Brimfield Public Library (including July served. E-mail maldrich64@hotmail.com or call (309) 385-2127 or (309) 229-4090. 17) from 6-7 p.m. s LEGO Club – LEGO Club meets July s Movie Night – “Sing” shown July 24, 6-7 p.m., at Brimfield Public Library. 19, 5:15-7 p.m. at Brimfield Public Li-
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THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, July 13, 2017
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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. Ads due Mondays by noon. Quotable: “In the eyes of its mother, every beetle is a gazelle” – Moroccan Proverb Illinois Press Association Member
Of a silver fox, Uber and crunching beetles
Elmwood Insurance Services, LLC
Rambling through central Illinois, pondering milky spore. uuu Leave it to The Mayor of Oak Hill to come up with something in a live trap that would flummox most folks. It seems Hizzoner has had issues with feral cats in the garden, so he set a live trap. Well, Monday morning, he wound up eye to eye with quite a surprise. What he caught smelled Jeff and looked like a LAMPE red fox – only it had a black and silver coat with a white tip to its tail. Turns out the critter was a silver fox, which is a really cool-looking genetically mutated red fox. According to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, there are also black foxes, cross foxes and even Samson foxes – all color phases. So once again, we are left to marvel at the intrigue emanating from Oak Hill. uuu One thing I’ve always enjoyed while visiting big cities is jawing with cabbies, who nearly kill us as they deal with traffic I’d rather leave to others. So it was with reluctance during a recent Chicago trip that we opted for Uber, which is basically a
service through which you pay a laid-off accountant to pick you up in his Toyota Camry. Much as I hate change, I liked Uber. You still narrowly miss tons of crashes, you can jaw with the driver, no money has to change hands and the rides (over a long distance) are cheaper. Based on an admittedly small sample size, the cars also smell better inside. ... As for Chicago, visiting there always makes me glad to live here. This paper includes a story on population loss in rural areas that is prompted, in part, by the perception that life is better in the big city. More to do? Yes. Better? Not for me. uuu TGIF? Hah. Up until last Friday, my summer was almost beetle-free. A few Japanese invaders had munched some rhubarb leaves, but that was it. Then Friday I noticed the serviceberry suddenly had lacy brown leaves. The culprits were obvious, as they sat munching on leaves, oblivious to my anger. ... A trip to the store later, after buying the last bottle of Sevin, the battle was on. Funny thing about Sevin. It cautions that you not get any on your
Scot Jehle & Janice Nash Elmwood, IL 61529 309-742-2141
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skin. How is that possible when you spray trees and bushes with the wind blowing? Wait for a wind-free, still day and you might not have any leaves left to spray. .... But the stuff worked. Sort of. After spraying, the colorful beetles flew to the leaves of our other plants. Not wanting to spray Sevin everywhere, I pondered options. I’ve read that knocking beetles into soapy water is a good idea, but that was too much work. So I found a preferable alternative: crunching beetles between my fingers. Trust me, it’s very satisfying, although I nearly mistook a bee for a beetle, which could have been problematic. ... Parting shot: Any Illinois politician on record praising the budget that was passed should be voted out of office. That is not an answer. It is merely one more example of why we are in such dire straights. Contact Jeff Lampe at 231-6040 or jeff@wklypost.com
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THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, July 13, 2017
GUEST VOICES
Did history shape Illinois’ dysfunction?
Retired politics professor Ken Redfield and I sat in the cafeteria of a gray, Soviet-style 1950s state office building in Springfield this past week to ruminate about a book we are doing on Illinois over the past half-century. We are intrigued by the idea that our state’s post-2000 dysfunction may have been prefigured over the decades by a mix of economic, inJim stitutional and poNOWLAN litical changes. As thinkers from Seneca in ancient Rome to A. Lincoln have observed, “All that’s past is prologue.” Why the past half century? We enacted a new state constitution in 1970. Modernizing governor Richard Ogilvie came into office 1969, enacting the income tax and expanding state government. State economic decline relative to the na-
tion accelerated about then, as shrinkage in our rich manufacturing jobs base began to show. And significant net out-migration of whites became evident. So why might events and change over the period have shaped the present dysfunction? Institutions matter. The 1970 Constitution guaranteed pension benefits and put in place a redistricting process that has resulted in gerrymandered, polarized government, among other strait-jacketing constraints. In 1980, voters approved a switch from three-member, moderating, bipartisan House districts to singlemember districts. This has contributed to concentration of power in legislative leaders (read: House Speaker Mike Madigan, longest serving speaker in American history). The economy matters. Illinois has been reduced from one of the richest states pre-1970 to barely above average among states in wealth today. So, while we continued to fund state
programs as if we were wealthy, we did so by failing to put money aside for pensions. At the same time Medicaid costs were ratcheting up sharply throughout the period, squeezing money for education and public universities. To address pension underfunding, in the early 1990s Gov. Edgar and lawmakers imposed dramatic increases in state outlays for pensions, but not to take effect until 2000. How to pay for these huge new outlays has flummoxed elected officials ever since. The pension problem is the singular reason we are in a budget crisis today. People matter. Disgraced, imprisoned Gov. Rod Blagojevich was incredibly corrupt. He operated Illinois like a statewide Chicago ward office, where almost every government action had a high price. The state’s reputation thus suffered badly at home and across the nation. Illinois became a late-night TV laughingstock. We fell into a funk. People talked about leaving. Some
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Rural people to have fewer insurance choices
As Obamacare approaches its fifth sign-up season, policyholders in many parts of the country are facing a marketplace with fewer choices and higher premiums. A New York Times analysis has found that 45 percent of U.S. counties probably will have either just one insurer or no insurers to choose from. That means some 3 million people in nearly 1,400 counties might have only Trudy one carrier and LIEBERMAN about 35,000 people could have none. Many of those counties are in rural states like Nevada, Colorado, Wyoming, Nebraska, Ohio, Kentucky, Missouri, Mississippi, and North Carolina. In dollars and cents that means those living in areas without a carrier must buy coverage in the regular marketplace where they will get no subsidies to help pay their premiums.
Subsidies are available only for people buying Obamacare policies on the state shopping exchanges. About 85 percent of the 12 million Americans with Obamacare policies get subsidies, which make it possible to afford coverage. For people with a single carrier in their county, limited options could mean high premiums for the policies available. “Blue Cross is out of Wisconsin, Indiana, Iowa, and Nebraska,” says Washington D.C. insurance consultant Robert Laszewski. “In Tennessee Blue Cross is out of two major cities and for the carriers staying in, the rate increases are through the moon.” The carrier will also be out of Ohio next year, a state where it had been a major insurer. This is not exactly the outcome that supporters of Obamacare had hoped for. The politicians who wrote the law and its advocates tried to defy the basic laws of insurance. They wanted to keep the private insurance market and still allow everyone sick or well to get coverage. In other words, Obamacare tried to
square the circle. But insurers make money by selling to healthy people while trying to minimize the claims they get from the sick. The ACA called for insurers to issue policies to everyone regardless of their health status. That meant thousands of very ill people came into the risk pool, and in many areas not enough healthy people signed up for coverage to balance them out. Laszewski noted that only 40 percent of eligible people signed up, a recipe for trouble in too many counties. “The most difficult place to make the marketplace work is in rural areas,” says Timothy McBride, a health policy professor at Washington University in St. Louis. “It’s an intractable problem in some places,” largely because rural communities have low populations, and the percentage of unhealthy people tends to be higher than in the cities. “Policymakers were hoping they’d get this fixed, but they haven’t been able to do that.” Many carriers leaving the market, however, are blaming the Trump adContinued on Page 7
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Peoria County releases June crime reports
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The Peoria Sheriff’s Department last week released its Crime Statistics Report for June for the eight Peoria County townships in The Weekly Post’s circulation area. The data reflect calls where the County was the primary responder: • Brimfield city and township together had 1 battery, 2 thefts, 5 incidents of vandalism/criminal damage to property, 2 accidents with injuries, and 2 accidents with no injuries. • Elmwood city and township together had 1 accident with injuries, 3 accidents with no injuries and 1 traffic ticket. • Jubilee had 1 theft and 1 incident of vandalism/criminal damage to property • Kickapoo had 4 thefts, 1 vandalism/criminal damage to property incident, 1 accident with injuries, 11 accidents with no injuries and 2 traffic tickets. • Millbrook had 1 criminal sexual assault and 1 accident with no injuries. • Princeville city and township together had 1 theft, 1 Driving Under
the Influence, 2 accidents with no injuries and 4 traffic tickets. • Radnor had 1 burglary of a residence, 1 domestic battery, 1 accident with injuries and 2 accidents with no injuries. • Rosefield had no incidents.
Truck hits power line, pole and van damaged
ELMWOOD – A G&O Disposal truck about 11 a..m. July 6 hit a lowhanging power line near the intersection of Sharon and Knox Streets here, snapping the pole. The pole then struck a van driven by Charles Forbes, 58, of Farmington, breaking its windshield, according to reports by the Elmwood police. No injuries were reported, and no tickets issued, but witnesses told police a semi tractor-trailer rig the previous day also hit the line, but had stopped and backed up to avoid breaking the line. An Ameren crew quickly responded and shut off power. The pole was scheduled to be replaced.
Possible heroin OD revived at Shell Station
KICKAPOO – Brimfield firefighters and Advanced Medical Transport
on July 2 responded to a report of a 29-year-old Kewanee man who’s collapsed at the Shell Oil station on Kickapoo-Edwards Road, where he was unresponsive and turning blue, according to witnesses. A bystander administered a dose of Narcon, which the victim’s companion had, and he was revived, said police, who reported suspecting a heroin overdose. However, no illegal drugs nor drug paraphernalia was found at the scene, and no arrests were made.
Police reports
• Sabrina Wright, 23, of Farmington on July 3 was arrested on an outstanding Tazewell County warrant for Failure To Appear on a charge of retail theft, and she was transported to the Peoria County Jail, where she bonded out that day. • A 17-year-old Elmwood motorist on July 4 was ticketed for reckless driving and for criminal damage to public property for an incident at Sweetwater Park, and he was issued a Notice To Appear and told to repair the damage.
Marriage license
• Chelsea Renee Streitmatter of Princeville and Craig Ryan Huber of Stanford, Ill.
FARMINGTON: New windows to arrive this week Continued from Page 1
stronger community,” Lambert said. Chatterton said he was familiar with Makerspaces and excited about the idea. In other news, • café director Sue Arbogast updated the Board on the District’s Wellness Policy Report, noting, “We’re doing really well,” but adding “physical activities” scored a little low since there is no K-12 recess; • Chatterton said the gym floors are done, resurfacing of Lot A started this week, and new windows are ex-
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pected to arrive next week; • the Board unanimously approved appointing Chatterton to SEAPCO, with Toby Vallas the alternate; • the Board congratulated the bass fishing team for placing third at state; • student members Erika Forman and Zack Siedek were seated; • the Board OK’d bread and milk contracts with Alpha Baking Co. and Prairie Farms, respectively. Bread bids were 6 cents a slice for bread, 10 cents per hamburger/hot dog bun and 18 cents for hoagie buns; milk was 24-26 cents per half pint and 77.5
cents for plastic chugs; and • in personnel, accepted resignations by Hulet, chef Nancy Tiezzi, assistant baseball coach Brian Anderson and secretary Rachel Kenney; approved Family Medical Leave for Shanan Hoffman; unanimously OK’d hiring Amanda Morse as student facilitator, Tammy Lockhart as café chef, and Erin Brown as café employee; approved Vallas as director of student services by a 6-1 vote, with Ron Zessin opposed.
BILL KNIGHT can be reached at bill.knight@hotmail.com
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NOWLAN: Illinois has strengths Continued from Page 5
are. In 2014, voters decided they had enough of Democratic politics and inept governor Pat Quinn. We were willing to give outsider Bruce Rauner a chance at the helm. Love him or hate him, Rauner came in with a single objective – never expressed in his campaign, that I remember – to blow things up and drive out the government Establishment, whose face is Speaker Madigan. The governor’s premise is that this Establishment – and the institutional and economic framework Establishment leaders had to work with – has created our present mess. And he may be largely right. Rauner and Madigan simply don’t talk, as adults otherwise would do. Instead, they lob toxic verbal canisters back and forth over the ramparts. The Rauner objective is to turn Blue Illinois Red. He made modest gains in this regard in 2016, yet needs at least two or three more election cycles to achieve
his objective, if ever. Given the present budget embarrassment, with folks likening Illinois to bankrupt Puerto Rico (incorrectly), I don’t think Illinois can wait that long. Until Rauner and Madigan sit down and really talk about the future of Illinois, no real progress will be made, as each side can block action by the other. As I have said often in this space, the tragedy is that Illinois has possibly unmatched strengths in infrastructure (interstates, rail, air, water), location, college-educated workforce and (maybe formerly, I fear) higher education. What lessons are there for us? Craft less-detailed, prescriptive state constitutions, so as change becomes necessary, it is a bit easier. Take longer looks. Throughout the past half-century, there has never been any comprehensive thinking about where we want the state to be in 10 years, and of how to get there. For the present, state politicos should act like most city councils do – and address our problems.
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LIEBERMAN: Contain medical costs Continued from Page 5
ministration for causing market uncertainty. A press release from Blue Cross Blue Shield announcing a 21 percent rate increase in the parts of Tennessee where it will continue to sell noted “two significant uncertainties.” How will the risk pool change if the requirement to buy insurance is no longer enforced? (The Trump administration has loosened enforcement.) Will the government continue providing cost-sharing subsidies to people with low incomes? This year individuals with incomes below $30,000 and a family of four with about $62,000 get extra help paying deductibles and coinsurance. I have no clue how politicians will solve this. I do know one thing: The cost of medical care continues to rise and that will be factored into everyone’s premiums each year. Unless there’s some serious cost control built into whatever comes out of Washington, premium increases could become very steep in the coming years taking health insurance out of reach for many Americans. Cost containment has barely been discussed. It’s the elephant in the room. For one thing, insurers’ operating costs, which
eat up about 18 cents of every premium dollar, are about twice as high as those costs in other countries. They include: determining eligibility, processing claims, enforcing controls on care like preauthorizing procedures – and negotiating fees with thousands of hospitals, doctors, and other sellers of care. Then there’s the matter of new healthcare technology and more use of older technology, which may account for as much as 50 percent of the increase in annual healthcare costs. At the end of June, for example, the New York Legislature passed a law mandating insurers pay for 3-D mammography without requiring women to pay deductibles or coinsurance and without the blessing of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force which has made clear that evidence for its use is lacking and “many important questions remain.” The cost of a mammogram could rise by a third. This is just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. I will explore technology and its costs in a future column. How do you think medical costs should be controlled? Write to Trudy at trudy.lieberman@gmail.com.
AREA CHURCHES BRIMFIELD St. Joseph Catholic Church Father John Verrier 314 W. Clay, Brimfield (309) 446-3275 stjosephbrimfield.org Sat. Confession: 3:30-4:45 pm Sat. Mass: 5 pm Sun. Mass: 10:30 am (10 am in the summer) 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 brimfieldefree.org Worship: 10:30 am
Sunday School: 9:30 am AWANA: Wed. 6:15 pm, ages 3-12
Brimfield United Methodist Church
Sunday services: 9:30 am
EDWARDS Bethany Baptist 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 brimfieldunionchurch.org Sunday Worship: 9 am Tuesday Bible Study: 6:30 pm First Sunday each month is Communion Sunday (gluten free communion offered)
DAHINDA Dahinda United Methodist Church 1739 Victoria Street, PO Box 14, Dahinda IL 61428 Church phone: 309-639-2768 Email: williamsfielddahindaumc@yahoo.com
7422 N. Heinz Ln., Edwards (309) 692-1755 bethanycentral.org Sun. Worship 8:15 & 11 am Wednesday Awana: 6:15 pm
Christ Alive! Community Church Pastor Lance Zaerr 9320 W US Hwy 150, Edwards (309) 231-8272 christalivecc.com Sun. School: 9:15 am Worship: 10:30 am
St. Mary’s Catholic Church Father Joseph Dondanville 9910 W. Knox St., Edwards (309) 691-2030 stmaryskickapoo.org Sat. Confession: 3-3:45 pm Sat. Mass: 4 pm Sun Masses: 7 & 11:00 am Mon. Mass: 5:30 pm Daily Masses: Wed-Fri. 8 am
ELMWOOD Crossroads Assembly of God Pastor Tim Cavallo
615 E. Ash St., Elmwood (309) 830-4259 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
First Presbyterian Church of Elmwood
United Methodist Church of Elmwood Pastor Bradley F. Watkins II 821 W. Main St., Elmwood (309) 742-7221 elmwoodumc.org Sun. Worship: 9 am, 10:30 am Youth Sun. School: 9 am Adult Sun. School: 8 am
Pastor Zach Waldis 420 E. Woertz, Princeville (309) 385-4487 princevilleumc@mediacombb.net Sun. Worship: 9 am Sunday School: 10:15 am
WILLIAMSFIELD FARMINGTON First Presbyterian Church of Farmington
Reverend Marla B. Bauler 201 W. Evergreen, Elmwood (309) 742-2631 firstpresbyterianofelmwood.org Sun. Worship: 10:30 am Sun. School: 9:30 am
Reverend Dr. Linda Philabaun 83 N. Cone Street, Farmington (309) 245-2914 firstpresfarmington.com Sunday School: 9:30 am Fellowship: 10:30 am Worship: 11:00 am
St. Patrick’s Catholic Church
New Hope Fellowship Assembly of God
Father Joseph Dondanville 802 W. Main St., Elmwood (309) 742-4921 Sat. Mass: 5:30 pm Sun. Mass: 9 am Tues. Mass: 8 am Tues. Confession: After mass
Pastor Tom Wright 1102 N. Illinois Route 78 Farmington (309) 231-8076 Sun. Worship: 10 am Wed. Worship: 7 pm
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PRINCEVILLE Princeville United Methodist Church
St. James Catholic Church Father John Verrier Legion Road Knox Road 1450 N Williamsfield (309) 446-3275 stjameswilliamsfield.org Sun. Confession: 7:30-8 am Sun. Mass: 8 am (8:30 am in the summer)
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
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POPULATION: Decline in ’16 smallest in years Continued from Page 1
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come, compete in global markets, and provide lower-cost food,” he continues. “Widespread mechanization began after the Civil War and intensified in the following decades, reducing the need for farm laborers, farm animals, and moving farmers toward specialization. “Larger equipment, new crop varieties, and enhanced farming practices also allowed some families to vastly expand
the size and scale of the operations at the expense of others who were not as efficient. Labor-saving devices, not only on farms, but in small-town factories, pushed workers into growing cities. “Third, much of the time the ‘pull’ factor in cities is powerful,” he adds. “Follow the money and the opportunities and you'll see where the people are going. Although our economy is incredibly dynamic and uncertain right now, urban economies typically grow faster and offer more employment opportunities.” Rural areas have older populations with less education. The median (midpoint) age in rural areas is 41 years old, compared to 36 in cities. One-third of urban residents earned college degrees, twice as many as rural counties. Plus, most rural areas’ housing stock has worsened, rural hospitals are struggling, and other social factors add more stress. For example, rural divorces have almost tripled in recent decades, and opioid abuse is increasing.
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Conversely, stable or growing populations can mean stronger housing and employment, more resources and cultural charms, and a firm foundation for families and communities. But the trend is people leaving. “It’s a problematic trend because it usually means fewer people working, fewer kids in school, fewer people shopping and doing the other things that contribute to the local economy,” say Tim Morema
and Bill Bishop in a report from the Center for Rural Strategies. “On the other hand, the [2016] decline was the smallest since the trend started,” they add. Fulton’s loss from 2015 was just 0.4 percent; Knox 0.9 percent; and Peoria 0.6 percent. And it’s not just Illinois. Ninety-three percent of all U.S. counties haven’t fully recovered from the 2007-08 financial collapse, according to the National Association Continued on Page 9
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of Counties, a nonpartisan group. Supposedly, employers that remain in small towns and rural areas are unable to find skilled applicants for vacancies, from HVAC techs to welders. Collins almost scoffs at such claims. “Maybe the problem is that these jobs just don’t pay enough considering the training required, work difficulties and working conditions, such as overall job security and
availability of benefits such as insurance and pensions,” he says. Although Collins cites economic-development initiatives that have successfully helped grow rural economies in Princeton and Delavan, he’s not generally optimistic about promoting the attractions of rural areas. “I’m unsure if any of the advantages of rural areas are even on the radar of most corporate decision-makers,” he
THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, July 13, 2017
says. “Rural communities in the U.S. have lost their low-wage advantage to global competition. Also, whatever the benefits of rural America – and I believe there are many – they are not enough to offset the benefits of city living, despite their high costs and congestion. “It takes a different type of person to choose to live in a rural area. We like to take it easier and don’t need to be surrounded by all of the people and noise, even if there are great jobs, wonderful restaurants, and tons of cultural activities. “Consider the loss of Caterpillar in Peoria, a decent-sized city with some good amenities,” he continues. “After years of rumors, the headquarters was finally moved to a Chicago suburb. I don’t see how most rural areas can compete when international cities such as Chicago are in competition with other major global cities. The world’s population is now mainly urban.”
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BRIEFS State Bank of Speer honored for service
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SPRINGFIELD – State Bank of Speer was one of three banks honored for exceptional community service with the 2017 Illinois Bank Community Service Awards presented by the Illinois Bankers Association (IBA). The award ceremony was June 22 during the IBA’s Annual Conference in Nashville, Tenn. This is the 15th year for the Community Service awards, which honor financial institutions that demonstrate a high level of service in their communities. State Bank of Speer’s flagship philanthropy project is the Teacher Grant Award program. Each fall, teachers apply for grants to fund projects that enrich student learning but do not fit in the limited school budget. Since 1994, the bank has donated nearly $180,000. Additionally, the bank has committed to donating $25,000 over a five-year period toward improving athletic facilities for the Stark County School District. Bank employees also volunteer in Senior Interviews, where Princeville High School seniors participate in mock job interviews. And for nearly 20 years, Princeville High School’s sophomore class has participated in the Real World Fair in partnership with the State Bank of Speer. Bank staff guide students in the role play and help them set up checking and savings accounts. Finally, the State Bank of Speer has given Student of the Month Awards at Bradford and Stark County.
The closure is for the removal of all pavement at this intersection to build a new roundabout. Motorists are encouraged to use caution in construction zones. Marked detours will be in place. For more information, contact Project Manager Stephen Letsky at (309) 494-8800.
Elmwood FFA honored at state convention
SPRINGFIELD – Amy Christ won two honors for the Elmwood FFA Chapter at the 89th annual Illinois State Convention, June 13-15. Christ, the daughter of Kurt and Connie Christ of Elmwood, was fruit production state proficiency winner and was also a state winner in the prepared public speaking career development event. Amy works at her family’s orchard, where they primarily raise apples, plums, cherries, peaches, apricots, and pears. Her responsibilities include managing, harvesting, sorting and selling fruit. Finally, the Elmwood chapter was recognized for coordinating a campaign for the Illinois Foundation FFA that raised at least $3,000.
Dean’s List Radnor Road closed at Several local college students were Alta Lane into November named to the Dean’s List this spring.
RADNOR – The City of Peoria announced the closure of the intersection of Radnor Road and Alta Lane to all traffic through November.
• Recognized at Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights were Lydia Hoerr of Brimfield and Brittan Edwards of Farmington. • Recognized at Bradley Univer-
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Elmwood’s Amy Christ was a double winner at the state FFA convention. Pictured from left to right are advisor Tara LaFollette, state winner Amy Christ and her parents, Connie and Kurt Christ.
sity were: Edelsten students Michelle A. Ohlson and David J. Wadi; Hanna City students Amanda Mapes and Angela C. Serrano; Princeville students Caitlin D. Alwan, Molly K. Ely, Alexander J. Pullen and Abby E. Rhoads. • Recognized at Quincy University was Austin Simms of Trivoli, who also earned Great Lakes Valley academic all-conference honors.
College graduates
Several local students graduated from Bradley University this spring: Brimfield – Anna Mae Johnson (Master of Science); Kaitlin S. Paternoga (Bachelor of Arts); Jason M. Cluskey (Bachelor of Science), Britta R. Courter (B.S., cum laude), Taylor M. Fales (B.S., cum laude), Ian J. McCauley (B.S, cum laude), Michael J. Walker, Jr. (B.S.), and Mary E. Milem (B.S., industrial engineering, magna cum laude); Edelstein – Michelle A. Ohlson (B.S., construction, summa cum laude); Edwards – Janelle M. Eisenmann (B.S.), Hannah C. Garman (B.S.), Kyle J. Schaub (B.S., summa cum laude); Elmwood – Olivia A. Althiser (B.S. nursing, cum laude); Zackary J. Polen (B.S.). Farmington – Zachary Ryan Cline (B.S., manufacturing engineering) Princeville – Caitlin D. Alwan (B.S., cum laude); Braden C. Bottenberg (B.S. Construction).
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Japanese beetles one of many pests By RON DIETER
Every summer I look forward to having homemade cherry pie made with cherries fresh-picked in the morning, pitted in the afternoon, and served in the evening after supper. We have eight cherry trees in our garden which is protected from rabbits and browsing (and rutting) deer by an eight foot high fence of vinyl-coated chicken wire. Occasionally we have problems with chipmunks nibbling on strawberries and tomatoes but they don't wreak the destruction caused by the larger critters. On a recent Thursday, my wife mentioned the cherries would be ready for picking when we return from a two-day trip. The crop looked pretty decent – not a bumper crop but still plenty for eating fresh and freezing for the winter. When we returned Sunday morning we found the trees completely stripped of cherries. There were just a meager few to be found – not even enough for a tart. A gaze of raccoons had scaled the fence and devoured the entire crop, breaking branches in the process. I know there were at least two perpetrators because I caught them both in my trusty trap, but I expect to capture the rest of the mob in the coming days. I don’t have any cherries left for bait but I have plenty of sunflower seeds which they cannot resist. Meanwhile I’m making plans for an electric fence. Fortunately, my daughter’s five cherry trees were in bumper crop mode and yielded plenty of cherries for her family and ours. Raccoons haven’t discovered her trees (yet) but the Japanese beetles have. We managed to get most of her cherries harvested before the beeFor The Weekly Post
tles got to them but picking the last few was not fun. Disturbing the branches while picking the cherries caused the beetles to lose their grip and rain down upon us. Yuk. You learn to keep your mouth shut real quick. Japanese beetles are native to northern Japan where they’re not really a problem. Natural predators keep them under control. They hitchhiked their way here to the eastern United States about 100 years ago and have slowly chewed their way westward. Apparently, the natural predators stayed in Japan. The beetle stage eats at least three hundred different species of plants including just about every plant that you pay money for. They particularly love linden, apple and cherry trees, and roses – especially the flowers, of course. The grub stage eats the roots of your lawn. The beetles emerge this time of year and begin feeding on your favorite plants. They spend their entire life of about 40 days eating expensive food, making love, and
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laying eggs in your lawn. They like to lay their eggs in well-fed, irrigated lawns. In that warm, moist environment, the eggs can hatch and the young grubs won’t dry out. The grubs feed on the grass roots and severe infestations kill the grass. Grubs draw skunks and possums who consider them a delicacy. You can control small beetle numbers by handpicking. Just hold a small bowl of soapy water under a branch and knock the beetles down into the water. My wife does this in the early morning and in late evening when the beetles are sleepy and not in a flying mood. I love her. I have also found that a very light spray of carbaryl (Sevin) applied in the evening after the bees have gone to bed will control Japanese beetles and keep them off favored ornamental plants and shrubs. Leaves and flowers damaged by beetles attract even more beetles. Clipping away the damage can reduce the mob effect. Deer, rabbits, raccoons, Japanese beetles – as Gilda Radnor used to say, “It’s always something.”
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FARMINGTON CLASS REUNION
The Farmington Class of 1947 held its 70th Class Reunion on June 21, 2017 at Scapecchi’s Supper Club. Class members attending were: (left to right) Thelma (Murphy) Richards; Shirley (Tiezzi) Kellerstrass; Blanche (Record) Swedlund; Ruth (Ewalt) Essex; Barbara (Johns) Rautson; Fred Balagna; Dorothy (McAlister) Isbel; Florence (Green) Giagnoni; Helen (West) Doubet.
Positive feedback on Farmington Streetscape By BILL KNIGHT
FARMINGTON – The City Council at its regular meeting on July 3 heard that the final tally for residents attending the June 28 public meeting about the proposed Streetscape project numbered 97, and the responses were overwhelmingly positive. “We’ve gone through the comments, and there wasn’t one negative,” said Mayor Kent Kowall. In other news, the Little Tikes playground equipment planned for Jacobs Park, with an estimated cost of $10,000 (mostly For The Weekly Post
underwritten by the David Jacobs family) has been ordered. The equipment, which includes two “spring rider” units and a larger playset with slides and other features, will be installed this summer, Kowal said. Fall-protection mulch and possibly borders to contain the material could be added next year, he added. In other business, the Council • passed a first reading of an ordinance regulating the discharge of firearms in the City, and further discussion and ac-
tion are expected at the July 17 meeting; • heard from Mid Century Communications’ Network & Field Operations Manager Aaron Buck about the company bringing fiber-optic service to Farmington, and he explained they’re finishing Elmwood and plan to expand into Brimfield, after which they can turn their attention to Farmington; and • heard B.J. Oldfield update them about the upcoming tractor pull at Dimmitt Park which is scheduled for Aug. 12. The event is self-sustaining, paying for portably toilets, etc., and the City will arrange for bleachers to be hauled to the park beforehand. Also, City Administrator Rollen Wright is organizing visits to Oak Ridge Cemetery by three possible bidders to more closely examine needed repairs there, including
marble upgrades at the mausoleum, and Chief Carl Powell reported on department activities in June, when officers made 50 traffic stops; issued 28 ordinance violations; recorded 17 property crimes and 6 crimes against people; handled 3 crashes; and made 21 arrests.
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OBITUARIES Janet Helen Breitbarth
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BRIMFIELD – Janet Helen Breitbarth, 85, of Metamora, mother of a Brimfield man, passed away at 12:38 a.m. on Saturday, July 8, 2017, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. She was born on May 22, 1932, in Peoria, to Jess and Helen (Baggs) Isonhart. She married Eugene T. Breitbarth, and he passed Breitbarth away in 1988. Survivors include children Kevin (Lynne) Breitbarth of Brimfield, Glori Daniel of Metamora, Cassie Rodgers of Peoria, Tammy Breitbarth of Amarillo, Texas, Darren “Dude” (Emma) Breitbarth of Tyler, Texas, Jeannie (Steve) Szetela of Oxford, Wis., Jannie (Rosamaria) Breitbarth of San Antonio, Texas, Matthew (Margaret) Breitbarth of Metamora and Jane (Butch) Kaebel of Prior Lake, Minn.; grandchildren, Aubrey Daniel, Carlye and Rodney Knuppel, Grace Smiley, Miranda and Kayla Breitbarth, Aaron (Kayla) Breitbarth, Daisy Breitbarth, Jacob (Katy) Szetela, Sarah Szetela, Steven (Justine) Szetela, Bethany (Greg) Gaines, Mellina Breitbarth and Moses, Lazarus and Faith Kaebel; 12 great-grandchildren; and brother Jess (Nadine) Isonhart of East Peoria. Janet was a Caterpillar Dieselette and was instrumental in starting the girl’s softball league in Germantown Hills. She was a huge sports fan. Her children and grandchildren were most important to her. Special thanks to the Bible Study Group ladies. A memorial visitation was July 11 at Mason Funeral Home Metamora Chapel in Metamora. No services will be held and cremation rites were accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to: Germantown Hills Girls Softball Association, 100 Fandel Road, Metamora, IL 61548; Juvenile Diabetes Association Illinois Chapter, One North LaSalle Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602; or a charity of the donor’s choice. Condolences may be left online at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.
Eddie ‘Bud’ Glover
Donna Brewer, Local Representative (309) 742-4661
ELMWOOD – Eddie “Bud” Maurice Glover, 68, of Elmwood died at
This Week’s Obituaries • Orvetta K. Barnes, 97, Brimfield • Kay Bianco, 75, Brimfield • Lena Bogner, 89, Princeville • Janet H. Breitbarth, 85, Brimfield • Carl Cramblett, 99, Farmington • Leah Faletti, 91, Brimfield • Geraldine Gilles, 90, Brimfield • Eddie ‘Bud’ Glover, 68, Elmwood • Brenda Hoyle, 67, Mapleton • Mary A. Janke, 89, Elmwood • Judy Ann Welker, 60, Middle Grove
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1:00 p.m. on Friday, July 7, 2017, at his home with his family by his side. He was born on Dec. 20, 1948, in Mount Vernon, Ill., and was the oldest son to Maurice and Betty (Wheeler) Glover, of Woodlawn, Ill. He married Diana Robinson on Dec. 5, 1975, in Granite City, Ill. They would have celeGlover brated 42 years of marriage in December. She survives. Also surviving are one child, Patric (Shannon) Glover of Elmwood; three grandchildren, Shelby, Brianna, and Taylor Glover of Elmwood; five siblings, Kathy (Frank) Thatcher of Colorado Springs, CO, Betty Buck of Mount Vernon, Mary (Danny) Ward, of Macon, Robby (Robin) Glover of Ashley, Ill., William (Kelli) Glover of Plymouth, Ind.; a very special aunt, Dorothy Glover Morgan of Mount Vernon; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his parents, Maurice and Betty Glover; fraternal grandparents, Elmer and Virgie Glover; and maternal grandparents, D.O. and Myrtle Wheeler. Eddie was a 1966 graduate of Woodlawn High School, and then he attended Rend Lake College. He also served in the Vietnam War with the U.S. Army Gun Truck Unit 444. After the war, he became a Recruiter for the Army National Guard. He served his country for 23 years. After his retirement he worked for Ben Franklin in Farmington, Walmart, and Dollar General. Eddie also had a passion for fishing and the outdoors. Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life service was to be held at 3 p.m. on Wednes-
day, July 12, 2017, at Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood. Another memorial service will be at 2 p.m., on Friday, July 14, 2017, at the Community Center in Woodlawn. Eddie will be laid to rest with full military rites at Arlington National Cemetery, in Arlington, Va., at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Condolences may be left online at www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.
Judy Ann Welker
MIDDLEGROVE – Judy Ann Welker, 60, of Middlegrove died July 8, 2017, at her home with her family by her side after a long battle with ovarian cancer. She was born April 6, 1957, in Canton, the daughter of Marie Boone and Jim Murphy. Survivors include son Bryan (Lisa) Welker of Elmwood, daughter Jenine (Larry Schmitt) Welker of Hanna City; grandsons Hunter Schmitt and Jordan Curington and step-grandson Welker Trey Hardesty; sisters Debbie Scheerer, Diana Keefer, Vicki (John) Welker and Janette (Richie) Hadsall. She was preceded in death by her mother and father and her brother-inlaw, Rick Keefer. Judy worked at the Canton overall factory and at Menards. She enjoyed many things, including going to garage sales, shopping, being outdoors, going on mini-vacations with the family, spending time with her children and, most of all, hanging out with her grandkids. They were the light of her life. She would do anything for them. She was a loving, caring, mother, sister and grandmother who put everyone else first in her life. She was a true angel and she always took care of everyone in her small town, even if they were not family. Memorial donations may be made to My Place St. Jude in Yates City. Cremation was accorded. Graveside services will be Friday (July 14) at 11 a.m. at Yates City Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held immediately after the service at the
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OBITUARIES Elmwood Tap Banquet Hall, 112 S. Magnolia.
Orvetta ‘Betty’ K. Barnes
BRIMFIELD – Orvetta “Betty” Keyes Barnes, 97, of Peoria, grandmother of a Brimfield man, died July 3 at Bickford Senior Living. Survivors include children Ann (Jim) Anderson of Lakemoor, and Dr. Chad Barnes of Peoria; grandchildren Jeff (Debbie) Barnes of Brimfield, Jim (Stacy) Anderson of Woodstock, Ga., Amy (Andy) Kraabel of Glenview, and Bradley (Rachel) Barnes of Marquette Heights; and nine greatgrandchildren. Funeral services were July 7 at First United Methodist Church in Peoria. Burial will be private. Condolences may be left online at www.cumerford.com.
Kay Bianco
BRIMFIELD – Kay A. Bianco, 75, of West Peoria, mother of a Brimfield man, died July 5. Survivors include her husband, John E. Bianco; son Lanny Russell of Brimfield; daughters Christine Russell and Lorra Russell, both of Peoria; three grandchildren; and brother Russell (Jane) Terrell of Indianapolis, Ind. Cremation rites were accorded. Condolences may be left online at www.peoriafuneral.com.
Lena Kimble Moore Bogner
PRINCEVILLE – Lena Kimble Moore Bogner, 89, of Henry, sister of a Princeville woman, died July 5 at Heartland Health Care in Henry. Surviving are children Patsy (Roger) Rumbold of Sparland, Nancy (Simm) Doyle and Jane (Jerry) Merdian, both of Henry, and James L. Moore of Chillicothe; sister Lois Fuchs of Princeville; 12 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-granddaughter; 6 stepchildren; 18 step-grandchildren and 24 step-great-grandchildren. Services were July 8 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Henry with bur-
ial at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Henry. Condolences may be left online at www.calvertmemorial.com.
Carl Boyd Cramblett
FARMINGTON – Carl Boyd Cramblett, 99 of Toccoa, Ga., formerly of Farmington, died June 1 at Stephens County Hospital in Toccoa. Born in Farmington to Arthur C. and Ivah (Butler) Cramblett, he is survived by his wife of 67 years, Jean (Northrup) Cramblett; brotherin-law and sister-in-law, Gerald and Jerry Northrup; and sister-in-law Dolores Beccue. Funeral services were June 4 at Acree-Davis Funeral Home in Toccoa, with interment at the Toccoa City Cemetery. Condolences may be left online at www.acree-davis.com.
Leah Faletti
BRIMFIELD – Leah Harriet Faletti, 91, mother of a Brimfield man, died July 7 at Bickford Senior Living in Peoria. Surviving are son, Jay (Renee) Faletti of Brimfield and daughter Bonnie Gudat of Bartonville; seven grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Cremated remains will be interred at Lutheran Cemetery in Peoria. No services will be held. Condolences may be left online at www.legacy.com.
Geraldine Gilles
Father Joseph Dondanville will officiate. Burial will follow at St. Patrick Cemetery in Kickapoo. Condolences may be left online at www.wrightandsalmon.com.
Brenda Kay Hoyle
KICKAPOO – Brenda Kay Hoyle, 67, of Mapleton, sister of men from Kickapoo and Dahinda, died July 3 at OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home. Survivors include her husband, Dan Hoyle; son, Andrew of New Haven, Key.; five grandchildren; brothers David Groeper of Kickapoo, Joe (Clair) Groeper of Dahinda, Tom (Julie) Groeper of Peoria, and Don (Kelly) Groeper of Washington; sisters Judy (Jeff) Joosten of Bartonville, Lois (Marvin) Schneider of Metamora, and Barb (Frederick) Brubaker of Peoria. Cremation rites were accorded. A Celebration of Life will be at Schmidt-Haller Burial and Cremation Service Friday (July 14) 4-6 p.m. Condolences may be left online at www.legacy.com.
Mary A. Janke
BRIMFIELD – Geraldine Gilles, 90, of Brimfield, died, July 8 at her residence. She is survived by children Michael (Lisa) Gilles of Kickapoo, Mary Ellen (Kevin) Sronce of Springfield, and Jo Ann Boles of Peoria Heights; eight grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and sisters Delores Mugavero of Peoria and Sally Dunkin of Blue Springs, Kan. Visitation is to be held today (July 13) from 9 a.m. until time of Mass of Christian burial at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church in Kickapoo.
ELMWOOD – Mary Agnes Janke, 89 of Washington, mother of an Elmwood woman, died July 6. Mary is survived by children Donna (Matt) Kuhn of Elmwood, Gary (Deborah) Janke of Brentwood, Tenn., Gail (Lu) Ori, Janet (Todd) Prose, and Cindy (Mike) Coyle, all of East Peoria, Debra Stein of Highwood, Ill., Susan (Tim) Holt of Metamora, Mary (Pat) Monckton of Peoria and Lori (Greg) Birkland of Washington; 25 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; one brother; two brothers-in-law; and two sisters-inlaw. A Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was July 11 at St. Thomas Apostle Catholic Church, with burial at St. Joseph Cemetery in West Peoria. Condolences may be left online at www.wrightandsalmon.com.
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Elmwood hopes state makes payments Market accounts to meet obligations. Meanwhile, the Council by acclamation approved a billing policy requiring contractors to certify payrolls showing them to be in compliance with the state Prevailing Wage Act. Also revisited from previous discussions were possible amendments to the local liquor code. The Council already decided no refunds for liquor-license fees will be made if license holders cease doing business, but other parts of the current language need updating. The Council tabled action and Mayor Bryan Davis appointed a committee of Warner and Aldermen Walt Avery, Nick McElroy and Andrew Almasi to confer and return with suggested improvements. In other news, the Council • set a public hearing on a proposed budget for 6:45 p.m. Aug. 3,
By BILL KNIGHT
ELMWOOD – A few hours after the Illinois House managed to override Gov. Bruce Rauner’s veto, creating the state’s first budget in years, the City Council on Thursday (July 6) looked forward to Springfield catching up with late payments to municipalities like Elmwood. In June, the state made a $13,000 income-tax payment to the City of Elmwood, but Springfield is still $53,000 behind, according to Treasurer Dean Warner. “We didn’t receive that; the state owes us that much,” he told the Council. “That hurts our cash flow.” Despite state payments in June for income taxes ($21,000), video-gaming taxes ($1,000) and Motor Fuel Taxes ($4,000), the City still had to transfer $158,000 from two Money For The Weekly Post
before the next regular meeting; • heard the need for a 3-percent increase in water rates to be considered this summer; • received Police Chief Aaron Bean’s June report showing 69 incidents, 16 stops, 16 warnings, 4 citations, 1 Notice To Appear and 0 arrests; • accepted Economic Development Director Dick Taylor’s report that bids to replace the Central Park gazebo’s copper roof and asphalt shingles at other City buildings were due July 7; • received notice that the City now holds title to the abandoned property at 307 W. Fremont St.; and • were told the Mound Street house where Habitat for Humanity plans a new build will be demolished this summer by Team Rubicon, a nonprofit organization.
Mike Cecil Financial Advisor 3430 W Willow Knolls Dr. Peoria, IL 61614 Office 309-693-3019 Cell 309-357-1001 mike.cecil@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com
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(309) 742-8608 JOE MERRICK PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION
CLASSIFIED AND LEGAL ADS - Call (309) 741-9790 JUST ... $5 for 20 Words! GARAGE SALE MOVING SALE 517 Hurff Drive, Elmwood Friday July 14 - 3 pm to 7 pm Saturday July 15 - 9 am to 1 pm Furniture, lamps, dishes, outdoor flower pots, Bose speakers, stereo receiver, 5 disk CD player, Oreck vacuum, misc.
tools, lots of seasonal decorations, Christmas trees, decorative pillows, large rugs. So much more!
SERVICES • MOWER REPAIR: G&G Services of Yates City handles lawn mower service & repair, riders, push mowers, weed eaters.
LEGAL NOTICE Sealed proposals will be received at the Millbrook Township Center, P.O. Box 22, Laura, IL, until 7:30 PM August 8th, 2017, and at that time publicly opened and read for the Millbrook Road District.
Also servicing & repairing ATVs, UTVs & golf carts. Free pickup and delivery within 15 miles. Now accepting credit cards. (309) 303-3444. • LAWNS MOWED: Call H&V Lawn Service, (309) 415-0296.
FOR SALE • HAY: First cutting alfalfa/ grass horse hay for sale. $4/bale. No rain and kept dry. About 250 bales left. Call or text John at (309) 645-6218. • MISC. ITEMS: 42” round Oak table with hidden leaf $150,
complete twin bed (headboard, frame, mattress, and box spring) one month old $175, 357 Smith & Wesson Model 19 (must have valid FOID Card) $500. Call (309) 678-2750 (No text messages please).
HELP WANTED • HELP WANTED: Hiring servers and bartenders. Call (309) 696-1354.
FOR RENT • HOUSE FOR RENT: Private country home, NW of Brim-
Non-M. - F. –T - 1: Aggregate hauling from various locations, one (1) or more tons, F.O.B. Proposals shall be submitted on forms furnished by the road district commissioner and shall be enclosed in an envelope endorsed accordingly. Bidder shall comply with the prevailing wage rates established by the U.S. Dept. of Labor, and the Equal Opportunities requirements. The right is reserved to reject any and all proposals and waive technicalities. Bobbie Philbee Millbrook Township Clerk
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field, 2 bedroom, partially furnished, large yard, garden, and storage shed. $595 per month rent. Lease, deposit, references. Phone or text message (309) 678-7400.
THANK YOU • REMEMBER, small “Thank You notes” in this section are free until further notice. Call (309) 741-9790.
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Page 17
THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, July 13, 2017
Princeville OKs 2017-18 appropriations By BILL KNIGHT
PRINCEVILLE – The Village Board on July 3 approved an appropriations ordinance for 20172018, providing for $2.9 million in total spending. Broken down, the appropriations include $579,000 for the General Fund; $20,500 for the Street Fund; $140,000 or the Garbage Fund; For The Weekly Post
$59,000 for the Pool Fund; $512,000 for Water operations & maintenance; $208,000 for Sewer operations; $183,000 for the ReverseOsmosis Loan Fund; $30,000 for the Water Depreciation account; $60,000 in Motor Fuel Tax spending; $153,000 for the Community Development Assistance Program (CDAP) Fund;
and a total of more than $1 million for the three Tax Increment Financing districts. Estimates of revenues for the fiscal year running from May 1, 2017-April 30, 2018, total $2.3 million, but Village President Jeff Troutman said the Village’s budget won’t result in deficit spending. “We’re always a little bit more [in appropria-
New Billtown tavern gets license By BILL KNIGHT
WILLIAMSFIELD – The long-vacant property on the south edge of town For The Weekly Post
may soon re-open featuring gaming machines, food and liquor, after developer Terry Cooper appeared at the
OPEN HOUSE - Sunday, July 16 - 1-3 pm • 30707 N. Norris Blacktop Rd., Farmington - $162,000
NEW PRICE! • 693 E. Court St., Farmington - $139,900
LISTINGS • 23064 E. Park Rd., Farmington - $119,900 • 2605 S. Tiara Strip, Bartonville - $110,000 • 526 N. Brad Ct., Hanna City - $109,000 • 344 Phil Gould Dr., Hanna City - $189,900
PENDING • 8151 N. Blackridge Rd., Edwards • 418 Charles St., Pekin • 16251 Christmas Tree Rd., Green Valley
PAM WEAVER 369-9268
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Williamsfield Village Board meeting on July 3. “We OK’d the liquor license,” said Village president Lee Wight. “We’re pleased to have him come into the community.” Renovating the former BP gas station, Cooper also owns Hilltop Grill in Creve Coeur. In other news, Trustees • are stepping up installation of new water meters, according to Wight, who said a Trustee “will orchestrate the implementation. “It’s a complete overhaul. We have 10 [meters in stock and] have ordered 40. We hope to have three put in per week”; and • the Board approved purchasing a radar gun for police, replacing a previous, in-squad system that’s broken down. The gear will cost about $750, said Wight, adding, “it’s in the budget.”
tions],” he said. “But we usually stay within the revenue we get.” In other business, the Board • OK’d an agreement to pay for half of the work on Darren Pullen’s sewer issue, with work to be performed by the lowest bidder, Priority Plumbing, for a total of about $3,100; and • revisited a franchise agreement with Mediacom that changed some of its language, approving the revised version. The Board in January passed an ordinance in response to a state law that communities may have more than one cable or communications provider instead of an exclusive agreement.
ARBOGAST ESTATE AUCTION SATURDAY, JULY 15 - 10 a.m. at 215 E. HAWTHORNE, ELMWOOD, IL Go to www.auctionzip.com ID#1314 for pictures
Ridgeway Grandmother Clock, Maple Queen Size Bedroom Set, 4 drawer chest, Jewelry Chest, Bookcase, Kneehole desk, Lighted Glass Curio Cabinet, Floral Sofa, Loveseat, matching Wing Back Chair w/footstool, Lazy Boy Recliner, Colonial Sofa, Loveseat, Chair, Barrel Bar Set, 4 Wood Bar Stools, White Wicker Loveseat, 2 Chairs, End Table, Coffee Table, Corner Chair, Dinette table 2 chairs, Bookcase, Wheel Chair, 3 Black n Decker Storage Cabinets, 22” Toro Lawnmower self propelled, grinding stone, single tree, sled, DAZEY Butter Churn 4, Occupied Japan Figurines, General household & garage items. Silvertone 5 String Bango, Omnichord in case. Rosemary Arbogast Seller John & Sue Arbogast Representatives Terms: Cash, Good Check Number w/ID
ADVERTISE! Call (309) 741-9790!
Jenni Case Financial Advisor Phone (309) 742-4104 Fax (877) 479-3083 Cell (309) 431-0714 5910 N. Windish Rd., Elmwood, IL 61529 jenni.case@edwardjones.com
PRINCEVILLE C.U.S.D. #326 2017-2018 REGISTRATION K - 5th Grades $70.00 6th - 8th Grades $80.00 9th -12th Grades $85.00 K-12th Technology Fee $100.00 Agenda Fee 4th &5th $8.50 Plus additional fees as required.
ONLINE REGISTRATION DATES K-12
REGISTRATION FEES
WALK-IN REGISTRATION K-12 will be at the Grade School THURSDAY, AUGUST 3, 2017 (for anyone not registering on-line) 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM / 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Free and Reduced Lunch applications, Fee Waiver applications, and Student Insurance Forms for those wishing to purchase insurance, will be available in August
ACTIVITY FEE POLICY
PRINCEVILLE CUSD #326 Athletic passes will be available at registration in the high school office and at home games. $70.00 family pass $35.00 adult pass $25.00 student pass (Grades 6-12)
Registration payments may be made online or mailed to the school.
Will be June 19th – June 30 & August 1st – August 3rd
For students who are members of an athletic or cheerleading squad (Grade 6-12)
FAMILY ATHLETIC PASS
maximum student fee $90.00 per year, maximum family fee $180.00 per year Students or families who apply and qualify for free lunches are exempt from paying activity fees. *NO fees are assessed for tryouts.
$45.00 PER STUDENT, PER SPORT
KINDERGARTEN - 5th GRADE UNPACK YOUR BACKPACK Tuesday, August 14, 2017 6:00 - 7:00 PM at Princeville Grade School Students should bring their school supplies with them.
6th Grade – Freshman ORIENTATION/TOUR@PJSHS Thursday, August 8th, 2017 from 5 pm - 6 pm in the PJHS Gym 6th Grade & Freshman & New Students can tour the building, set up lockers and locate classrooms
7th-12th Grade Open House @ PJSHS Thursday, August 8th, 2017 from 6 pm - 7 pm Softball – TRYOUTS – July 24th and 25th @ 5:30 PM @ PGS Softball Field (must be present both days) FIRST PRACTICE – Wednesday, July 26th @ 3:00 PM
PRINCEVILLE JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL FALL SPORTS PRACTICE BEGINS
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL
KINDERGARTEN THROUGH 12TH GRADE Wednesday, August 16th, 2017 8:05 AM – 2:15 PM Orientation – Friday, August 18th, 2017 First Day – Monday, August 21st, 2017
FIRST DAY FOR PRE-SCHOOL
2:15 PM DISMISSAL FOR ALL STUDENTS AUGUST 16 THROUGH AUGUST 18
Baseball – TRYOUTS – Monday, July 31st from 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM @ PJSHS Baseball Field (August 1st Rain Date) FIRST PRACTICE – Tuesday, August 1st @ 3:00 PM Cross Country – Monday, July 31st @ 10:00 AM in front of PJSHS
PRINCEVILLE HIGH SCHOOL FALL SPORTS PRACTICE BEGINS Football - Monday, August 7 @ 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM (all football players, helmet only) Golf - Wednesday, August 9th @ 9:00 AM Cross Country - Wednesday, August 9th @ 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM @ Troutman Park Volleyball Tryouts - Wednesday, August 9th, 10th and 11th from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM @ PHS Gym (tryouts are mandatory)
* Athletes must have a current physical on file BEFORE TRYOUTS or the FIRST PRACTICE. *
** Athletes without a current physical will not be allowed to tryout or practice. **
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Page 18
THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, July 13, 2017
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TRIVIA TEST By Fifi Rodriguez 1. MONEY: Who was the first U.S. president to appear on a circulating coin? 2. GEOGRAPHY: The Elbe River flows mostly through which European country? 3. GAMES: How much are black poker chips worth? 4. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What major U.S. city is in the 305 area code? 5. U.S. PRESIDENTS: Which candidate did Richard Nixon defeat in 1972 to win re-election? 6. AVIATION: How long did the Wright brothers’ first flight last on Dec. 17, 1903? 7. U.S. STATES: The bluebonnet is the official flower of which state? 8. HISTORY: When did the French and Indian War end? 9. MOVIES: In which movie does Judy Garland sing, “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”? 10. COMICS: Brigadier Gen. Amos T. Halftrack is a character in which comic strip? Answers
1. Abraham Lincoln 2. Germany 3. $100 4. Miami 5. George McGovern 6. 12 seconds 7. Texas 8. 1763 9. “Meet Me in St. Louis” 10. “Beetle Bailey”
FOR ANSWERS SEE PAGE 14
(c) 2017 King Features Synd., Inc.
MOVIES 1. Despicable Me 3 (PG) animated 2. Baby Driver (R) 3. Transformers: The Last Knight (PG-13) 4. Wonder Woman (PG-13) 5. Cars 3 (G) animated 6. The House (R) 7. 47 Meters Down (PG-13) 8. The Beguiled (R) 9. The Mummy (PG-13) 10. Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales (PG-13)
2017 King Features Synd., Inc.
Brimfield board paves way for cell phone tower By TERRY TOWERY
BRIMFIELD – A revised ordinance paving the way for a possible cellular tower in town was approved unanimously by the village board on Monday. U.S. Cellular has shown interest in erecting a 250-feet-tall self-supporting latticework tower in or near the village. Initially, focus was on school property near Brimfield Community District 309. But the school board tabled the issue this spring. The village based its language on similar tower ordinances in nearby communities, including Elmwood, said Village President Dan Fishel. “This is very similar and pretty For The Weekly Post
standard,” he said. “Now we wait.” The new ordinance allows for a tower of up to 200 feet tall. Previously, any new structures couldn’t be higher than the tallest structure in the village, currently the water tower at approximately 175 feet. If the proposed cell tower exceeds 200 feet tall, it also would be need to be lighted according to the FAA. The village will now wait to see if U.S. Cellular can decide on a location for the tower. If a location is found, the tower would be erected within a year, U.S. Cellular officials said. Also on Monday, the board accepted the resignation of member Kevin Gilles, who recently was mar-
ried and moved out of the village. “He will be very much missed,” Fishel said. The board will appoint a replacement at next month’s meeting. The term runs until Spring 2019. In other business, the board: • Heard legal fees from a pending lawsuit filed against the village by Cross Creek Farms and Dan Gilles have reached $11,444 since January. “That is the cost incurred so far for the village to defend itself,” Fishel said. Attorney William Atkins, who is representing the village, said the lawsuit is still in the discovery phase, which could last for several months. • Decided to hold its August meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 1, ahead of Old Settlers Days, Aug. 11-12 this year.
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THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, July 13, 2017
RODEO: Bareback riding like ‘dancing’ with a horse Continued from Page 20
just jumped into the deep end without any floats and hoped I could swim.” Years of hard lessons taught Sumner plenty. Success in bareback riding is a combination of staying up on the horse (for a minimum of 8 seconds) while
also showing proper form. For instance, during the first jump by a horse after it leaves the chute, a rider’s spurs must maintain contact in front of the horse’s front shoulder. “There’s a science to it,” Sumner said. “Basically, you and the horse are
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FARM MANAGEMENT & FARM REAL ESTATE On July 1, Farm Care was acquired by Mark Rhea. Mark has the same qualifications as Gene and plans to continue the same services as Gene has for the last 22 years. Gene will still be involved for a while. The office location and phone number remain the same. Please stop in and say hello to Mark.
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dancing. When he throws a buck with his head, you pull your feet and reset them before he gets back down to the ground. “It’s not just getting on and riding. You are actually trying to control the animal.” For Sumner, that’s a major appeal. “You get on this animal, and when you make a good ride, you are rewarded. There’s no feeling that can describe it,” Sumner said. “And the camaraderie between you and your rodeo buddies is a brotherhood and a bond.” When not competing in rodeo, Sumner is a union Millwright who specializes in working on power plants during shut downs – typically outside of rodeo season. He also enjoys hunting, which is one reason he moved to his five-acre res-
idence west of Farmington. Some day, he might have time to putter around the farm. Not yet, though. “I would like to stay in rodeo until I’m 35,” Sumner said. “It’s going to be really tough when I hang it up.”
Princeville alumni FB Saturday
The second Princeville alumni football game is Saturday in Princeville, with the Princes facing Stark County at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 for ages 7 and over and 50 percent of the ticket sales in advance of the game benefit the schools involved. Princeville State Bank and German Bliss are game sponsors. Also, Farmington and Elmwood-Brimfield alums play July 28 at 7 p.m at Farmington High School. Elmwood sports – Meetings for Elmwood-Brimfield high school football (Aug. 2) and cross country (Aug. 10) will take place in the high school gymnasium due to construction in the high school cafeteria. By Weekly Post Staff Reports
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Page 19
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THE WEEKLY POST • Thursday, July 13, 2017
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Rodeo pro Farmington resident Sumner a top national bareback rider By JEFF LAMPE
FARMINGTON – So far, Mike Sumner is not enjoying Cowboy Christmas as much as usual. July is called Cowboy Christmas by rodeo enthusiasts because of the number of events held nightly across the Midwest. “You can pretty much go to one or two rodeos per day for the entire month,” Sumner said. “And you can make so much money, that’s why we call it Cowboy Christmas.” So far, though, luck has not been on his side. In his last rodeo at Rushville, the bucking horse Sumner was to ride flipped over in the chute and landed on him. That left him with an aching back and a groin pull at the most inopportune time of the season. But Sumner won’t be sidelined Weekly Post Staff Writer
for long, saying he plans to ride this Sunday in Henry at 7 p.m. Handling pain is just part of the job – a job Sumner has done very well of late. For the past four years, he’s ended the season as one of the top 15 professional bareback riders in the country – each time reaching the International Finals Rodeo in Oklahoma City. That’s the pinnacle for rodeo performers and it’s where Sumner, 32, hopes to be riding again in January. First, he’s got to get back on a horse. Odds are a groin pull won’t keep him down for long. For one thing, he’s a workout maniac who spends the offseason pumping iron and exercising twice a day for two hours at a time. Then too, as a former U.S. Marine who earned a Purple Heart during the first of two tours in Iraq, Sumner has endured much worse.
Mike Sumner of Farmington has reached the International Finals Rodeo in Oklahoma City as a bareback rider for four straight years, an honor reserved for the top 15 performers in the world. He started riding in rodeo after serving two deployments in Iraq with the Marines.
“In my first deployment (to Iraq in 2004) my Humvee hit a land mine and it messed us all up,” Sumner said. He suffered swelling on the brain and spent several days in a coma. Yet within a few weeks, he was back with his unit. Even so, experiences like that leave wounds. And it was between deployments that Sumner found his way to horses as “kind of a therapy thing.”
He started working at a stable and began riding for the first time in his life. A native of Pekin, he had never before been a “horse person” or had any experience in rodeos. After taking up riding, he found himself attending rodeos with friends. “At one I got dared to get on a bull. And I said, ‘I’m more of a horse person,’” Sumner recalled. “So I got dared to get on a buck-
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ing horse. And I got pretty thrashed around.” But he enjoyed the thrill of trying to control a largely uncontrollable animal. Not long after his 2006 deployment ended, he got a professional rodeo card in 2007. “A lot of (rodeo competitors) start out in pee wee or junior high and have coaches and mentors to help them,” Sumner said. “Me, I Continued on Page 19