Scott County Times
75¢
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2021
your
Times NEWS Winchester makes pool payment, authorizes police expenditures. See page A2 Bluffs holding on to TIF money. See page A2 IDNR announces firearm deer harvest totals. See page A3
OPINION
When this is over, we all need time to grieve. See page A2
Positive change can make difference in community. See page A8
WEEKEND WEATHER FRIDAY, JAN. 15
35 27 High
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SATURDAY, JAN. 16
31 22 High
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SUNDAY, JAN. 17
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Scott County Times 1HZV $ $ 2SLQLRQ $ $ /RFDOV $ $FWLYLWLHV $ 0DUNHWSODFH $ &ODVVLILHGV $ Š 2021
Scott County Times Obituaries listed in this issue: None All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
WINCHESTER, IL 62694
VOLUME NO. 154 NUMBER 2
Serving our readers for more than 151 years
75¢
The 'mystery' of Julian Wells is solved By CARMEN ENSINGER Scott County Times While it may not be a mystery to everyone, for younger readers, the story behind why the American Legion in Winchester is named Julian Wells Post #442 may not be one they've heard before. That "mystery" was solved last week when, during renovations to the Legion Hall, while cleaning out the office, a group of old framed photos were found in the office. Amongst these treasurers was a photo of Julian Wells, along with his history. It started out with members of the American Legion and the VFW gathering together at the Legion to prepare to do some repairs on the building. “Several of our members of the VFW are also members of the American Legion as well,� VFW Commander Matt Barber said. “So, we are doing things to help the Legion get repairs and survive through COVID as we can’t have Bingo, suppers or fundraisers without the use of their building.� Barber, Legion Commander Andrew Massey, Past Legion Commander Nichole Mason and VFW Sergeant at Arms Scott Mason were going through boxes in the office when they came upon the boxes containing all kinds of memorabilia from the past, including the photo of Wells. “There were several pictures of companies and platoons from World War I that we want to put up again as well as pictures of past gatherings with members,� Barber said. “There is a picture of World War II veterans at a burgoo that we would like to put up as well. We also have shadow boxes gifted to us from families in honor of family members that we also intend to put up.� But, the real find is the Julian Wells picture and history. The history of Wells was obtained from an interview from his niece, Miss Dorothy Wells, of Winchester. Julian Wells was the first soldier to die in battle in World War I. He was born on Feb. 2, 1893, the son of William and Martha Tharp Wells. Julian and his brother, William, both entered the military when war broke out, and Julian was sent overseas with the 40th Division and then transferred
to the 28th Co. I., 109th Infantry Regiment. Julian found a buddy within his unit who he could trust and who became his best friend. This friendship would be tested when they were later assigned to the trenches.
"We had so many people ask why this post was named the Julian Wells post – well, now they will know." Matt Barber
VFW Commander
In one of the fiercest battles of the war, the two found themselves advancing with the 109th in the Argonne Forest. On that fateful day of Oct. 1, 1918 came a burst of gunfire and both were hit. Julian lay fatally wounded, as his friend found out when he was able to crawl to his side. He stayed with his friend until they were found 20 minutes later. While recuperating in a hospital, the friend wrote to Julian’s family. To their surprise and shock, this was the first notice of Julian’s death. His sister, Blanche, on behalf of the distraught family, immediately contacted Washington. After an unbearably long wait, the official announcement came confirming their worst fears – Julian was indeed dead. Julian Wells was buried in the American Muic Cemetery in Northern France with thousands of doughboys whose bones were destined to spend eternity far from the homes they loved. But through their sacrifice, millions today enjoy the peace, forged in their deaths so many years ago. His brother, William Wilkerson Wells, was inducted into service June 25, 1918 and sailed to France on Oct. 28, 1918, just 27 days after his brother’s death and returned May 21, 1919. Not until he reached home did William learn of his brother’s death. Shortly after the war, Chris Munze, at the time a famous Winchester baker, having a son who had been in the war, visited the grave of Julian. He came as a representative of Scott County to silently and prayerfully thank the deceased for his sacrifice of life, and
Winchester schools back to remote learning By DAVID CAMPHOUSE Scott County Times Scott County Health Department (SCHD) RN Meghan VanDeVelde reported on Monday that the county has seen rises in the number of active COVID-19 cases, COVID-19 quarantines and COVID-19 hospitalizations. “We are seeing a little more than in previous weeks,� VanDeVelde said. “We have four hospitalized. That’s up from last week. One patient who had been released had to go back in.� The pandemic has also forced Winchester schools to return to remote learning for at least this week. District staff reported that the plan is to return to in-person instruction Tuesday, Jan. 19. At this time Bluffs remains in inperson attendance. VanDeVelde said the decision to go to remote learning was caused by positive cases at the school. (See, REMOTE, A2)
Submitted graphic
Scott County Health Department (SCHD) reported a rise in both active COVID-19 cases in the county and in individuals in quarantine because of close contact with someone with COVID-19. The number of active cases has risen by seven since Monday, Jan. 4 and the number in quarantine has nearly tripled over the same timeframe – jumping from 35 on Jan. 4 to 95 on Jan. 11. As a result of pandemic complications, quarantines and staffing issues, Winchester schools have returned to remote learning through this week. The district, at this time, plans to return to in-person attendance Tuesday, Jan. 19.
Sam Coonrod traded to Phillies By CARMEN ENSINGER Scott County TImes
H
e might have been born and raised in Carrollton, but Sam Coonrod has a lot of kinfolk in the Scott County area as well and, let’s face it, who doesn’t root for a small town boy that has made it to the major leagues? Sam Coonrod, the 2011 Carrollton High School graduate who put the city on the map when he pitched in his first Major League baseball game in 2019, traded in his view of the Golden Gate Bridge for a view of the Liberty Bell this past weekend. Coonrod, 28, learned Saturday, that the San Francisco Giants, who had drafted him in the fifth round of the 2014 draft, had traded him to the Philadelphia Phillies for 2020 fourth round draft pick Carson Ragsdale, also a pitcher. Coonrod had no idea the franchise was even thinking of trading him. “It kind of caught me off guard because I was just sitting here in my apartment when I received a phone call from our president of baseball operations that I had been traded,� he said. “I really didn’t know what to think, but I guess it is better to be traded in the
off season as opposed to during the regular season.� Coonrod worked his way up through the Giants minor league farm system until 2018 when he found himself placed on the injured list. He pitched only 10 games that year and ended up having Tommy John surgery. The following year, 2019, he would make his first major league appearance in San Francisco. Since then, he has had a total of 51 major league appearances as a relief pitcher. In his rookie year, 2019, he made 33 appearances and posted a 3.58 ERA. Last year, in 18 appearances he posted a 9.82 ERA with 15 strikeouts in 14 2/3 innings with a fastball clocked at 98.4 miles-per-hour, ranked as the fifth fastest among all pitchers last season, which kind of makes up for the high ERA. “Last year was such a weird year, and I didn’t perform the way I wanted to,� he admits. “So, I just kind of want to put it all behind me and start fresh this year.� And, he will have that opportunity – new team, new city, new training camp. Instead of spring training in Arizona, Coonrod will be heading to Clearwater, Fla., where the Phillies hold their spring training. “Hey, who doesn’t look forward to Florida in the spring,� he said. “It will be an adjustment – I’ve never done spring training down there before so I’m looking
forward to it. It should be fun.� Even though he has been with the Giants for six years, he and his wife Kara, have maintained a residence in St. Louis and said they plan to do the same thing while he is a member of the Philadelphia Phillies. “We both have families in this area and this allows us to be close to our families,� he said. “I was lucky to be with the Giants for so long, but you never know how long you are going to be with a team. I am with the team during the season, but my home is here.� As for his time with the Giants, he said he has many fond memories he will take with him. “Some of my fondest memories are of when I was in the minor leagues and when I was struggling and then was able to overcome it and finally make it to the majors,� he said. “Then my call up, May 26, 2019. That will always be an important day for me, and a day I will never forget because my entire family was brought out to San Francisco to see me pitch in my first ever game in the major leagues.� In a way, becoming a Phillie is like coming full-circle. Their colors are red and white and the first school uniform Coonrod ever put on as a St. John’s Redbird was red and white. “Yeah, it’s kind of cool to be back in my old school colors,� he said.
Submitted photo
A framed photo, along with the handwritten information, was found in a box in the office of the American Legion in Winchester last week as the Legion was preparing to make improvements to the building. It explains the story of Julian Wells and the history of the Legion post being named after the local World War I veteran.
unknown to Julian, proclaim the naming of the Julian Wells American Legion Post #442. And a little over 100 years later, Wells will once again be honored with his photo and history on display at the American Legion for all to see. “We had so many people ask why this post was named the Julian Wells post – well, now they will know,� Barber said. “We plan to put it in a place of honor behind the bar with the rest of the photos we found being put throughout the rest of the building.�
Elected officials react to election unrest By DAVID CAMPHOUSE Scott County Times Following a rally led by Donald Trump Wednesday, Jan. 6, attendees of the rally marched down Pennsylvania Avenue and violently stormed the nation’s capitol building in Washington D.C. Scott County’s national and local elected officials were quick to rebuke the actions of the rioters, including Scott County’s U.S. Congressman Darin LaHood, who was at the capitol to certify Joe Biden as the winner of the 2020 presidential election. “This afternoon, I was in the United States Capitol as rioters broke into the building,� LaHood said in a press release Wednesday, Jan. 6. “I can report that my staff and I are thankfully safe and secure. I want to thank the law enforcement officials who acted to keep individuals in and around the U.S. Capitol safe.� LaHood went on to strongly condemn the actions of the rioters. “What happened today was one of the most shameful things I have seen,� LaHood said in the same press release. “It is a terrible day for our country and democracy. The actions taken by rioters go against everything that we stand for as Americans. The rioting and violence must stop. We are a nation of law and order, and those who are responsible for the actions and violence today must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. As Americans, we are much better than this.� State Senator Steve McClure similarly rebuked the violence in Washington. “I fully support the right to peacefully protest, but there is no excuse for the violence and chaos occurring in Washington D.C. right now,� McClure said in a written statement Wednesday, Jan. 6. “Violent protests go against everything that our country stands for. I pray that this terrible situation comes to a peaceful end as quickly as possible.“ Local officials joined state and national officials in stating their condemnation of the violence. “I feel as community leaders that we need to condemn the unjustified acts of violence and insurrection that occurred in our nation’s
Capitol,� Winchester Mayor Rex McIntire said. McIntire called on residents who want to voice dissent against the government to do so peacefully and respectfully, and the mayor expressed concern in the wake of the Washington D.C. violence. “I’m all for free speech and the right to protest peacefully, but I’m very concerned about what can happen next,� McIntire said. McIntire went on to call on patriotic and religious residents to come together as a community to make sure violence does not continue in the political sphere. “I feel all of us law abiding citizens who love our country should feel violated by the situation that occurred,� McIntire said. “I see signs around town saying to pray for our country. I’ve never felt the need to pray for our country as much as I feel it now – never.� Scott County State's Attorney Rick Crews disapproved of the violence and called on Washington for better leadership. "It's ridiculous the way people were behaving," Crews said. "It's also ridiculous the way our country's leaders are acting -- on both sides of the aisle." Crews added that he felt that Scott County residents are more reasonable than the politics of the country at large. "I like to think here in Scott County it's different -that nobody is picking sides just because of party affiliation," Crews said. Following the riot last Wednesday, both houses of Congress reconvened and certified the election of Joe Biden as President of the United States. After the certification on Wednesday, Representative LaHood called for unity. “Today has been a trying day for our nation and our democracy,� LaHood said. “The People’s House was subject to shameful acts of rioting and violence. The actions go against everything we stand for as Americans. Despite the actions that took place today, I am confident that Americans can come together despite our deeply divided politics. It is time for our country to move forward and for elected officials to find common ground to better our nation.�
A2
Wednesday, January 13, 2021
NEWS/OPINION
Winchester, Illinois
Winchester makes pool payment, authorizes police expenditures By DAVID CAMPHOUSE Scott County Times Mayor Rex McIntire opened the Wednesday, Jan. 6 Winchester city council meeting by calling for unity in the face of the violent Washington D.C. riot earlier in the day. McIntire indicated that it was incumbent on all law abiding residents to come together and try to heal the political divisions of the nation. McIntire also remembered the life of longtime Winchester resident Sue Peak, who passed away Saturday, Jan. 2. “The Peaks were business leaders in this community,” McIntire said. “They were just really good people. I thought the world of them.” Winchester’s council approved a payment of $68,661 to Trotter General Contracting, the company carrying out construction at the city’s pool. The pool improvements, according to McIntire, are in their final phase. According to engineer Greg Hillis, the construction project, which is erecting and outfitting a new bath house and installing
a new pool liner, is about 80 percent complete. “They are way ahead of schedule to be ready for opening day,” Hillis said. McIntire also credited the weather for speeding the construction along. “They’ve certainly had a good fall for the work,” McIntire said. Hillis also updated the council on an application for a state grant that would pay all of the approximately $700,000 construction costs associated with installing new sewer lines on Winchester’s currently unsewered northwest side. Hillis reported that as a Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) requirement of the grant, the city is responsible for paying for a phase one archeology survey of the area to be disturbed by the project. The council authorized contracting the University of Illinois to conduct the archaeology dig at a cost of $1,471. The council also approved paying Jacksonville’s Roland Trucking $36,363 to connect the Winchester city water system
tion required by Winchester’s USDA library grant. The position is responsible for inspecting and approving construction work completed by contractors working under the USDA grant. City attorney John Paul Coonrod stated that the grant still looks promising and has received positive feedback from USDA. Coonrod amended two city ordinances – one which pays part-time police time and a half on holidays, and another that specifies in the employee handbook that all new employees will be enrolled in IMRF upon being hired. Council members voted to forgive a portion of an inordinately large sewer bill created by an unnoticed water leak at an elderly resident’s home. The council also approved another round of $1,000 “stimulus” payments to qualifying TIF district businesses, which have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Businesses have until May to apply for the assistance and are directed to contact the city hall for more information on the program.
Bluffs holding on to TIF money
When this is over, we all need time to grieve By BILL HOAGLAND On New Year’s Day, a local TV station was going through a list of celebrities who passed away in 2020. It seemed to be an unusually long list and included such names as Eddie Van Halen, Alex Trebek, Bob Gibson and Lou Brock, all of whom died of causes other than COVID. And then they added to that list the COVID death toll for 2020. As of Dec. 31, that death toll for 2020 relating both directly and indirectly to COVID was over 340,000 people in the United States. What sad news and what a horrible year! No wonder everyone seems so melancholy these days. It’s not just that we realize things will never be the same politically, economically or socially. For many of us, it also has to do with the loss of a relative or a close friend to this horrible disease that one year ago, we never even knew existed. Unfortunately, because of COVID restrictions, we really can’t properly mourn these losses; in fact, many memorial ceremonies for deceased family members and close friends are being postponed “indefinitely.” And to make matters worse, it is conceivable that these postponed ceremonies may have to be put off for as long as a year, depending how long this virus sticks around. In the meantime, I have gone to several visitations during the pandemic, but frankly it feels awkward being there — everyone wearing a mask, standing at least six feet apart, and being hesitant to hug or even shake hands with the people who have been left behind. To be sure, visitations and burials need to go on, but at some point, those who have lost friends and relatives in 2020 really need that direct, physical contact — the hugs and pats on the back. They also need sincere, one on one discussions with close friends that we typically get during “normal” visitations, funerals and follow-ups; unfortunately, we are not getting those comforting traditions during and because of this pandemic. Having a meaningful memorial service six months or a year from now will have plenty of its own issues. Some folks
with the SMG rural water district. The connection will allow Winchester to take one of its wells out of service for maintenance without jeopardizing the community’s access to potable water. Winchester Police Chief Caleb Handy asked the council to approve the purchase of additional police uniforms and bulletproof vests for $2,755.84. The council approved the request. Public Works Director John Simmons reported that a new snow/salt truck purchased by the city did not have adequate lighting, so the council approved the installation of additional lighting for $691. In addition, a chlorination pump had been replaced at the city’s water plant for $519.95. Mayor McIntire led a discussion of past due utility bills. McIntire requested that the gas and water/sewer committees draft a letter encouraging past due residents to contact the city to arrange payment plans. A letter was subsequently approved at a Monday, Jan. 11 committee meeting. Council members authorized McIntire to hire a construction supervisor, a posi-
who might otherwise attend a memorial service shortly after a death may have resolved their own sorrows regarding the decedent and they may have “moved on” by the time a memorial service is scheduled. Others, now freed up from the restrictions of COVID, may have to return to work, school or they are taking that much needed vacation. In other words, we need to be realistic about those postponed memorial services and focus on what will best help those who need to grieve and get closure. Maybe there is a simple, economic approach to resolving this as soon as it is safe to do so. Why not model something along the concept of an old-time Irish wake, in which a small group of friends or relatives meet in the home of one of the persons for a day or night of celebration about the life of the deceased — you know, with good food, good booze, good photos, good stories and a deep mutual respect for each other and for the deceased? The memorial service, with a large crowd and a formal eulogy or two can come later. But it seems just as important to give the people directly impacted with an opportunity to resolve their own feelings of grief with a close group of friends — crying, laughing and saying good-bye the way it is supposed to be done. Maybe these small gatherings could simply be called “a closure” because that would certainly be the objective. ––––––––––––––––––– Q Bill Hoagland has practiced law in Alton for more than 50 years, but he has spent more than 70 years hunting, fishing and generally being in the great outdoors. His wife, Annie, shares his love of the outdoor life. Much of their spare time is spent on their farm in Calhoun County. Bill can be reached at billhoagland70@ gmail.com.
Sapp said some money has been used for various projects around Bluffs, in the designated TIF district and the school district receives a share of the money. The balance represents approximately five years accumulation of TIF funds. Sapp reported to the board on several things including: Q The sesquicentennial committee continues to meet the first Monday of the month at 6 p.m. in the senior citizen building. More help is needed.
Q The Christmas lighting contest went well with six winners announced. Q The village has nearly maxed out the animal control budget. Only $63 remains. Sapp advised the council the village may have to go above the budget to finish the year which ends April 30. Q Police Chief Bob Smith reported 25 incidents in December. Q It is hoped the village can let bids on the new water tower this summer.
VanDeVelde also said that SCHD continues to vaccinate frontline healthcare workers. “We are still in the phase of 1A and 1B,” VanDeVelde said, referring to Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and CDC designations of healthcare and frontline workers, who are first in line, along with nursing home residents, to receive the vaccines. VanDeVelde said the county is waiting for the go-ahead from IDPH to vaccinate other groups of residents, and that resident interest in receiving to vaccine is strong. “We are going together with other counties in the state through these phases,” VanDeVelde said. “We’ve had quite a bit of interest from the public.” VanDeVelde said that the state indicated counties would receive the vaccines in 100-dose increments and continue to vaccinate residents based on guidance from IDPH/CDC, completing vaccination of 1B individuals and moving on to subsequent groups. Phase 1B individuals include frontline essen-
tial workers such as fire fighters, police officers, corrections officers, food and agricultural workers, United States Postal Service workers, manufacturing workers, grocery store workers, public transit workers and those who work in the educational sector (teachers, support staff and daycare workers.) Phase 1B also includes people aged 75 years and older, because they are at high risk of hospitalization, illness and death from COVID-19. Phase 1C individuals include people aged 65-74 years, people aged 16-64 years with underlying medical conditions and other essential workers, such as people who work in transportation and logistics, food service, housing construction and finance, information technology, communications, energy, law, media, public safety and public health. As vaccine availability increases, vaccination recommendations will expand to include more groups. Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 12, the IDPH is reporting COVID-19 vaccination
data on its website, with data to be updated daily and additional data to be provided as available. It is important to note that vaccine distribution figures are reported in real time, while vaccine administration figures are reported with as much as a 72-hour lag. Data on the IDPH website include the number of doses administered, the vaccination rate per population and what percent of the population is fully vaccinated. These data are broken down by county. Additionally, the website includes information on the COVID-19 Community Vulnerability Index (CCVI), also broken down by county. The CCVI looks at indicators such as socioeconomic status, household composition, type of housing and transportation, epidemiological facts, as well as access to health care. Additional data and means to track vaccination rates will be added as available. Vaccination data can be found on the IDPH website at www.dph.illinois.gov/ covid19/vaccinedata.
frey Meyers Honor - Kendall Meyers, Bill Cumby, Bob Young, Herschel E. Brown, Dave Newman, Walter “Dick” Scoggins, Paul Hartwick, Charles Schmidt, Charlie Marshall, Harold and Florence Newton, Sarah JB Coad, Phyllis and Phil Kilver, Gary L. Anders and Gary R, Anders, Eddie King & Lloyd Wade, Irene and Patsy Scott, Albert, Dorothy and Gary Coultas, To honor and remember the Edward O’Donnell Family, To honor and remember the Arthur Brown Family, Dennis and Loreta Ballard, Trevor Miley, Gary A. Evans, Verna “Lucy” Grubb, Ricky and Helen Davis, In memory of family and friends gone too soon, Travis Winningham, Bob and Mary Rousey, Ken Smith, Addison and Millie Scott, and George Peak. The Winchester Hometown Christmas Group thanks all those who helped make this event possible, especially with the added precautions taking place this year. We encourage those that haven’t
had the opportunity to attend this event to consider doing so next year. Mark your calendars now for the 1st Saturday
in December! Winchester Hometown Christmas Committee
BY BETH ZUMWALT Pike Press The Bluffs Village Board has nearly $75,000 in the account and according to Linda Sapp, village board president, the money is earmarked for several projects. The matter was discussed at the Jan. 6 meeting. “We have talked about several projects,” Sapp said. “We are not ready to announce any of them yet, but once COVID is over, we’d like to get started.”
Remote
Letter to the editor Small town celebrates in a safe way
Winchester Hometown Christmas was a great success with care given to safety and caution. The subcommittee from the Winchester Civic Group planned this event to encourage small town business while being cognizant of the current pandemic. The committee appreciates the local businesses, the vendors, and the shoppers who supported this local endeavor. Even the “Santa Drive Around” was well attended by our youth of the surrounding and local areas, as Santa rode in a Jeep, keeping distance while waiving and throwing candy to the young ones. Santa was extra busy that day as he visited the residents of the Scott County Nursing Center via “window visits” after the Drive Around. The excitement from both the children and nursing home residents that day was amazing! Thank you Santa! The day ended with the Winchester High School Key Club organizing a Christmas parade, again with safety in mind. The parade was well
attended throughout the route and float winners were recognized: First Christian Church for Best Glow and Grit and Grace Drill Team for Best in Show. A house lighting contest was held with AJ and Hillary Shewmake receiving 1st place, Eric and Brittany Peterson receiving 2nd place and Jake and Kati Fryman receiving 3rd place. Honorable mention went to John Peters. A business lighting contest was also held with “Window on the Square” receiving the award. Thank you all who participated to brighten our small town. Lastly, the square was decorated throughout the holiday season. Seventy people purchased memory trees in honor of their loved ones and those trees, along with other decorations, adorned the town square for weeks leading up to Christmas and New Year’s. The tree plaques displayed the honoree, including: Cameron, Sam Peak, Kay Rothering, Tammy Drake, Lyndle &
Imogene Schafer, Lance Ackerman, SGT Andrew Tobin, Harold Lee Fearneyhough, Carl and Mary Brickey, Chris Hatcher, Dick Coon, Bob and Geraldine Coon, Gracie Fearneyhough, Laura Paslay, Kalya, Joshua, and Christopher Perry, Logan Nobis, Bobby and Carol Moore, Bill Robinson and Bob Peck, Mark and Terry Teaney, Norma Howard, Sheri Fryman, Bea Eddinger, Ed Brown, Carl & Lorraine Fearneythough, Ellie Peak, Lashmett’s, George, Mary, Tom and David, Ron Ghrist, Clifford, Hazel and Ann Cody, Gary and Linda Suttles, Allen Dale “Spud” Coultas & Mardell Coultas, Virginia Blackburn, Hal & Virginia Montgomery, Nick & Bettie Gioscio, Jay Eddinger, Mike Rueter, Jack & Elsie Rueter, Danny Neff, Jake Smith, Danny Wynn, Warren and Susan Lashmett, David Cannon, Troy Dolen, Dan Krueger, Cecilia Peters, Nick Sauer, Laddy and Verna Oakes, Hal McLaughlin, Memory - Douglas and Jef-
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2021
LOCALS/NEWS
Wednesday, January 13, 2021
WINCHESTER
IDNR announces firearm deer harvest totals By LUCAS GARDNER Scott County Times COVID-19 might have halted many activities this year, but it hasn’t slowed down the deer hunting in the region. In fact, there was a slight jump in this year’s totals from last year’s when reviewing the county numbers. In the region, some area hunters did better than others, but local counties showed an uptick in deer tags in comparison to last year. According to the IDNR (Illinois Department of Natural Resources) Deer Harvest totals, Jersey County had a seven-deer difference to last year with a total of 633 in 2020, with a majority of the deer hunting getting done in the first season. However, in other counties, namely Calhoun County, that difference was more stark. In Calhoun, the county had an increase of 72 more deer in the two shotgun seasons for a total of 777 this year. Pike had an increase this year with 58 more deer harvested for a total of 1,718. Scott County’s deer harvest was slightly lower this year. Last year, Scott County harvested a total of 319 deer. This year, Scott County harvested 311. Greene County hunters harvested a few more deer this year with a total of 1,066. Last year, the harvest in Greene was 1,043. Although these numbers are pretty close to last year, the numbers weren’t expected to change much from last year’s harvest, based on what IDNR Deer Project Manager for Illinois Peter Schlichting said. “Because of COVID, Illinois has had a slight increase in permit sales. I expect we will have increased harvest for archery season since people have that time on their hands,” Schlichting said. As far as archery season, which started after Dec. 6, goes, it means during bow season, hunters could expect more company in the woods, especially state parks that allow hunting for those woodsmen who aren’t hunt-
ing on private land. Even COVID can’t keep the hunters of the region down, and the archery season was projected to have more deer harvests based on the permit sales. Although harvest numbers are going up, they are still a far cry from what was seen in 2007, when Illinois had the second highest firearm harvest ever recorded for deer season with 117,755 deer harvested, making up more than 50 percent of the deer population taken, according to IDNR totals for that year. In contrast, most folks can recall a time when hunting wasn’t so easy, namely, the big outbreak of bluetongue disease also known as EHD (Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease) in 2012. That year recorded the worst totals on record according to the IDNR, with 2,968 reported cases of the disease in 87 counties. This disease is caused by midges, which are flies that transmit the EHD virus. Luckily this year, EHD numbers were pretty low, according to Schlichting. Specific numbers have not been released as of press time. “We keep track of recorded EHD (Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease). We had low reports of breakouts this year. We had a couple cases, but not enough that we had to reevaluate the permit sales,” Schlichting said. According to Schilchting, EHD booms usually occur when there is a big rain followed by a drought, ideal conditions for the ponds where midges breed in the mud. This can impact totals on a county-level, more so than the overall numbers in the state. The virus midges pass on to the deer gets its nickname because it causes internal hemorrhages in the blood vessels of deer. This causes the vessels, most visibly those in their tongues, to pop, which in turn causes a blue tongue. Overall, the region was on curve for this year’s deer harvest for shotgun season based on permit sales. Based on the sales of archery permits, locals might expect to have a good amount of deer to eat heading into the new year as well.
A3
Winchester, Illinois
BY IRENE TREECE 217-371-1386
Hello Scott County, Condolences and lots of prayers to the families that have lost loved ones in the past couple of weeks. It’s sad when families cannot get together and honor the loved ones as they should be honored. The weather is bitter cold most days and too miserable to be outside unless necessary. It is pretty confining to be inside for days on end and no place to have a sandwich and coffee unless you want to sit in your car at a fast-food chain. That gets tiresome. Perhaps things will start to change in the next few weeks and get somewhat normal again. Maybe the governor will lift most of his restrictions soon and
restaurants will start to open their doors again for inside dining. Parents, please encourage your children to wear a warm coat, hat, or scarf and gloves when going outside. Every parent is doing multitasking to survive these days. Cooking, cleaning, working, teaching their children when classrooms are shut down. I know each and every one of them must be getting exhausted and have no desire to care for a sick child as well. Parents have no place to go to get a change of scenery and treat the family to a meal they did not have to prepare. The Square Trade on the square in Winchester has an awesome window display. The window just draws
one in with its beauty and feeling of warmth so inviting. I know if a person stops by they will enjoy the visit as well as find that special treasure they are searching for. Being old is sort of like being a dog. The high points of the day are eating, napping and watching for the mailman Last Week`s Trivia - - -70 million Next Week`s Trivia - -After 2011 no new cars featured which of the following radio, cassette player or CD player?
ALSEY BY PEGGY STURGEON CLEMONS, 742-3822
Hello from Alsey. Good to see the sunshine again after several days of clouds and ice. Seems as the ice is gone although it looked pretty on the trees. Remember our men and women in uniform and the leaders of our country in your prayers. Others on our prayer list include: Mancel Day, Connie Sturgeon, Edna Layne, Elma Rodmon, Judy Cannon, Brad Fundel, Sue Peak
Family, Chuck Roberts and Shirley Roberts family. Happy birthday to Mike Hatcher, Keith Jefferson and Virginia Caughlin on Jan. 11. Chuck Wilson, Katie Fryman and Will Clayton Mason on Jan. 12. Rhett Jayon Roberts, Doug Franklin, Gene Shafer, Leslie Fearneyhough and Grin Whicker on Jan. 13. Teresa Sipes and Donna Hunt on Jan 14. Nicky Montgomery, Brady O’Neil Blivens and Sonia Smith on Jan.
15. Alia Adems and Nolan Dale Halsmon Jan. 16. Bella Slater and Drake Eli Rueter on Jan 18. Albert Short, Ray Mcentire and Fankie Madlyn Hoots on Jan. 19. That’s all folks. Have a good week. Be a friend to someone in need this week.
State House continues debate on police reform omnibus Law enforcement, municipalities, legal experts weigh in
By RAYMON TRONCOSO Capitol News Illinois The Illinois House of Representatives continued to debate a massive criminal justice omnibus bill Sunday that would transform policing practices in the state. A 611-page amendment to House Bill 163 would heavily revamp use-offorce guidelines, mandate body cameras for every law enforcement agency, end cash bail, remove some qualified immunity protections, and strip collective bargaining rights relating to discipline from police unions. Further language could be added in a future amendment as well. The legislation, which is the culmination of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus agenda to end systemic racism, faces opposition from law enforcement groups and Republican lawmakers. “This has been a 400-year-plus journey that we have been on,” Rep. Justin Slaughter, a Chicago Democrat who helped craft HB163, said in a news conference held Sunday morning by the Black Caucus. “We want to go from protest to progress,” he repeated three times with increasing emphasis. Slaughter chairs the House Criminal Judiciary Committee, which must accept the amendment before it can go to the House floor for a vote. The committee heard testimony and debate on the bill from law enforcement, municipal representation, legal experts and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul. Q Use of force HB163 would amend the acceptable forms of force by officers, banning chokeholds and restraints that can restrict breathing as well as severely limiting the situations where deadly force is authorized. The reforms were strongly opposed by the law enforcement coalition during the hearing. Ogle County Sheriff Brian VanVickle, representing the Illinois Sheriff’s Association, called the proposed reforms “catastrophic” to law enforcement and said they would make policing impossible for officers that have to make split-second decisions. Crystal Lake Police Chief James Black, who serves as president of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, said he supports reforms to use of
force but HB163 is not the answer. “We do not want to be obstructionist; we want to affect positive change in our communities. But we do not support the bill, the bill will destroy law enforcement’s ability to keep communities safe,” he said. When pressed by Slaughter on what changes to the use-of-force guidelines they would accept, Black and VanVickle did not have an answer, but replied the five days provided in the lame duck session were not enough time for their legal experts to craft alternative measures. The sentiment was echoed by the ranking Republican on the committee, Rep. Terri Bryant. “No one is asking this to be slow rolled. Lame duck session is not the time to hash out a 600, now maybe 800, maybe 1,000-page issue on something that is this important,” she said. “Too often the Legislature wants to do something even if that’s the wrong thing. So let’s do the right things and let’s do this the right way.” Slaughter and Sen. Elgie Sims, D-Chicago, who also crafted the legislation, have pushed back on the notion that the bill is rushed, pointing to the nine hearings held by the Black Caucus on criminal justice reform. Most topics discussed in those hearings, which neared 30 hours in collective length and included both the IACP and ISA at times, are in the amendment. “Our state makes international news regarding police brutality and misconduct,” Slaughter said during the hearing, invoking the 2014 shooting death of Laquan McDonald by Chicago police. Q Body cameras Body cameras would be mandatory for all law enforcement agencies under the law. Larger agencies would be required to have cameras in place by Jan. 1, 2022, and all agencies would need to have cameras in place by 2025. Any municipality or county whose law enforcement agency does not comply would have its Local Government Distributive Fund contributions from the state reduced by 20 percent each year until it meets the requirements. The LGDF is the portion of state income tax revenue that goes to cities and counties. Law enforcement groups, including the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police and the Chicago FOP, have referred to the Black Caucus legislation as the “Defund the police bill”
a notion repeated by Chief Black, of Crystal Lake. Slaughter and other members of the Black Caucus have disputed the characterization, given that law enforcement agencies are given time to comply and do not have funding cut outright. “We cannot afford not to make the changes we’re calling for,” Sims said during the Black Caucus’ Sunday news conference, pointing to a 2020 study by economists at Citigroup that says the U.S. lost $16 trillion in GDP since 2000 due to racism. The Black Caucus has pointed to the losses in potential tax revenue due to racist practices, as well as the massive settlements cities pay out each year due to police misconduct, as the cost of not passing their legislation. The amendment as written does not provide law enforcement agencies any monetary assistance for acquiring and implementing body cameras. VanVickle and Black both testified their law enforcement agencies would have no issues with body cameras being mandatory if they received fiscal support from the state and the funding penalty for noncompliance was removed. Brad Cole, executive director of the Illinois Municipal League, which represents towns, villages and cities across the state, said IML opposes any measure that would negatively impact LGDF. However, it supports mandatory body cameras as long as the timeline for departments was extended by a few years. Q Collective bargaining A provision in the amendment would remove the ability of law enforcement unions to collectively bargain with their employers on any issue besides wages and benefits. Tamara Cummings, general counsel for the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council, said the measure would make law enforcement “secondclass citizens,” noting they already have some restrictions on their collective bargaining powers that no other private or public worker union is subject to. Cummings called the idea that police unions prevent bad cops from being fired “a myth” and testified that only 2 percent of discharge cases for officers are appealed to arbitration by unions. Cole told the committee that the IML supports the measure, and that giving municipalities more power over discipline and termina-
tive reform. The AFL-CIO, the largest federation of labor unions in the U.S., released a statement saying it “stands strongly behind the efforts of the Legislative Black Caucus to address social justice and comprehensive criminal justice reform, as soon as possible.” But it added, “We oppose current language in one component of the legislative package that would strip critical collective bargaining rights for union members across Illinois, including for the Black and brown communities that legislators are trying to uplift.” Q Qualified immunity In a provision called the “Police Integrity and Accountability Act,” HB163 would make police officers personally liable for lawsuits for violating the rights of a person guaranteed under the Illinois Constitution, while explicitly removing qualified immunity as a defense. Qualified immunity grants government officials and employees immunity from civil suits in the course of their duties. Law enforcement groups have claimed removing qualified immunity would leave police officers open to frivolous lawsuits. Cummings said it would “eliminate the ability to protect the majority of law enforcement officers who
are trying to do a good job.” “They will lose their homes for simple mistakes,” she said. Peter Hanna, legal adviser for the ACLU of Illinois, testified in favor of eliminating qualified immunity, saying opponents of the provision have incorrectly defined what qualified immunity actually does. According to Hanna, officers would still have legal protections, but now victims of police misconduct whose constitutional rights were violated would be able to obtain remedy from the individual officers responsible in civil court. Cole and the IML opposed the provision on the grounds it would mean “absolute liability” for officers and could lead to Illinois municipalities losing their insurance that helps pay out settlements for officer misconduct. Q Other developments Another bill backed by AG Raoul, which overhauls state certification of law enforcement, is also a part of the Black Caucus agenda and was discussed during the Judiciary Committee
hearing. Both that bill and HB163 contain language on police certification, the duty of officers to intervene, and the process for anonymous complaints against law enforcement. Lawmakers crafting the omnibus bill say they will either remove competing language from their legislation or reconcile it to match what is in the AG’s bill. The latter has support from law enforcement groups, which collaborated with Raoul, Gov. JB Prtizker’s office and other stakeholders in its development. The House Judiciary Committee will meet again Monday to further discuss the collective bargaining dispute in HB163 and a provision that grants additional rights to detainees in police custody. Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government and distributed to more than 400 newspapers statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.
Local Church Listings First Baptist Church 30 West Cross St., Winchester, IL 62694 (217) 742-3480 t fbcwinchesteril@gmail.com fbcwinchester.com t Like us on Facebook List with us 618-498-1234
Giving Up Control Pat Van DeVelde Peak Insurance Agency 16 S. Hill, 742-3316 First National Bank of Winchester 26 W. Cherry 742-3134
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV
M
uch of our lives is spent trying to control things over which we have little control. Parents, teachers and managers have the task of molding and controlling the people in their charge, and the best of them have some success at it, but the fact that many of us are just not cut out to be parents, teachers or managers makes us realize how hard it is to control others. Parents and teachers are fortunate that children are great imitators of others, and half of what counts as raising children probably amounts to nothing more than children imitating their parents, with some guidance and scaffolding provided by the parents. The folly of trying to control others is perhaps most apparent when we realize how little we are able to control our own behavior, attitudes and emotions. What makes us think we can make someone else “toe the line” when we can’t do it ourselves? Some of us have designed our lives to maximize our control.
Living alone gives you more control than living with others. Certain jobs give you more control than others. And knowing certain things, and knowing where the “levers of power” reside can give you more control than you would otherwise have. And yet we are at the mercy of a thousand random forces and a world in which we are at best a guest, and at worst, flotsam and jetsam in a stormy ocean. Give up your illusion of control, and find peace in just being here, and being here with others over whom you have little control. Trust that God has everything under control. Let go and let God. –Christopher Simon
These religious messages are published each week in the Scott County Times as a service to our churches and are sponsored by the listed business firms.
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Wednesday, January 13, 2021
Winchester, Illinois
ACTIVITIES
Horoscopes ARIES Mar 21/Apr 20 Be aware of the impact words can have, Aries. You may think what you’re saying is innocuous, but it really can do harm without intent. Be conscious of what you’re saying.
VIRGO Aug 24/Sept 22 Try not to nitpick your actions, Virgo. Once you make a decision, stand by your choice and defend it. Typically your gut and your mind do not steer you in the wrong direction.
AQUARIUS Jan 21/Feb 18 Sometimes the best things that happen to you can occur in the most unlikely of places, Aquarius. Always keep your eyes open and ready for surprises.
TAURUS Apr 21/May 21 You don’t want to disappoint people who rely on you, Taurus. But remain conscious of what you can and cannot offer other people. Find the right balance.
LIBRA Sept 23/Oct 23 You may need to put rational on the side and be a little reckless in the days ahead, Libra. This may cause some temporary disarray, but take a chance.
PISCES Feb 19/Mar 20 Don’t fret if you don’t think the same way as another group of people, Pisces. This week you will more fully develop your perspective.
GEMINI May 22/Jun 21 Spend some time alone this week to sort things out in your head before you react to a situation that has been on your mind, Gemini. Don’t let others affect your state of mind.
SCORPIO Oct 24/Nov 22 You may think you have the perfect plan laid out, Scorpio. However, double- or even triple-check all of your data. Doing so will provide reassurance.
FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS
CANCER Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, someone draws a proverbial line in the sand and challenges you to take action. This can be a conflict for you, especially if you’re not yet ready to make a move.
SAGITTARIUS Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, what you expect to happen this week may turn out to be the opposite of what actually happens. Be prepared for any scenario to come your way.
JANUARY 12 Rob Zombie, Singer (56)
LEO Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, a steep climb is before you,but with patience and perseverance, you will eventually reach the summit. Once you do, you will enjoy an extreme sense of accomplishment.
CAPRICORN Dec 22/Jan 20 Emotions may cloud your judgment, Capricorn. Try to look at a situation clearly so you can weigh-in in an impartial manner so you have no regrets.
Coloring
JANUARY 10 Rod Stewart, Singer (76) JANUARY 11 Mary J. Blige, Singer (50)
JANUARY 13 Patrick Dempsey, Actor (55) JANUARY 14 LL Cool J, Rapper (53) JANUARY 15 Drew Brees, Athlete (42) JANUARY 16 Lin-Manuel Miranda, Actor (41)
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2021
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PITTSFIELD MACHINE in Payson IL is looking for production workers. Must be dependable, and be able to read a tape measure. Apply in person at 609 North Fulton Payson Il 2.3.21 MUST LOVE dogs. Unique opportunity to work in caring for show dogs. Approximately 20 hrs. per week. Must be avail400D - FOR RENT able weekday mornings and PIKE COUNTY weekends. Duties include 2 AND 3 bedroom mobile homes cleaning, feeding, bathing, etc. for rent in Griggsville. Call for Located near Jerseyville-Grafavailability. No pets. 217-833- ton area. Please call 618-4987069. 1.13.21 2107. Lyndle Ellis. 3.31.21
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900A-NO TRESPASSING CALHOUN COUNTY
900B-NO TRESPASSING GREENE COUNTY
NO TRESPASSING on William and Geraldine Schleeper Farms. 6.9.21 NO TRESPASSING or hunting allowed on the land in Batchtown owned by Steve and Cindy Meszaros. Violators will be prosecuted. 9.8.21 NO TRESPASSING or hunting allowed on the land in Batchtown owned by Marcy Klockenkemper, Judy Lamer, Jeremy Russell, Bonnie Stepanek and Cindy Mezzos. Violators will be prosecuted. 9.8.21 NO TRESPASSING of any kind is permitted on the Kim Kamp and Joe Stelbrink farm located on Summit Grove Rd., Kampsville. Violators will be prosecuted. 8.26.21
NO TRESPASSING, fishing or hunting of any kind on the Buckhorn Farm located in sections 14, 15, 22 and 23 of Woodville Township. Violaters will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. 2.5.21 900D-NO TRESPASSING PIKE COUNTY
MAYFAIR FARMS ground North of Highway 10 East of Nebo is private property. Trespassing is forbidden. Violators will be prosecuted. 1.5.22 NO TRESPASSING and no hunting of any kind, is permitted on any property owned by Double Creek Farms. Can be prosecuted. 4.7.21
FIND IT IN THE CLASSIFIEDS
This Day In History Jan 13
- Pope Honorius II granted a papal sanction to the military order known as the Knights Templar. He declared it to be an army of God.
- Henry Ford patented the plastic automobile referred to as the “Soybean Car.� The car was 30% lighter than the average car.
- NBC agreed to pay almost $13 million for each episode of the TV show E.R. It was the highest amount ever paid for a TV show.
- U.S. President Washington approved a measure adding two stars and two stripes to the American flag, following the admission of Vermont and Kentucky to the union.
- Elizabeth Montgomery’s character, Samantha, on “Bewitched,� had a baby. The baby’s name was Tabitha.
- ABC and ESPN negotiated to keep “Monday Night Football� for $1.15 billion a season.
- Robert C. Weaver became the first black Cabinet member when he was appointed Secretary of Housing and Urban Development by U.S. President Johnson.
- One of the 110 missing episodes of the British TV show “Doctor Who� was found in New Zealand.
- Anthony Faas of Philadelphia, PA, was granted the first U.S. patent for the accordion. He made improvements to the keyboard and enhanced the sound. - Britain’s Independent Labor Party, a precursor to the current Labor Party, met for the first time. - Emile Zola’s “J’accuse� was published in Paris. - In Austria-Hungary, Emperor Franz Joseph decreed that German would be the language of the imperial army to combat Czech nationalism. - Hugh Gernsback, of the Electro Importing Company, advertised radio receivers for sale for the price of just $7.50 in “Scientific American� magazine. - Ernst F. W. Alexanderson gave the first public demonstration of television.
- Wayne Gretzky extended his NHL consecutive scoring streak to 45 games. - The NCAA adopted the controversial “Proposal 48,� which set standards for Division 1 freshman eligibility. - “The Wall Street Journal� printed a real picture on its front page. The journal had not done this in nearly 10 years. The story was about artist, O. Winston Link and featured one of his works.
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- Michael Jordan (Chicago Bulls) announced his retirement from the NBA. - The exhibit “In the Spirit of Martin: The Living Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.� opened at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. More than 100 artists supplied the collection of 120 works of art. - Japan and Singapore signed a free trade pact that would remove tariffs on almost all goods traded between the two countries.
- L. Douglas Wilder of Virginia, the nation’s first elected black governor, took the oath of office in Richmond.
- U.S. President George W. Bush fainted after choking on a pretzel.
- Japan apologized for forcing tens of thousands of Korean women to serve as sex slaves for Japanese soldiers during World War II.
- Ethiopian military forces began pulling out of Somalia, where they had tried to maintain order for nearly two years.
- Debbie Reynolds received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
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Wednesday, January 13, 2021
Winchester, Illinois
SPECIAL
FEATURE
Wednesday, January 13, 2021
Winchester, Illinois
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Wednesday, January 13, 2021
Winchester, Illinois
Youth Wingshooting Clinics to be at Pere Marquette Young hunters between the ages of 10 and 17 can apply now for the Youth Wingshooting Clinics and Pheasant Hunts scheduled for Saturday, March 6, 2021 at Pere Marquette State Park in Jersey County and Saturday, March 20, 2021 at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex (WSRC) in Randolph County. All participants in the clinics and hunts will be required to follow all health and safety guidelines issued by the Illinois Department of Public Health, including wearing masks when social distancing cannot be achieved, and carrying and using hand sanitizer. The Pere Marquette and WSRC youth clinics and hunts have been popular late winter/early spring additions to the IDNR Wingshooting and Youth Pheasant Hunting programs. Most youth pheasant hunting opportunities are offered at IDNR Controlled Pheasant Hunting Areas in the fall or early winter. During the events March 6 and March 20, young hunters will participate in wingshooting clinics during the morn-
ing. National Sporting Clays Association/IDNR Certified Wingshooting Instructors will teach the wingshooting clinics. Young hunters will practice safe shotgun handling and operation while advancing their wingshooting skills. The pheasant hunts will take place during the afternoon. Young hunters must have successfully completed an approved Hunter Safety Course and have a valid hunting license to participate. Co-sponsors will assist the IDNR, Pere Marquette State Park and the WSRC with the wingshooting clinics and pheasant hunts. Co-sponsors provide funding for the clay targets, target and field shot shells and lunch for the young hunters. Through the assistance of some of their members, co-sponsors also provide bird dogs, bird dog handlers and hunting guides. At Pere Marquette, the 2020 co-sponsors included Alwerdt’s Pheasant Farm, Altamont, Illinois; Bollini Taxidermy; Channel-Seedsmanship At Work; Clemens Insurance; Ducks Unlimited Jersey County Chapter; Friends of Pere
Marquette State Park; Fur Takers of America; Green Roof Kennels; the Illinois Federation of Outdoor Resources; the Illinois National Shoot-To-Retrieve Field Trial Association; Migratory Waterfowl Hunters; the National Wild Turkey Federation - Midwest Gobblers Chapter; Olin/Winchester; Pfister Seed Company; Quail Forever – Illinois Pioneer Chapter; Todd Parish - Attorney At Law; and, Ward Financial Services and Whitworth-Horn-Goetten Insurance Agency. At the WSRC, co-sponsors have included Friends of the WSRC; National Wild Turkey Federation – Randolph County Cutters and Strutters Chapter and the Okaw Valley Beagle Club. Permits for the Pere Marquette and WSRC Youth Wingshooting Clinics/ Pheasant Hunts are available through the IDNR Controlled Pheasant Hunting Internet Reservation System. Hunters need to review the “Illinois Youth Pheasant Hunt Information” and the “Illinois Youth Pheasant Hunt Regulations” on the IDNR controlled pheasant hunting webpage prior to applying.
good GROWING Keeping you growing with good ideas s University of Illinois Extension
Positive change can make difference in community
As I type out this article, I can’t stop thinking about my drive to work today. After days of clouds, ice, snow, and more clouds, the sun shone brightly as it crept over the eastern horizon. As sunbeams edged further across the landscape the trees became illuminated with a rainbow of light. It was spectacular! Yet, as beautiful a sight to behold, a thought crept into my head, “Would I still find this beautiful if ice adorned trees every day?” Perhaps the true feeling of beauty is the swiftness of it all. Just yesterday these trees were stark white silhouettes in a cloud heavy sky. Today only mere moments of light refracting within the canopy of trees will soon lead to the ice melting as temperatures climb with the rising sun. As I write, and certainly by the time you read this, the tree limbs will have shed their icy burden. The landscape will have changed. Change can be difficult. Heart-breaking. Frightening. It can be joyful. It can pass by unforeseen. Change can bring beauty. Farmers depend on change. Even if that change comes with an unpredictable nature. Gardeners must thrive in change. Longing for summer flowers. Wishing for cooler temperatures. Cursing the rise of a pest. Celebrating the return of spring.
2020 brought a changed world and had me thinking a lot about life and purpose. My work at the University of Illinois Extension is incredibly fulfilling. Every day I get a chance to help someone by providing information so they can navigate their change. It can be as simple as talking about controlling weeds in a lawn or conversely encouraging more wildflowers in a lawn. It can be big too. Such as working with others to figure out how can we get recycling to rural residents. Much of what I do at work focuses on positive change. But I cannot do it alone. I am fortunate to work with skilled and ambitious colleagues. But our efforts only go so far. It is within volunteers that so much of our reach depends. Whether it is growing food for pantries or teaching to instill the love of nature in our youngest generation, our volunteers play a pivotal role to help Extension enact positive change. We would love for you to be part of our volunteer groups of Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists. The volunteer group name of “Master” can be misleading. These are not groups of know-it-all experts of gardening and conservation. It is a group of people curious about the natural world with a drive to spread useful research-based
knowledge to improve our communities. If you want to help others, please consider calling your local Extension office about how to get involved. I’ll be clear, I’m not sure how volunteering will look for 2021. What will we be able to do? But rest assured, even in 2020, we didn’t stop, and we will keep working to enact positive change. As we go forward, we will figure it out together. My mind wanders deeper into thought during my drive to work. Life is full of change and we only have our lifetimes to experience that change. Living in the moment is an important part of that journey. I am grateful to watch the sunrise through an ice-laden tree canopy, knowing that same sunlight will evaporate the very beauty it creates. Yes, there is an inevitable loss. But that was one heck of a car ride. Remember to cherish your moments of the journey. The fleeting nature of life gives us purpose. If change is unstoppable, then perhaps the goal is for us to work to make it a positive change. Good Growing Tip of the Week: One way to help us remember the beauty, fun, and lessons we experience through life is to keep a journal. Make time at the beginning or end of the day or week to pen the events in words or sketch.
CLASSIFIEDS/PUBLIC NOTICE/NEWS PUBLIC NOTICE The Scott County Board of Review process is in effect until February 6, 2021. Assessment inquiries should be made in WRITING ONLY to the SECRETARY, SCOTT COUNTY BOARD OF REVIEW, COURTHOUSE, WINCHESTER, IL 62694. Inquiries should be received no later than February 6, 2021 or 30 days after receipt of an assessment notice, whichever date is later. SCOTT COUNTY BOARD OF REVIEW Scott County Courthouse Winchester, IL 62694 1.06, 1.13, 1.20
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