Washington Times-Reporter
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Washington Times-Reporter
Wednesday, March 25, 2015 Your Hometown News Since 1840 www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com School board races heat up By Steve Stein GateHouse Media Illinois At least two new members will be elected April 7 to the Washington Community High School District 308 School Board. Gloria McNett, who has served on the board since 2003, is the lone incumbent running for three open seats. Board President Jim Gerkin and Ron Garrard are not seeking re-election. Aaron Boyles, April Crotts, Jennifer Essig and Kim Flanders are the other candidates. McNett, 707 Yorkshire Court, said she wants to continue her 12-year goal of seeing the district go from good to great academically with standardized test scores equal to Morton and Dunlap. “Significant strides have been made, but more remains to be done,” she said. She said the district’s biggest issues are related. It must continue to provide courses and programs that ensure graduates are prepared for college or the work force while making sure there are necessary funds. Boyles, 39, 1506 Jadens Way, said he would be a voice for the community in academics and athletics. He said issues and obstacles connected to Common Core are a major challenge for the district along with the ongoing need for future-looking planning, budgeting and improvements. “A new voice with new ideas, perspectives and leadership experiences and methods that can add to our students’ and See School page A6 Vol. 175 No. 13 Cleanup day to honor Fischbach we are asking the volunteers this year to come out wearing their craziest mismatched socks in honor of Rita,” said Chevie Ruder, executive director of the Washington Chamber of Commerce. Every year volunteers gather at Wenger Shelter in Washington Park to receive a T-shirt and garbage bags before fanning out across the city to collect litter along the By Marlo Guetersloh TimesNewspapers Put on a colorful and mismatched pair of socks May 2 before coming to the annual Take Pride in Washington Cleanup. That’s the request by one cleanup organizer as a way to honor Rita Fischbach, a long-time supporter of the annual project who died earlier this year. “Rita always wore mismatched socks, so See Cleanup page A3 GateHouse Media special report: Jobs Outlook 2015 Poised for growth, Washington looks to recruit business By Marlo Guetersloh TimesNewspapers SPORTS: Washington spring sports previews begin. Details, B1 ONLY online FIND MORE NEWS DURING THE WEEK •NCAA Tournament updates and the latest in NASCAR and Sprint Cup race coverage. www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/ WashingtonTimesReporter or follow us on Twitter @ WaTimesReporter Index Around Town........... A2 Classifieds..........B9-10 Obituaries................ B5 Opinion.................... A4 Police....................... B4 Sports................... B1-3 With the city’s top employers list full of retail businesses and the school districts, Washington officials are working to recruit more commercial, light industrial and industrial businesses to increase employment opportunities. “That is the main focus of our economic development plans for the this year and the future,” said City Planning Director Jon Oliphant. Illinois Valley Plastics, a company that manufactures molded components, employs 96. The company is sixth on the list of the city’s top employers. Oliphant said the city needs more companies like IVP. One key to the city’s efforts is its 223 acres near Illinois Route 24 and Nofsinger Road. The city purchased the ground in 2013 in the hopes of turning the area into a mix of retail and light industrial. “We think that 223 acre property is going to be integral in our push for new businesses,” Oliphant said. Some of the development work on that property was sidelined by the Nov. 17, 2013, tornado that heavily damaged or Washington’s top-5 employers • Washington School Districts 308, 50, 51 and 52 combined (public schools): 425 • Wal-Mart Supercenter: 340 • Washington Christian Village: 136 • Uftring Chevrolet: 105 • Big R: 100 leveled more than 1,000 homes in Washington. With the rebuilding well-underway, the city can turn its attention back to its economic development plans. By purchasing the 223 acres, “it allows us to draft a plan that will be more attractive to developers and it gives us that control,” Oliphant said. The other option would have been to let the land develop on its own with a possible hodge-podge of uses. In addition to the cityowned land, there is another 200 acres or so that could be opened Analyst expects Illinois to see steady growth in 2015 By Marty Hobe GateHouse Media Illinois GALESBURG — Signs the recession is in the rearview mirror are starting to pop up across the nation, looking at unemployment numbers, but the economic climate in west-central Illinois has remained somewhat stagnant. Nationally the unemployment rate is 5.5 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, but it’s nearly one and a half points higher in Illinois at 6.9 percent, according to the Illinois Department of Employment Security. Locally numbers 7HPSXU3HGLF&ORXG6XSUHPH 1RZPR are a bit more spread out, and offer more insight to the labor market in westcentral Illinois. and Henderson counties are in a region together. The combined unemployment rate was 6.2 percent, tied for the lowest rate in the state. The region including Livingston, Peoria, Tazewell, Fulton, Woodford and Mason counties, had Regional numbers IDES divides counties into 10 economic development regions, to better analyze and compare unemployment data. McDonough, Warren, Knox See outlook page A9 Western Illinois unemployment rates Counties January 2015 January 2014 Knox Henry Tazewell Livingston McDonough Warren Fulton Cities Galesburg Pekin Macomb Canton Pontiac :H]L @,(9: 05;,9,:; See City page A9 Editor’s Note: GateHouse newspapers in Galesburg, Canton, Macomb, Kewanee, Monmouth, Pekin, Pontiac, Morton, East Peoria, Chillicothe and Washington combined to look at whether jobs are expected to grow in 2015 as the economy improves. We asked top employers in each town their plans for the year, as well as asking economic development officials what to expect. 6HHVWRUHIRUGHWDLOV $GGDQDGMXVWDEOHEDVH IRURQO\PR 7.0 7.1 7.2 6.2 6.8 5.9 9.0 8.7 8.1 8.6 8.2 7.9 7.1 11.1 7.0 8.4 6.8 9.0 6.2 9.2 9.8 7.9 11.1 8.2 %17460+06*2'-+0 2*UVGIGTUEQO -/","1,-\£änÉÀ£än /Õ]7i`]/ £äÈÉ->£äxÉ-Õ£Ó{ A2 Wednesday, March 25, 2015 Washington Times-Reporter www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com AROUND TOWN Questions? Contact Editor Marlo Guetersloh at 686-3054 or email at [email protected] BUY 1 DAILY HOW TO SUBMIT Around Town items may be submitted for fundraisers, events offered by nonprofit organizations and entertainment. We reserve the right to edit all submissions. Items are printed on a space-available basis. Washington events are given first priority. Items may be submitted by email to [email protected]; fax, 686-3101; or mail, Washington Times-Reporter, PO Box 9426, Peoria, IL 61612-9426. Deadline for print is noon Thursdays. For more information, call 686-3054. Washington Expires 4-1-15 Dine-In Only GET THE SECOND 1/2 OFF ONLY NEWSPAPER COUPONS ACCEPTED ENTERTAINMENT CS-05571609 609 SPECIAL 1110 N Main St • East Peoria • 713-3436 WHATSÀUPÀ ATÀTHEÀ0EORIAÀ0ARKÀ$ISTRICT • Easter Egg Festival Saturday, March 28 • Franciscan Recreation Complex • 9:30 -11:30 am • $6 R/ $8 NR • Easter Egg Scramble Saturday, March 28 • Peoria Zoo • 10:30 am • $3.50/M, $6.50 NM, $9/NM Adults • “Spring Thaw” Ice Skating Competition Saturday, March 28 • Owens Center • All day • Free • Northtrail Park Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, March 28 • Northtrail Park • 12 pm • $4 Wizard of Oz, presented by the 2014-2015 Dist. 50 Beverly Manor Drama Club at 7 p.m. March 27 and 28. The play will be held at Beverly Manor School, 1014 School St. in Washington. Tickets will be available at the door: Adults are $5; Students, $3; and Seniors, $2. Bunny Breakfast hosted by the Washington Park District is April 4 at Washington Middle School, 1100 N. Main St. Advanced tickets can be purchased at the park district office 105 S. Spruce St., or online at www.washingtonparkdistrict.com. Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by the Washington Park District starts at 11 a.m. April 4 at the Rotary Shelter in Washington Park. This event will be held rain or shine. Take Pride in Washington Day, annual litter pick up is May 2, meet at Wenger Shelter. • Easter Egg Hunt & Carnival Friday, April 3 • Proctor Center • 1-3 pm • $3 • Doggie Easter Egg Hunt Friday, April 3 • Camp Wokanda • 1-3 pm • $5/dog, $2/human $ONTÀMISSÀTHEÀ5NDERWATER %GGÀ(UNTSÀATÀTHEÀ2IVER0LEX ONÀ!PRILÀÀ2EGISTERÀATÀTHE .OBLEÀ#ENTERÀORÀ2IVERPLEXÀ 0%/2)!À0!2+À$)342)#4 Call 688-3667 or visit www.peoriaparks.org 1125 W. Lake Avenue • Peoria, IL 61614 The Washington Fine Art Society’s monthly meeting will be April 7th, 6:30 p.m. at 300 Muller Rd. in Washington. Beginning in May, the meetings will be changed to l0:00 a.m. on the first Tuesday of the month. Public is welcome and also to visit our Gallery Tuesdays and Thursdays l0-2. LIBRARY The Washington District Library is at 380 N. Wilmor Road. Call 444-2241 for questions. The Washington District Library’s spring book sale will begin with a preview sale 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. March 27. Entrance to the preview ($5 or free to FOWL members) guarantees first choice of all items. The sale continues during library hours March 28. Items will be half price on March 30. And items will be sold for $3 a bag on March 31. Beginning at 3 p.m. March 31, leftover items will be free or by donation. The last items will be available free or by donation until noon April 1. Information about Friends of Washington Library can be obtained at the circulation desk or by calling 444-7621. All proceeds are used for the main library and branch to add to collections, sponsor programs, and underwrite the teen and children’s summer reading program. AARP Tax Aide is available Tuesday afternoons by appointment until April 14. Appointments can be made now and must be made in advance. AARP Tax Aide volunteers will be at the main library on from 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays. Call or stop by the main library to make an appointment. CHURCH Sunnyland Christian Church is hosting a Christian Music Concert March 28 featuring Greg and Heidi Rosecrans. Doors open at 6 p.m., concert starts at 6:30 p.m. The public is welcome and there is no charge. Sunnyland Christian Church, 2401 Washington Road, Washington. “Southern Raised,” an award-winning family from the Ozarks will present a concert at 7 p.m. April 17 at the Evangelical United Methodist Church, 401 Walnut Street, Washington. A free-will offering will be taken. The tickets are $5 and are available from Don Moushon, 1408 Calvin, Washington, IL 61571. Send him a check made payable to EUMC Gospel Concert Committee, along with a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Tickets also are available at the church office MondayThursday mornings or at the concert. Area Events American Cancer Society Relay For Life for Tazewell County 4-10 p.m. April 18 at Illinois Central College. For more info, visit relayforlife.org/northtazewellil. Volunteers and teams are needed. Call Mallory at 688-3480 or [email protected]. American Cancer Society Relay For Life for Tazewell County 4-10 p.m. April 18 at Illinois Central College. For more info, visit relayforlife.org/northtazewellil. Volunteers and teams are needed. Call Mallory at 688-3480 or [email protected]. Veterans Yard Cleanup April 4, 11 and May 2. The Illinois Valley Fuller Center for Housing is offering free spring yard cleanups for veterans and widows of veterans in the tri-county area. Volunteers will provide two hours of service. To schedule a cleanup, call 363-3737. Totes for Ta-Tas is currently selling straw brooms from Quinn Broom Company to raise funds for their event in November. They are offering the three brooms — the Fautless (standard kitchen broom) for $15, the Toy for $6 and the Whisk for $6. Brooms can be purchased by calling Sharyl at 657-0992, by E-mail at sharylnuske@gmail,com or by stopping in the Morton Tourism Office. Cash, check, credit and debit are accepted. Visit the website at www.TotesForTa-Tas. com for pictures. Northern Illinois University Steel Band will bring its sound to Metamora High School Maurer Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m. April 11. Created in 1972, the NIU band was the first active steel band formed in an American university. Liam Teague, hailed as the “Paganini of the Steelpan,” leads the NIU band along with steel pan patriarch, Cliff Alexis. “Red Steel,” Metamora’s own steel band will also perform and join NIU for the concert finale. Established in 2000, it is the only Illinois high school steel band that is incorporated into the regular curriculum. Tickets for the concert are $10 at the door or $8 in advance by calling: 367-4151, Ext. 574. AROUND TOWN (LIVE) Send Live Music Info to [email protected] Washington Christy’s Place, 1221 Peoria St., Washington; Every Saturday night in March will be DJ McFly; 444-4777. Kep’s Sports Bar & Grill, 313 Muller Road, Washington; March 28 free juke box; all times 9 p.m. -1 a.m. unless noted; 444-1974. Kirk’s Korner Tap, 2359 Washington Rd, Sunnyland, Karaoke 8 p.m.-1 a.m. every Friday, 745-5321. Five Points Washington, 360 N. Wilmor Road, 444-8222; 7:30 p.m. April 18, Wicked Divas performed by the Heartland Festival Orchestra, tickets are $35 for adults and $8 for children and students; 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. April 23, The Church Basement Ladies in The Last (Potluck) Supper, tickets $25-$45. For more information visit fivepointswashington.org peoria Jukebox Comedy Club, 3527 W. Farmington Road, Peoria. 673-5853. Joe DeRosa 8 p.m. March 19-21 and 10:30 p.m. March 20-21. Prices are $15 for the 8 p.m. March 19-21 shows and $12 for the 10:30 p.m. March 20 and 21 shows. All acts are to be :KHUHWR3,&.83D :DVKLQJWRQ7LPHV5HSRUWHU considered not for general audience unless specified otherwise. Peoria Symphony Orchestra Matinee at the Movies 3 p.m. April 19 Peoria Civic Center Theater; Gustav Mahler Symphony No. 7, 8 p.m. May 9 at Peoria Civic Center Theater; For more info, call 671-1096 or visit peoriasymphony.org. Limelight Eventplex 8102 N. University St., Peoria. 693-1234. Get tickets at ticketfly.com. ••• The Sound Bar at Limelight Eventplex Presents Psychostick Revenge of the Vengeance Tour Pt. 2 Shadows Inc., Red Poet, Kaleido. A breath of fresh air has come for those who need a break from the standard angry rock or metal band. Doors at 6 p.m. Show at 8 p.m. April 10. Tickets are $10-$13. ••• Limelight Eventplex welcomes Trippin Billies. Born in the pubs on the north side of Chicago, reminiscent of Luther’s College, Trippin Billies took to the “stages” of these small rooms in the early ’90s as an acoustic duo. Doors at 6 p.m. Show at 8 p.m. April 11. Tickets: $10-$13. ••• Limelight Eventplex and 97.3 Nash FM welcomes Jason Michael Carroll. Originally from Houston. Carroll has been on a major label since 2006, after winning a talent show in 2004. He has had five top 40 hits since his career started. Doors at 6 p.m. Show at 7 p.m. April 23. Tickets: $17.50-$22. ••• Kickstand Productions presents Marilyn Manson May 11. Doors: 7 p.m. Show: 8 p.m. $48-$115. Central Illinois Jazz Society April 19: Illinois Central Jazz Train at 6 p.m., and Derel and Ellen Monteith at 7:15 p.m. May 17: Central Illinois Jazz Society House Band at 6 p.m. and Carl Anderson and His New Orleans Jazz Band at 7:15 p.m., in the Starting Gate Banquet Room, located in Landmark Recreation Center, 3225 N. Dries Lane, Peoria. Members $5; non-members $7; students are free. For more information, call 692-5330 or visit www.cijs.org or www. peoriajazz.com. Jukebox Comedy Club, 3527 W. Farmington Road, Peoria. 673-5853. Jeff Caldwell, the return of the “Funny and Smart” ( the words of George Carlin) guy. He’s made numerous latenight appearances on David Letterman, Craig Ferguson and Comedy Central. He’s been a guest on “The Bob and Tom Show.” He’s toured with Jon Stewart and chatted it up with Dennis Miller and Keith Olberman. His CD “I’m No Epidemiologist” can be heard regularly on Sirius/ XM Radio. Showtimes: 8 p.m. March 26., 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. March 27-28. Ticket prices for Jeff’s shows: March 26 at 8 p.m. and March 27-28 at 10:30 p.m. — $12; March 27-28 at 8 p.m. — $15. Rated - Very Mild R. standupguy.com. twitter.com/jeffreycaldwell. Tim Meadows 8 p.m. April 2-4, 10:30 p.m. April 3-4 . Prices are $16 for the April 2 show and $21 for the April 3-4 shows. Meadows is best known for his performances on “Saturday Night Live” for 10 years and in “Mean Girls.” All acts are to be considered not for general audience unless specified otherwise. Peoria Civic Center, 201 S.W. Jefferson Ave., Peoria. 673-8900. Jason Aldean, 7:30 p.m. March 27. Aldean has sold over ten million albums and has taken 13 trips to No. 1 on the Country Radio charts. Tickets are $33.25 and $63.25 and can be purchased at ww.PeoriaCivicCenter.com. 6XEVFULEHWRRXU (HGLWLRQ It’s Free! ,THPS! *HZL`Z >HZOPUN[VU9K 7LVYPH:[ JPYJ\SH[PVU'[PTLZ[VKH`JVT 2YVNLY *=: *OLYY`;YLL:OVWWPUN*LU[LY -HZ[:[VW 7LVYPH:[ )YLJRSPUZ >HSU\[:[ @V\YUHTL[V^UHUK 8\PJR:[VW 7LVYPH:[ 3PUK`Z4HYRL[ 7LVYPH:[ *HZL`Z >HSNYLLUZ >HSU\[ 7LVYPH:[ ^OH[;PTLZ5L^ZWHWLY `V\^HU[[VYLJLP]L ;PTLZ 5L^Z .YV\W! 4VY[VU ;PTLZ5L^Z >HZOPUN[VU ;PTLZ9LWVY[LY ,HZ[ 7LVYPH ;PTLZ*V\YPLY >VVKMVYK ;PTLZ *OPSSPJV[OL ;PTLZ)\SSL[PU www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com Washington Times-Reporter Wednesday, March 25, 2015 A3 More trees available to replace those lost in 2013 By Steve Stein and Marlo Guetersloh GateHouse Media Illinois Residents whose homes were destroyed or damaged by the November 2013 tornado and lost trees can have donated replacement trees planted on their property April 24 by volunteers. The application deadline for the program is April 10. Trees for Washington is a combined effort of the city of Washington, Washington Park District and Tri-County Long Term Recovery organization. “Neighborhoods are being rebuilt, but so many trees are gone,” said Jon Oliphant, the city’s planning and development director. “We want to help residents with that part of their recovery.” This is the second Trees for Washington event. Unlike the inaugural planting day in November, volunteers and donations are needed. Oliphant said in the past few weeks, some of those donations have started coming in to organizers and the program is growing. Most volunteers last year were from Caterpillar Inc., and all of the more than 500 trees were donated by a nursery in Washington state and the Living Lands and Waters not-forprofit environmental organization. “We did very little recruiting of volunteers last year, but we need to do it this time,” Oliphant said. “We’re anticipating a bigger demand because more lots are ready for trees.” Financial and tree donors can call the city (444-3196) or park district (444-9413). By Monday, Oliphant said organizers are expecting to have a second shift of volunteers planting trees. Maple and ash trees aren’t wanted. “We have a lot of maple trees in the city and we’re looking to diversify our stock,” Oliphant said. As for ash trees, they’re out because of the infestation of the emerald ash borer. In the first round of Trees for Washington, donors gave a large number of trees so the species were varied, but already picked. This time, organizers will be doing the shopping, Oliphant said. “We have made it so residents can put which tree species they would prefer and we can review that and try to plan for it,” Oliphant said. However, a request is not a guarantee that is the type of tree the homeowner will receive, he added. Financial donations would be particularly appreciated, Oliphant said, because event organizers should be able to get good deals for larger orders of trees. Volunteers can sign up by calling Tri-County Long Term Recovery at 696-6923. Bethany Community Church will help coordinate the volunteer effort. The application for residents who wish to receive trees will be on City Council approves fire department payment By Steve Stein GateHouse Media Illinois The city will pay the Washington Fire Department $300,000 for fire protection, ambulance and emergency medical services from Nov. 1, 2014 to April 30, 2015. The City Council approved two ordinances March 16 for the services and compensation. The city normally pays the not-for-profit department $600,000 annually for services. It delayed payment for the 2014-15 fiscal year first because of financial uncertainties caused by the Nov. 17, 2013, tornado and later because of concerns about the city’s contract with the department and the department board’s contract negotiations with thenFire Chief Mike Vaughn, 4 who resigned Oct. 23. A payment of $300,000 to the department for services from May 1, 2014, to Oct. 31, 2014, was approved Nov. 3, 2014, by the council. City Administrator Tim Gleason said the city still wants to negotiate contract changes with the board and the board “continues to be aware of this.” One change the city wants is to make the fivemember board’s at-large member the city’s second representative. That would require a modification of the department’s by-laws. The board also has representatives from the Central and Pleasant View fire protection districts and the department. Gleason said council’s action March 16 is to pay for services rendered. Mayor Gary Manier said he talked to fire board President Will Gallaway on March 16 and told him council was considering approval of the ordinances. Gallaway, the city’s representative on the board, did not attend the council meeting nor did he return a call asking for comment about the ordinance approvals. Manier said the department has added four new volunteer firefighters to its roster. Also at the March 16 council meeting: • Public Works Director Ed Andrews announced that residents in tornadoaffected neighborhoods can come to a meeting from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday in meeting room D at Five Points Washington to learn about a nearly $6.6 million project to repair damaged roads, curbs/ gutters and sidewalks. Funding for the work, which will be done from city right-of-way to city right-of-way and touch 1,300 properties, is being provided by the Illinois Department of Transportation. Information about the project will be available on the city’s website, www. ci.washington.il.us, starting Thursday. • Manier and aldermen thanked Gleason for all that he’s done during his 2½ years with the city. Gleason is stepping down after this week to become the city manager in Decatur. “Tim and I clicked before and after the tornado,” said an emotional Manier. “I wish he wasn’t going, but I understand that he needs to take care of his family. We all do.” Mayor Pro Tem Jim Gee said Washington wouldn’t be where it is today without Gleason’s leadership. Gee said Gleason has made many positive changes for the city. Alderman Carol Moss said she hopes Decatur officials know that Gleason can handle anything thrown at him. “Washington is losing a lot because you’re leaving, Tim, but we’ve gained a lot, too,” she said. Gleason thanked and praised the city’s elected officials, department heads and city employees and said exciting times are ahead for Washington. On a personal note, “I want to thank everyone for how welcoming they’ve been to me and my family,” he said. the city’s website (www. ci.washington.il.us) and park district’s website (www.washingtonparkdistrict.com) early this month. The park district is overseeing the registration process. Trees will be planted on a first-come, firstserved basis. Oliphant said the April 10 deadline gives two weeks for the Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators, better known as JULIE, which will be contacted to locate utilities before the planting date. Homeowners must sign a right-to-enter agreement that allows volunteers on their property. Fire Hydrant Flushing Scheduled As part of a routine maintenance, the City of Washington Public Service Department will be flushing fire hydrants beginning at 8 a.m. April 6 and is targeted to conclude on April 17. As a courtesy, hydrants in the tornado affected area will not be flushed at this time. Fire hydrant flushing typically starts at those hydrants closest to the water towers and progressively moves away from the towers. Flushing of hydrants may produce low water pressure and discoloration of water. To eliminate the discoloration, simply open the faucets and allow them to run until water is clear. City officials encourage residents to check their washing machines before use for discoloration. If the water is discolored or sediment is noticeable, run an empty cycle through the washer before laundering clothing. There is no need to boil water for consumption. Advertorial easter events in central illinois 1 2 Washington Bunny Breakfast, hosted by the Washington Park District is April 4 at Washington Middle School, 1100 N. Main St. Advanced tickets can be purchased at the park district office 105 S. Spruce St., or online at www.washingtonparkdistrict.com. Annual Easter Egg Hunt starts at 11 a.m. April 4 at the Rotary Shelter in Washington Park, rain or shine. Morton Villa Easter Egg Hunt will begin at 1:30 p.m. Sunday at 190 E. Queenwood Road. The Easter egg hunt for ages 2-5 will be at 1:30 p.m. and at 1:45 p.m., ages 6-10 will have their own hunt. The Easter Bunny will be stopping by for photos and miniature horses will be available to pet along with face painting, treats and more. 3 26th Annual Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by the Fondulac Plaza Merchants 10 a.m. March 28 at Bethany Missionary Church (across from Fondulac Plaza). Doughnuts and coffee provided. Kids bring Easter baskets and find candy filled eggs. Many will have prize numbers inside. Hunt and find matching prizes at participating merchants in Fondulac Plaza. Four age groups: toddlers (1-2-3 years; pre-school and kindergarten (4-5 years); 1st-3rd grades; and 4th-5th grades. Rain date 10 a.m. April 4. East Side Animal Hospital will provide inflatables and pet treats at the event. 4 “The Bunny” at The Shoppes at Grand Prairie to welcome spring with a celebration hosted by Bethany Baptist Church and The Shoppes at Grand Prairie from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. March 28. Festivities throughout the Shoppes include live music in Center Court, children’s games and activities, bouncy houses, eggs, balloon animals, prizes from participating stores, and photos with “The Bunny.” Activities are available rain or shine in the former Coldwater Creek location near the west entrance. CLEANUP Continued from Page A1 city’s streets and in the parks. This year will be the 10th year for the annual cleanup day. Typically, the cleanup day is held on the last Saturday in April but it was moved this year to the first Saturday in May to give organizers a chance to take on the project after Fischbach died Jan. 13. Fischbach, a retired dean from Illinois Central College, was known for walking to most plac- es in Washington and taking a plastic bag or two with her. She would collect litter Rita along her Fischbach walk. Mayor Gary Manier said previously that he noticed Fischbach’s habit while the two served on the Washington Community High School Board together. “One would be filled on her walk to the meeting and she’d have another one for her trip home,” Manier said. “She was why I decided we needed an annual cleanup day.” In previous years, Fischbach would put out a call for volunteers. In 2013 when volunteer signups were looking low, Fischbach publicly asked for help. In response, volunteers came out in droves. “This is such a giving community,” Fischbach said of the 2013 cleanup day. “If you let people know that you need help, the people in Washington are so willing to come out to lend a hand.” THINGS TO THINK ABOUT How should I structure my retirement portfolio? Answer: our first step is to take advantage of tax-favored retirement savings tools. If you have access to a 401(k) or other employer-sponsored plan at work, participate and take full advantage of the opportunity. Open an IRA account and contribute as much as you can. Ideally, you'd Mike Graham, CFP® be able to invest in both an employer plan and an IRA. Contributions to employer plans like 401(k)s are typically made on a pretax basis, but plans may also allow you to make after-tax Roth contributions. Your pre-tax contributions reduce your current income, but those contributions, and any investment earnings, are subject to federal income tax when you withdraw them from the plan. Your Roth contributions, on the other hand, have no up-front tax benefit. But your contributions are always tax free when distributed from the plan, and any investment earnings are also tax free if your distribution is qualified. Similarly, IRAs allow a choice of either tax-deductible contributions (traditional IRA) or tax-free withdrawals (Roth IRA). Plus, funds held in an employer plan or IRA grow tax deferred. These tax features may enable you to accumulate a sizable retirement fund, depending on how well the underlying investments perform. With that in mind, you should aim for long-term investment returns and steady growth. Many financial professionals suggest a balanced portfolio of stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and cash equivalents. The percentage of each will depend on your risk tolerance, your age, your liquidity needs, and other factors. However, the notion is fading that you should change your investment allocations and convert your entire portfolio to fixed income securities, such as bonds or CDs, by the time you retire. Instead, many professionals now advise that you continue investing for long-term growth even after you retire--especially since people are retiring younger and living longer on average. Your own personal circumstances will dictate the right mix of investments for you, and a qualified financial professional can help you make the right choices. Before investing in a mutual fund, carefully consider its investment objectives, risks, fees, and expenses, which are contained in the prospectus available from the fund. Review the prospectus carefully, including the discussion of fund classes and fees and how they apply to you. Y Source: © 2015 Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission. Article provided by Midwestern Securities Trading Company, LLC for Mike Graham, CFP®, and the John Graham & Associates Wealth Management Team. The team can be reached at 309-699-6608. 235 Everett St., East Peoria, IL www.investwithjga.com Securities, Insurance and Investment Advisory Services are offered through Midwestern Securities Trading Company, LLC. Member FINRA/SIPC. MSTC and JGA are affiliated. A4 Wednesday, March 25, 2015 Washington Times-Reporter OPINION www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com THE FIRST AMENDMENT Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. Questions? Contact Editor Marlo Guetersloh at 686-3054 or email at [email protected] Let the scramble for Schock’s seat begin Just before Congressman Aaron Schock detonated his own political career on March 17, we were working on an editorial calling for a serious primary challenge for him a year from now, in addition to the candidate from McLean County who’s running on a platform of “Washington needs the Gospel.” We’d heard enough to know that Schock’s constituents deserved a choice and the chance to take matters into their own hands, even if the Justice Department, the IRS, the Federal Election Commission, etc. weren’t compelled to begin investigations and/or potential prosecutions of their own. From this vantage, wholly independent of the scandal that has since sunk him, Schock should have had a primary opponent in the spring of 2014 after he joined the extremists in his party in late 2013 by linking the future of ObamaCare to raising the debt ceiling, thereby courting a government shutdown and raising the specter of default on the nation’s debt obligations. Alas, Schock’s resignation may now set off a mad scramble for the seat, with state Sen. Darin LaHood, R-Peoria, already announcing his intentions to seek it. Three-time gubernatorial candidate and state Sen. Bill Brady of Bloomington quickly took himself out of the mix, but many other Republicans from one end of the 18th Congressional District to the other have been mentioned as possibilities. Even a Democrat may have a shot in the 18th, for a change, in a district that, let’s face it, is drawn not to give them much of a prayer (and that’s another editorial). We wouldn’t worry too much about appearances or political timing at this point. A special election must be held by the end of July, with the date to be set by the governor within five days of Schock’s de- parture. So that leaves less than four months to campaign, to become known in places some of the candidates may not be. This seat has long been held by someone from the immediate Peoria area, and to be honest, we’d prefer that situation remain, but in these cir- cumstances that’s less important to us than getting a competitive field and a spirited debate about what the residents of the 18th District deserve from their congressman, starting with fundamental integrity and good judgment. We live in an era when it’s popular to convict before trial, and we have tried to avoid that trap with Schock, who has not even been charged with anything, despite what some who should know better would have you believe. That said, his obvious and repeated misjudgments have been profound enough that no clones of Schock need apply, in the interests of sparing us future grief. Illinois has become so synonymous with political corruption both prosecuted and not, and there’s so much of it to go around, that the 18th District, at least, ought to refuse to contribute further to that reputation and to those ranks. Familiarity with the issues and leadership characteristics are always important, but character, to the degree that can be determined in advance, ought to be at the top of voters’ lists. The only shame here is that taxpayers have to pony up for another election, which in Peoria County alone — there are 19 counties in the 18th District — could cost the locals upwards of $150,000, all of it unanticipated and, therefore, unbudgeted. Too bad Schock’s $3.3 million campaign war chest can’t be tapped for it. — GateHouse Media Illinois ()6<; 7+( /6<:, +09,*;69@ ;OLZL HYL[OL ,?7,9;: [VJHSS MVY`V\Y OVTL ULLKZ 3(>5.(9+,5,8<074,5; 3(5+:*(705. -SPNPUNLYZ :4HPU:[4VY[VU Å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»Z-SVVY-HZOPVUZ : :\TTP[ +Y >HZOPUN[VU YHSWOZÅVVYMHZOPVUZJVT )HYYPJR6S[THU :WYPUN*YLLR9K>HZOPUN[VU IHYYPJRVS[THUJVT 9P]LY=HSSL`.YHUP[L .YHUP[L8\HY[a4HYISL ;O\UKLYIPYK 3U ,HZ[ 7LVYPH 7\[`V\YI\ZPULZZPUV\YOVTL KPYLJ[VY`[OH[^PSSY\U^LLRS` [OYV\NO1\UL /\YY`:WHJLPZSPTP[LK *HSS`V\YYLWVY www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com Washington Times-Reporter Wednesday, March 25, 2015 A5 Commentary If Court kills health care, millions – and GOP - lose If the polarized U.S. calamities and exorbiSupreme Court in June tant medical bills for the rules against the Afford- first time. able Care Act, they’ll Secretary for Health kill subsidies for about and Human Services 8 million Americans in Sylvia Mathews Bur34 states that use well, has said, the HealthCare. “We know of no gov insurer maradministrative acketplace – such as tions that could – Illinois. and therefore we This has started have no plans that to occur to Conwould – undo the gress’ Tea Partymassive damage influenced Repub- Bill Knight to our health care licans, especially system that would in the House, be caused by an where Representatives adverse decision.” run every two years. “Oops.” Even from right-wingThe issue in “King v. ers who’ve tried to kill Burwell” – the most sethe ACA dozens of times rious threat to the law in the last five years, you since 2012 – focuses can almost hear some on four words in the gears click into place 906-page document. and mumbled thoughts The law says that tax about millions of voters credits will be available losing health insurance: through exchanges “es“Uh, oh-oh.” tablished by the state.” On the Senate side, As it was drafted, supa few GOP Senators porters assumed most reportedly have been states would create brainstorming for exchanges. After it was months, but haven’t signed in March 2010, come up with an idea many states instead of helping millions of decided to rely on the Americans – many of federal government to whom now have some operate them, as the law protection from health allows. Four words v. intent. In 2012, the Internal Revenue Service OK’d rules making subsidies available in all states. ACA opponents said exchanges must be offered by individual states, not the federal government. The marketplaces – operating for two years – let Americans who don’t get health benefits at work to shop online among plans that must all offer basic benefits and can’t turn away customers, even if they have preexisting conditions. Americans making less than four times the federal poverty level, or about $94,000 for a family of four, qualify for subsidies to offset the cost of their premiums. The law’s challengers argue that a strict reading of the statute makes subsidies available only in states that set up marketplaces, rather than having the federal government operate marketplaces for them. Four words. Without subsidies, of course, insurance costs would skyrocket. During arguments this month, Justice Anthony Kennedy suggested the law may be vague enough to give the IRS deference for its regulation allowing tax credits in federal health exchanges. But he added that giving the IRS authority would be a “drastic step,” because billions of dollars are at stake. In Illinois – which left about $270 million in federal funding untouched in December when the legislature didn’t even vote on a bill to create Illinois’ health insurance exchange – more than threefourths of consumers who signed up for 2015 insurance as of Jan. 30 qualified for an average subsidy of $210 per month. Clearly, ACA challengers care less about language than the law – and President Obama. After 60-some attempts to repeal the ACA in the last six years, Republicans once more seem to be intent on “Doing Nothing,” but many are starting to realize the unintended consequence of booting millions off health insurance. Some governors, including a few Republicans, have conceded they don’t want to let thousands of their constituents lose coverage. “If the court rules, and we find half a million Ohioans without insurance, it’s something we’re going to have to deal with,” Ohio Gov. John Kasich said. On March 4, the Supreme Court seemed divided, but comments like Kennedy’s gave the law’s defenders some hope. At least four justices appeared skeptical about the challenge that could create unmanageable insurance markets, rising premiums, and millions uninsured. Conservative Justices such as Antonin Scalia seemed sympathetic to opponents of health coverage, but the four liberals, such as Ruth Bader Ginsburg, seemed to side with defenders’ assertion that the whole law must be considered. Even the conservative Independent Women’s Voice organization recently released a poll saying it would be important to “do something to restore the subsidies” if Scalia and conservative Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito sway two others to kill it. Perhaps swing votes by Kennedy or Chief Justice Roberts could note that Merriam-Webster’s dictionary’s definition of “state” is not only “a politically organized body of people usually occupying a definite territory; especially: one that is sovereign,” but also “ the operations or concerns of the government of a country.” The federal government is a state, too. And people matter as much as words. — Contact Bill at Bill.Knight@hotmail. com; his twice-weekly columns are archived at billknightcolumn.blogspot.com. Statehouse Insider Guessing continues on state of Illinois pension reform It’s always risky to try ing the law. Just two and predict how an apquestions were posed to pellate court will rule on a lawyer representing a case after listening to public employees and reoral arguments. tirees trying to have the Remember the law declared unfirst time Obamaconstitutional. care was before All of the questhe U.S. Supreme tions were posed Court? Many court by just three jusobservers predicted tices: Chief Justhe law would be tice Rita Garman struck down based and justices Robon questions from Doug Finke ert Thomas and the justices and Lloyd Karmeier. what was perceived They are all Reto be a weak case by the publicans. The other administration. It was four, all of whom are upheld. Democrats, didn’t ask So keep that in mind if any questions. But then, you want to try reading not all of the justices ask the tea leaves from last questions in every case. week’s oral arguments Sen. Kwame Raoul, on the pension reform D-Chicago, was in the case before the state courtroom and listened Supreme Court. Most of to the arguments. Afterthe questions from the ward he said he expected justices were directed to the legislature would an attorney representing once again have to tackle the state and defendthe pension reform is- sue. He may be correct. A lot of people have been saying the same thing for some time. But at least we’re now to where the state’s high court is finally at the point of weighing in on the issue one way or another. Anyone want to start the speculation of how long it will take the court to reach a decision? ••• A rally last week to protest proposed budget cuts was one of the largest at the Capitol in a while. And while an organizer told at least one media outlet to expect arrests from the demonstration, none occurred, according to the secretary of state’s office. That was even the case after some of the protesters crowded into the House visitors’ gallery and interrupted the floor session with their chanting. House officials asked that the gallery be cleared, and security led them out peacefully. Will the rally change anything? Likely not. Rallies at the Capitol go on all of the time. This one was bigger than most, but it was another in what will be a string of them. Moreover, positions on Gov. Bruce Rauner’s budget have already been staked out. And working through the budget mess will take weeks if not months. The rally will be a distant memory by the time it is resolved. ••• People around state government quickly learn that not everything is as it appears. That phenomenon is not limited just to state government. Last week, the city of Springfield secured a ton of free publicity for an upcoming G.I. Joe convention to be held in the city. The city distributed a photograph of Mayor Mike Houson giving a key to the city to Cobra Commander, leader of a terrorist organization in the world of G.I. Joe. Bam, thanks to the internet, the photograph goes viral. People near and far expressed mock outrage that the mayor would give a key to the city to such a perpetrator of evil. On Friday, Houston did a short interview on Trailers *(9.6+<47<;030;@469, In addition, the County Clerk’s office will be responsible for finding election judges for each precinct, and consider the idea of whether early voting should be made available. Adding further complexity is the fact that the same day voter registration law begins on June 1, so yet more staffing (and costs) will need to be taken into consideration. We have many great people representing our area in Springfield, and while meetings have been set to explore accommodations for this election, we urge you to contact them, too, to see how our Election Code can be amended permanently so our counties are not left with a large bill for something that is completely outside of their control. We would like to thank the many members of the local media for already drawing attention to this key issue, and hope the issue remains in the spotlight. David Zimmerman, Tazewell County board chairman; Christie Webb, Tazewell County clerk and John Redlingshafter, Tazewell County board member Trailer & Auto >-HYTPUN[VU9K ;YP]VSP03 >LIZP[LJVTPUNZVVU ^^^[YP]VSP[YHPSLYZHSLZJVT *HSS1VOU Jim Taylor, Branch Manager of First Allied Securities First Allied Securities, Inc.* has announced the local branch office has relocated to 4700 N. Prospect Rd, Ste A2B, Peoria Heights, IL. Jim Taylor, with over 20 years experience in the financial services industry will now serve as branch manager. He can be reached at 309.688.1080. *Member FINRA/SIPC • firstallied.com CS-05571095 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters policy: The Washington Times-Reporter encourages letters to the editor about local, state or national issues. Letters should be 200 to 300 words and legible (typed if possible). Letters must contain the author’s name, signature and phone number for verification. The author’s name and city will be printed. We reserve the right to edit all letters for style, length or libelous material. Letters will be published on a space available basis. Letter writers assume responsibility for the accuracy of facts and figures stated in the letters. We have the right to choose which letters to publish. A political letter regarding an upcoming election will be run two issues prior to the election to give the opponent an opportunity to respond the following week. Letters may be faxed to 686-3101, emailed to wtr@ timestoday.com, or mailed to PO Box 9426, Peoria, IL 61612-9426. For more information, call Editor Marlo Guetersloh at 686-3054. Trailers Supplies & Repairs Trivoli Sales CS-05571689 (The year)2015 was already set to be an election year in Illinois. Specifically, a February primary (where needed) and an April 7 general, municipal election were on the calendar. With recent developments in Washington, D.C., we now face the potential of two more elections — a special election for the 18th Congressional District and a related primary (should multiple candidates from the same party remain in the race). As we all know, vacancies in office happen, and often-times, they are due to very sad circumstances. Our state Election Code sets forth the procedure to fill those vacancies, but it is eerily silent on one aspect — who is going to pay for it? While county boards and county clerks had budgeted for two elections in 2015, no one anticipated four elections in a five month span. In Tazewell County, these two additional elections are estimated to cost around $200,000! —Doug Finke covers Springfield and the statehouse for GateHouse Media Illinois. Contact Finke at doug.finke@ sj-r.com. -LH[\YPUN+VVSP[[SL;YHPSLYZ Letters to the editor Election year expenses could mount for County in race to fill Schock’s seat Springfield radio station WMAY in which he confessed that all he gave to Cobra Commander was an empty box. It seems that because of budget cuts, Springfield hasn’t had ceremonial keys to the city to hand out for four years. All of that free publicity may make the convention a huge success, in which case the city might be able to afford one key as a token of thanks to Mr. Commander. It’s the least they could do. 6SULQJLVLQWKHDLUDQGQRZ¶VWKHWLPHWRJHWRQ 1RUWKODQG¶V6SULQJ%XLOG6FKHGXOHEHIRUHLW¿OOVXS A6 Wednesday, March 25, 2015 Washington Times-Reporter www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com Music Gospel keys for Winter Jam By Adam Larck TimesNewspapers SELL YOUR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS TO SOMEONE YOU CAN TRUST WE ARE THE ORIGINAL “QUICK CASH FOR TEST STRIPS” SERVING DIABETICS NATIONWIDE FOR 6 YEARS PAYING TOP DOLLAR – CHECK OUR PRICES CS-02522015 CALL 800-979-8220 NOW Quickcash4teststrips.com Pine Lake Call today, space is limited. By Adam Larck TimesNewspapers The Ultimate Vacation Destination for Your Pet w • No Cages 4 Pa t esor R • Shaded Area Call ahead • 12 ft runs for an • Country appointment Setting 263-0334 Over 40 YEARS of loving care for your pet! CS-05571059 &XVWRP%XLOW:LWK &OHDU \3ULGH %8,/',1*63(&,$/6 ¶[¶[¶ ¶[¶[¶ ¶[¶[¶ &217$&786)25$ )5((&2168/7$7,21 (85(.$,/ %XLOGLQJSLFWXUHGLVQRWSULFHGLQDG&UHZWUDYHOUHTXLUHGRYHUPLOHV /RFDO EXLOGLQJ FRGH PRGL¿FDWLRQV H[WUD 3ULFH VXEMHFW WR FKDQJH ZLWKRXW QRWLFH )($785,1* &OHDU\%XLOGLQJFRP a young age. Both of her parents sang in musical theater, and Battistelli sang in a lot of vocal productions at the age of 10. “I discovered songwriting in high school, and that’s when I started playing the guitar,” she said. When she was 17, she said she wanted to start writing her own lyrics about what she believed in. “That’s when I started writing the songs I play now. I would write songs and sing in coffee houses or churches, wherever would have me,” Battistelli said. She said her inspiration for her music comes from a wide range of areas, from Christina Aguilera to jazz and more. “Because of my love of theater, there’s a lot of that in my background. My dad was also a jazz trumpet player, so there’s a lot of jazz and R&B music,” she said. In 2008, she would release her first album with a music label, “My Paper Heart.” Two years later, she won the Female Vocalist of the Year and Short Form Music Video of the Year at the Gospel Music Association Dove awards. For both Battistelli and Skillet, this is their third time being a part of Winter Jam. “It’s such an amazing tour. There’s nothing like it, especially in our industry, to see so many people come out and so many lives change,” Battistelli said. “This has been my favorite one so far,” Cooper added. “The bands are so good. The whole show, from top to bottom, is just excellent, and I think that’s why so many people have been coming out to the show.” Cooper said that the bigger event also allows for the group to do things they haven’t been able to do before productionwise. “We’ve always been kind of known for doing big shows with pyrotechnics and lighting. We’re doing those, but we’re also doing some new effects like incorporating video and a few other surprises that I probably shouldn’t reveal,” he said. Both Battistelli and Skillet will be performing various songs from their latest albums, but Skillet will also be pulling out some of their greatest hits as well. Battistelli said that attendees may want to get in line early to guarantee getting a great seat. “ There’s so many great artists. It’s just a night full of great music and ministry,” she said. Broadway hits abound at Civic Center Boarding Services 21804 Springer Ct. • Morton One of the biggest Christian music events worldwide is making its return Sunday to the Peoria Civic Center. Winter Jam brings 10 bands this year to the Civic Center. The event kicks off at 6 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are a $10 donation at the door. This low-entry cost has been done since Winter Jam was formed in 1995 by NewSong to allow more people to attend, “be encouraged by the music, and hear the gospel.” This year’s groups include Grammy-award winning Christian rock band Skillet, Jeremy Camp, Francesca Battistelli, Building 429, for King & Country, Family Force 5, Tony Nolan, Blanca, About A Mile and VERIDIA. “It’s kind of like the poster concert for the ADD generation, it’s constant bombardment with lighting and sound and excitement,” Skillet lead singer John Cooper said. Cooper, the only remaining original member of the group, started his love of music early on, growing up around piano and vocal training from his mother. He said he first sang in front of people with his mom at the age of four at church. “I just always loved music,” he said. He also started listening to Christian rock music at a young age. “I always thought if I played in a band I would write songs about my faith and hopefully write songs that could help people through hard times and share my faith through music,” Cooper said. Groups such as Bon Jovi, Metallica, Fleetwood Mac, Kansas and Journey have helped influence Cooper’s singing and music style over the years, along with classical music and playing orchestra. In 1996, Cooper formed Skillet with Ken Steorts, who left the group three years later. Cooper’s been on tour ever since. When he started out, he said he couldn’t imagine being on tour today. “I kinda thought, ‘Eh, I’ll give it five-eight years. I can’t imagine it lasting much longer than that.’ I’m thrilled that it has. Typically, music careers don’t last that long, especially Christian music for a Christian rock act,” he said. Meanwhile, Battistelli is more recent to the music scene. While she released for first album as an independent artist in 2004, she too started singing at Two Tony Award winners will be making a stop in Peoria Friday. Ron Raines and Donald Pippin will be bringing Broadway hits to the Peoria Civic Center Theater as part of their Legends of Broadway tour. The singing kicks off at 7:30 p.m. Friday. Tickets start at $25 and are available at Ticketmaster.com or the PCC Box Office. Raines and Pippin both have a rich history on Broadway. Pippin has been Promotional photo of Ron conducting and directRaines. submitted photo ing music for over five decades, including the actually a high school peroriginal run and revival formance of “Oklahoma.” of “A Chorus Line.” He has While he originally also conducted “Mame,” came to New York in 1975 starring Angela Lansbury to perform in operas, he and Bea Arthur, “Seesaw,” said he fit best in musical one of Tommy Tune’s eartheater. lier performances, “Caba“At that time in history ret,” “Oliver,” “La Cage aux in the ‘80s, opera compaFolles” and more. He also nies in America were startwas the Musical Director ing to do musicals,” Raines at New York City’s Radio said. So, I actually went City Music Hall for 10 back to the opera world years. and did these musicals.” Raines got his start on After touring across Broadway in 1983 during a America for a while, he revival of “Showboat,” but said he wanted to stay in his first production was New York to be with his SCHOOL Continued from Page A1 school’s success,” he said. Crotts, 33, 2213 E. Linnhill Lane, said she can serve “our students, parents, teachers, administrators and taxpayers in the negotiation and prioritization of fiscally sound, academically centered policies. “The foundation of longterm community success is academic excellence pursued in consideration of its cost to taxpayers.” The most important issue facing the district, she said, is the “delicate balancing act of meeting growing student needs and retaining qualified teachers as operational costs increase in ways that mitigate the tax burden on families.” Essig, 46, 600 Eldridge St., said she wants to help provide students with the best academic programs and educational opportunities the dis- Gloria trict can af- McNett ford. “We also need to find a balance between excellent academics and important extra- Aaron c urric ular Boyles activities,” she said. The most pressing issue the district faces, she said, is the financial challenge caused by a decrease in state funding and a temporary drop in property tax revenue in the wake of the November 2013 tornado. 5-year-old daughter and his wife. However, he hadn’t expected that a soap opera would be what kept him in the city. “I came back and was doing a production of ‘South Pacific’ at the Papermill Playhouse, which is only like 40 minutes outside of the city,” he said. “I had committed to myself then that I was going to get a job. I had not a clue that it was going to be a soap opera like ‘Guiding Light.’” Raines became the villain of “Guiding Light,” Alan Spaulding, for 15 years. While on the show, though, he never stopped his theatrical singing. “While I was doing that, I did tons of recordings and three or four productions for PBS. I also sang for 30 or 40 symphonies. So, I didn’t stop singing, I just stopped going on the road,” he said. “It’s been a very unorthodox career, but it’s been my path and it’s been fabulous,” he said. While Raines and Pippin first worked together in “Teddy and Alice” in 1988, Raines said his wife knew him 15 years before that when she was in a show Pippin directed. “(Don)’s a legend,” Raines said. They first worked together on Legends of Broadway about five years ago. “We’ve performed all over the place,” he said. “It’s educational, it’s warm. It has an intimacy about it.” The concert is divided up into two parts. “The first part is where we celebrate composers who wrote their own lyrics, and then the second part is about composers who were a team,” Raines said. Between songs, such as “Luck be a lady tonight,” “My defenses are down,” “Edelweiss” and more, the pair gives the audience a look inside their rich history on Broadway. “He’s got wonderful stories that he shares during the program that the audience eats up,” Raines said. Raines said he interviews Pippin between songs to get stories about his directing career that helps give more background on the songs they sing and perform. “It’s really wonderful,” Raines said. “It’s very entertaining.” Flanders, 48, 1016 G r e e n brier Lane, said academic success builds a strong April Crotts foundation for students regardless of their career path. She said the district is facing funding issues and Jennifer u n f u n d e d Essig mandates that require significant change management strategies. “The board must focus on providing a top-quality educational experience that ensures our students are competitive in a global environment while success- fully navigating these c h a n g e s ,” she said. The other contes ted Wa s h i n g ton races Kim April 7 are Flanders for seats on the boards that oversee the middle schools. Washington District 50: Leticia Padilla-Tompkins, Jeff Stolba, David Sherwood, Scott Allison, Sean White and Cara Wilson are seeking three seats. Washington District 51: Christopher Gray, Laura Adam, Matthew Gorman and Brian Beebe are seeking three seats. Washington District 52: Patrick Hatfield, Charles Zimmerman, Jennifer Leman, Kevin Moloney and Shane Bruer are seeking three seats. www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com Washington Times-Reporters Wednesday, March 25, 2015 A7 Local woman hoping to appeal to many with Needle in a Haystack Nikki Rutledge, who recently moved to East Peoria, opened Needle in a Haystack Jan. 2 at 2438 Washington Road. submitted photo painted, it’s distressed, the shabby chic, that kind of look. It’s finding that item and then deciding how I want to change it up,” Rutledge said. “I have a lot of fun doing that.” The name Needle in a Haystack, Rutledge said fits her store because it’s where people can find “strange, hard to find things.” Her friend Kathy Zehr of East Peoria came up with the name. “We kind of hope people can find things they want, things that they can use. We’ve got the kitchenware stuff. People moving into a new place might need a couple of pots and pans, or you know, young people that can’t afford to go out and buy brand new things. We kind of have a mix of both worlds in here,” she said. Swan Creek soy candles and handmade jewelry are also part of the eclectic mix. Rutledge’s 10-year-old daughter, Adrianna Rutledge, makes jewelry, and another vendor, Michelle Brown, has her handcrafted jewelry on display. In the future, Rutledge said she plans to rent booth space to seven vendors. “There are so many crafty people out there and so many people that have great ideas,” Rutledge said. As she proceeds with her business, Rutledge said she is learning what customers want and will change things to accommodate requests. “Most of the guys coming in here are looking more for collectibles and things like that, so we might change that up a bit,” she said. So far, Rutledge said she has had customers coming in every day; some are repeat visitors she is getting to know on a first-name basis. The people are what Rutledge likes the most about having her own business. “I like getting to meet new people and help them find new things. If they find something they like and they want a different color, we can change it up for them,” she said. Once a month, RutSunday, 9:00AM 10:30AM Thursday, 7:00PM Friday, 7:00PM Sunday, 7:00AM 8:00AM 9:00AM 10:30AM Sunday, 9:00AM 10:30AM 401 Walnut St., Washington R�j��c� t��s E��t�r Calvary Evangelical Mennonite Church Located at 115 E. Jefferson St., Washington For questions 309-444-2722 Sunday, April 5th Easter Church Service 10:15am Easter Egg Hunt for children following the service All are invited! SUNDAY 5, 2015 MAUNDY April 8:30 & 11:00 AM THURSDAY April 2, 2015 6:30PM @ WCC COMMUNITY GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE April 3, 2015 @ 7PM ST. MARK’S STUDY HOUR 9:45-10:45 ledge said she changes the items in the store to give it a fresh look. She is planning a grand opening sometime in April or May. “This is exciting. It’s growing little by little. Coming up with new ways to grow it more, that’s the challenging part because you have to step outside of the box and do what’s not normal. I wanted to move forward and do something not normal I guess for me,” Rutledge said. The store’s hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call 219-1346 or visit www. needleinahaystack14.com. March 29 Sunday School Palm Sunday Worship Service April 2 Maundy Thursday Service April 3 Community Good Friday Service at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church April 5 Easter Sunrise Service Easter Breakfast Sunday School Easter Celebration Worship Service April 12 Sunday School Children’s Easter Program www.evanumc.org 444-3228 CS-05571383 Nikki Rutledge loves garage sales and organizing. Now she has combined these two things into her own business called Needle in a Haystack. The business, located at 2438 Washington Road, offers an eclectic mix of home décor, furniture, jewelry, candles, tools and more. “I’m the one crazy person who loves to do garage sales and I like to organize them and stage them and make them look good. My family has always gone to auctions,” Rutledge said. Originally, Rutledge thought she would do a traveling flea market with a truck and a trailer, but then thought otherwise due to the weather and the physical demands of loading and unloading supplies and standing on her feet all day. That’s when she got the idea to open her own business. Rutledge said her father, Kent Schuck, has been very supportive. “He’s always encouraged me to do my own thing and do my own business. He has his own business and has for years and loves being self-employed,” Rutledge said. Rutledge said her father helps her buy transporting items to her store. “He’ll bring me a truckload. If I say I’m out of something today, he will bring me this,” she said. Rutledge, 33, who recently moved to East Peoria, said she was looking for a spot on a main road and saw the location in Sunnyland. The building, which looks like something from the Old West, was not for rent when Rutledge first saw it. The very next day a “for rent” sign was posted and Rutledge thought it was meant to be, she said. “I thought it looked like an old saloon. It’s very unique and I thought, ‘That place is going to stand out,’” Rutledge said. Before opening Jan. 2, Rutledge said she and her helpers did a lot of painting and cleaning. The three-roomed business has a main room with a counter, a side room where there is a dining room table and other kitchen-related items and a man cave in the back for the guys. Rutledge said she finds items for her store in a variety of places, even on the side of the road. “We get a lot of donations and we pick it up on the side of the road. A lot of people don’t want to mess with it anymore and they set it outside. I never thought I would be picking up garbage but one person’s junk is another person’s treasure,” she said. Rutledge said she has found various furniture items that people throw out. If the piece needs a minor repair, her dad fixes it. What Rutledge said she really loves doing is taking a piece and making it look different. “Right now the stained look is not really in. Everybody wants something CS-05571009 TimesNewspapers CS-05571071 By Jeanette Kendall A8 Wednesday, March 25, 2015 Washington Times-Reporter www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com outlook Continued from Page A1 a rate of 6.8 percent. But compare that to the regions worse off, such as the Northern Stateline region of Ogle, Boone, Stephenson and Winnebago counties, where the rate was 7.8 percent, and includes the state’s third biggest city, Rockford, where the unemployment is 8.8 percent in city limits. Henry County is in the second worst region, which has a total unemployment rate of 7.5 percent. Also factored into the IDES’ numbers are the types of jobs gained or lost. For instance, the Galesburg area had an overall unemployment of 7.0 percent in January, adding about 75 manufacturing jobs, 50 hospitality jobs and losing 125 government jobs and 125 jobs in other services. Comparatively, in the Pontiac area the unemployment rate dropped to 6.2 percent, the lowest it’s been since 2008, adding 100 manufacturing jobs but losing 75 jobs in hospitality and another 75 in government. Despite falling unemployment numbers, the actual number of jobs created went down in Knox County from 19,845 in January 2014, to 19,689 in January 2015. Christopher Merrett, director of the Institute for Rural Affairs at Western Illinois University, said the shrinking numbers could be a sign of workers leaving or giving up. “There is some evidence that there may be some small addition to the labor force, but it also suggests that the overall size of the labor force may be shrinking,” he said in an email. “That is, there is a shrinking labor force participation rate. Hence, if the labor force is shrinking, a lower unemployment may not mean more workers are being added. It means discouraged workers are no longer being counted. I mention this because overall, Illinois lost jobs in areas that are more likely to be found in downstate such as construction and manufacturing.” Another factor could be residents traveling to other areas for work. The most up-to-date IDES commuter data show that in March of 2013, 21,401 workers lived in Knox County, but 3,913 of those workers commuted out of the county for their careers. Of those commuters, 222 went to Iowa for work. In Tazewell County it was just the opposite. Just 35,170 people live CITY Continued from Page A1 up for development once all the road work for Freedom Parkway and Lake Shore Drive are completed. “Defintely with those two areas we want to bring in more head-ofhousehold kind of jobs,” Oliphant said. He also admits that Washington like other cities will have a tough time attracting those kinds of businesses. “It’s competative and those kinds of projects just don’t come around that often,” he said. “But we are hoping that we are positioning ourselves in a way to maximize our resources and be as attractive as possible for those kinds of develope- in Tazewell, but 55,590 worked there. Local possibilities Though unemployment is dropping, several small towns still feel the lack of jobs in their communities. One way Galesburg could fight that feeling could come on the back of BNSF Railway. State Rep. Don Moffitt said to help boost the economy, the city is positioning itself for expansion of the railway with the three grade separations to allow train and vehicle traffic to bypass each other and run simultaneously. “That positions the railyard for more business, with several tracks running in several different directions,” Moffitt said. With an expansion of BNSF, supplementary companies could arise, like agribusiness and other industries which rely on the railroad. Kim Pierce, executive director of the Macomb Area Economic Development Corp., said the local manufacturers have positioned themselves to start hiring again, meaning new career opportunities in the new future. However, there are not enough skilled workers to fill the available openings in the Macomb area. “What we have, especially in welding, is a shortage of available welders for the jobs that are available Adding different industries is similar to what Peoria has done surrounding manufacturing giant Caterpillar, which has helped the city spread out its commerce assets. Several supplementary businesses have started to grow around Caterpillar, and with a larger population of Caterpillar workers, the demand for services has gone up. A good example of that demand is the major healthcare industry in Peoria, with two major centers located across the street from one another, driving up competition in the area. “Take a city that has two major hospitals, and that is going to raise the salaries for employees at the hospitals, so nurses, doctors, techs, everybody, they’re going to have to compete for the best people,” said William Polley, interim associate dean at the College of Business and Technology at Western Illinois University. “The same holds true if you have two manufacturing companies in the same area. The same would be true if you had multiple service oriented companies in the area.” Though the companies may dislike competition, and try to keep it away, it ments.” Washington Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Chevie Ruder said having more headof-household jobs in the area goes a long way to sustaining the city’s retail and service-related businesses. The chamber focuses on helping to retain local businesses. “It’s those businesses that bring in those headof-household jobs that helps pay the property taxes and keeps the city growing,” Ruder said. Right, the city of Washington purchased 223-acres of property near Illinois Route 24 and Nofsinger Road in 2013 with the intention of using it to attract new businesses and employers to the area. Graphic by GateHouse Media Illinois helps improve the overall economy in the area, as workers are paid more. That’s what Moffitt sees BNSF turning into, potentially overtaking Kansas City as the central hub of the rail giant for the Midwest. “Because of its geographical location, I think there is that potential,” Moffitt said. Illinois business climate The state rate consistently has hovered between 0.5 and 1.5 percentage points higher than the national rate in recent years. Ron Payne, an IDES labor market analyst, said it is due to the types of jobs available in Illinois, notably manufacturing. “Typically, Illinois is one of those states because we have a large presence in manufacturing,” Payne said. “Historically we tend to go into the recessive period a little later and come out of it a little later.” Payne said partially due to the large manufacturing business in the state, the unemployment rate typically tends to sit higher than the national average, even in the better economic times. However, he said the outlook for 2015 is continued job growth, at the same steady rate as in 2014. A new administration in the statehouse aims to continue these upward trends and make Illinois a more business-friendly environment. Moffitt said changing Illinois’ business climate is atop Gov. Bruce Rauner’s agenda. “He’s acknowledged we’ve been a state that exports jobs and we’re viewed as a bad business climate, an anti-business state,” Moffitt said. Moffitt suggested loosening business regulations, including shortening permit and licensing procedures for industries like the medical field, and keeping a close eye on what neighboring states are doing, to help Illinois stay competitive. Compared to other states, Illinois does have one of the highest unemployment rates around. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Iowa’s rate is at 4.2 percent, Wisconsin’s 5.0, Missouri’s and Kentucky’s 5.5, and Indiana’s 6.0. Rauner, a Winnetka Republican, defeated former Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn on a campaign of changing the status quo in Springfield, particularly in government finances. The new administration has maintained the state’s income tax decrease, which dropped as scheduled from 5 percent Washington Times-Reporter to 3.75 on Jan. 1, just before Rauner took office. The corporate income tax fell from 7 percent to 5.25 percent. “I think that helps make us competitive with other states,” Moffitt said. In west-central Illinois, economic leaders are optimistic about the new governor. Pierce said her office is “hopeful” Rauner will bring a friendlier business climate to the state. “We’re a community in the state of Illinois, so we can only be as proactive as the state will allow us,” Pierce said. However, she understands that business growth won’t be a task completed overnight. “It’s still a work in progress,” she said about the governor’s plans. “The governor is working on other things at this time, like the budget.” A balanced budget and clean bill of fiscal health for Illinois may be needed before it can offer any incentives to attract businesses to the state. However, Merrett said the governor’s plans could hurt rather than help. “Some cuts may in fact hurt the economic recovery,” Merrett said in an email. “We have been losing jobs in manufacturing and construction. Cuts to transfers to local government could slow or halt construction projects that otherwise could employ many workers and spur manufacturing. Laying off government employees could increase the unemployment rate, too. So, it is not clear to me that these specific policies will spur economic development. The more important issue is to simply create a stable economic landscape.” Where can the unemployed turn? Agencies like the IDES and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity work to help unemployed residents find work through training programs. Payne said several manufacturing companies often have trouble finding qualified workers. “We reach out to these people to find out what they need to do to train this unemployed person and dovetail them into their shop,” Payne said. These agencies are able to use local community colleges to help offer special training for such jobs. Also, the IDES has a Career Informations Services page on its website, with information for residents as young as middle and junior high school students, up to Wednesday, March 25, 2015 mature workers and career changers. Those looking for work can find these resources on the IDES webpage under the Workforce A9 Partners tab, and click the Career information link. The IDES also has satellite offices in Peoria and the Quad Cities. Get your Field of Dreams! (and naming rights) Find lots of great tools to help you calculate your mortgage payment and shop for your best current rate, so you can stay focused on finding your dream home. Apply at hbtbank.com or call 844-HBT-BANK 2.2015 CS-05570806 CONSIGNMENT AUCTION! 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A10 Wednesday, March 25, 2015 Washington Times-Reporter www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com Washington Times-Reporter Wednesday, March 25, 2015 B1 SPORTS Questions? Contact Sports Editor Bryan Veginski at 686-3148 or email at [email protected] This week’s big game: The Washington girls soccer team gets the 2015 season underway Thursday with the first of four straight home games. Princeton is the first to arrive at Babcook Field. Panthers poised to contend Boys seek big year in conference, postseason By bryan veginski TimesNewspapers The Washington baseball team had a banner year in 2014. With several players back who played a key role, the Panthers want to take their season a step further. Washington won its first MidIllini Conference championship since 2009 with an 11-3 record. It shared the top spot with East Peoria, a team it swept. The Panthers were 25-12 overall, but were denied their first Class 3A regional title since 2011 when they were knocked off by Metamora in the regional final on the Redbirds’ home field. Washington is well ahead of where it was last year at this time, thanks to a lot of outdoor work on the Babcook Field turf. “It’s been a big asset so far and will be from here on out,” said WCHS seventh-year head coach Kyle Wisher. Except for one outfield spot, the Panthers could field the ball in practice at every position before moving to their normal facility, Brian Wisher Field. Many positions were up for grabs in the middle of last week, with quality players looking to assert themselves. “This is the most competition we’ve had in multiple spots since I’ve been coaching,” Wisher said. “It’s a good problem to have.” Cole Cook, a senior, returns after producing a first-team allleague season in which he led the pitching staff with a 9-2 record in 68 1/3 innings with a 1.13 ERA. He was second with 51 strikeouts. He also was a key hitter with a .307 average, 12 extra-base hits and 29 RBIs, tied for second on the squad. Besides being the ace pitcher and a line-up fixture, Cook also will play center field when he is BASEBALL Head coach: Kyle Wisher 2014 record: 25-12, 11-3 in Mid-Illini Conference (tiefirst) Postseason: Lost in regional final to Metamora Returning all-M-I players: First team — Sr. P Cole Cook Next game: 5 p.m. Friday at Play the Turf Tournament in Jacksonville not on the mound. Senior Shane Semlow will be on the infield somewhere. He is the team’s top third baseman and first baseman. He also is a pitching candidate. Semlow drove in 15 runs as a junior and posted a 4-3 record with a 3.06 ERA while logging 34 1/3 innings. Seniors Christian Dominguez and Alex Hillegonds are possible second basemen. Domiguez hit .264 and shared the team lead with 10 stolen bases. Senior Cole Cook, besides being the ace of the pitching staff, also was a key component of the Washington baseball team’s offense in 2014. He won nine games on the mound with a 1.13 ERA and hit .307 with 29 RBIs for the 25-12 Panthers. file photo Hillegonds a year ago batted .318 with a team-leading 33 RBIs. Shortstop could be manned by seniors Jarrod Watkins, a transfer from Notre Dame, and Jake Miller or Dominguez. Watkins torched opposing pitchers for a .444 average with 37 RBIs as an Irish junior on the way to being named Journal Star Player of the Year. Miller also is a mound option. In 40 innings last year, he had a 2.80 ERA while winning four of his six decisions. See baseBALL page B2 Top Washington players return to circle, batter’s box Softball team one to watch as season begins By bryan veginski TimesNewspapers Dara Megyesi, a Washington senior, led the softball team last season with 13 wins in 18 decisions, 123 strikeouts and 111 1/3 innings. The Lady Panthers, who were 24-11 in 2014, are scheduled to face Williamsville on Thursday. file photo The Washington softball team aims to see its potential turn into positive results through hard work. The Lady Panthers have some high-performing players back in the mix from a 2014 team that earned the program’s most wins in 10 years. Washington was 24-11 last spring and placed third in the Mid-Illini Conference with a 9-5 record. “I’m super excited about this team,” said second-year WCHS head coach Stephanie Ramsey. “The girls are working hard every day.” The team atmosphere has been strong. Ramsey said she hopes the “good for the team” mantra continues the rest of SOFTBALL Head coach: Stephanie Ramsey 2014 record: 24-11, 9-5 in Mid-Illini Conference (third) Postseason: Lost in regional final to East Peoria Returning all-M-I players: First team — Jr. SS Madi McCoy Second team — Sr. A-L Lexie Carlsten Next game: 4:30 p.m. Thursday vs. Williamsville the way. The Lady Panthers have rotated among other spring teams utilizing the Babcook Field artificial turf. “That’s been a big advantage for us,” said Ramsey. Washington was scheduled to start its season Tuesday at Olympia. Three new starters will take over among the six infield slots. Kickers bring energy to field See SOFTBALL page B2 WRA evaluations occur this weekend By bryan veginski TimesNewspapers Washington had a roster turnover, but that does not mean this year’s girls soccer team has lost any energy. Twelve Lady Panthers graduated from last season’s 12-4-1 squad that placed fourth in the Mid-Illini Conference with a 4-2-1 record. “Every team has its own personality,” said seventh-year WCHS head coach William Hudson. “This team works hard and is energetic. They’re really happy to be playing soccer.” Washington is one of the spring teams that has enjoyed the benefits of the turf at See SOCCER page B2 GIRLS SOCCER Head coach: William Hudson 2014 record: 12-4-1, 4-2-1 in Mid-Illini Conference (fourth) Postseason: Lost in regional semifinal to Morton Returning all-M-I players: Second team — Jr. Hannah Heinz First game: 6 p.m. Thursday vs. Princeton Although no positions are set, players were emerging last week for regular duty. Senior Zoe Wetherell is likely to return for a third season at first base. She batted .266 as a junior with 10 extra-base hits, including four home runs, and 13 RBIs. Next to her could be senior Jordan Guedet, who drove in eight runs in 26 games. Sophomores Sam Garcia and Jordan Heinz also are possible Lady Panthers second basemen. Junior Madi McCoy, when she is not pitching, generally will play shortstop. McCoy earned her second consecutive first-team allleague award a year ago. She won the team Triple Crown by finishing with a .459 average with six homers among 20 Washington sophomore Lauren Ely, right, is one of the girls soccer players back with big-game experience. The Lady Panthers, despite losing a dozen seniors to graduation off a 12-4-1 squad, look to stay at a lofty level this spring through the energy they expend. file photo The Washington Recreation Association in-house evaluation days are from 1-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Washington Park. All WRA in-house baseball players Pinto League (kindergarten) thru TAP League (eighth grade) are highly encouraged to participate in evaluations. In-house baseball coaches will perform the evaluating and will keep their evaluation sheets to use as reference during the in-house draft, which will be on April 18. In-house players only need to attend one of the evaluation sessions. Players should dress appropriately for the weather and bring their baseball glove — and baseball bat and helmet if they have one. Catchers should bring catching equipment if they have it. Evaluations on each day will start promptly at 1 p.m., so players should plan to arrive by about 12:45 p.m. Upon entering Washington Park, a WRA representative will be present to direct families to the correct ball diamond based on the players’s current school grade. Call Lance Escue at 643-4549 with any questions. B2 Wednesday, March 25, 2015 Washington Times-Reporter www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com WASHINGTON SPORTSHORTS St. Jude golf outing May 29 The St. Jude Washington Golf Outing will be at noon May 29 at Pine Lakes Golf Club in Washington. The event, which is $80 per person, will benefit the St. Jude Washingtonto-Peoria Run. The entry fee includes: lunch, greens fees and cart, a T-shirt and mulligans available for purchase. Check-in and lunch is scheduled for 11 a.m. with a shotgun start one hour later. For more information or to register, contact , Kim Barker at [email protected]. To register for the tournament, mail the entry form, along with a check or money order to: Kim Barker, c/o St Jude Washington Golf Outing, 401 W. Bittersweet Rd., Washington, IL, 61571. Checks should be payable to St Jude Runs. Registration information and fees for the entire team should be included. The deadline to register is May 15, and space is limited. SOCCER can overcome their overall lack of experience. Forward Jana Hurdis, a senior, is a returning starter expected to have a leading role. Center midfielder Hannah Heinz, a junior, already has a pair of second-team all-league awards. Hudson said he expects the athletically gifted Heinz to make a huge impact. Macy Sophanavong and Lauren Ely, both sophomores, were key varsity defenders a season ago. “They will be instrumental in what we do,” said Hudson of the duo. Junior Liz Foster is back at goalkeeper after being thrust in that role last year as injury substitute. “She’s grown so much over last year as a goalkeeper,” Hudson said. “She’s a great competitor and has great length and athleticism.” Other Washington team members include: seniors — Hadley-Grace Locknar, Mary McEnroe, Libby Volk, Ines LacroixMichavila, Abigail Higgins and Marie Coovert. Juniors Dilyara Coovert, Jessica Thornburg, Rebekah Johnson and Monica Dentino; sophomores Savannah Bushman, Paige Craig, Ashley Crum and Hayley Crum; and freshmen Josie Morgan and Kara Jacobs. “We have a great mix of players,” Hudson said. “Their effort and attitude is really going to carry them through.” Among the dozen players whose eligibility expired, five were invited to represent the M-I in the 16th annual 4-KICKS/ Sport Verein Senior Girls All-Star Soccer Classic, including Katie Burd, Maddie Lee, Reina Mata and Cheyenne VanQuakebeke. Burd was a two-time first-team all-conference pick. Lee was recognized all four years, including a first-team nod as a senior. Mata twice was tabbed for the second team, while VanQuakebeke garnered a second-team post in her lone year at Washington. The Lady Panthers are anxious to play games primarily under the lights on its first year home field. Hudson said the venue change gives the program an added element of importance. The usual suspects are expected to be conference title contenders. Metamora ended Morton’s 12-year run atop the standings last year. Dunlap was a Class 2A sectional finalist after upending the Redbirds in the semifinals. Washington probably will fly under the radar initially with Pekin also expected to put together a solid side. One big win for the Lady Panthers would change that perception in a hurry. Washington added Macomb, which is a Saturday matinee, to the schedule. The season opener is set for Thursday against Princeton, which is the first of four consecutive home contests. a pair of homers and 13 RBIs. Morgan Osborn, a junior, or Garcia will be the Lady Panthers’ catcher. Junior Addie Baele is back in left field after a sophomore season in which she hit .376. Senior center fielder Lexie Carlsten has been a second-team all-league choice in back-to-back years. In 2014, she batted .345 with three round-trippers and 10 doubles and she knocked in 21 runs. McCoy and Carlsten both were named Illinois Coaches Association third-team all-state. As of last week, Heinz, senior Libby Lindsey and juniors Kayla Ford and Jess Earl all were in the running to play right field. “We have a lot of options, which is nice,” said Ramsey. “It’s nice to have depth at a lot of different positions.” Senior Dara Megyesi led Washington last season with a 13-5 pitching mark and 123 strikeouts in 111 1/3 innings. She had a 2.83 ERA. “I couldn’t be more ex- cited about having them back,” Ramsey said of the tandem of McCoy and Megyesi. Dividing the innings will be based on what is best for the team and how the defense lines up best. The coach said the squad has the work ethic and talent, the Lady Panthers just need to find the right place for each piece of the puzzle. Among five seniors lost to graduation was Hayley Reneau, a second-team all-league shortstop. East Peoria is the threetime defending league champion. Washington is one of the teams the Raiders identified as a M-I contender. Metamora is almost certain to rebound from last year’s co-seventhplace result in the conference and play more like the sectional finalist it became in the postseason. The Lady Panthers added the April 18 Antioch Tournament, consisting of three games, to their schedule. It will be the first overnight trip for the program. With a third tournament on its schedule, Washington is at the maximum 35 regularseason games. It is tough to find a lightweight on the list. “I’m excited for it,” said Ramsey. “We’ll see how we react to it.” The Lady Panthers’ season continues Thursday with the home opener against Williamsville. Washington will play home games at Central Intermediate School until the Jan Smith Field renovations are complete, which may not be before the season is over. ughey returns to play a corner outfield spot. He knocked in 20 runs and joined Hillegonds with seven doubles. McCaughey also batted .330 a season ago. McCaughey said the live situations Washington began practicing in the preseason helped the team gear up for the first pitch this week. Zach Myers, a senior, is another outfielder. Juniors Ryan Shelabarger and Eddie Betson increase the depth of the pitching corps. Others on the Panthers roster include: juniors Joshua Robenstein, Brandon Bredeson, Jared Urban and Christian Uphoff. “We’ve got to compete every game,” Dominguez said. “Our defense has to be sound.” Two of the biggest graduation losses were infielder Casey Danley and outfielder Hayden Bodine. Both were firstteam all-M-I, with the former receiving that accolade three times. After playing Olympia Tuesday, Washington was set to travel to Jacksonville Friday for the Play the Turf Tournament. “We want to try to get as many games in as we can before conference starts,” said Miller. Metamora, the thirdplace finisher in the Class 3A state tournament last year after tying for fifth place in the conference, has four Division-I players on a roster that has the Redbirds in title contention. Limestone has deep pitching reserves from last year’s third-place league team. East Peoria, despite losing two aces, cannot be overlooked after its surprising M-I run. Morton is young, but could be a factor if its sophomores and juniors mature at an accelerated rate. “There could be a lot of tight baseball games,” said Wisher. “It should be a lot of fun to play.” The Washington schedule includes the addition of an April 3 home game against Moline, a highlyrated 4A team. With Notre Dame and Richwoods joining the Big Twelve Conference, neither of them could fit the Panthers on their slate. Washington is set to play at least six games against Illinois teams ranked in the Prep Baseball Report preseason top 50. “Our non-conference schedule helps us compete in the conference,” said Cook. The May 8-9 LaSallePeru Invitational will provide more varied teams the Panthers typically do not see. Statistics sought: Anyone with season stats from 1988 and earlier is encouraged to send a copy to Wisher at Washington Community High School. He is looking to compile season and career records for the baseball program. Continued from Page B1 Babcook Field, its new home facility. “It’s fun to see all the teams out here,” Hudson said. “It’s good for us, too, since we lost a lot of seniors. We need the extra time on the field.” The Lady Panthers also are strengthened by the presence this year of two student-teachers — Missy Gradl and Erik Harm — who are volunteer coaches. Hudson and the players carry high expectations for themselves, thinking their work ethic SOFTBALL Continued from Page B1 extra-base hits and 37 RBIs. In the circle, she was 9-5 with a team-best 2.14 ERA and 111 strikeouts in 101 1/3 innings. Molly Gilles, a junior, also can play shortstop for Washington. Sophomore Shelby Summer is a candidate to play the hot corner, moving in from right field. In 21 varsity games as a freshman, Summer supplied a .321 average with BASEBALL Continued from Page B1 Mason Diederich, the lone sophomore on the Panthers varsity roster, can play third or go behind the plate. He hit .313 in 19 varsity games in 2014. Junior Austin Ulick is a pitching wild card. If he develops into one of the leading hurlers, his time at catcher will be reduced sharply. Ulick also could patrol right field. Ulick had 11 RBIs in 32 games for Washington as a sophomore. Senior Jimmy McCa- Shooting camp begins April 13 The WestyDoty Spring Shooting Camp begins April 13 at Peoria Christian High School. The camp is open to both boys and girls and occurs each Monday and Wednesday for four weeks. The East Peoria Express 12-and-under softball team placed second in the National Softball Association Earlie Birdie. Members of the squad are, in front, from left: Saylor Marchand, Sondra Gnehm, Peyton Dearing, Belle Rakestraw and Macey Whisker; second row: Emma Hicks, Monique Hoosen, Haley Wallace, Jenna Stoecker, Hannah Yemm, Emma Lane, Lizzi Leverton and assistant coach Sara Leverton; third row: Randy Marchand and assisSee SHORTS page B3 tant coach Andy Gnehm. Not pictured are Aubrey Humphrey and assistant coach Dain Rakestraw. submitted photo Expires 4/30/15 Expires 4/30/15 CS-05570803 Express 12-U takes second www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com Washington Times-Reporter Wednesday, March 25, 2015 B3 IHSA boys state finals to stay in Peoria By ADAM DUVALL GateHouse Media Illinois March Madness will continue its run in Peoria. The Illinois High School Association board of directors renewed a fiveyear contract on Saturday morning to keep the boys basketball state finals at Carver Arena through 2020. It was approved unanimously by an 11-member board of statewide school administrators. “We could not be more excited to be the continued host for the next five years for the IHSA,” Peoria Mayor Jim Ardis said. “I could really talk for a long time about how big of a deal this is for our community.” Peoria, however, missed out on an opportunity to host the girls basketball state finals. Normal was renewed as host of the two-weekend tournament. This year marked the 20th anniversary in Peoria. The two state finals weekends moved to the River City in 1996 after 77 years in Champaign. The Civic Center has utilized its almost 100,000-square-foot Exhibit Hall to showcase the March Madness Experience, an interactive setup of basketball games geared toward people of all ages. Thousands of volunteers spend countless hours The IHSA state finals continue as Belleville Althoff fans cheer during their Class 3A matchup Saturday at Carver Arena in Peoria. The IHSA announced Saturday the Class 1A, 2A, 3A and 4A boys basketball tournaments will remain in Peoria for the next five years. FRED ZWICKY/GATEHOUSE MEDIA ILLINOIS over the two weekends at the Experience. “One of the things that we heard many, many times was the Peoria folks here and all that they do as far as the volunteerism that goes (into the state finals),” said IHSA board President Dan Klett, the principal at Wauconda. “And all the extra work these folks have done to make this a great site for the IHSA championships is something that we felt was also very important.” Peoria and the Civic Center beat proposals from Champaign and Hoffman Estates. Champaign had submitted a bid to host both weekends, while Hoffman Estates wanted its 11,000-seat Sears Centre Arena to host just the Class 3A/4A weekend. America’s Original March Madness had called the University of Illinois campus home from 1919 to 1995 at Kenney Gym, Huff Hall and finally in Assembly Hall, now State Farm Center. State Farm Center renovations are scheduled to be completed by December and are likely to increase the capacity to about 15,600. Carver Arena, inside the Civic Center, seats 11,433. Illinois head basketball coach John Groce was sitting courtside watching the Class 3A session on Saturday afternoon. He had been a vocal proponent of bringing the tour- nament back to Champaign. Groce didn’t know any details other than the announcement of Peoria having its contract renewed for five more years. “Very disappointed, and I’m going to leave it at that,” Groce said, “but I’m going to give the IHSA certainly an opportunity to let us know why. It is what it is.” Westchester St. Joseph coach Gene Pingatore praised the decision to re- Is it time for St. Louis Rams fans to panic? When the Los Angeles Rams packed up and moved to St. Louis in 1995, it left a gaping void in the nation’s second-largest television market. After losing both the Raiders — who returned to Oakland — and the Rams, Los Angeles found itself without an NFL team for the first time since 1945, the year before the Rams up and left Cleveland. Fast forward to 2015, and the Rams, under a new owner, are apparently on the verge of taking their ball and going back home to L.A. due in part to the poor condition of the Edward Jones Dome. Yeesh, first L.A. takes Albert Pujols, now this. What more do they want? While many Rams fans are certain this is the end of football in St. Louis — or at least until the Gateway City lures in another hapless franchise — it’s not as though the final whistle has blown on St. Louis quite yet. Joining the Rams in saying, “We’re DESKTOP going to PUNDITRY Los Angeles and Dylan Polk you can’t stop us — unless you give us a big ole’ bag of money,” are the San Diego Chargers — who played as the Los Angeles Chargers for one season in 1960 — and of course, the Raiders, who are figuratively drowning in literal cesspool that is the O.co Coliseum. Three teams are threatening to move to L.A., which would certainly over-saturate the market, but stadium plans are calling for two teams to move in, similar to the Jets and Giants’ arrangement in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Those threats to move are now getting more serious, as the Los Angeles Times reported earlier this week. In addition a shared stadium plan revealed by the Raiders and Chargers in February, Rams owner Stan Kroenke announced he would reveal his own plans for a two-team stadium in Inglewood, though it’s likely the Rams will try to get a jump on being L.A.’s sole franchise for at least a season. If you’re sweating through your Marshall Faulk jersey right now, dear Rams fan, you’re probably right to. Here’s the brutal truth: The Rams are going to move back to Los Angeles. It may not be in 2015. It may not even be in 2016. But sooner or later, the Rams will once again be L.A.’s team. St. Louis just cannot compete with L.A. in terms of market size, and the city itself doesn’t seem that en- thused to keep them around. Had it been, the Ed Jones Dome would have been renovated a long time ago. The Rams might even be playing in a brand new stadium right on the banks of the Mississippi River. But those plans only came forward once the Rams began mulling their move. Not that the Rams haven’t done their part to keep the city’s attention, anyway. After taking a thrilling win in Super Bowl XXXIV, the Rams sank into a long period of mediocrity from which they’ve never recovered. The Rams’ last winning season was in 2003, when they went 12-4 before losing to the Carolina Panthers in the divisional playoffs. They returned to the playoffs one more time the following season after an 8-8 campaign, losing again in the divisional playoffs by a score of 47-17. Since then, the Rams have never finished better than 8-8, and they’ve never returned to the playoffs. And with the Cardinals and Blues putting together one successful season after another, it’s understandable if St. Louis has been hesitant to meet the Rams’ stadium demands. The Rams threatening to hit the road was a wake-up call to St. Louis, and it forced the city to hastily throw together a plan for a brand new riverfront stadium, almost to say, “Hey, don’t be like that. Look, we can give you nice things!” But it appears it’s too late to keep Kroenke’s Rams around. It’s no longer a matter of if the Rams are leaving, but rather when they are. Who will join them in Hollywood is anyone’s guess. — Dylan Polk is the editor of the Times-Bulletin and pities the fans of defunct teams. turn the state finals to Peoria. The state’s all-time winningest coach had just led his team to the 3A title — his second state championship in Peoria. “Peoria is my favorite place to come to,” Pingatore said. “The fact that it’s going to be five more years ... hopefully, we can get down one more time.” Redbird Arena in Normal, which started hosting the girls state finals in 1992, has reclaimed the rights to host the girls basketball state finals for the next five years. The Bradley University Renaissance Coliseum, which is a 4,200-seat arena, put in a bid to host, but the board of directors also voted unanimously to keep it at Redbird Arena, a 10,200 seat venue that is home to Illinois State University. SHORTS Continued from Page B2 Camp 1, from 6-7:15 p.m., is for boys and girls in third through seventh grades. Camp 2 from 7:15-8:30 p.m., is for boys and girls in seventh through 11th grades. For more information, go to the website www. westydotyshootingcamp. com, or contact Chuck Westendorf at 264-0905 or Steve Doty at 397-6549. Women’s golf league on horizon The 2015 season for Kaufman Park Golf Course Women’s League will begin with a lunch at 12:30 p.m. April 28 at the Chanticleer in Eureka. For reservations, call Barb Rankin 256-1207, or Patti Jones 467-6051. The KPGC Women’s League gathers every Tuesday morning at the golf course to play different events scheduled each week. On the last Tuesday of each month — May through September — groups prepare lunch for the ladies after playing golf. A fun day is scheduled in June, and a club tournament is held in August. Anyone interested can contact Rankin or Jones for further information. Dues to join the league are $25 and there is no age limit. Scrambles are held the last Wednesday of each month. Tee off is at 8:30 a.m. All Ladies are welcome whether a member of the league or not. The course is located on the west edge of Eureka, along U.S. Route 24. CS-05571342 REGISTRATION OPENS APRIL 6 FOR SUMMER & FALL CLASSES icc.edu The Original Rocke’s Honey Glazed Hams are BACK!!!* *Now made with Hormone and Antibiotic Free Pork Order online TODAY for Easter and pick up in MORTON www.rockesltd.com CS-05571328 Ph. 309-263-2881 B4 Wednesday, March 25, 2015 Washington Times-Reporter POLICE arrests East Peoria arrests/Citations Timothy J. Strickfaden, 42, 429 Chicago, criminal sexual assault, March 1 Marjorie A. Wageman, 53, 224 Pershing Place, possession of controlled substance, March 5 Lakeisha D. Stewart, 20, of Peoria, driving with a suspended license, March 2 Earl E. Flatt, 68, of Peoria, driving with a suspended license, Feb. 26 Nanette L. Lebeck, 34, 350 Chicago, Fulton County warrant, Feb. 26 Gwensheka S. Jones, 43, of Peoria, no driver’s license, Feb. 27 Kendra E. Ulrich, 19, of Bartonville, possession of drug equipment, Tazewell County warrant, Feb. 27 Joseph D. Smith, 24, of Pekin, aggravated domestic battery, Feb. 27 Juanita S. Smith, 38, 1334 Meadow Avenue, Tazewell County warrant, Feb. 27 Morgan D. Kohl, 18, of Morton, failure to reduce speed to avoid accident, leaving scene of accident, failure to give aid or info Feb. 27 Michael A. Martin, 33, of Washington, DUI, driving with a suspended license, March 1 Crystal D. Wessel, 35, of Peoria, DUI, blood alcohol content above .08 percent, Feb. 28 Lamont Campbell Jr., 21, of Richton Park, driving with a suspended license, Feb. 28 Tara Lynn M. Uphoff, 27, 101 Mooberry, retail theft, Feb. 28 Jose D. Velasquez, 23, of Peoria, no driver’s license, Feb. 28 Marcus J. Morris, 27, of Peoria, DUI, driving with a revoked license, blood alcohol above .08 percent, March 1 Ann A. Smith, 46, of Peoria, obstructing justice, two Peoria County warrants, March 2 Juvenile, 16, of East Peoria, disorderly conduct, March 2 Matthew E. Hofstatter, 40, of Low Point, Tazewell County warrant, March 3 www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com All information is obtained from police reports at the East Peoria, Morton and Washington police departments. We print all arrests from East Peoria, Morton and Washington and arrests pertinent to our community from Tazewell County. “Arrested” does not necessarily mean being taken to jail in handcuffs. For certain offenses, those arrested are issued a notice to appear in court. This is called a non-custodial arrest. license, March 6 Jamaal Wilson, 32, of Peoria, Peoria County warrant, March 6 Amanda N. Baum, 36, of Washington, visitation interference, March 6 Calvin J. Evans, 26, of Peoria, no driver’s license, March 7 Michael C. Williams, 21, 300 McKinley, Peoria County warrant, March 7 Ian M. Langley, 27, of West Dundee, contributing to the Micka C. Morris, 22, of Peoria, criminal delinquency of a no driver’s license, March 3 minor, sale of liquor to minors, March 8 Zachary D. West, 24, of Morton, no driver’s license, Brooklyn N. Parker, 20, of March 3 Peoria, illegal consumption by a minor, March 8 Ryan S. Kane, 29, of Peoria, John H. Rayyan, 19, of Chiburglary, possession of cancago, illegal consumption by nabis, possession of drug a minor, March 8 equipment, March 3 Randell J. McGuirk, 51, homeless, burglary, March 3 Jasmine C. Cameron, 24, of Peoria, Tazewell County warrant, March 5 Taia Y. Rogers, 22, of Peoria, driving with a suspended license, March 5 Kayla M. McKenny, 18, of Peoria, reckless driving, street racing, March 5 Scott J. Floyd, 21, 118 Kilmar Knoll, reckless driving, street racing, March 5 Brenna L. Zacovic, 20, of Peoria, illegal consumption by a minor, March 8 Jason R. Haley, 39, of Washington, criminal trespassing, March 8 Shawn D. Gremminger, 35, of Springbay, no driver’s license, March 8 Brandon T. Stoltzenburg, 24, of Clinton, credit card fraud, March 8 Stephen L. Nelson, 44, of Lincoln, driving with a suspended license, March 8 Kayla M. Martin, 25, of Peoria, driving with a suspended Brian T. Ladeairous, 38, of license, March 6 Forest Park, DUI, March 8 Demarcus D. Russell, 32, of Peoria, driving with a suspended license, March 6 Leah Jenkins, 25, of Rantoul, driving with a suspended license, March 6 Debbie A. Burns, 43, of Peoria, driving with a suspended James K. Tipton, 42, of Peoria, driving with a suspended license, unlawful use of disability placard, March 9 ders Road, criminal damage to property, March 9 Theresa M. Farber, 30, 108 Medina Court, driving with a suspended license, March 10 Ronald A. Helems, 54, 3709 E. Washington, public intoxication, March 11 Todd A. Crane, 53, of Morton, criminal trespassing, March 11 Brittany N. Embrey, 33, of Peoria, burglary, March 11 Natasha A. Williams, 36, of Peoria, burglary, March 11 Donald R. Cronin, 28, 103 Howard, driving with a suspended license, March 12 Jonathan S. Pollock, 28, of Springfield, driving with a suspended license, March 12 Joseph R. Sands, 28, of Peoria, delivery of cannabis, March 12 Jeffrey M. Walker, 23, of Peoria, possession of cannabis, driving with a suspended license, March 12 Cristian Rojas, 19, of Peoria, no driver’s license, March 12 Sylvia C. Fernandez, 25, 2506 Springfield Road, domestic battery, criminal damage to property, criminal damage to government property, March 12 Peoria, aggravated battery, domestic battery, resisting police, March 14 Marcus D. Drummond, 34, of Peoria, no driver’s license, March 19 Kelly S. Gibson, 37, 209 Harmony, DUI, blood alcohol content above .08 percent, March 14 morton arrests/Citations Ashley M. Guy-Dane, 24, of Peoria, possession of cannabis, possession of drug equipment, March 15 Deidre Kessinger, 23, of Peoria, driving with a suspended/revoked driver’s license, in the 100 block of East Ashland and North Morton Avenue, Feb. 27 Tyrese L. Howell, 30, of Peoria, possession of cannabis, March 15 Richard Johnson, 35, of Elmwood, domestic battery, in the 500 block of North Morton Avenue, March 2 Shante L. Horton, 23, of Peoria, driving with a suspended license, Tazewell County warrant, March 15 Matthew Power, operating Caleb W. Alexander, 18, 804 vehicle with suspended regKerfoot St., domestic battery, istration, in the 500 block of March 15 South Main and Birchwood, March 4 Taryn N. Lee, 24, of Chillicothe, battery, March 16 Jessica Pears, 30, 925 E. Kay, Cody M. Wilson, 26, of Peoria, possession of cannabis, DUI drugs, March 16 Juvenile, 15, of East Peoria, retail theft, March 16 Juvenile, 15, of East Peoria, retail theft, March 16 Alvin R. Horton, 43, of Peoria, no driver’s license, Peoria County warrant, March 17 Murad H. Uwais, 23, of Peoria, no driver’s license, March 17 Chase S. Edwards, 37, of Washington, driving with a suspended license, March 13 Timothy A. Nyari, 31, of Springfield, battery, DUI, March 17 Juvenile, 15, of East Peoria, curfew, March 14 Theresa Rogers, 23, of Springfield, aggravated battery, March 17 Samir Assaf, 21, of Peoria, Peoria County warrant, March 14 St., Whiteside County warrant, March 19 operating motor vehicle with suspended registration, in the 300 block of North Morton Avenue and West Jackson, March 4 Phillip Hess, 39, 345 Glen Ave., Morton, criminal trespass to residence, in the 300 block of Glen Avenue, March 6 Steven Atkinson, 45, 503 W. Jefferson, No. 3, Morton, domestic battery, in the 500 block of West Jefferson, March 7 Reginal Dearcos, 40, of Deer Creek, driving under the influence of alcohol, in the 1600 block of West Jefferson and Willow Oak, March 7 Katie A. Cloud, 26, of Pekin, retail theft, March 18 Eli R. Gaddie, 24, of Pekin, DUI, blood alcohol content above .08 percent, March 9 Anita Williams, 41, of Peoria, Woodford County warrant, March 14 Kevin M. Collins, 59, of Washington, domestic battery, March 18 Ryan C. Higgins, 28, 112 Rein- Maurice Woodson, 35, of Joe V. DeJesus, 45, 126 State Timothy Thompson, 32, of Tremont, possession of cannabis and illegal transportation of alcohol, in the 3000 block of West Jackson and Cedar, March 7 Justin Heiple, 33, of Denver, See Police page B9 AUTOMOTIVE ride & drive Honda Civic sedan More Content Now In the five-passenger, front-wheel-drive compact segment, few if any models provide as many options as the Honda Civic. Available in sedan or coupe body styles, there is also a hybrid version, as well as a natural gas option. There is even a sporty Si version for those wanting a performance-oriented model. Delivering a comfortable ride with solid fuel economy, loaded with features and with a base price starting at $18,290, the Civic is also a great value. Completely redesigned for the 2014 model year, there are not many changes for 2015, with the exception of a new Special Edition trim level that’s positioned between the LX and EX Civic models to provide customers with an even higher value option by adding more than $1,100 in telematics, audio and style upgrades for $700 above the LX model. This week I had the chance to evaluate the 2015 Honda Civic EX-L with Navigation sedan. With so many Civic models, for this review, I’m going to focus exclusively on the Civic sedan, available in LX, SE, EX and EX-L trim levels. Powered by 1.8-liter I-4 engine delivering 143 horsepower and 129 lbs.-ft. torque, consumers have the option of a 5-speed manual transmission (LX trim level only) or the Continuously Variable Transmission. I was very impressed with its performance during the evaluation period, which covered more than 500 miles of highway and city driving. The Civic sedan gets up to speed quickly and during an extended drive to visit one of our sister papers four hours away, I have to give the Civic high marks for comfort. I also have to give it high marks for fuel economy. The Civic sedan has an EPA rating of 30 mpg city, 39 mpg highway when equipped with the CVT. According to the test vehicle’s trip computer, I averaged just shy of 33 mpg, which included a combination of highway and stop-and-go in town miles. As I mentioned earlier, the Civic is very nicely equipped with a number of convenience and connectivity features. My test vehicle included the optional navigation system, which I very much appreciated during my business trip. While I know this is petty, the only thing I didn’t like is the controls for the audio system. I’m very much “old school,” meaning I like buttons and knobs. To adjust the volume on the audio system, you have to use the touch screen monitor, which, to me anyway, isn’t as efficient or user friendly as a button or knob. Otherwise, I have only praise and appreciation for the Civic sedan. It is spacious, comfortable, delivers solid performance with exceptional fuel economy and at a very affordable price. For those in the market for a compact sedan, add the Civic to the test-drive list. Exterior of the 2015 Honda Civic sedan. HONdA PHOTOS Nuts and bolts MOdeL: 2015 Honda Civic 5-seat compact coupe, sedan (hybrid, natural gas and Si models also available) Front-wheel drive (Sedan specifications only) Trim packages: LX, Se, eX, eX-L PriCe rANGe: $19,000-$25,000 eNGiNe: 1.8L i4 (143 hp/129 T) TrANSMiSSiON: 5-speed manual CvT ePA: 30 mpg city, 39 mpg highway (CvT) FUeL: regular unleaded STABiLiTY CONTrOL: vehicle stability assist with traction control BrAKeS: ABS LeNGTH: 207.6 inches WHeeLBASe: 105.1 inches WidTH: 69 inches HeiGHT: 56.5 inches WeiGHT: 2,754-2,930 pounds TrACK: 59/59.9 (front/rear) FUeL TANK: 13.2 gallons TireS: 15-, 16-, or 17-inches CArGO: 12.5 cubic feet. ê§ $c âoÔc l §§ íRoc /«âAâo J «íÔâoØþ o\ CS-05571711 /ĄÜÜĄ¦²² By Neal White CS-02522020 WE OFFER 6 MONTHS SAME AS CASH (With Approved Credit) tonyandsons.com !«Øâ \AÔØ J ¡«Øâ ¼AØØo¦oÔ âÔí\Ø "«â ûAf üâ A¦þ «âoÔ «}}oÔØ ¦\ífoØ í¼ â« ÉâØ «} Aû«¦o $ 4-15-15 «í¼«¦ /oÉíÔof Expires ý¼ÔoØ Ü䳳 www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com Washington Times-Reporter Wednesday, MMarch 25, 2015 B5 Obituaries Questions? Contact Editor Marlo Guetersloh at 686-3054 or email at [email protected] arthur Andrews WASHINGTON — Arthur E. “Andy” Andrews, 89, of Washington, died at 1:54 a.m., Wednesday, March 4, 2015, in the emergency room at UnityPointProctor Medical Center in Peoria. Born on Aug. 16, 1925, in Peoria to William Arthur and Maria J. (Eiben) Andrews, he married Etheleen E. Brown in Pekin on Aug. 12, 1945. She survives. Also surviving is one daughter, Sharon (Gene) Opsahl of Rockford; five grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by three sisters and one brother. Catherine Sanders WASHINGTON — Catherine J. Sanders, 84, of Washington died 12:50 p.m., Saturday, March 14, 2015, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria. Born on April 16, 1930, in Crump, Tennessee to Willy and Etta (Reeves) Cierley, she married Shelby C. Sanders in Corinth, Mississippi on Dec. 24, 1948. He died Jan. 20, 1983, in Peoria. Surviving are one son, Phillip (Rose) Sanders of Peoria; one sister, Ava (Harry) Maloney of Cincinnati, Ohio; three granddaughters and eight He worked as a railroad engineer for almost 40 years, first starting out on the Rock Island Railroad and later retiring from the Chessie System. He was a member of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. After high school, joined the Marine Corps and was trained as a sniper for World War II. A service was held on March 7 at Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington. The Rev. William McIntosh officiated. Burial followed in Hillcrest Memory Gardens. Memorials may be directed to St. Jude Midwest Affiliate. Online condolences to the family may be made at masonfuneralhomes. com. great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Marcia Kipling and 11 siblings. She worked for many years as a nurse’s aid at Washington Christian Village. Later she ran the Family House in Peoria for three years. A visitation was held on March 19 at Mason-White Funeral Home in Washington. Graveside services were held at Ledbetter Cemetery in Crump, Tennessee. Memorials may be directed to Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. Online condolences may be made at masonfuneralhomes.com. Richard Masters He was a 1946 graduate of Washington Community High School and the Masters had been a WASHINGTON — Richard E. Masters, 86, of recipient of the “Fan of Washington, died at 1:45 the Year Award” by the high school. a.m., Wednesday, March He was a member of 18, 2015, at his home. Born on June 22, 1928, Evangelical United Methodist Church in Washingin Peoria to Roscoe and Gladys (Hilgers) Masters, ton where he had served he married Joyce Roberts as a Stephen Minister on May 13, 1950 in Wash- for the congregation, a former Sunday school ington. She survives. superintendant, youth diAlso surviving is one rector for many years and daughter, Susan (Darrell) Neal of Washington; various other duties. He also had been a volone son, Richard “Rick” unteer for many years at Masters of Pekin; four Peoria Rescue Mission. grandchildren; and five A service was held great-grandchildren. March 22. The Rev. John He was preceded in Hauck officiated. Cremadeath by one daughter, Colleen Browder and one tion rites have been accorded and Mason-White sister, Shirley ZimmerFuneral Home is assisting man. the family in arrangeHe worked for Caterments. pillar for 38 years prior In lieu of flowers, meto his retirement. At the morials may be directed time he retired, he was to the Peoria Rescue the Quality Control Manager at the Mossville Ministries or Evangelical United Methodist facility. Church. He also had served in Online condolences may the U.S. Army during the be made at masonfuneral1950s in Germany and Camp Atterbury, Indiana. homes.com. sacrifice. With continued support from generous and grateful Peoria community and surrounding area, the group announced its schedule for the 2015 Honor Flight season. Upcoming flights are set for May 5, June 9 and Sept. 22 as their flight dates and plan to attend the “Welcome Home” celebration on each of those nights at the General Wayne A. Downing Peoria Inter- WASHINGTON — Mark P. Riggio, 65, of Washington, died at 9:09 p.m. Monday, March 16, 2015, at his home. Born April 21, 1949 in Chicago to Ralph and Betty Roland Riggio, he married Mary Beth Traylor (Windsor) in 1970. He later married Denise Yerby Kirkham on Sept. 23, 2000, in Washington. They both survive. Also surviving are his daughter, Michelle Riggio of Washington; son, Michael “Tony” Riggio of Washington; two step-sons, Bryan (Jennifer) Kirkham of Washington, Matthew (Breana) Kirkham of Bloomington; four grandchildren; sister, Suzanne (Mike) Barber; and brother, Paul (Nancy)Riggio; He was preceded in death by a grandson. He graduated from Eastern Illinois Uni- versity at Charleston in 1972. He joined the Air National Guard in Chicago in 1971, later transferring to the 182nd Air Lift Wing in Peoria, retiring in 2001. After retiring he taught at Heartland Community College for 10 years. He was a Republican Precinct Committeeman in Tazewell County for several years. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or to a charity of donor’s choice. A memorial service was March 21 at the 1st Presbyterian Church of Morton, 1020 E. Jackson St. Funeral Home and Crematory in Washington is in charge of the arrangements. A memorial website is available at www. deitersfuneralhome. com where condolences may also be sent to the family. About obituaries The Washington Times-Reporter publishes a free obituary for residents and former residents of Washington. A color photo included with the obituary costs $20. Families who would like an obituary that lists hobbies, pets, grandchildren’s names and more, may purchase a paid obituary at a cost of $7 per column inch. Payment is required when the obituary is placed. All major credit cards are accepted. For rates, please call Amy at 686-3022. Greater Peoria Honor Flight marks two-year anniversary In just two years of existence, the Greater Peoria Honor Flight hub has flown five trips to Washington, D.C., and provided over 350 World War II, Korea and Vietnam veterans with their trips of honor. Donations from corporate sponsors, numerous fundraisers and contributions from the general public have enabled these heroes to visit the memorials dedicated to honor their service and Mark Riggio national Airport. The group is still seeking those World War II veterans who have yet to participate in the Honor Flight experience. If anyone knows of a World War II veteran who is willing and able to make the trip, they encourage people to help them apply. Applications and other information may be found at www.greaterpeoriahonorflight.org. Pharm-assistance Important questions for your pharmacist By Melissa Erickson More Content Now A visit to the pharmacy can be more than just a quick stop to pick up a prescription or supplies for the medicine cabinet. It’s also a convenient time to have an important medical conversation with your pharmacist. “Pharmacists are a great first resource for patients,” said Pat Person, immediate past president of the Califor- 1. What is the name of the medication, and what is it supposed to do? A patient should know the names and uses of all the medications being taken. Additionally, prescription error does occur. “Drug X might be used to treat high blood pressure, but a patient may say ‘I don’t have high blood pressure.’ The pharmacist can contact the doctor and fix the error,” Person said. 2. When and how do I take it? nia Pharmacists Association. “Pharmacists are trained to help patients manage their medications and hopefully will be their first avenue of information — and not the Internet,” Person said. In Bakersfield, California, where Person practices as a community pharmacist in an independent pharmacy, all pharmacies are required to hang a poster advising patients of their rights as far as their medications go. There is mandatory patient counseling on any new prescription or dose change of a currently prescribed medication, but of course the patient has a right to decline, said Person. Too often people skip the chance to have a one-on-one conversation with a knowledgeable pharmacist. “People are often intimidated when they look behind the counter. They see us and we look busy. We are busy but never too busy. Or they don’t want to bother the pharmacist or think they know all they need to already. Contrary to what people may think, pharmacists like to talk. We want to make sure patients take the right medications and get the optimal results,” Person said. Here are five questions you should be asking your pharmacist: Taking medication correctly is important so that it can give you the help you expect. Do you take the medication for the next week or for the rest of your life? This is an opportunity to ask the pharmacist what to do if you miss a dose. A good question, Person said, is “If you forgot to take the medicine in the morning, is it allowable to double up in the evening?” Also, should the medication be taken with food? Should it be taken at the same time each day? In the case of antibiotics, many people begin to feel better after a few day of treatment and do not complete the full prescription regiment. Instead they tuck the bottle away for later use, which has led to antibiotic re- sistance, Person said. The antibiotic was able to get rid of most, but not all, of the bacteria that was causing the illness. When you stop taking the antibiotic, those leftover bacteria eventually reproduce and multiply, which will lead to your doctor needing to prescribe an even stronger antibiotic in the future. 3. What are the possible side effects, and what should I do if they occur? All medications can cause side effects that may interfere with therapy, Person said. “If the side effects make a person feel poorly, he may want to stop taking the medication,” he said. A pharmacist can switch the medication to a different drug class that may relieve the side effects or to an extended-dose medication. Instead of taking a medicine three or four times a day, you’ll just take it once a day. 4. Will the new medicine work safely with other medicines and supplements I’m already taking? Other prescriptions or vitamin supplements can interact with a new medication, resulting in increased or decreased effects of the drug, Person said. Never take a new medication without speaking to your pharmacist about how it will react with your other medicines. 5. What foods, drink or activities should be avoided while taking a new medication? Isn’t it time you got back to enjoying life? See what our Bounce Back program can do for you! Liberty Village Liberty Village of Pekin of Peoria CS-05571418 1540 El Camino Drive, (309) 353-1600 libertyvillageofpekin.com To advertise in our monthly issue of Senior Focus, please contact us at 686-3106 6900 N. Stalworth Dr. Not-For-Profit Provider (309) 693-1400 libertyvillageofpeoria.com Some medications can’t be taken with certain foods and beverages. For example, cholesterol-lowering drugs should not be taken with grapefruit juice, and people with high blood pressure should be careful with salt substitutes or alcohol, among other things. In some cases the interaction can be harmful, Person said. Central nervous system depressants, such as prescription pain medications and some over-the-counter cold and allergy medicines, should never be taken with alcohol. Senior Focus Wednesday, March 25, 2015 seniors calendar B7 Questions? Contact Dave Blackford at 681-3715 or email at [email protected] HOW TO SUBMIT Calendar items may be submitted via email to Dave Blackford at [email protected]. Please put Senior Focus in the subject line. We reserve the right to edit all submissions. Items are printed on a space-available basis. Senior Focus usually publishes the last Wednesday of the month in all five TimesNewspapers. Items for our coverage areas (Washington, East Peoria, Morton, Germantown Hills, Metamora and Chillicothe) are given preference. Chillicothe Pearce Community Center Card Playing - Join other seniors in the senior room to play pinochle, euchre, bridge, hand-in-foot or whatever. Bring a snack to pass and bring a friend. $2 fee for non-members. Noon-4 p.m. Thurs., 5-9:00 p.m. Fri. and 1-4 p.m. Sun. Line Dancing - Volunteer instructors, dance steps and music and exercise. $2 fee for non-members. 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Mon., Wed. and Fri. Senior Potluck - fourth Tues. of each month, seniors have a potluck meal and enjoy a program. Bring your own table service and dish to share. Drinks provided. Open to all seniors. Begins at noon. east peoria fondulac park district For more info on any of the following events, call 6993923. Most programs meet at administration building unless otherwise noted. Speaker - On March 31st, at 10 AM , Snyder Village Assisted Living is pleased to announce that Rev. Randall Saxton retired Pastor of United Presbyterian Church in Peoria and frequent Bradley University Osher Lifelong Learning Institute history instructor will speak about the last week of Lincoln’s life from Palm Sunday to Bloody Saturday. All are welcome. If you have any question please all Diana at 367-2500 ext. 185. fordtimes.com call the park office at 2637429 or stop by the office at 349 W. Birchwood during office hours Monday-Friday from 8:30am-Noon and 1:00-5pm. You may also check us out on the web at www.mortonparkdistrict. com or Facebook at Morton Park District. Festival - Wednesday, April 8th, 10:00 am, at Snyder Village Assisted Living in Metamora, Pumpkins, Parades & Pies: Eureka’s Pumpkin Festival Past Take a step back in time and view a visual history of the Eureka Pumpkin Festival. The festival, which was held between 1939 and 1961, regularly averaged at least 50,000 attendees from all over Illinois and the Midwest. In 1947 film star and Eureka College alumnus Ronald Reagan and Illinois Governor Dwight Green attended, drawing national attention. This free program will be held at the Snyder Village Assisted Living Facility in Metamora, IL. For more information, call the library at 309-4672922. Line Dance Class - Every Thursday, 2-3:30 p.m. Potluck - first Wed. of each month. Bring own table service and a dish to pass. Serving begins at 11:30 a.m. Sign-up not required. Meet new people. New attendees need no covered dish. Park park district For more information at east side of building. about any of these programs, call 263-7429 or HI-5 - Free senior wellness stop by the office at 349 program, chair dancing, W. Birchwood during ofstretching, strengthening fice hours Monday-Friday exercises and more, 10-11 from 8:30 a.m.-noon and a.m. every Mon. and Fri. 1-5 p.m. Free at Fon du Lac Park District Admin. Center. Cards, Bingo, & Potluck Sponsored by Fondulac Rehabilitation & Healthcare. Lunch - Mondays 9 a.m.-1 p.m. - Freedom Hall. TOPS- Every Thursday Early Morning Walking 9-10:15am.-Weight loss support group.$1 per week. Mon, Wed. & Fri. 7-9 a.m. Rec Center, 324 S. Detroit, Call Gina at 699-3923 for Morton. FREE. Begins Nov. details. 4. Mexican Dominoes Yoga - This is an 8 week Wednesdays 11:30 a.m.-3 class. Please bring your p.m. Does not meet 1st Wednesday of each month. own mat for class. Dates: 2nd session March 11, 2015 – May 8, 2015 (no classes Big Band Dance - once a month on the 4th Saturday. on April 3, 6, 8, and 10) Cost per session: $60.00 for 7-10 p.m. Cost: $5. residents $120.00 for nonresidents Times: Mon, Wed, & Fri 9:30 – 10:30 am Location: Recreation Center, 324 S. Detroit If you should SNYDER VILLAGE have any questions please morton METAMORA pekin MILLER CENTER For more information please call 309-346-5210 Cargiver Support Group - 2nd Wed. of every month.- 2-3:30 p.m. Free. Sponsored by Bradley University’s Counseling Research & Training Clinic, in coorperation with Central Illinois Agency on Aging. PEORIA Peoria PARK DISTRICT Please pre-register for classes. All classes listed are for ages 50+. Please call 688-3667 for more information. Support Group - 2nd Thursday of the month. Courtyard Estates Bingo- 1st Friday of every month. 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. For everyone 65+. FREE for all visitors. Coffee and cinnamon rolls served. Osher Lifelong learning institute at bradley university For more information about OLLI call (309)677-3900 or go online to www.bradley. edu/olli. LOCAL TRIPS - Get to know your community on these half day excursions. Register early. LECTURES & SPECIAL EVENTS -These occasions are a night or a day enjoyed — another opportunity for us to gather and learn. Registration is required. For the free lectures, refreshments are served 30 minutes prior. Yoga - This beginning and beyond class combines postures, breathing practices and relaxation with an emphasis on self-acceptance and exploration. Wear comfortable clothing, bring a mat and firm blanket. For more information contact Jean at 687-8099. Cost: $64 for 8 classes, or $10 drop in. Monday evenings - ongoing. 5:30-6:45 p.m. Alonetogether Grief Support Group - Mondays- 4:30 p.m. -6:00 p.m. Located in Group Room 4 at the Couseling Center. For more information contact Steve at 672-5695 or steve. [email protected]. washinGton five points For more information about any of these programs, call 444-8222. Senior Room Events Bridge - 12:30-4:40 p.m. third Mon. of month; Hearts - 9-11 a.m. Mon; Various card games - 12:30-4 p.m.; Bingo - 10:30-11:30 a.m. first Tues. of month; Hearts - 9-11 a.m. Tues.; Pinochle 1-4 p.m. Tues.; Bridge - 1-4 p.m. first and third Wed. of month; Eucher, 2-4 p.m. first and third Wed. of month; Hearts - 9-11 a.m. Wed.; card games - 12:30-4 p.m. Thurs.; Pinochle - 1-4 p.m. Thurs.; Wii bowling 1-3 p.m. Fri. Reflections Memory Care residence For more info on the following events, call 309508-7200. park district For more information about any of these programs, call 444-9413. Veteran’s Memorial Brick Pavers - Honor a veteran with an engraved brick paver. Bricks will be placed at the Veteran’s Memorial in Washington Park. All funds will be donated. Cost: $50. Fee includes 3 lines of print, 15 characters per line. Fit Over 50 - Easy cardio combined with balance and strength routines. Come get comfortable with your body in a non-competitive environment. Tues. & Thurs. Jan. 6-May 14, 10 - 10:45 a.m. Cost: Reserved fee is $25, not reserved fee is $30. Intouch Home Care Services of LSSI Book Discussion GroupLast Wed of every month. 2:15 p.m. - 3:15 p.m. Call 681-2859 for more information. Forest park nature center Unitypoint Health-Proctor Connecting with you…Caring for you Personal care • Housekeeping • Medication reminders • Meal preparation • Companionship and supervision • Transportation • Respite caregiving services Call 309.264.9229 or visit LSSI.org/Homecare Services provided in Tazewell, Peoria, Fulton, Marshall, Stark and Woodford Counties LSSI.org Old Time Folk & Country Jam - Bring your acoustic instrument and bring it to the Nature Center for a jam session. Meet other musicians and learn new songs. Music lovers of all ages are invited to come, listen & enjoy! 2nd & 4th Sunday of the month. 3:30-5 p.m. alzheimer’s association Please register at least a day in advance of the scheduled program by calling 800.272.3900. CS-05571707 PALZ- Peoria Alzheimer’s =>+< :<91<+7 -YWZ\OROX]S`O =_\`S`Y\]RSZ 21&2/2*< Call to learn more at: (309) 274-2194 5(+$%,/,7$7,21 ;OL0749:;(97YVNYHTWYV]PKLZWH[PLU[Z^P[O JVVYKPUH[LKJHUJLYYLOHIPSP[H[PVUZ\WWVY[LKI`H [LHT VM JLY[PÄLK :;(9 *SPUPJPHUZ HUK 7YV]PKLYZ (ZHU0749:;(97YVNYHTWH[PLU[`V\^PSSYLJLP]L \UTH[JOLKJVTWYLOLUZP]LJHUJLYYLOHIPSP[H[PVU [VPTWYV]L[OLZ`TW[VTZHMMLJ[PUN`V\YM\UJ[PVU HUK X\HSP[` VM SPML ;OLZL TH` PUJS\KL MH[PN\L T\ZJ\SVZRLSL[HSWHPUQVPU[Z[PMMULZZSPTIZ^LSSPUN S`TWOLKLTH^LHRULZZTLTVY`WYVISLTZ \UZ[LHK`IHSHUJLHUKPZZ\LZ^P[O[HSRPUN VYZ^HSSV^PUN 0Y\ WY\O SXPY\WK^SYX Y\ ^Y ]MRON_VO KX KZZYSX^WOX^ &$// RU,305 e v i L ell W ES ILE LY 15 MIL ONLY ! FROM PEORIA LSPURUJ 2873$7,(17&/,1,&/2&$7,216 ,K\^YX`SVVO x -RSVVSMY^RO x 7O^KWY\K x 7Y\^YX x :OUSX x :OY\SK .YaX^YaX x :OY\SK 8Y\^R x AK]RSXQ^YX CS-05571405 Call for a tour today: 274-2194 1028 Hillcrest Drive • HeritageOfCare.com/chillicothe B8 Wednesday, March 25, 2015 Senior Focus www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com arrests Continued from Page B5 Colorado, driving with a suspended/revoked driver’s license, driver and passenger not wearing safety belts, on the corner of West Jackson and Jay, March 9 Elizabeth Wood, 20, 314 N. Oklahoma Ave., Morton, possession of cannabis, possession of drug paraphernalia, in the 100 block of West Birchwood and Main, March 9 Micaela Solomon, 33, of East Peoria, injury to property, in the 300 block of West Birchwood, March 10 WaSHINGTON arrests/Citations Nathaniel A. Torres, 25, 602 Lakeshore Drive, arrested Feb. 6 for an instate warrant, 600 block of Lakeshore Feb. 7 for possession or consumption of alcohol by a minor and possession of cannabis, Washington Road and Cummings Lane Nicholas J. Carruthers, 25, 1918 Canterbury Drive, arrested Feb. 8 for aggravated domestic battery, 1900 block of Canterbury Kurt A. Hoppe, 30, 600 E. Holland, arrested Feb. 8 for unlawful use of weapons, 600 block of East Holland Nathaniel A. Torres, 25, 602 Lakeshore Drive, arrested Feb. 12 for driving with a suspended or revoked license, Washington Road and Cummings Lane Andrew B. Zaiser, 19, 2248 Washington Road, arrested Feb. 14 for two in-state warrants and driving with a suspended or revoked license, 2200 block of Washington Road Sandra K. Williams, 51, 406 Peoria St., arrested Feb. 7 for possession of drug equipment, possession of cannabis and an in-state warrant, 400 block of Peoria St. Jerod E. Bodtke, 28, of Chillicothe, arrested Feb. 17 for driving under the influence, driving under the influence with drugs and related traffic violations, Cummings Lane and Washington Road Tiffany B. Neff, 20, 15 Cranford Drive, arrested Constantino Martinez, 37, of Bloomington, arrested Washington Times-Reporter.com Wednesday, March 25, 2015 Feb. 17 for driving with a suspended or revoked driver’s license, driving an uninsured motor vehicle and driving a vehicle with expired registration, Hampton Road Jerod E. Bodtke, 28, of Chillicothe, arrested Feb. 17 for criminal sexual assault, Tazewell County Jail Cameron E. Biles, 36, 2246 Washington Road, arrested Feb. 18 for domestic battery and interfering with the reporting of domestic battery, 2200 block of Washington Road Dale L. Backes, 45, 2324 Washington Road, arrested Feb. 20 for violation of order of protection, driving with a suspended or revoked driver’s license and possession of drug equipment, Walnut and Lawndale Crystal H. Hodges, 42, of Peoria, arrested Feb. 20 for possession of a controlled substance, in-state warrant, possession of cannabis and possession of drug equipment, Walnut and Lawndale Classified Ad Placement Deadlines: Private Party line ads Business line ads Business display ads Garage Sale ads Legal notices Holiday Deadlines Noon Thursday Noon Thursday Noon Thursday Noon Thursday Noon Thursday *Noon Wednesday *unless otherwise advertised Office Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm Closed Saturdays, Sundays & Holidays 309-692-6600 / 309-686-3047 [email protected] Mailing Address: P.O. Box 9426, Peoria, IL 61612 GateHouse Media Illinois PEKIN — Whether four young people were truly hungry when they visited a Court Street fast-food restaurant last week is in question. They ordered only one double cheeseburger, plain. Regardless, they didn’t find the meal happy. It likely will cost them $600. That breaks down to $150 each in fines for the disorderly conduct citations police gave the two women and two men for allegedly spraying a McDonald’s driveup window cashier with squirt guns and driving off without paying for the burger. “It could be twice that” if previous troubles with the law merit a doubled fine under city statutes, said Pekin Police Public Information Officer Mike Eeten. That would amount to $300 apiece for each of the meal’s two patties. Cited for the incident were Emily Cooper, 19, of 1403 Market St.; Jordyn Chance, 19, of 1510 Willow St.; Trevor Williams, 27, and Bodie Harris, 26, both of 228 Catherine St., all of Pekin. The women sat in the back seat of their car and the men in the front as it pulled from the ordering station to the cashier’s window of the restaurant at 3291 Court shortly before 6 p.m., Eeten said. The group laughed as they launched their prank, he said. They had ordered the cheeseburger with no toppings. As they reached the window, one of them grabbed the bag with the burger. “The girls began giggling, pulled out squirt guns and began squirting” the cashier in the face. Before the surprised young woman shut her eyes for protection, she thought she saw the man driving pull out his own water pistol, Eeten said. The four drove away, but not before the cashier regained her composure. She memorized the car’s license plate IF YOU USED THE BLOOD THINNER XARELTO and suffered internal bleeding, hemorrhaging, required hospitalization or a loved one died while taking Xarelto between 2011 and the present time, you may be entitled to compensation. Call Attorney Charles H. Johnson 1-800-535-5727. Nicholas J. Witmer, 34, 307 Lynn, arrested Feb. 25 for violation of an order of protection, 300 block of Lynn number, its color and its direction westbound on Court. That was conveyed to the police in time for an officer to spot and stop the car shortly after the incident, Eeten said. The restaurant chose not to seek retail theft charges against the four “because the value of the burger was only $1.86,” Eeten said. The officer let the four go after issuing them citybased disorderly conduct citations. Harris was sentenced to a probation term for misdemeanor possession of marijuana in 2011. It was revoked a year later, producing a 30-day jail term, according to court records. Williams’ record includes 36 traffic citations and a 2010 misdemeanor conviction for obstructing identification. Chance was convicted last month of misdemeanor retail theft. Cooper’s record includes three traffic citations and a reported failure to pay a speeding fine. Safe Sleep conference March 31 The Safe Sleep conference will be held on Tuesday at Embassy Suites in East Peoria. The Tri-County Healthy Babies Council was created in response to several infant deaths in 2012. Safe sleep has been the focus for several years, in an effort to dispel myths about cosleeping. The 2012 Illinois Strong Start statistics showed areas in Peoria, Tazewell, and Woodford County exceeding both the Illinois and national average benchmarks from low birth weight and premature infant births. The Tri-County Healthy Babies Council is planning a conference designed to assist families through grief and loss. Professionals who may benefit by attending include: physicians (pediatricians, OB/GYN, general practice, family medicine), nurses, child welfare caseworkers, child care teachers, home visiting staff, public health, hospital staff and others. Keynote speakers for this conference include: Anthony Perino, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist, and Nancy Maruyama, R.N., who is the executive director of SIDS of Illinois. Registration is open and the fee for the Safe Sleep Conference is $50. Participants will receive lunch and conference materials with fee. Nursing CEU’s and other professional CE’s are available. For more information, visit www.tazewellhealth.org. READER NOTICE: This newspaper will never knowingly accept any advertisement that is illegal or considered fraudulent. If you have questions or doubts about any ads on these pages, we advise that before responding or sending money ahead of time, you check with the local Attorney General’s Consumer Fraud Line and/or the Better Business Bureau. Also be advised that some phone numbers published in these ads may require an extra charge. In all cases of questionable value, such as promises or guaranteed income from work-at-home programs, money to loan, etc., if it sounds too good to be true - it may in fact be exactly that. This newspaper cannot be held responsible for any negative consequences that occur as a result of you doing business with these advertisers. Thank You. Health/Fitness Emp: General Cheeseburger prank could end with $600 in fines By Michael SMothers B9 Classes General Financial AIRLINE CAREERS START HERE BECOME AN AVIATION MAINTENANCE TECH. FAA APPROVED TRAINING. FINANCIAL AID IF QUALIFIED. JOB PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE. CALL AIM 800-481-8312. Dish TV Starting at $19.99/month (for 12 mos.) SAVE!! Regular Price $32.99. Call Today and Ask About FREE SAME DAY Installation! CALL NOW! 855-996-6363 CREDIT CARD DEBT? Financially Stressed Out? Stop the harassment! Make one monthly payment YOU can AFFORD! Get Help Now and Save! Call Toll Free 888-925-5404. General Is your advertising budget a little tight? Blanket Illinois with a classified ad... Only $530. Reach more than 2 million readers with one call. TIMES NEWSPAPERS Classifieds Call: 686-3047 Do you owe over $10,000 to the IRS or State in back taxes? Service Get tax relief now! The nation’s full service tax Need to place your solution firm. ad throughout Call 855-820-8878. Illinois? Fed Up with Call Illinois Press Advertising Service CREDIT CARD DEBT? CONSOLIDATED 217-241-1700 CREDIT can help or visit reduce interest rates www. Free Consultation! illinoispress.org 888-262-5520 PERSONAL LOANS up to $2,500!! Dish TV Bad Credit OK! Starting at Must have a $19.99/month checking or savings (for 12 mos.) account and an SAVE!! email address ready Regular Price when you call $34.99. 1-800-281-6980 Ask About to request an FREE SAME DAY application!! Installation! CALL Now Health/Fitness 844-334-8628 CNAs Maple Lawn is recruiting compassionate, respectful and professional CNAs who want to promote enriched quality living for our residents. Full and Part time positions available on various shifts with all schedules including every other weekend and holiday. We offer great pay and benefits and a family atmosphere. Apply in person or mail resumé to: Attn: Human Resources Maple Lawn Homes 700 N. Main St, Eureka, IL 61530, fax to: (309) 467-9046 or email to: [email protected] Applications can be found at www.maple-lawn.com. EEO Hot Flashes? Women 40-65 with frequent hot flashes may qualify for the REPLENISH Trial a free medical research study for post-menopausal women. Call 855-454-6722 POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT PUBLIC WORKS LABORER The City of Washington, IL is seeking applicants for a full-time laborer in its Department of Public Works. This position performs various manual tasks and operates assorted equipment in a wide variety of daily and seasonal activities. Applicants must be eighteen (18) years of age or older, a graduate from an accredited high school or GED equivalent, and possess a valid Class B Commercial Drivers License or have the ability to obtain the same within 90 days of hiring. Prefer a two-year degree in Construction Technology or completion of a trades program. In addition, applicants must establish and maintain residence within a 15 minute commute of the City of Washington. Further details about the job, benefits and application forms can be obtained at Washington City Hall or at http://washington-illinois.org (click on “Job Opportunities”). Completed applications and any supporting documentation should be immediately submitted to Mary Westerfield, Customer Services, Human Resources Supervisor, Washington City Hall, 301 Walnut St., Washington, IL 61571. The application process will remain open until the position is filled. The City of Washington is an EEO employer. LOCAL ROOFING COMPANY looking for laborers. Experience not necessary. Have own transportation & driver’s license a must. Call: 444-2007 or 694-4965 NOW HIRING: Work and Travel * * * * 6 Openings Now, $20+ PER HOUR. Full-time Travel, Paid Training, Transportation Provided, Ages 18+. LIVING WITH **BBB accredited/ KNEE PAIN? Medicare recipients apply online www. needajob1.com that suffer with 1-812-841-1293. knee pain may qualify for a low or no cost knee brace. Duplex: Rent Free Shipping. 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All utilities included. 309-208-1431 B10 Wednesday, March 25, 2015 Washington Times-Reporter www.WashingtonTimesReporter.com Attorney & Law Office Directory Eric E. Hasselberg, Attorney at Law (309)688-9400 4600 N. Brandywine Dr., Suite 200 • Peoria, IL 61614 Concentrating in Trusts & Estates Michael T. Mahoney, LTD. Real Estate Real Estate Household TAKE OVER 80 ACRES: No Down. No Qualifying. Deer. Antelope. $118/Month. SW Texas (818) 340-1912 Texas Land Sale Near El Paso $0 Down. 20 Acres $128/mo.-$16,900. Money Back Guarantee. Beautiful Mountain Views. No Qualifying Owner Financing. BED: Queen pillowtop mattress set. New, still in plastic. $200 - can deliver. (309)838-8923. Sell that land or home with a line ad in the TakeFive classifieds: 309.686.3047 Call 800-343-9444. Misc. Misc. Misc. *REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL! *Get a 4-Room All-Digital Satellite system installed for FREE and programming starting at $19.99/mo. FREE HD/DVR upgrade for new callers. 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Washington St. • East Peoria, IL 61611 Criminal Law • Estate Planning • Real Estate • Probate • Bankruptcy Published every week only in the TIMESNEWSPAPERS: Chillicothe Times-Bulletin, East Peoria Times-Courier, Morton Times-News, Washington Times-Reporter, Woodford Times If you need to find public notices that were published in any of our five TIMESNEWSPAPERS go to: Public Notice Illinois • www.publicnoticeads.com/IL Childcare Disclaimer No individual, unless licensed or holding a permit as a childcare facility, may cause to be published any advertisement soliciting a child care service. * A childcare facility that is licensed or operating under a permit issued by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services may publish advertisements of the services for which it is specifically licensed or issued a permit. TIMESNEWSPAPERS strongly urge any parent or guardian to verify the validity of the license of any facility before placing a child in its care. * Family homes that care for no more than three (3) children under the age of twelve or which receive only children from a single household, for less than 24 hours per day, are exempt from licensure as day care homes. The three children to whom this exemption applies includes the family’s natural or adopted children and any other persons under the age of 12 whether related or unrelated to the operator of the daycare home. (DCFS Rule, Part 377.3(c)) PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. “Equal Housing Opportunity” TimesNewspapers Garage Sale Directory begins with the April 1, 2014 editions! 5 papers, reaching over 59,000 readers, for ONE price... Starting at $14.95/week! 6 lines in all 5 community papers & websites. Use the Garage Sale Form found in the five papers’ respective websites at the bottom of each front page: ChillicotheTimesBulletin.com, MortonTimesNews.com EastPeoriaTimesCourier.com, WoodfordTimes.com WashingtonTimesReporter.com Cut out or download, complete & either scan and email, fax, or mail to us with prepayment. Follow the easy, step-by-step instructions on the form. • email: [email protected] • Fax: 309.686.3122 • TimesNewspapers Classifieds PO Box 9426, Peoria, IL 61612-9426 Be aware of ad placement deadlines!! It’s okay to schedule your ad in advance.