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Volume 143 No. 12

Friday, February 24, 2017

Single Copy Cost 50¢

Wanted: Bus drivers in Tonica

Superintendent applauds volunteerism By Zachary J. Pratt news@tonicanews.com

TONICA — The Tonica School District has been at risk of only having one bus driver; it is looking to rectify the issue. At its February meeting, the board gave Interim Superintendent Jim Whitmore the OK to seek proposals in search for a solu-

tion. “As everybody knows, we are struggling to find bus drivers — have been for years,” Tonica School Board President Jeremy Hillyer said. “We’ve been on the brink of one driver, a one-bus route, which I think would be catastrophic for this district,” Whitmore added. Hillyer mentioned a

group of 10 districts formed a coalition which allowed them to work through the same sort of issue. Tonica had possibly been going to join. Also at the meeting, the board had a long discussion about the Tonica School District policy manual, and it was decided it will be updated and digitized. The contract with the Illi-

nois Association of School Boards provides the update and digital service to the school for $4,600, spread out into three payments. The move was made because of the state of the school’s existing physical manuals which are in disrepair. “We must have several board members that don’t have a policy manual at all because they are in all degrees of calamity,” Whitmore said, adding the

results will not be immediate, perhaps taking several months, but the finished product will be a major improvement. Also, Whitmore expressed his gratitude and appreciation for those who are willing to step up and fill positions when the school is in need. “I want to express my appreciation to the suddenly-developed volleyball staff we have,” Whitmore said. This instance is not the

‘Crikey!’

Lock-in — locked out in Lostant Too many uncontrollable factors cancel the event, though the dance is still on By Zachary J. Pratt news@tonicanews.com

LOSTANT — The Lostant Elementary School dance is locked in; the proposed lockin is not. The Student Council dance is set for 6 to 8 p.m. April 28, but the proposal for a lockin immediately following has been denied. At the February board meeting, one of the main issues was the numbers of boys and girls, along with the need for volunteers to chaperone, especially male volunteers. “There are a lot more boys than girls, so I’d say we need men there. And if we don’t have that, we don’t do it,” said Cindy Burcar, board of education member. “I also think that for every five students, we should have a chaperone.” The school mandates that men and women both go along on field trips, which furthered the argument the same should be true for an overnight event. Another factor was the question of whether there were any rules in place about who can chaperone. In the end, it was decided there were too many factors which would be uncontrolla-

Lostant Page 3 Vol. 143 No. 12 One Section - 8 Pages

first occurrence of people taking it upon themselves to fill in when necessary. “Every challenge that we’ve had since before the school year, someone has stepped up to stand in the gap,” Whitmore said, commenting on the care the community has placed on the school. “We’ve had staff members standing in the gap. We’ve had board members standing in the gap,” Whitmore said.

Large reptiles thrill Tonica Grade School By Dave Cook

news@tonicanews.com

TONICA — As students and staff filed into the gym for the assembly, there were several large plastic containers and an irregularly-shaped denim bag on the floor. While the plastic totes suggested nothing unusual, what they contained was anything but, for they contained reptiles — some very large reptiles. The Feb. 15 presentation of Jim Nesci’s Cold Blooded Creatures at the Tonica Grade School was sponsored by the Tonica Parent Teacher Council (PTC). They most certainly got their money’s worth as students and staff alike were thrilled by the reptiles and knowledge shared by Nesci during a high energy presentation. Sarah Patyk, president of the PTC, said, “We do a program every year and try to get something both fun and educational.” The PTC raises funds through the year to sponsor educational programs and to help purchase supplies for classrooms. Along with the programs and supplies, the PTC also sponsors a school trip to the movie theater every March. Nesci has worked with reptiles his whole life and began giving presentations to schools when he was young and invited by a friend who was a teacher. Since then he has performed before countless schools and before people of all ages. Nesci and his reptilian friends have appeared on “The Oprah Show,” “Animal Planet,” “The Tonight Show,” HGTV, “Regis & Kelly” and “The Today Show.” He has also lectured at The Shedd Aquarium, Lincoln Park Zoo, The Field Museum and The Academy of Tonica News photo/Dave Cook Sciences. His most famous associaIt’s not every day you go to school and get to help hold an enormous snake. Tonica Grade School students and tion is with the one and only Steve

staff recently enjoyed an informative and highly entertaining educational presentation from Jim Nesci’s Cold Blooded Creatures. The event was sponsored by the Tonica Parent Teacher Council.

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Reptiles Page 2

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2 • The Tonica News • Friday, February 24, 2017

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

(USPS 633340) Published every Friday at Tonica, IL 61370 Entered at Tonica Post Office as Periodical Mail $22 In LaSalle County $25 Outside of LaSalle County

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

Email to:

news@tonicanews.com. Photos should be sent as an attachment. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Tonica News, P.O. Box 340, Princeton, IL 61356

Tonica News photos/Dave Cook

Reptile From Page 1

Irwin, the Crocodile Hunter. “I’ve worked extensively with Steve; he was a good friend and was very interested in my behavioral work with my alligator, Bubba,” Nesci said. The presentation began with Nesci introducing Tank, a 70-pound African Spurred tortoise, to the crowd. After sitting on a couple of laps and being petted, Tank set off on his own slow trek across the gymnasium. A student volunteer was then chosen to assist Nesci unveil the next reptile by helping to hold the tail of a large monitor lizard, a relative of the Komodo dragon. Nesci described each

reptile, their environment and shared interesting facts about them. “We’re here today to help dispel the myths and superstitions surrounding reptiles because there’s so much misunderstanding,” Nesci said. After a small Ball python was shared with the group, teacher Nick Heuser helped introduce one of the big stars of the show, a python so large it took approximately a dozen students standing shoulder to shoulder to hold it. Anyone who wanted to take a turn helping to hold it was allowed. The python wasn’t the headliner of the show, but he arguably generated the most excitement from the students who were either thrilled or perhaps

not entirely sure about their choice to help hold such a large reptile. Nesci informed the audience the majority of his creatures are rescues, and he spoke of the need to make well-informed decisions when choosing a pet. He shared the story of his favorite reptile, one he’s owned since it was very small — Bubba, his 14-year-old, 10-foot long American alligator who lives in the house with him and travels freely up and down the stairs. After slowly working him out of his large denim bag, Nesci bent over face to face with the completely unrestrained Bubba and kissed him on the tip of his nose. He stayed there, nose to nose, while sharing an amusing story about a deliv-

ery driver who met Bubba in the driveway and thought he was a high quality lawn decoration. An alligator who takes commands from his trainer is highly unusual and was of special interest to Irwin. Nesci said his experience and patience has created a trust between them going beyond what’s expected. He said Bubba is unique and has built bonds with special needs children and adults alike. Nesci said, “He amazes teachers and audiences wherever he performs and has appeared in schools, hospitals, museums and various TV shows and advertisements. He’s even had a book written about him, and he autographed each copy.”

Whereas the python loudly energized the gymnasium crowd, Bubba left everyone speechless. When Nesci said, “Come here, Bubba.” and Bubba then stood up and walked across the gymnasium floor to lay down at his feet, the gym was quiet and more than one jaw was dropped. Nesci stressed the importance of treating all animals with respect and care and of how the safety and health of his animals and those who interact with them is of utmost concern when he’s educating. While the PTC always tries to choose programs for Tonica’s students which are fun and educational; this year’s selection exceeded all expectations and will certainly be a challenge to top.

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Friday, February 24, 2017 • The Tonica News • 3

Police and fire reports Both men were transported to LaSalle County Jail where LaSalle County Sheriff they will be held awaiting a felony bond hearing.

At 5 p.m. Feb. 6, deputies cited Brock D. Bursott, 23, of Metamora, with speeding 79 mph in a 55 mph zone while traveling on Rt. 18 in Hope Township.

Tonica Volunteer Fire Department

At 2:10 p.m. Feb. 19, the Tonica Volunteer Fire Department was called out for a field fire that was out of control at 508 E. 2250th Road. The fire was quickly contained and the firefighters returned to their station in about 30 minutes.

Tri-DENT arrests

• PERU — At 3:39 p.m. on Feb. 16, LaSalle County Sheriff’s deputies conducted a traffic stop on Route 6 at Cleveland Street in Peru. As a result of the traffic stop, Amy N. Lannen, 35, of LaSalle was arrested on a LaSalle County arrest warrant for unlawful delivery of a controlled substance, a Class 2 felony, stemming from an investigation conducted by TriDENT agents and LaSalle Police alleging Lannen delivered a controlled substance (cocaine) to undercover agents. The warrant was issued by the LaSalle County State’s Attorney’s Office. Bond was set at $500,000. Lannen was transported to the LaSalle County Jail. • MENDOTA — Two Mendota men were arrested on drug charges after Tri-DENT agents conducted a search warrant in their home around 9:22 a.m. Jan. 23. The search was conducted at 100 S. First Ave., Trailer 33, Mendota, which is the residence of Jose R. Aranda, 33, and Juan Pablo Santizo Aranda, 23. In the home, officers located both men, along with Hector Espinoza, 33, of 800 Springfield Ave. in Mendota. Agents recovered about four grams of a substance purported to be cocaine and other items consistent with a person who is dealing cocaine. The items were located in a room occupied by Aranda. Agents also recovered less than one gram of a substance purported to be cocaine on Pablo. Both men were transported to the Mendota Police Department for further investigation. Espinoza was released on the scene. Following the investigation, Aranda was charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance (cocaine) with the intent to deliver more than one gram but less than 15 grams, a Class 1 felony Pablo was charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance (cocaine), a Class 4 felony.

Lostant From Page 1

ble, too much that could veer into undesired territory. “As careful as we are about just about everything that we do, I think this is a bad choice because there aren’t enough controls. There’s just so much that could go wrong,” Burcar said. “I would rather that we do two other things than an overnight thing.” One suggestion was a

movie night. The dance will be chaperoned by Superintendent Sandra Malahy and teacher Tricia Haynes, with a rule in place there will be no coming and going. “Once you arrive, you’re here; if you leave, you’re not coming back,” explained board member Quillard Skinner. Also at the Feb. 15 meeting, Lostant is poised to host a conference, if the school can be responsible for food

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• MENDOTA — At 9:08 a.m. Feb. 14, Mendota Police arrested Esat Aliu, 37, of 7 N. 42nd Road, Mendota, in the 1400 block of 13th Avenue on a LaSalle County arrest warrant for unlawful delivery of a controlled substance (Class 2 felony), alleging Aliu delivered a controlled substance (fentanyl) to undercover agents. The warrant was issued by the LaSalle County States Attorney’s Office after an investigation conducted by Tri-DENT agents into the sales of a controlled substance in Mendota. Bond was set at $500,000. Aliu was processed at the Mendota Police Department and then transported to the LaSalle County Jail. • LASALLE — Tri-DENT agents, assisted by LaSalle Police investigators and officers, conducted a buy/bust operation in the 400 block of Bucklin Street in LaSalle at 4:56 p.m. Feb.17. During the operation, Tri-DENT conducted a controlled purchase of less than one gram of purported crack cocaine from Jeremy J. Arnold, 28, of 901 Grant St., Apt. 212, LaSalle. Arnold was taken into custody without incident. Arnold was transported to the LaSalle Police Department. Following the investigation, Arnold was charged with one count of unlawful delivery of a controlled substance (cocaine), a Class 2 felony. A records check also indicated that Arnold had a LaSalle County arrest warrant for aggravated battery with a bond set at $15,000. Arnold is currently being held at the LaSalle County Jail on the aggravated battery and unlawful delivery of a controlled substance charge with a bond of $100,000.

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LASALLE — Illinois State Police (ISP) District 17 announced results of a Roadside Safety Check (RSC) held in LaSalle County in late January. The RSC was conducted on Route 251 at North 25th Road, west of Oglesby, by District 17 officers. During the detail, there was one citation issued for DUI; one citation issued for another alcohol/drug offense; zero citations issued for occupant restraint offenses; four warnings written for registration offenses; three warnings written for driver’s license offenses and one citation issued for an insurance violation. There were a total of four citations issued and 14 warnings written during the detail. concessions. The event was initially set to be hosted at Deer Park, but space constraints might shift hosting duties to Lostant. “They have a really small gym,” Malahy said. “Their ceiling is small for volleyball.” With Lostant being next in line to host, the event could be moved there. “If you’re in the situation Deer Park’s in, then you go to the next school,” Malahy said. The school has agreed to

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Midland States Bancorp Inc. and Centrue Financial Corporation recently announced they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Midland will acquire Centrue for estimated total consideration of $175.1 million, or $26.75 per share of Centrue common stock. Centrue Financial Corporation, the parent company of Centrue Bank, is headquartered in Ottawa and had total assets of $978 million, net loans of $677 million and total deposits of $740 million as of Dec. 31, 2016. Established in 1874, Centrue has 20 bank branches located principally in Northern Illinois including two in Princeton in Bureau County and five in Peru, Ottawa (2) and Streator (2) in LaSalle County. Other locations include Aurora, Bourbonnais, Bradley, Coal City, Diamond, Dwight, Herscher, Kankakee, Manteno, Momence, Orland Park, Plano, Sandwich, St. Louis, and Yorkville. Leon J. Holschbach, president and chief executive officer of Midland, said, “Centrue has built a highly attractive franchise through a commitment to superior customer service and being deeply invested in the success of the communities it serves. Having competed against Centrue in our Northern Illinois markets for many years, we are very familiar with their franchise and believe they will be an excellent cultural fit with Midland.” Kurt R. Stevenson, president and CEO of Centrue, said, “Midland is an excellent merger partner for Centrue and the combination of our two companies will create an exceptionally strong community banking franchise with more than $4 billion in total assets.” The transaction is expected to close in mid-2017, subject to regulatory approvals, the approval of Centrue’s and Midland’s shareholders, and the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. Midland States Bancorp Inc. is a community-based financial holding company headquartered in Effingham, and is the sole shareholder of Midland States Bank. Midland had assets of approximately $3.2 billion, and its Midland Wealth Management Group had assets under administration of approximately $1.7 billion as of Dec. 31, 2016.

ISP announces RSC results

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serve as the host facility on the condition that it is in charge of concessions. It was explained being in charge of the concession stand would provide a major source of revenue for the district during the event. “They get the gate; they’re in charge of the whole thing; they’re just hosting it at Lostant school. But I want the concession stand,” Malahy said. Concessions would be more difficult at Deer Park

Skinner explained, as the serving area would already be in use for games. “Their gym is the cafeteria,” he said. At the time of discussion, Lostant had not yet received response regarding its request for the concession stand. It’s that time of year when schools are planning their field trips, and Lostant is no different. The April 7 trip will see the students going to Seed-

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4 • The Tonica News • Friday, February 24, 2017

The Editorial Page The Tonica News Sam R Fisher

Terri Simon

Publisher

Editor

Resolutions vs. bucket list Are they the same thing? Both resolutions and bucket lists are planning our actions of the future. There’s one big difference: Resolutions = Doom. Bucket List = Excitement. Personally, I gave up making resoluEarlene tions a long time ago. You could pave PrincCampbell eton’s Main Street COMMENTARY from Route 80 to WZOE with my good intentions. But when I saw the movie “The Bucket List,” I fell in love with the idea. Right then I made up my mind that I didn’t want to go out of this world saying, “I wish I had …” My list never has been long, but as goals are fulfilled, they are replaced. Because of that list, I have ventured out and done exciting and sometimes zany things I wouldn’t have done without it. In order to cross off some items on my list, I have had to, sort of, go against the grain. Jerry has been very supportive in my fulfilling my goals – not necessarily always encouraging, you understand, but he has not stepped in my way and has foot the bill for most of these ventures. First on the list: Para-sailing. We were walking around the lake up in Door County when I spied it. “Look, Jerry, they’re para-sailing. Let’s check and see what it costs.” The cost was reasonable, and I was psyched, but tomorrow would be soon enough. With pamphlet in hand, we returned to our motel room. We had a discussion on the pros and cons of para-sailing. Jerry was not enthusiastic about my carrying through with sailing far up, over a large body of water, behind a boat. “I don’t really want you to do this. I’m afraid something will happen to you,” he said. I went to bed considering and appreciating his legitimate concerns. Yes, something could happen, but it really was unlikely. The company seemed reputable, and there were no reported accidents or deaths that I knew of. Ultimately, I decided that I couldn’t let someone else’s fears govern my ambitions. The next afternoon I was sailing over the lake looking down at tiny little boats floating below me. I won’t tell you I didn’t think, should the rope give way, how landing in a belly flop would smart. Or if I should do a cannon ball. Or if I could hold my breath long enough to come back up to the surface. I guess that’s part of the thrill. But, it was so peaceful up there; all I could hear was the clinking of the hooks holding the parachute and feeling the breeze. I loved every minute of it. After all, it may be the closest I ever get to heaven! Before I knew it I was safely back on the boat and Jerry was breathing a sigh of relief. Second: A “tat.” Yes, at the ripe old age of 73, I got a tattoo. Something I was so totally against in previous years. “Mom, for Christmas I would like to have money for a tattoo,” Brad said. “Not on your life! I will not pay to have my son’s body marred by a tattoo!” Lesson No. 1: Never say never. Fast forward 15 years, and there is a green frog sitting on my left foot. The original idea was just a very little flower behind my ankle. The flower turned into a frog, and the small turned into larger when the artist said he would not do it any smaller than he ultimately did. He said too small and it would just look like a dark blob in a few years. He also said, “If you don’t want anyone to see it, why bother?” Am I sorry? No, because Caleb (that’s the frog’s name) is in plain view; he serves as a constant reminder of the motto “Fully Rely On God.” Look up Caleb in the Bible. He is on the foot because that is the only place on my body that won’t wrinkle up or fall down — who would want a saggy frog on their body? I will need to continue filling you in on my Bucket List experiences at a later date, but I leave you with this thought: You want to do it - just do it! Don’t go out of this world saying “I wish I had ...” Earlene Campbell lives by the FROG motto — Fully Rely On God. She resides in Princeton and can be reached at earlenecampbell@rocketmail.com.

The true meaning of perfection In order for this little saga to make any sense at all, I have to introduce you to my grandparents. I’ve written about them a lot, but for those who didn’t have the pleasure of knowing them, the old phrase “opposites attract” was paramount with this lovely couple. Grandpa was of German descent, which meant he was a no nonsense type of fellow. He worked hard every day of his life, and as children, we knew to toe the line. Don’t misunderstand. He was a kind and gentle man and loved us with every ounce of compassion he owned. But we grew up knowing not to push his buttons. Now Grandma — well, that was a different story. Today, I’d describe her as a free spirit, but back then, she was just fun. A registered nurse, she loved city life, and the bright lights of the city never dimmed for her. Imagine falling in love with a man whose biggest journey in life was to drive the six miles into Princeton to buy feed for the farm animals or to take my grandmother to the grocery store. They came from either end of the spectrum, but there was never a doubt they loved each other. A perfect meal for my grandfather involved meat, potatoes, vegetables, fruit and bread — for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Grandma hated to cook (a farm wife who hated to cook?), so to her, lunch for the grandkids included a Popsicle or maybe some saltines with peanut butter or a sandwich made of Miracle Whip and lettuce. Those three items were her specialty at lunchtime. Dinner — when she remembered to make it — was a concoction of items that seldom matched. Grandpa never complained; we didn’t either, but as I look back, Grandma’s culinary skills clearly didn’t resemble a farm wife’s cuisine. Grandma loved to read; if possible, she would read all day long. Now I know those books took her to faraway places — places she probably knew she’d never get to visit. She loved animals — all animals, and as soon as my grandpa left the house to do chores, she’d have us help her gather up every kitten, puppy and whatever other creature we could find and bring them in

Terri Simon COMMENTARY

the house — all the time keeping an eye out for Grandpa, so we could deposit them back outside before he returned. She loved to play games with us, loved to sing along with the record player, and loved to tell us stories — though I have no idea if any of them were true, but it really didn’t matter. A perfect day for my grandmother consisted of a telephone call from a faraway friend, a new book to lose herself in, a couple of grandkids to play Scrabble with, a romp with the baby lambs in the pasture, and anything else that resembled fun, rather than the humdrum tasks farm wives were supposed to perform. A perfect day for my grandfather consisted of getting up early, doing chores, reading U.S. News and World Report and Prairie Farmer magazines, tending to things like making fence and checking on the cattle/ponies/ hogs, and anything else that a good German farmer was supposed to do. So the day Grandma announced she was going to paint the dining room, I don’t mind telling you we looked at each other with wild abandon in our eyes. Keep in mind other than Grandma’s antics, we were as traditional a farm family as the day was long. Things never changed, and if they did, they didn’t change easily. We sat in the backseat of Grandpa’s old Chevy, as Grandma sauntered inside the hardware store and returned with two gallons of paint. Our questions of “What color did you get?” were never answered. Like always, Grandpa was quiet. Those two gallons of paint sat on the back porch for quite some time — long enough we had actually forgotten Grandma’s “I’m going to paint the dining room” announcement. Until one day when we got off the school bus, and Grandpa met us in the barnyard. For a man who seldom said much, he

was emphatic as he solemnly instructed us, “Don’t say anything bad about the color of the dining room.” Of course that sent us into oblivion, as we raced to the house, up the steps on the side porch to find my grandmother sitting at the dining room table with a cup of coffee in front of her. The smile on her face said it all. She was proud of her accomplishment, and a few specks of paint dotted her gray hair. The color? Are you familiar with that bright, aqua blue paint on a swimming pool? Well, that paint would have seemed dim compared to the color my grandmother had chosen for our dining room. Initially, it was so bright, the color did hurt our eyes — and it was so far away from my traditional grandfather’s world, we stood there with our eyes wide and our mouths open. Grandpa quietly walked in behind us. With the biggest smile, my grandma said, “Well? What do you think?” Our eyes darted around the room, and I don’t remember one of us saying a word — except Grandpa. “You know, it sure brightens up the place,” he said to her, as she beamed with his approval. “Yes. I think this is just what this room needed.” As I look back, we knew Grandpa hated the color; he could have lived with white, off-white, even tan, but aqua blue — bright, hurt-your-eyes aqua blue? In the 1960s? That little event has stayed with me for quite some time; I will never forget it, for it taught me how to treat the people you love. Just like Grandpa overlooked the same meal on the table day after day, the animals who made regular appearances inside the house; the dinner food that was well done (burned) because Grandma had become preoccupied in a good book; even those brilliant aqua blue walls — he would just smile and act like everything was perfect. I guess maybe it was ... (Someday I’ll tell you about the day she decided to paint the kitchen. Tangerine was always one of her favorite colors.) Tonica News Editor Terri Simon can be reached at tsimon@tonicanews.com.

It’s that time: Pitchers, catchers report Catchers and pitchers report this week. Those are some of the best words I love to read or hear at this time of the year because that means spring training is beginning for all major league teams. Traditionally, pitchers and catchers report a few days before the position players do to the Grapefruit League in Florida or the Cactus League in Arizona. Spring training used to mean the time when major leaguers got themselves into shape for the upcoming season, if they knew they were going to make the team and not be sent to the minor league. Nowadays, most major league players work out during the winter months and are in shape when they report to spring training camps for all teams. They don’t need to get their pitching arms, batting eyes or legs in shape because they have been working on these areas during the winter months

Lyle Ganther COMMENTARY due to the higher salaries baseball players earn. Prior to the explosion of large salaries for baseball players, many major leaguers had to work at a different job in the winter months because their salaries weren’t guaranteed — like many contracts are currently negotiated for players by their agents with their teams. Spring training is now more of a time to prepare for the future and to see what new hotshots are coming up in the system who may be playing on the major league level. Fans also want to look at free agents signed over the winter or players who were traded to their favorite team after the last season ended, whether that be in last place or

World Series champions like my Chicago Cubs. That feels nice to be able to type that for this longtime die-hard Cubs fan who has gone through a lot of anxiety since 1969. I am happy this franchise has removed that 108-year-old monkey off its back, referring to 1908 when the Cubs last won the World Series prior to 2016. Other years that stick out in my memory are 1984 when the Cubs were ahead of the San Diego Padres before losing the five-game series; 1989 when they lost 4-1 against the San Francisco Giants; 2003 when they were five outs from the World Series before losing to the Florida Marlins; and 2015 when they were swept 4-0 by the New York Mets. The nice thing about spring training is the optimism that is present in every team. Tonica News Staff Writer Lyle Ganther can be reached at lganther@ bcrnews.com.

TO Letter THE Editor

No tax dollars paid To the Editor, I am one of the taxpayers that has been following the budget fight by Gov. Rauner and the Illinois Legislature. Workman’s compensation has been brought up in the discussion, so I decided to do a little research on how

workman’s compensation costs affect the budget. I was surprised at what I learned. I found out that it doesn’t affect the budget in any way. The state does not fund workman’s comp, so it is not part of the Illinois budget. Absolutely no tax

dollars go toward the workman’s compensation program. Workman’s compensation is an insurance program that is completely paid for by each employer. The employer premiums are based on the total cost of their payrolls and the num-

ber of claims within a specified time frame. Payouts are made the same way as other insurance programs. When workers are hurt on the job, the insurance pays for medical care, time off work due to the injury and pays compensation for permanent

injuries. During the discussion of the Illinois budget, it was stated that in some cases Illinois has higher workman’s comp costs than other states. This reflects better and higher wages in our state. After reading about this insurance pro-

gram that is designed to protect injured workers, it is apparent it does not impact the Illinois budget at all. After all, absolutely no tax dollars go into the insurance program. Steve Turri Oglesby

Friday, February 24, 2017 • The Tonica News • 5

Community

January Students of the Month recognized

Witzman named to chancellor’s list PLATTEVILLE, Wis. — Jonathan Witzman of Lostant was named to both the chancellor’s list and dean’s list at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. He compiled a perfect 4.0 grade point average for the fall 2016 semester. Witzman, a graduate of Putnam County High School, is an agricultural business major at the university.

LIFT event on March 12 LASALLE — Christian women of all ages are invited to attend a Ladies In Fellowship Together (LIFT) event at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 12, at the Grace United Methodist Church in LaSalle. The theme for the afternoon is “The Many Ways to Wear and Use Scarves.” Samantha Pumo will be the guest presenter. All women in the Illinois Valley area are encouraged to come take a relaxing break as they enjoy fellowship, fun and refreshments. The church is located at 1345 Chartres St. in LaSalle. RSVPs are encouraged but are not required to attend. Contact Lois by calling 815-663-1724 or by email to vcroasdale@comcast.net.

Wind Ensemble will present concert OGLESBY — The Illinois Valley Community College Wind Ensemble’s free concert at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 2, in the Cultural Center will include the music of Gustav Holst, Malcolm Arnold, Steve Reineke, Robert Sheldon and Wilheim Zehle. The ensemble includes IVCC students, local and regional music educators, and community members dedicated to the promotion of quality wind and percussion music. ••• Items for the Community section can be emailed to news@putnamcountyrecord.com.

Lostant Grade School first-grader Logan Mertel, fifth-grader Landon Mertel and seventh-grader Chase Krieser were named January Students of Month for their outstanding effort, respect and responsibilities during the month. They will be treated to a lunch from Dave’s Lost Ant.

Scholarship applications are available GRANVILLE — Members of the Elmer and Adolph Pletsch Charitable Trust Scholarship Committee are announcing the availability of scholarship funds for the 2017-18 school year. Course of study shall

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be limited to agriculture or agriculture-related fields. Scholarship awards are intended to apply to the cost of tuition, room, board, textbooks, fees and other expenses normally associated with attending undergraduate courses of study.

Putnam County High School seniors, as well as former Putnam County graduates currently attending college, may apply. Graduation from Putnam County High School is a requirement. Application forms may be obtained from the

guidance office at Putnam County High School. Completed applications should be returned to the office of the Superintendent of Putnam County School District 535 located at the Putnam County Primary School in Granville by Tuesday, March 21.

6 • The Tonica News • Friday, February 24, 2017

Tonica students attend honor roll breakfast

Menus Lostant Grade School

Photo contributed

Breakfast Feb. 27 — Scrambled eggs and toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit and juice. Feb. 28 — Peanut butter and jelly, yogurt, cereal, fruit and juice. March 1 — Blueberry pancakes and syrup, yogurt, cereal, fruit and juice. March 2 — Muffin, yogurt, cereal, fruit and juice. March 3 — Breakfast taco, yogurt, cereal, fruit and juice. Lunch Feb. 27 — Spaghetti, green beans, peaches, bread, milk. Feb. 28 — Grilled cheese, tomato soup, applesauce, milk. March 1 — Turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn, applesauce, bread, milk. March 2 — Tortellini soup, pears, bread, milk. March 3 — Hot dog on bun, baked beans, peaches, milk.

Tonica Grade School hosted an honor roll breakfast on Feb. 10 for students that were on the first- and second-quarter honor rolls.

Tonica Grade School Breakfast Feb. 27 — Oatmeal with dried fruit, chocolate chips and brown sugar or cereal, toast, granola, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk. Feb. 28 — Mini pancakes and syrup or cereal, toast, granola, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk. March 1 — Scrambled eggs or cereal, toast, granola, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk. March 2 — Pancake and sausage on a stick and syrup or cereal, toast, granola, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk. March 3 — Cinnamon rolls or cereal, toast, granola, yogurt, fruit, juice, milk. Lunch Feb. 27 — Breaded chicken patty, bun, mashed potatoes, frozen fruit cup, milk. Feb. 28 — Chili crispitos, refried beans, shredded lettuce, fruit, milk. March 1 — No lunch, early out. March 2 — Grilled cheese, tomato soup, carrots, fruit, cookie, milk. March 3 — Cheese pizza crunches, fruit, shredded Romaine and salad dressings, milk.

Box Top challenge winners

Putnam County Community Center Photo contributed

The Tonica Grade School first-grade class won the Parent-Teacher Committee Box Top challenge. The trophy was made by PTC member Sarah Patyk.

Bagpipes program set for March 14 in Standard STANDARD — J. Kevin Chapman will present a program at 1 p.m. Tuesday, March 14, at the Standard Library Branch located inside of the community center. Chapman is a Piper on the Great Highland Bagpipes and has been playing for almost 30 years.

He is featured at many solo events such as weddings, parties and other events. He plays the pipes both solo and formerly with the Shannon Rovers Pipe Band and currently with the Dundee Scottish Pipe Band. He also competes in solo piping competitions and band

competitions. Chapman has played before four presidents, Pope John XXIII (23rd), Tip O’Neill, Cardinal George and both Mayor Daleys. Also, he is a graduate of the North American Piping School and the Balmoral School of Piping.

Chapman will take you on a trip and introduce you to the history of the pipes and present a narrative on the story behind one of the oldest instruments still played in the world. This will include a demonstration and display of the regalia surrounding the pipes.

Feb. 27 — Ravioli with broth, crackers, grilled cheese, carrot sticks, stewed tomatoes, apricots halves. Feb. 28 — Beef tips and noodles, salad with toppings, roll, apricots, dessert. March 1 — Baked ham, scalloped potatoes, green beans, orange. March 2 — Baked spaghetti, tossed salad, garlic bread, dessert, applesauce. March 3 — Egg salad sandwich with lettuce, fried potatoes, mixed vegetables, apple crisp. Bread, butter, fruit juice and 2% milk are available with meals. For reservations, call 800-757-4579 24 hours in advance of the day’s meal. The menu is subject to change. Meals are available to senior citizens 60 plus at no cost, but donations are appreciated. The meal program is partly funded by donations, so they have a suggested donation of $5 per meal. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m.

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Friday, February 24, 2017 • The Tonica News • 7 999 • Legal Notices

999 • Legal Notices

IN THE THIRTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF ILLINOIS IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF LASALLE COUNTY Estate of ) ANN MARIE REIHL, ) Deceased. ) No. 2017-P-14 NOTICE TO CLAIMANTS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN of the death of ANN MARIE REIHL. Letters of office as Independent Co-Executors were issued on January 20, 2017 to MATTHEW L. MASCAL and BETH C. MASCAL, 1415 S. Vermillion Street, Streator, Illinois 61364

and whose attorney is M.G. GULO & ASSOCIATES, LTD., 123 S. Monroe Street, Streator, Illinois 61364. The estate will be administered without Court supervision, unless under Section 5/28-4 of the Probate Act (Ill. Compiled Stat. 1992, Ch. 755, Par. 5/28-4) any interested person terminates independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the Clerk. Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court, 119 W. Madison Street, Ottawa, Illinois 61350, on or before September 1, 2017, or if mailing or delivery of notice from the representative is required by Section 5/18-3 of the Probate Act of 1975, the date stated in that notice. Any claim not filed within that period is barred. Copies of any claim filed

with the Clerk must be mailed or delivered to the estate representative and to the attorney within 10 days after it has been filed with the Clerk. Further, notice is hereby given to the UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES of ANN MARIE REIHL, deceased; that an Estate has been opened for ANN MARIE REIHL and MATTHEW L. MASCAL and BETH C. MASCAL, were appointed as Independent Co-Executors of the Estate on January 20, 2017 and said Estate is now pending in said Court. Dated this 17th day of February, 2017. Greg Vaccaro, Clerk of the Circuit Court 13th Judicial Circuit, LaSalle County, Illinois Published in the Tonica News Feb. 17, 24 and Mar. 3, 2017.

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