December 2011 - Ashland Scoop Newsletter

The Scoop Newsletter THIS NEWSLETTER IS A WORK OF LOVE BY A COMMITTEE OF FOLKS IN ASHLAND. THE NEXT ONE WILL BE PUBLISHED SHORTLY AFTER THE FIRST OF EACH MONTH. IDEAS OR ITEMS FOR THE NEWSLETTER? DROP OFF OR CALL NANCY HEATHER AT PRINTERS INK AT 217-476-3764, OR GIVE THEM TO NANCE BRYANT, LINDA DEVLIN, JUDY FULTON, CYNTHIA GUTMANN, BOB HEATHER, OR LIZ WALLBAUM. ITEMS CAN ALSO BE E-MAILED TO MATT HOBROCK, ASHLAND.SCOOP@SBCGLOBAL.NET. DEADLINE WILL BE THE 25TH OF EACH MONTH FOR THE FOLLOWING MONTH’S NEWSLETTER. YOUR FINANCIAL SUPPORT IS APPRECIATED. OUR WEBSITE: http://ashlandscoop.tripod.com

A-C CENTRAL DECEMBER SCHEDULE

Dec. 2 ......... Early Dismissal - SIP Day Dec. 8 ......... Elementary Winter Concert Dec. 13 ....... Middle School Winter Concert Dec. 14 ....... High School Winter Concert Dec.21 ........ School Board Meeting Dec. 22 ....... Early Dismissal - End 2nd Quarter Dec. 23-31 .. NO SCHOOL - Winter Break Jan. 1-2 ...... NO SCHOOL - Winter Break Jan. 3 ......... NO SCHOOL– Teacher’s Institute Jan. 4 ......... RETURN TO SCHOOL

52 Aspen Drive, Pleasant Plains $169,900

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Fabulous custom built ranch with 3 bedrooms and 3 baths. Open floor plan with cathedral ceiling in living room, gas fireplace and built in shelves. Many extras including a heated garage, screened in porch, additional deck, and possible 4th bedroom in the basement (NO egress window). Master bedroom has a walk-in closet and 2 additional closets.

Additional attached shed for lawn mower/toys.

Ample room for storage.

All kitchen appliances stay. Seller is offering a home warranty!

Thank You For A Great Year!

Dawn Stremsterfer Realtor®, Broker Associate Office: 217-787-7215 Direct: 217-741-1865

December 2011 Volume 4 Issue 12

Step into Your Dream Home Downsizing! One of Ashland’s nicest homes for sale.

Built in 1998 by LaMar Hager Construction, 2,200 sq. ft. on ground level plus 800 sq. ft. bonus room on second floor. Has 2 1/2 baths, hardwood floors throughout, professionally landscaped, gas furnace. 2 bedrooms could easily be 3.

Handicap accessible throughout. Whirlpool tub in master bedroom, Anderson windows, Sunsetter awning. A must see for anyone who appreciates quality! Would sell furnished. Shown by appointment. Call 217-341-3007. $229,900.

106 S. York Ashland, IL 62612

Ann Martin Real Estate Consultant 100% Club Member

PROFESSIONALS 2475 West Monroe Springfield, IL 62704 (cell) 217-652-6193

Office: 217-787-7215 Direct: 217-652-6193 Fax: 217-787-8957

www.annmartinsellshomes.com

An incredible home w/ old world charm, and modern conveniences, totally updated, 4 bds.

2.5 baths, new kitchen, beautiful woodwork & staircase, butler’s pantry, sunroom, wrap around front porch, on 4 acres, w/ barn, garage, workshop and 3 other outbuildings.

2319 Collins Rd

PROFESSIONALS 2475 West Monroe Springfield, IL 62704 (cell) 217-741-1865 soldbydawns@gmail.com

Ashland NEW LOWER PRICE $239,000

CHURCH DIRECTORY BEREA CHRISTIAN CHURCH Minister Edward J.Moretto bereacc@casscomm.com www.bereachristianchurch.com Sunday Christian Education Hour - 9:30 pm Sunday Worship - 10:30 am Wednesday Eve. Prayer Mtg. - 7:00 pm We’re Open On Sunday!!

CHURCH OF CHRIST Minister Howard Chartier Sunday School - 9:00 am Sunday Worship - 10:00 am FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH Pastor Rev. David L. McHenry 476.3678 Sunday School - 9:30 am Sunday Worship - 10:30 am ST. AUGUSTINE CHURCH Father Chris Brey 476.8856 Ashland Sunday Mass - 9:00 am Beardstown Sunday Mass - 11:00 am Sunday (Spanish) - 12:30 pm Virginia Saturday - 5:00 pm UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Rev. Pam Hoffman 476.8858 www.ashlandunitedmethodist.com Sunday Worship - 8:45 am Sunday School - 10:00 am Wednesday- Choir Practice - 7:00 Youth Second Saturday - 10am - 2pm NEW BEGINNINGS CHURCH, s.b.c.

Pastor Terry Beauchamp www.newbeginningschristianfellowship.net Sunday’s 1st Service @ 8:00 am Cancelled for Month of December Sunday School for all ages@ 9:10-10:00 am 2nd Service - 10:15 am YOUTH4TRUTH @ 6:30-7:30 pm Tuesday Corporate Prayer @ 7:00 pm Saturday’s Men’s Prayer Breakfast @ 8:00 am

DINNER FOR ASHLAND SENIORS The Ashland Senior Dinner was very well attended. Fifty nine senior citizens were guests of Ashland United Methodist Women, Thursday, November 17th. Fourteen enjoyed carry-out meals.

Candy and Sarah from Cass County Health Department checked blood pressure. The U.M. Women thank the health department for providing this service.

Pastor Pam Hoffman asked the blessing and provided guitar music after the meal.

The U.M. Women started this tradition in 1978. It was our gift to the seniors. The meal was served in the Methodist basement. In 1982 we asked the Catholic friends if we could use their fellowship hall as it is wheel-chair accessible. And the Methodist Women are truly thankful for their generosity.

A special thanks to Allen’s Market for providing the ice cream and rolls. Good Lord willing, the U.M. Women will plan on doing it again next year.

CHRISTMAS PROGRAMS Ashland Baptist Church, - Dec 18th, 9:30a, Children’s Christmas Program during Sunday School. Adult Choir cantata during 10:30a church service.

- Dec 25th, Breakfast at 9:30a, Church Service at 10:30a St. Augustine Catholic Church - Dec 24th, 5:00p in Virginia; 8:00p in Ashland.

New Beginnings Church s.b.c. - Dec 24th, 6:30p .

Ashland Methodist Church - 7:30p (Christmas Carols at 7:15p)

LADIES’ PRAYER BREAKFAST Schedule 2011 - 2012

“Where two or three come together in My name, I am there with them.”

2011 December 3

January 7 February 4 March 3 April 7

Smith Chiropractic Clinic Dr. Kathie G. Smith 111 North Hardin Ashland, IL 62612 (217)476-3547 Office Hours by Appointment Monday and Thursday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Wednesday 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Ashland Church of Christ

2012

New Beginnings Christian Fellowship Ashland United Methodist Church Richland Creek Baptist Church St. Augustine Catholic Church

** Prayer Breakfast meets on the first Saturday morning of the month from September - May @ 9:00 am with the host church providing breakfast and devotions. If your group has a conflict in schedule, please arrange to trade dates with another group and notify the rest.

Contact: Call contact person from each church to change schedule or start prayer circles in case of emergency or during the summer months as needed.

Dorothy Taylor (AUMC) 476-3581 Marcia Masten (Richland Creek) 691-5469 Glenda Schleyhan (First Baptist) 476-8829 Becky King (New Beginnings) 891-3454 Betty Higgason (Church of Christ) 476-3824 Elaine Roth (St. Augustine Catholic) 476-3984

217.741.3874

NEAL’S BARBER SHOP Ashland, IL 62612 Hours: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm Tuesday - Saturday

Closed Sundays & Mondays

Tanning at Tease Hair Salon 217-476-3764

Illini

Propane LLC 220 N. Yates - Ashland Office: 1-866-225-8126 Garrett Savage - Bob Savage Ron Ahlers - Salesman cell: (217)691-9631

**GIVE US A CALL**

2012 Lenten Services Schedule 2/26 Ashland United Methodist Church Ed Moretto 3/04 Pleasant Plains Church of Christ Pam Hoffman 3/11 Ashland Church of Christ John Sheppard 3/18 Peter Cartwright United Methodist Robert Anderson 3/25 Ashland First Baptist Church Howard Chartier 4/01 New Beginnings Christian Fellowship David McHenry 4/06 Richland Creek Baptist Church Terry Beauchamp Good Friday 7:00 p.m.* 4/08 Berea Christian Church Keith Masten Sunrise Service 6:30 a.m.* * All other services are on Sunday evenings at 5:00 p.m. There will be no food served after the Good Friday service.

Seasons Greetings to all persons donating to my can recycle again this year. Thanks to all to brought them to my home, put them in my truck, calls for pick-up, and to all anonymous that bring them to my can shed.

Best Wishes for the New Year!

Jim Edwards

Prentice Farmers Elevator 2303 Elevator Avenue Ashland, IL 62612 217.476.3516 or 1.800.255.8659 prenticeev@casscomm.com prenticeelevator.com James R. Blakeman, Manager 4 locations to serve you: Prentice, Philadelphia, Strawns Crossing, and Tallula.

Dealers in Grain, Seed and Kent Feeds.

Amity Nail Spa 116 N. Yates Ashland, IL Phone: 217-416-7615 Lana J. Pfaffe, Nail Technician

Gift Certificates are available for Christmas!

Call for an appointment today and get Shellacked!!

BC Carpentry Handyman Service 416-5424 Serving Ashland for 12 years

THE WOMEN OF NEW BEGINNINGS CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP ARE OFFERING FANCY PECAN HALVES AND PECAN BITS FOR SALE All funds raised go toward missions work.

Fancy Pecan Halves $10.25 Pecan Bits $10.00 (1 lb. bags) Contact: Lana Pfaffe 217-415-0558

All aspects of carpentry Decks - Replacement Windows and Doors Pressure Washing NO JOB TOO SMALL

MATT GREER President

Located at West Central Bank 400 East Buchanan, PO Box 467 Main: 217-476-3653 - Fax: 217-476-3342 Email: matt.greer@ingfp.com

Foundation Created for A-C Central School District #262 On September 15, 201I seven directors were seated on the board of the A-C Central Schools Foundation. The Foundation is classified a SA 501(3Xc) which is a tax-exempt organization under the Internal Revenue Code. Tax exempt status has been granted both for the foundation and its donors. The purpose of the Foundation is to provide financial or other resources in support of the curricular and co-curricular activities of A-C Central Community Unit District #262 and to aid and assist in general the cause of education, extra-curricular and interscholastic programs in the school district. Appointed as officers for the Foundation were Scot Atwood/President, Homer Rieker/VicePresident, Mathew Greer/Treasurer and J.R. Blair as Secretary.

The other board directors seated were V. Todd Jokisch, Milton Edge and Harold Hoagland Jr. An ex-officio member of the board is the current superintendent Rebecca Canty. President Scot Atwood stated, that schools across the nation are faced with increasing demands and diminishing resources and we have seen an explosion in foundations created to assist their local schools. This project has been in the planning stages for the last year and we as a board would like to thank West Central bank of Ashland for Donating $2500.00 to the Foundation. It is because of their generous donation that we were able to get this project off the ground. We are committed to seeing a vibrant and financially secure education environment in the A-C Central School district. We are in the process of contacting alumni, community members, businesses, corporations and anyone who has an interest in helping the school in Ashland and Chandlerville.

CHRISTMAS FOOD BASKETS

TOYS FOR TOTS

Community food baskets for the Christmas holiday will be offered again this year. If you would like to donate to the program, please contact any member of the Ashland Volunteer Fire Department or call (217) 473-9147.

Thank you!

Our community Toys for Tots program is in full swing.

Drop off a new toy at the boxes located all around town.

For other donations, contact any member of the Ashland Volunteer Fire Department or call (217) 473-9147.

Thank you!

We also need donations of money to help buy gifts or gift certificates for Jr. High & High School Age Kids.

The Yacker's and Yarner's have finally finished their knitting and crocheting project. The group have been making Comfort Dolls and Stocking Caps for African Orphans. Many of these children have aids. They play with sticks and stones because they have no toys. When our gals in the group heard about this, we all knew there was something we could do to make Christmas a little better for these children. Most of our group made dolls or caps and some did both. Paula Chatfield got Memorial Medical Center to donate 50 stocking caps and with that generous donation, we ended up with dolls and 85 hats.

Thanks gals for all your help.

Suzi Mesojednik is the leader of Yacker's and Yarner's and would like to invite anyone who enjoys knitting and crocheting or any other form of needlework. We meet the 1st Thursday of the month at 10 AM and again the 2nd Thursday of the month at 6 pm. We have a good time and the teapot is always on.

Christmas Gift Certificates are Available

Monday - Saturday 7:00 am to 8:00 pm

Junctions 123 & 125 - Ashland, Illinois 62612

Sundays and Holidays 8:00 am to 6:00 pm

Allen’s Market Since 1960 Thank You for 51 years of business!

Lucky’s is now open!!!! Pizza - Burgers - Ice Cream Daily Specials Open at 11:00 am

Happy Holidays from your friends at the Ashland Scoop

Adventure Club ”COON HOLLER CRYSTAIL” JUST IN TIME FOR THAT “HARD-TO-BUY-FOR-PERSON” OR “THAT PERSON WHO HAS EVERYTHING”

400 E. Buchanan St. P.O. Box 467 Ashland, IL 62612-0467 PH. 217.476.3325 FX. 217.476.3342

BEAT THE HOLIDAY RUSH CALL LIZ WALLBAUM 217-971-1296 $10.00 Each

A Full Service Bank

The A-C Central PTO is asking the community members of Chandlerville and Ashland to start clipping Box Tops for Education. This is a great way to bring additional funding to our schools. The money earned from Box Tops goes straight into A-C Central classrooms!

You can help by clipping Box Tops from products you purchase and dropping them off at the following locations: A-C Central Jr./Sr. High School Office – Ashland A-C Central Elementary Office – Chandlerville Allen’s Market – Ashland West Central Bank – Ashland Peoples State Bank – Chandlerville Cheryl’s Best Cafe – Chandlerville The A-C Central PTO appreciates your support!

Norm Bryant Enterprises Distributor of Fine Quality Vacuums

Furniture

Carpet Cleaning Car Interior

Cell (217) 741-3758 Phone: (217) 476-3508

Gardner Construction Co.

RPA Farmers Co-op

2878 Panther Grove Road Ashland, IL 62612 Remodel Kitchen & Baths Replace Roof & Room Additions

Cell: 217-341-3415 Leave Message 217-476-8135

608 W. Franklin Ashland, IL 62612

Email us: RPAFARMERS@CASSCOMM.COM Richland

3090 Richland Elev. Rd. Pleasant Plains, IL 62677

217.626.1551

Pleasant Plains

Ashland

300 N. Washington Pleasant Plains, IL 62677

220 North Niagara Ashland, IL 62612

217.626.1331

217.476.3318

A public meeting to discuss water rates was held November 16, 2011 at the Municipal Building. Several concerned citizens were in attendance along with Mayor Handy and four Board of Trustee members. Reasons for the water rate increase were discussed as well as a history of various Ashland water projects. It was agreed to meet again in April, 2012 and review the finance numbers to determine if it would be possible to lower water rates after 1 year use of the new water system.

If you haven’t already paid, dog tag renewals are due. The cost, per dog, is $5.00 for a renewal or $7.50 for a tag and registration. Your payment can be made at the Village Office.

If you see a street light out, call the Village office (217/476-3317) and we will contact CIPS for repair.

The Village will, again this year, have a Christmas Decoration contest. Judging of Christmas decorations will be the evening of December 17, 2011 at 7:00 pm. There will be a first place prize of $50.00 and 8 second place awards of $25.00 each.

First 1,000 gallons Per 1,000 gallons after first 1,000 EPA Testing Fee Minimum monthly charge E-mail: Ashland@casscomm.com

Water $27.50 $14.75 $ 1.05 $39.00

Sewer $10.45 $ 4.40

Facebook: Village of Ashland

Village of Ashland Board Members & Staff: Dave Handy, Mayor Jim Birdsell, Chief of Police Ron Cave, Public Works Director Alicia Hager, Village Treasurer Kitty Mau, Deputy Clerk

Fadra Birdsell, Trustee Stan Fulton, Trustee Seth Thornley, Trustee David Troxell, Trustee Frank Wallace, Trustee Terry Blakeman, Trustee

The Village of Ashland is taking applications for a full-time Village Clerk. Applicants should have word processing and spread sheet experience, as well as knowledge of invoicing, billing and receiving payments. They must also live within the Village limits. Applicants must be available to attend all Village Board meetings, record and transcribe meeting minutes. Cover letter and resume should be submitted to the Village Office by December 5, 2011.

The next Village Board Meeting will be December 14, 2011 at 7:00 pm

BITS-N-PIECES Pleasant Plains Community News - Club Meet Santa and shop at the Kids’ Store on Saturday, December 10, 2010 from 10 am to 4pm. The store will be stocked with gift items that the children can purchase for their family. They will be wrapped, tagged and ready to put under the Christmas tree. Entertainment will be thru out the day and food will be available. If you would like to donate items for our store, please call 415-2976 or 652-8299.

The Pleasant Plains Community Building is available to rent for meetings, parties, family reunions, etc. Please call Shirley at 415-2976 for availability and fees.

Annual Pleasant Plains Community Club Dinner/Raffle will be held on February 25, 2012 at KC Hall in New Berlin. Cash prizes will be awarded to the winning ticket holders. Top prize is $5000. Doors open at 6; Prime rib dinner at 7. Ticket price is $100 and that includes dinner and drinks for two people plus the a chance to win the cash prizes. A Silent Auction will also be held. Call any member for your ticket or call 891-6243 or 4143229.

The Pleasant Plains Community Club is selling Papa Murphy Peel a Deal Cards. Price is $5 and the card is worth over $22 in pizzas and bread sticks. Call any member to purchase these or call 415-2976 or 652-8299. . These will make great little gifts and they are a good bargin.

December Anniversaries 12 - Forrest & Carol Duncan 29 - Don & Kaye Parsons

December Birthdays 02 - Shawn Eskew 05 - Julie Jokisch 06 - Travis Wallbaum 09 - Jim Heather 10 - Alex Gardner 16 - David Bryant 15 - Dena Mae Davin 18 - Harry Blakeman 18 - Ramona Gouglass 25 - Baby Jesus 28 - Jim Handy 30 - Charlee Ratliff 31 - Kelsey Gardner

SR. SAINTS… Sr. Saints are having a pot luck hosted by Joan & Dale DeGroot at the Baptist Hall on December 12th at 5:30pm. Bring a covered dish. Hope to see you there!

ASHLAND VFW POST 3546…

Meets monthly at 7:00 p.m. on the 3rd Monday at the Firehouse.

AMERICAN LEGION POST 498...

Meets monthly at 7:30 p.m. on the 3rd Monday at the Firehouse.

ASHLAND U-HELP...

Any student may apply for up to $500 loan with an interest rate of 3%. Applications are available at West Central Bank in Ashland.

A SPECIAL THANKS… A special thanks for all the prayers, calls, cards, food and visits, while in the hospital and since returning home. Everyone’s concern was appreciated and I feel blessed to live in such a caring community.

- Eleanor Cosner CONDOLENCES… Heartfelt sympathy to the family of Darrel Ring.

FOR RENT Clean 1 Bedroom duplex apartment in Ashland, 604 S. Sylvan. Open after December 1st. Updating includes carpet, vinyl, paint, etc.

Call 652-1449 for details. $425.00 per month.

The Cass County Food Pantry extends the love of the community and of Christ to those in need. We provide boxes of food for more than 300 families in the county each month. Summer is a difficult time for the food pantry, donations are low and it can be difficult to find help packing boxes. But, you can help! Watch for food drives and other opportunities to donate to the food pantry, or create your own opportunity. Call Joanne at 217-473-5638 to make a food or money donation, or to get more details about offering your time and talents to the food pantry.

“Come Ye Thankful People, Come.” by Edward J. Moretto, Minister Berea Christian Church We Christians are indeed a unique people. Our God is the God of the universe. Everything that is, is, because He decreed it to be. "And God said," is a recurring theme throughout the book of Genesis. For the most part, Christians accept the fact that God "created," although there are some who accept some form of evolution, usually the "micro" rather than the "macro" type. But evolution of any kind is not the subject of this rambling. Thanksgiving is. Thanksgiving? How did we come from Christians being a unique people to thanks giving? To me, at least, this seems to be a logical progression, but let me forgo the left brain thing in favor of the right brain.

If we have read our own Scriptures, and believe that "God said" in the creation of the universe, and especially in that of our world, we must also be aware of the fact that there are other "God said" instances in Scripture besides those found in the creation account. Leviticus is replete with "The LORD said to Moses" passages. What followed were the rules for various sacrifices. One of these covers the rules for thank offerings. And at the conclusion of Deuteronomy 26, in verse 16, we read, "The LORD your God commands you this day to follow these decrees and laws; carefully observe them with all your heart and with all your soul."

Wallbaum Now someone will be quick to point out that these Development are laws, part of THE Law of the Old Covenant, which were superseded by the New Covenant. But Inc. given what we have in that New Covenant, would it be overstepping one's bounds to ask why Christians, Plumbing - Heating - Air Conditioning who benefit from that Covenant would not take every opportunity to thank God for what we have? And, Backhoe - Trenching would it be overstepping one's bounds to ask why, when the entire assembly is called out (that's what We Do It All 115 W. Freemont St. Phone: the Church is, a called out assembly), when the In Just 1 Call!

PO Box 136 (217)476-3595 churches which make up our ministerial association Ashland, IL 62612 Jim - Todd - Travis sponsor a Thanksgiving service, to expect all the churches to be represented?

Were you, was your church, represented at this calling out of the entire assembly? And, here's the last anomaly. The church hosting the worship service also sponsored a Thanksgiving dinner just prior to that worship service. The dinner attendees numbered around two-hundred. The worship service attendance was around forty. As we left the worship service it had begun to rain. Tears from heaven?

This month we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We will sing, O Come Let Us Adore Him. That’s an invitation.

SUPPORT SUMMER DAYS GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFTS

Community Club Cookbooks $15 for 3 DVD set (excellent quality production done by high school class) of Sesquicentennial $30.

See J.R. at the W.C. Bank

Seasons Greetings from our home to yours

Printers Ink

Freshmen Natural Helpers The following students were inducted into the Natural Helpers organization on October 28, 2011, following a six and a half hour long training session at the high school. The Natural Helpers organization is dedicated to assisting friends and family with issues and concerns that are relevant in their lives. Current sophomore, junior, and senior members assisted in the training with Mrs. Brenda Eylers, Cass County Prevention Specialist, and Mrs. Diane Hatcher, Natural Helpers sponsor, leading the workshop.

Pictured from left to right: (Back row, student trainers: Bree Knapp, Kayla Anderson, Lindsey Cole, Maggie Allen, Shelbi Thornley, Sydnee Henry, Will Edge, Brian Koch, Cerlys Boston and Allyson Quick. (Front row, Diane Hatcher- sponsor: new inductees: McKenzie Stephens, Ty Kesselring, Hoaby Hoagland, Kristin Irlam, Carrie Allen, Riley Cowman and Quinn Allen.

Red Ribbon Week By: Lakyn Rives Red Ribbon Week has been celebrated for over 20 years. Growing up each year youth become more educated with skits, assemblies, accident stimulations and just stories influencing you to live a drug free life. Traditionally red ribbons are handed out to students to wear throughout the week. This year the officers of S.T.A.R. wanted to help educate our “littles� by acting out The Red Ribbon Story. It is a story about differences in people and how we can all learn to overcome the differences. The main lesson we wanted to teach was the message of HOPE. We traveled to Chandlerville for this skit presenting two performances in the school gym. Following the performances, students received drug free mementos compliments of the S.T.A.R. organization. For me personally, it was a great experience. I had a lot of fun working with the other cast members and performing the play. It felt good to know that we were helping kids by mentoring healthy lifestyle choices.

A SUBSIDIARY OF THE WEST CENTRAL BANK E-mail: wcins@casscomm.com 108 W. Editor Street Ashland, IL 62612 217.476.3354 Jeffrey A. Donnan - Kay Handy Ora Lee Campbell

Other Locations:

Pictured (l to r): Faith Widdows, Kaitie Devlin, Carmen Savage, Chelsey Hill, Jenna Thompson, Cali Edwards, Will Edge, Krissy Simmons, Marlee Landon, Kayla Anderson, Lakyn Rives, Lindsey Cole, Elizabeth Quick, and Maggie Allen

117 S. Front Street Virginia, IL 62691 217.452.7717 Kristen Arthalony

116 State Street Beardstown, IL 62618 217.323.3018 Debbie Jones

815 W. Clinton Rushville, IL 62681 217.322.6230 Kala Peacock

979 Clocktower Drive Springfield, IL 62704 217-726-9885 Stacey M. Hester

DECEMBER 2011 PETERSBURG PORTA HS SPORTS SCHEDULE RED = AWAY BLUE = HOME THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1ST - TBA B JH Basketball vs. Big Five Conference tournament - TBA B JH Basketball @ 7th Grade Big Five Beardstown - 6:00PM G V Basketball vs. Pawnee @A/C Central - 6:15PM B FR Basketball vs. ILLINI-CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2ND - TBA B JH Basketball vs. Big Five Tournament 8th grade - TBA B JH Basketball @ 7th Grade Big Five Beardstown - 6:15PM B FS Basketball @ HAVANA HS - 7:30PM B V Basketball @ HAVANA HS SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3RD - 9:00AM B V Wrestling @ Litchfield J/V - 10:00AM B FR Basketball @ SPRINGFIELD LUTHERAN HS - 12:00PM B V Wrestling @ Litchfield Quad - 3:00PM G V Basketball vs. RIVERTON HIGH SCHOOL (Riverton Shoot Out(No JV)) MONDAY, DECEMBER 5TH - 6:15PM G V Basketball vs. PLEASANT PLAINS HIGH SCHOOL - 6:15PM B FR Basketball vs. LEWISTOWN HIGH SCHOOL (Lewistown @ AC) TUESDAY, DECEMBER 6TH - 6:15PM B FS Basketball vs. MT PULASKI HIGH SCHOOL - 7:45PM B V Basketball vs. MT PULASKI HIGH SCHOOL

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8TH - 6:00PM B JH Basketball vs. Schuyler/Industry @ Ashland - 6:00PM B V Wrestling @ OLYMPIA HIGH SCHOOL - 6:15PM B FR Basketball @ AUBURN HIGH SCHOOL SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10TH - 8:30AM B V Wrestling vs. Rex Avery PORTA Invite - Sat 12/10 10:00AM B FR Basketball @ MT PULASKI HIGH SCHOOL MONDAY, DECEMBER 12TH - 6:15PM G V Basketball vs. Athens Jr/Sr High School TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13TH - 5:00PM B V Wrestling vs. East Peoria High School - 6:15PM B FS Basketball @ ILLINI-CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL - 7:30PM B V Basketball @ ILLINI-CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15TH - 6:00PM B JH Basketball vs. Athens Jr/Sr High School - 6:00PM B V Wrestling vs. Dee-Mack with jr high - 6:00PM B JH Wrestling vs. Dee-Mack Primary/Junior High School - 6:15PM G V Basketball @ West Central @ Bluffs - 6:15PM B FR Basketball vs. NEW BERLIN HIGH SCHOOL (Game at A/C Central)

For your holiday enjoyment the Jacksonville Theatre Guild is proud to present The Best Christmas Pageant Ever! This is a play about the Herdmans, the meanest kids in town. Everyone is surprised when the Herdmans show up for Sunday school, the same day the Christmas pageant parts are being assigned. These bullies end up taking over the pageant, but in the end, the whole church learns the true meaning of Christmas, including the Herdmans.

This award winning story is being directed by Shawn Smith. The Best Christmas Pageant! will take place at the Sophie Leschin Auditorium on December 8, 9 and 10 at 7:30 pm and on December 11 at 2 pm.

Tickets are $13 for adults and $8 for children age 12 and under.

Warm-hearted, funny and great for the entire family, you don’t want to miss The Best Christmas Pageant Ever!

JACKSONVILLE THEATRE GUILD 210 West College Avenue Jacksonville, Illinois 62650

A-C CENTRAL CHOIR STUDENTS ATTEND IMEA FESTIVAL On Saturday, November 5, seven A-C Central middle school students and one high school student attended the Illinois Music Educators Association (IMEA) music festival at Western Illinois University. Carrie Allen auditioned and made the Sr. High Choir; Carlee Critchelow auditioned and made the Jr. High Choir; and Lexi Carlock, Destinee Jones, Cheyenne Kesselring, Kaitlyn Pratt, Hannah Ratliff, and Alex Watkins were selected for the Elementary Choir. They rehearsed all day in choirs of 130-150 students and performed a late afternoon concert. Everyone had a wonderful time and received the opportunity to work with excellent conductors. Congratulations on a job well done!

Back Row L-R: Carlee, Critchelow, Carrie Allen, Cheyenne Kesselring, and Destinee Jones - Front Row L-R: Alex Watkins, Lexi Carlock, Kaitlyn Pratt, and Hannah Ratliff The A-C Marching Knights finished off their competition marching season in grand style. The student musicians competed in the Pinckneyville Mardi Gras parade on Saturday Oct. 29.

The group finished 1st in their class as well as capturing the color guard award as well as the percussion award. Placing behind them were in 2 nd place Elsberry HS, 3rd place Clopton HS and 4th place went to Okaw Valley HS. Others in the small class competition included Bayless HS, Trico HS and Cobden HS. The parade included band in the larger class such as Mascoutah, Belleville West, Columbia and DuQouin HS. The final marching presentation of the season was given to the public at the Chandlerville Halloween parade on Sunday evening Oct. 30. A performance of the drumline as well as the rest of the band entertained a full house in Chandlerville that evening!

A special thanks goes out to the parents that donated their time all season to help! Those included are: Jenny Knapp, Johanna Betters, Sarah Anderson, RL & Holly Petefish, Leighann Allen, Tammy Heather, Shirley Davis, Dena Koch, Jennifer & Steve Allen, Jeff Pfaffe, Kelly Gutmann & Krissy Gardner and Cindy & Kerry Johnston . Your help is so appreciated!!!

Members of the Marching Knights include: Banner Carriers: Lisa Jennings & Taylor Hamblin; Drum Majors: Cali Edwards, Taylor Koch & Lauren Pfaffe; Guard: Tracy Mitchell (captain), Natane Butler, Katie Devlin, Maddie Elder, Stacey Eskew, April Leinberger, Lakyn Rives, Krissy Simmons & Shelbi Thornley; Percussion: Zach Parrish, Dariel DeGroot, Baylee Smith, Mat Bobbitt, Briah Koch, Robert Ratliff & Eric Stroisch; Band Members: Jennifer Adkins, Carrie Allen, Maggie Allen, Quinn Allen, Kayla Anderson, Megan Anderson, Courtney Bedtka, Molly Betters, Cerys Boston, Lindsey Cole, Riley Cowman, Will Edge, Val Escudero, Austin Fields, Hoaby Hoagland, Craig Houchin, Kristin Irlam, Caseelynn Johnston, Grant Kelly, Ty Kesselring, Hannah Miller, Sisley Nicholas, Joey Petefish, Allison Quick, Joseph Ratliff, Sabrina Reek, Carmen Savage, MacKenzie Stephenson, Lane Wegs, Faith Widdows, Kyle Winkelman & Ryan Woodard. Director: Kim Webster

Maggie Allen named Student of the Month at A-C Central Congratulations to Maggie Allen for being selected Student – of – the – Month for September at A-C Central High School. Miss Allen is the daughter of Tom and Leigh Ann Allen of Ashland.

Maggie is a leader both in and out of the classroom as evidenced by her involvement in various school activities. She is a member of the FFA, Spanish Club, S.T.A.R. (President), Natural Helpers, Marching Band, Concert Band, Pep Band, National Honor Society, Spring Musical cast, Fall Play cast, Volleyball team, Softball team, and Science Fair. Maggie has also been the Class President for four years.

Away from school Maggie is involved as a member of the First Presbyterian Church and an employee of Lucky’s Restaurant in the summer months. Miss Allen enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, watching movies and swimming.

As a member of the Volleyball team which held fundraisers for Volley for the Cure, she had a hand in raising over $15,000. Approximately $3,000 of that was done by herself.

Miss Allen plans on attending Illinois College majoring in Biology. She wants to pursue a career in medicine possibly as a dietitian, pediatritian or physical therapist.

Congratulations to Maggie Allen on this significant honor!

Bradley University hosts freshmen and sophomore talented instrumentals for the Bradley Honor Band. These students are selected by their directors’ nominations and the musicians travel to Peoria to rehearse with the universities director of university bands - Dr. David Vroman. After the rigorous rehearsals, the students present a concert to the public in cooperation with the Bradley Symphonic Wind Ensemble.

Three students from A-C Central were selected for this honor this year. Cerys Boston, a sophomore trumpet player from Ashland is the daughter of Scott and Samantha Boston was selected for this honor. Hoaby Hoagland, son of Dawn and Ron Hoagland from Ashland is a tuba player in this years’ ensemble. Hoaby is a freshman in the A-C Central Band. The third member of the A-C Central Band that was selected was sophomore horn player Allyson Quick. Allyson is the daughter of Dee and Gary Quick of Ashland. This is Allyson’s second time in the Honor Band.

The students will spend an entire day in rehearsals on Tuesday November 16 and present a concert for the public on Tuesday evening beginning at 7:30 PM in the Dingeldine Music Center on the campus of Bradley University in Peoria, IL. Congratulations to all selected students -