SCT 2.10.21 by Campbell Publications

Scott County Times

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021

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Times NEWS

Scott County busy cleaning up after winter storm. See page A2 Winchester buys new fire truck. See page A2 QMG launches “Kindness Crew”. See page A3

Benton & Associates names new principals. See page A8

OPINION Maybe we need to rethink the JFK assassination. See page A7

WEEKEND WEATHER FRIDAY, FEB. 12

14 High

Low

SATURDAY, FEB. 13

High

-9 Low

SUNDAY, FEB. 14

4 -10

High

Low

WINCHESTER, IL 62694

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VOLUME NO. 154 NUMBER 6

Finish line in sight for library construction grant By DAVID CAMPHOUSE Scott County Times A long planned expansion of the Winchester Public Library appears close to becoming a reality. According to Winchester City Attorney John Paul Coonrod, the total project budget for the library addition amounts to $310,250. A total of $188,250 of the project is anticipated from a grant provided by the Secretary of State’s Illinois State Library Public Library Construction Grant program. The additional $122,200 of the project is made up by fundraising efforts of the library and a $50,000 loan from the city. “The library has been saving money for a decade,” Coonrod said. The expansion, Coonrod said, has long been needed by the library in order to better deliver programming to Winchester’s young people. “It will be just under a 20 percent expansion of the current footprint of the building,” Coonrod said. “The space will be used as a youth activity space and for books. The library is really pretty active, with a lot of people helping. They’re busy and very focused on the children.” According to Coonrod, the current section of the library devoted to children’s and youth activities is undersized for the amount of attendees that typically take part in library activities. “In the space they have for kids’ programs, you’ll get 25 to 30 kids in there and they’re packed to the gills,” Coonrod said. Winchester Public Library Director Darlene Smith agreed with Coonrod that the addition will allow the library to better serve the area’s young people. “We’ll be able to offer more for our junior high and high school age users,” Smith said. “We’ll have more space and more books.” Coonrod anticipates receiving finalized architectural and engineering plans from the city’s engineering firm Benton & Associates by the middle of March. Those plans will then be submitted to the state for approval of the project. “It’s submitted to the state architect for final approval,” Coonrod said. “It’s a

Submitted graphic

Architectural plans provided by Winchester’s engineering firm Benton & Associates show a substantial addition to be constructed on the west side of the Winchester Public Library building. The planned addition is depicted in the upper most portion of the drawing, with tables and seating shown in the area. The primary reason for the expansion is to house additional youth programming and shelving for youth reading materials.

Carnegie Library, so there is some architectural and historical value. We want everything to look up to snuff.” Smith said members of the library board met with Greg Hillis of Benton & Associates Monday, Feb. 8 to approve modified architectural drawing of the library addition. “When Greg Hillis submits the final plans of the construction grant to the state in hopefully a couple weeks, the state will okay the plans or not,” Smith said. “Once the state approves it, we will sign the agreement and seal the deal.” After years of planning and fundraising, Smith said that she and the library board are eager for the construction project to finally kick off.

David Camphouse/Scott County Times

Winchester Public Library Director Darlene Smith lays out children’s reading material at the library. A long planned expansion of the library will increase the amount of space at the library by nearly 20 percent. Final approval of a library construction grant application from the Secretary of State’s office is anticipated this spring, after which construction at the library will commence.

“We’re getting kind of excited,” Smith said. “It’s looking like it’s going to happen this time.” Once approval is received from the state, the library plans to move quickly into the construction phase of the project. “The plans are to start construction by June if we can,” Smith said. Every effort, according to Smith, will be made to keep the library open during construction, however certain phases of the project may cause the library to close

for a short amount of time. “There will probably be a period of time when we may have to shut down for a very short time,” Smith said. In addition to the library construction grant, Winchester Public Library has received a $4,000 “Back to the Book” grant from the Illinois State Library. Smith indicated that much of that grant award would be used to expand the library’s collection of children’s and young adult books.

COVID vaccines delayed by state, testing cancelled because of extreme cold By DAVID CAMPHOUSE Scott County Times The latest COVID-19 data released by the Scott County Health Department (SCHD) showed the same number of active COVID cases in the county compared to the previous week. In addition, the number of residents quarantined because of contact with someone with COVID-19 has declined. SCHD RN Meghan VanDeVelde did say that the numbers may be skewed because of a decrease in testing in the county. Testing has been reduced because of the labor intensive nature of delivering COVID-19 vaccinations. Weather has also impacted the department’s ability to carry out drive-up testing. “This week we’ve seen a decrease in testing numbers, however we are still only testing Monday and Fridays,

except this week we aren’t testing at all due to the temperatures,” VanDeVelde said. “We had the same amount of new cases in the last week as the week before as well as the same number of active cases so not much fluctuation in that area. We have had less contacts in quarantine over the past week too so that’s a positive. No new big jumps in cases is a win for us as far as I’m concerned.” SCHD, VanDeVelde reported, was notified by the state of a delay of Moderna COVID-19 vaccine being shipped to Scott County. In addition, VanDeVelde said that SCHD was unable to receive the Pfizer vaccine because of the extreme cold conditions in which it must be stored. “We were notified from the state this past week that they have had a delay in Moderna COVID-19 vaccine deliveries due to less availabil-

WINTER

ity, so that has unfortunately affected us in terms of not being able to move forward with vaccinating more large numbers of the population as we have hoped,” VanDeVelde said. “We do not have the ability to store the Pfizer vaccine at our facility due to the temperature it must be stored in. We are still expected to receive our shipments of second doses, so for those who have gotten their first dose, they will still be able to receive their final dose. We are reaching out to the state to hopefully be able to receive more doses in our shipments to hopefully be able to get a large number of people vaccinated closer together.” Because of the delay from the state, VanDeVelde said SCHD was attempting to find other sources of the vaccine available to Scott County residents. (See, DELAYED, A2)

69 tests performed from Feb. 1 – Feb. 5 16 new cases since Feb. 1 Submitted graphic

The latest COVID-19 data released by the Scott County Health Department (SCHD) showed the same number of active COVID cases in the county compared to the previous week. In addition, the number of residents quarantined because of contact with someone with COVID-19 has declined. No additional deaths or hospitalizations have been reported. SCHD reports COVID vaccine has been delayed from the state, and COVID testing has been interrupted this week by the extreme cold temperatures.

David Camphouse/ Scott County Times

WEATHER CREATES TREACHEROUS TRAVEL

Winter weather over the weekend and Monday created dangerous conditions on Scott County roads. Scott County first responders were called to two incidents along Interstate 72 – one in the median just east of the Twin Eagles bridge and one on the bridge in the westbound lanes. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) encourages residents to stay off of roads during winter weather events whenever possible. IEMA reports that snowy or icecoated roads and reduced visibility due to fog or blowing snow results in thousands of motor vehicle crashes every year in Illinois. According to IEMA many crashes can be eliminated by slowing down on city streets, rural roads and highways. Recent traffic studies, IEMA reports, have shown that many times, minor accumulations of snow or ice on roads can be just as dangerous for motorists as major snowstorms. Motorists, if they must travel during a storm, are directed by IEMA to check road conditions before leaving their home by visiting www.GettingAroundIllinois.com. In addition, as more police, fire and ambulance crews respond to winter-related accidents, motorists are reminded to observe “Scott’s Law,” which requires drivers to yield to first responders on roadways. Scott’s Law was named after Lieutenant Scott Gillen of the Chicago Fire Department who was struck and killed by an intoxicated driver while assisting at a crash on the Dan Ryan Expressway in Cook County.

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

NEWS

Winchester, Illinois

Scott County busy cleaning up after winter storm

David Camphouse/Scott County Times

Illinois Department of Transportation worker Adam Woods walks from his plow truck toward Winchester Bowl for a much deserved lunch break during his 12-hour shift. After lunch, Woods was headed to the Hillview blacktop and Alsey to continue clearing Scott County roadways.

David Camphouse/Scott County Times

Sherry Robinson clears the sidewalk in front of the Pitt Stop Pizzeria and Restaurant on the south side of Winchester’s square Monday, Feb. 8.

David Camphouse/Scott County Times

Phil Pratt shovels snow in front of the Winchester Public Library Sunday, Feb. 7. Pratt also works as library custodian, cleaning the facility once a week.

Delayed (Continued from A1) “We are also working diligently to explore other options in case it is an extended delay before we are able to get more vaccine in,” VanDeVelde said. “Walgreens pharmacy and HyVee in Springfield have also had partnerships and are able to provide vaccine, which is great because it offers another outlet for folks to potentially get their vaccine at a quicker rate than we can offer it. They have registrations available on their website as well as the ability to call the pharmacy and get further instructions and information. We have been encouraging folks to reach out to these other organizations due to the chance that they will be able to get their vaccine quicker with them than we can provide it for them.” In the event Scott County residents currently signed up with SCHD to receive the vaccine receive the vaccine elsewhere, residents are asked to notify SCHD, so their spot on the waiting list can be given to another resident. “We just ask that if people are on our list and they get it elsewhere that they call and let us know so we can keep our list as updated as possible,” VanDeVelde said. VanDeVelde expressed regret about the state delays, but assured residents that the department is still working through their vaccine waiting list and communicating with the public as the department receives information from the state.

“We are still taking names for our list, but are just being upfront and honest with people as they call in telling them about the delays we are seeing,” VanDeVelde said. “It’s unfortunate, but as we get vaccine in and available we are still going to call and get people scheduled. We are not blind to the fact we are seeing the demand for the vaccine is high and at this point we are not able to meet that demand due to the availability and current amount of doses we are getting. We’re frustrated with this too, but we are exploring all possibilities to see this changed and to do what we can to meet the demand we’re seeing.” On a more positive note, VanDeVelde said that the state’s relaxation of mitigation efforts in the county seemed to be having a positive impact on morale in the community. VanDeVelde credited the schools and Scott County Nursing Center (SCNC) for continuing to safeguard against the spread of the pandemic despite the relaxations from the state. “There is excitement as school activities are able to resume, and I feel that’s brought some life back to the community and it’s great to see,” VanDeVelde said. “The school has been working hard to keep kids safe and to make these events possible. The nursing home continues do a commendable job in providing excellent care and are taking all precautions to keep staff and residents safe.”

Kacie McCleery drives an ATV down South Hill Street on her way to plow a driveway Monday, Feb. 8. McCleery is a sophomore in John Wood Community College’s agriculture education program. McCleery plans to student teach at Pittsfield High School and transfer to the University of Illinois or Illinois State University to complete her fouryear degree in agricultural education.

Winchester buys new fire truck By DAVID CAMPHOUSE Scott County Time Winchester’s city council, at its Wednesday, Feb. 3, monthly meeting, approved the purchase of a 2015 Chevrolet 2500 four wheel drive flatbed to be used by the city fire department. The truck will replace the department’s “brush truck,” which is over 35 years old. The new truck will cost approximately $28,000, and a new bed for the truck will cost $3,650. The truck is being purchased from Marshall Chevrolet. According to Fire Chief Freddie Andrews, the truck is very important to the department and is the first truck on the scene of any fire to which the department responds. The rapid response “brush truck” is equipped with a 300-gallon tank. Also approved were repairs to repair lights on a fire truck. The work, performed by Marshall Chevrolet, cost $1,007.40 R.J. Paslay gave an update to the council on progress being made on the construction of a playground in memory of the Paslay’s daughter. Paslay said that the playground would include playground equipment suitable for children aged 2 to 12. In addition, funds would be used to install benches, landscaping and fencing.

Timothy F. Campbell President “Were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.” -- Thomas Jefferson, 1787

Currently, the Paslays have over $15,000 in a fund for the playground. Any excess funds raised for the project would be used for a memorial marker and to assist the Winchester Civic Group’s Parks Committee. Paslay anticipates construction will be complete no later than May, and a dedication will take place the first weekend of June. The council discussed the development of a subdivision at the site of the recently closed Buck and Jo’s restaurant, known as the Burk Subdivision. The current parcel would be split into three parcels – a residential property, the restaurant and a third commercial property. All three properties would have frontage on Ill. Route 106 and no new streets would be needed. The developer was told he would need to obtain the identity of all neighboring property owners and provide a more detailed survey map. The council will meet in a special meeting Thursday, Feb. 11 to review the new map in order for the development to continue in a timely manner. The council voted to reimburse Sandy Creek Construction in the amount $5,200 for materials purchased for the renovation of a cityowned shed. The city council approved paying $12,165 to install a new gas line to a grain dryer owned by Bob Brown. The

gas committee recommended paying the installation costs, as the grain drying business’s gas use would pay for the installation costs in two or three years. Expenses not to exceed $1,000 were approved for construction of two bookshelves and decorative items for the city hall lobby in preparation for an eventual open house. Jacksonville’s Roland Construction has been notified of the award of their bid to perform the city/county emergency water interconnect. The project will progress dependent on weather conditions. The city continues to work with residents with delinquent gas and water accounts. Residents are encouraged to contact City Hall to arrange a payment plan. In addition, the city is in the process of contacting landlords to let them know if tenants are behind on payments. At the meeting, McIntire implored residents to get vaccinated against COVID-19 when vaccines become available. “The only way out of this pandemic is through herd immunity,” McIntire said. “Getting the vaccine can help us get rid of the virus before it mutates. Get your shots. Do it for yourself, your family and your neighbors. Maybe we can get over this and get the economy going.”

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United States Postal Service Letter Carrier Steve Angenendt trudges through the snow along Winchester’s North Main Street Monday, Feb. 8 making sure that the mail goes through in spite of the winter weather rolling through Scott County.

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president. Periodicals postage paid at Winchester, IL. The Scott County Times welcomes letters to the editor. They must be signed and include your address. Letters without an individual’s signature will not be published. The Scott County Times will accept only letters to the editor that are written in good taste. Libelous remarks will not be published. The editor reserves the right to make the deci-

Mail: P.O. Box 64 Winchester, IL 62694 sion of acceptance. Letters may be edited for clarity, brevity and fairness. Opinions expressed in columns are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper.

2021

OBITUARIES/LOCALS/NEWS

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

WINCHESTER BY IRENE TREECE 217-371-1386

Hello Scott County, We have had some good days and some lousy days with our weather so far. Perhaps it will be done after this week. I remember a time when our winter was in December and January not February. It seems to keep moving toward summer. Maybe our summer will be better this year, and we will not have to stay home and count cracks in our ceiling for entertainment. It’s certain we do not have much on TV worth watching unless one is a sports fan. Not everyone is. Prayers for the families that have to bury a loved

one in this weather. It is sad anytime, but the bitter cold makes it a lot worse. Looks like the COVID vaccine is getting more plentiful. I hear more and more people say they took theirs. Some of the recipients have done fine where others are getting high fevers and feeling really bad. Sounds like the same results as were reported with the flu shot. Just a reminder to everyone the Winchester Bowling Alley serves a good breakfast and has a nice menu to choose from as well as a daily special for lunch. The Pitt Stop has good

pizza so give them a call and order one. Some of the shops on the square are open. The Square Trade has a large variety of beautiful items to choose from be sure to check it out as well. The irony of aging: Just when you start to get it together mentally your body starts to fall apart. Last Week’s Trivia — 1956 Can you name four of the 13 English colonies that formed the United States?

ALSEY BY PEGGY STURGEON CLEMONS, 742-3822

Hello from Alsey, I’m ready for some sunshine. Cold weather would be better than this. Remember our men and women in uniform and the leaders of our country in your prayers. Others on our prayer list include: Mancel Day, Edna Layne, Elona Redmon, Rod and Connie Sturgen, Brad Fundel, Judy Connon, Jay Penell, Kay Parker and Joyce Jones. Happy Birthday to Jessie Fearneyhough, on Feb. 2, Bob Havens and Crystel Burby on Feb. 3, Cody DeGroat on Feb. 4, Henry

Carringer, Jim George, Butch Baester, Amber Pohlman and John Simmons on Feb. 5, Don Savage, David Gregary, Corey Ingram and Jaxon Whicker on Feb. 6, Mike Sanders, Sonie Hoover and Peter Peak on Feb. 7, Cole Gourley on Feb. 8, Barb Moore, Dillion Daniels, Becky Wells Long and Brad Fundel on Feb. 9, Steve Nicholson on Feb 10, Jeff Haney, Kevin Alred and Amy Scoggins on Feb. 12, Don Franklin on Feb. 13, Becky Wade and Samuel Baester on Feb. 14, Bruce Jefferson, Mary

McGee, S t a c i e Evans and John Ford on Feb. 15, Roberta Ryder on Feb. 16, D o n n i e Jones on Feb. 17. Happy Anniversary to Don and Jayce Jones on Feb. 10, Sam and Carla Wallase on Feb. 14. That’s all folks, have a good day week and be a friend to someone in need this week.

OBITUARIES

Charles William Butzback Charles William Butzback, age 83, passed away on Tuesday, December 15, 2020 at Richmond Heights Hospital. Charlie was born in Jacksonville, Illinois on May 31, 1937 and grew up in Winchester, Illinois. Near the end of 10 years serving his country in the United States Air Force, Charlie married Karen and they later moved to Wickliffe, Ohio, where they raised their family and lived ever since. Charlie retired from Caterpillar as a production foreman and spent his retirement years riding motorcycles,

taking meticulous care of his yard, volunteering his time and talents to his church, and supporting his family and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents Edna and Jess and his sister Mary Don. He is survived by his loving wife of more than 58 years Karen, sons Michael and Gary (Katie) and granddaughter Margaux. Because of the pandemic, there will be no funeral or calling hours. Sometime in 2021, a memorial service will take place in his honor. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in

Winchester, sisters Pat VanBooven of Manchester, Darlene Dobey of Jacksonville, step siblings Steve Bishop of White Hall and Connie Lovelace of Exeter. Also surviving are seven grandchildren Jake, Nina, Saylor, Samantha, Keegan, Whitney, Kelsey, two great grandchildren Olivia and Waylon, and her beloved dog Lupa. Carol loved all animals and collecting penguin figurines. She loved her flower garden, reading and working puzzle books. She was preceded in death by her husband and mother and step father Mary and Earl Bishop. Private family services will be held. Memorial contribu-

Ferries integral part of Scott County history In the early days of Scott County, the best way to cross the Illinois River was by ferry. Phillips Ferry carried passengers and freight across the Illinois at Valley City. The ferry carried settlers and allowed goods to be transported both east and west. According to local legend, Jean Baptiste Thibault (Teboe), a French-Canadian trader, operated the first ferry over the river about 1818. In 1822, Garrett Van Deusen was granted a license to operate the ferry by the county commissioners. Van Deusen charged the following ferry rates: one person, 12.5 cents; one horse, 12.5 cents; cattle per head, 12.5 cents; every calf, hog, sheep or goat, 3 cents; every four-wheeled carriage, 50 cents and every two-wheeled vehicle, 37.5 cents. In 1824, Nimrod Philips became the next owner. When Nimrod died in 1831, the ferry was willed to his son, Andrew Philips. Even though the Philips family owned the ferry for only 12 years, the ferry continued to be known as the Philips Ferry. On June 2, 1834, 200 members of the Church of Latter Day Saints, led by Joseph Smith, crossed the Illinois River at Philips Ferry. They were traveling from Kirkland, Ohio, to Jackson County, Mo. This group, called Zion’s Camp, spent the night camped on the west side of the river. The next day they continued on the ferry road to Atlas where

he enlisted in the Civil War. Listed in the 1863 Draft Registration, Wesley Wade was a ferryman. In the 1870 Census, Wesley Wade was living in the William Windsor household. Both Wesley and William were listed as ferrymen in Flint Township. Sylvester Cook and John Biddle were ferrymen in the 1880 Census. W.W. (Bill) Cook, the son of Sylvester, ran the ferry from 1888-1938. During the years of 1912-1930, the Philips Ferry was the crossing point on the Illinois River for the Pike’s Peak Ocean to Ocean Highway. This road was an early transcontinental highway from New York to California. The highway bridge at Florence opened on March 19, 1930. As a result, traffic on Philips Ferry was greatly reduced. The days of the ferry were nearly over. Philips Ferry had been carrying travelers and goods across the Illinois river for nearly 120 years when it ceased operations in 1938.

they spent the night. In 1836, the ferry was sold to Charles C. Perry who operated a store and inn near the ferry. Perry saw a potential growth spurt in the area. Perry, along with other investors, platted a new town called Velasco and tried to sell lots. At the same time, these investors also platted a town just across the river in Scott County which they named Brussels. Both endeavors failed. The next owner of Philips Ferry was J. William Russell, who purchased the property in 1847. Later owners were Joshua Stanford, Ebenezer May, William Turnbull and Zachariah Biddle. The last operator of the Philips Ferry was W.W. (Bill) Cook. According to census and other records, several local men were “ferrymen.” John W. Windsor was a ferryman in the 1860 Census. As stated in his obituary, Isaac Stewart Lightle was a ferryman for two years, before

QMG launches “Kindness Crew” Charlie’s church, Wickliffe Presbyterian Church, PO Box 436, Wickliffe, Ohio 44092, or to a charity of your choice.

Carol A. Newton Carol A. Newton, 71, of Manchester and formerly of Hillview passed away Sunday February 7, 2021 in Hardin. She was born January 4, 1950 in Winchester the daughter of Gerald and Mary Reynolds Dobey. She married Thomas Michael Newton September 19, 1969 at the Hillview Baptist Church. Carol attended primary school in Pittsfield and graduated from Winchester High School. She attended Business College in Jacksonville. She worked many years at the sewing factory in Roodhouse and then in Alsey. Surviving are her children Karen Daniels (Tony) of White Hall, Kathy Martin (Chad) of Hardin and Stanley Newton (Mandy) of

Winchester, Illinois

tions can be made to Mandy’s Whine & Bark in White Hall or the Scott County Dog Rescue. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.airsmanhires.com The Coonrod Funeral Home in Winchester is in charge of the arrangements.

A little bit of kindness goes a long way. During these times, small acts of kindness have made a big impact on communities across the country. Making a difference locally is what Quincy Medical Group (QMG) hopes to do with the newly formed “QMG Kindness Crew.” Staff in the QMG Community Relations department and the QMG Foundation identify areas of need in the local communities served by QMG. Each month, a new need is determined and employees can join the Kindness Crew to help support that month’s efforts. The first act of the QMG Kindness Crew was completed in January. Employees made a total of 71 fleece-tie blankets that were donated to the Salvation Army Shelter and Sleep in Heavenly Peace. “It’s important for QMG to be involved in these acts of kindness to help people not because of who they are,

or what they do in return, but because of who we are at QMG,” QMG Community Relations Specialist Morgan Parker said. “Being involved enhances the quality of life for both the employee and the recipient.” QMG Director of Integrative Health Services Kristie Kemner-Schoen said the QMG Kindness Crew is one aspect of QMG’s overall wellness program for employees, which includes five pillars of health. Along with acts of kindness, the other pillars include physical, nutrition, self- care, and mental. “QMG employees have always demonstrated a strong display of caring

for one another by actively showing acts of support and kindness through times of success, hardship, or just because,” Kemner-Schoen said. “With this in mind, we decided to implement acts of kindness as one our pillars of the 2021 Wellness Program to better support a holistic approach to well- being in the workplace. This unique opportunity to collaborate with the QMG Foundation is just another way for our compassionate and supportive employees to extend and pour their love into the community.” For more information on QMG and the QMG Foundation, visit quincymedgroup. com.

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

Kay Frances Knapp Parker Kay Frances Knapp Parker, 77, of Winchester passed away early Sunday morning February 7, 2021 in Winchester. She was born March 6, 1943 in Jacksonville the daughter of the late Chester Edward and Adele Marie Morton Knapp. She married Lon J. Parker. Kay was a graduate of Winchester High School. She attended Western Illinois University and then graduated from Flamingo Beauty School. She worked for several years as a beautician, and then at the Wells Center in Jacksonville. She retired from Food Co in Jacksonville as Seafood Dept. Manager. She was a member of the Winchester Jr. Women’s Club, Winchester First Christian Church, and Scott County Young Republicans. She was very

active with many church projects; she enjoyed reading, watching old movies, working in her yard, cooking and an occasional trip to the gambling boat. She loved auctions, antiques, and the many snowmobile adventures with others from Winchester. Her greatest joy was being with her family, especially her grandchildren. Surviving is her son Chris Parker of Glasgow, her grandchildren Cole Parker of Glasgow, Chaney Parker of Glasgow and Hollie Carter (Matt) of Sheridan, WY, two great grandchildren Arianna and Mason. Also surviving is her cousin Mike Seastedt and a niece Teresa Knapp Rust. Preceding her in death were her parents, brothers William Knapp, James Knapp and her daughter in

A Gentle Response

law Teri Parker. A funeral service will be held at 1 pm Friday February 12, 2021 at the Coonrod Funeral Home in Winchester. Burial will be in Winchester City Cemetery. Friends may call from 10 am until the time of the service Friday at the funeral home. Memorials can be made to the Winchester EMS or Winchester First Christian Church.

Pat Van DeVelde Peak Insurance Agency 16 S. Hill, 742-3316 First National Bank of Winchester 26 W. Cherry 742-3134

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15:1 NIV

t is only natural to answer harshly when someone starts the conversation harshly. Parents often start conversations with their children by yelling at them or asking questions in an accusatory tone, and it is no wonder that their children then take a defensive posture. We do this with our partners, our roommates, and our workmates, and we see it all too often in politics. If strife and division are what we are trying to achieve, the harsh word and the harsh response is a sure way to get it, but if we’re looking for love and unity, we should consider the gentle answer. Admittedly it can be extremely difficult to do this. When someone starts a conversation by yelling at

us, or accusing us of something we didn’t do, the natural response is to yell back and accuse the other person of not knowing what they are talking about. But it is better to take a few seconds to consider what the gentle response should be. Sometimes the gentle response is simply to answer truthfully but softly and suggest that the problem can be worked out if we talk about it. Criticism is never easy to take, and however gently it is given, the recipient is likely to feel defensive, but defensiveness need not lead to strife and harsh words. –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.

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Winchester, Illinois

ACTIVITES

Horoscopes ARIES Mar 21/Apr 20 Aries, an open discussion with a loved one yields positive results. Take what is said to heart and work on strengthening this relationship even further going forward.

VIRGO Aug 24/Sept 22 Spiritual endeavors may take up much of your time this week, Virgo. Surround yourself with other spiritual people or examine your faith more deeply on your own.

TAURUS Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, reassess your finances before making a big financial commitment. Start adding things up and comparing expenses to income before signing on any dotted lines.

LIBRA Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, a change of scenery can be just what you need. A day trip to enjoy the great outdoors can prove refreshing and provide some new perspective.

GEMINI May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, some time off spent entirely with family and friends is just what the doctor ordered. Cherish this time and appreciate the opportunity to enjoy it with those you love.

SCORPIO Oct 24/Nov 22 Scorpio, a new person in your life proves invigorating. Foster this relationship and be grateful for the opportunity to invite a new person into your life.

CANCER Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, some time alone may be necessary to figure out a problem. Once you can get free of distractions, the solution will present itself rather quickly.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, a new hobby piques your interest. Introduce others to this activity and enjoy pursuing this newfound passion with someone you care about.

LEO Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, now is the time to begin planning an important project. Your mind is clear and you have the time, so embrace your creative side as you begin to hash things out.

CAPRICORN Dec 22/Jan 20 It is alright if it seems like you’re a beat behind everyone else this week, Capricorn. You will catch up soon enough and others are more than capable of picking up the slack.

AQUARIUS Jan 21/Feb 18 An attraction to someone you meet this week catches you off guard, Aquarius. Forge ahead and explore these feelings if your situation allows. PISCES Feb 19/Mar 20 Offer support to a friend in need, Pisces. This generous offer will be much-appreciated and you will reap the rewards as well. FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS FEBRUARY 7 James Spader, Actor (61) FEBRUARY 8 Bethany Hamilton, Surfer (31) FEBRUARY 9 Tom Hiddleston, Actor (40) FEBRUARY 10 Elizabeth Banks, Actress (47) FEBRUARY 11 Dansby Swanson, Athlete (27) FEBRUARY 12 Gucci Mane, Rapper (41) FEBRUARY 13 Jerry Springer, TV Host (77)

Coloring

Would you like to see your masterpiece in print? Send your coloring page to Campbell Publications for a chance to be featured in your local paper. 9 Drop off in person: 832 S State St., Jerseyville, IL 62052 9 Mailing address: PO Box 407, Jerseyville, IL 62052 9 Email: circulation@campbellpublications.net

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021

CAMPBELL PUBLICATIONS

THE PEOPLE’S MARKETPLACE CLASSIFIEDS

PIKE COUNTY, IL ABSOLUTE REAL ESTATE AUCTION )5,'$< )(%58$5< ʁ 30 Auction/Property Location: 1348 Mortimer St. Barry, IL 62312 ),+9664 e : - )(;/: /(9+>66+ -366905. e » 36; »? » .(9(., :/67 »? » :/,+ :630+ :;65, -6<5+(;065 (47 .(: )603,9 3(9., 67,5 20;*/,5 +0505. (9,( .9,(; ),+9664 /64, 05 )(99@

ABSOLUTE AUCTION, NO RESERVE Contact Brian for viewing: 217-242-1665 or bcurless@irtc.net. Attorney for Sellers: John Longlett- SRNM Law Firm, LLP 525 Jersey St. Quincy, IL 217-223-3030

MARVIN HOYT TRUST GREAT RIVERS BANK - TRUSTEE *<93,::(<*;065 *64 ࠮ Virtual Online Auction – Bid @ www.SullivanAuctioneers.com

Adams & Hancock County, IL

LAND AUCTION

MONDAY, MARCH 8 AT 10:00 A.M.

('$# ( ( (&#'$& (SUBJECT TO SURVEY)

500 FOR SALE

900A-NO TRESPASSING CALHOUN COUNTY

LARGE BROWN Eggs, $2.00 dozen. 618-885-5815. 2.10.21 ALFALFA GRASS Mix Hay. $4.00 Bale. 618-885-5815. 2.10.21 FREE: TWO 24 foot grain bins for taking down and removing. Call 217-228-6834 M-F 9a-4p. 2.10.21 NON GMO Farm Fresh Eggs. 217440-4351. 3.3.21

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 615 on Summit Grove Rd., KampsHUNTING ville. Violators will be prosecutARE YOU looking for extra Income? ed. 8.26.21 We are looking for a place to hunt. 900D-NO TRESPASSING Mike (cell) 314-560-8865. 4.14.21 PIKE COUNTY

900A-NO TRESPASSING CALHOUN 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

Tract 1 is located approximately 4 miles east of Plainville, IL or 7 miles southeast of Payson, IL or 15 miles southeast of Quincy, IL. (The Southeast Quarter of Section 21, T3S-R6W, Richfield Township, Adams County, IL). Tracts 2 - 6 are located ½ mile west of Plainville, IL or 3 miles southeast of Payson, IL or 15 miles southeast of Quincy, IL. (The South Half of the Southwest Quarter of Section 22, and the Northwest Quarter of Section 27, all in T3S-R7W, Payson Township, Adams County, IL). Tract 7 is located approximately 15 miles south of Warsaw, IL or 20 miles north of Quincy, IL. (The Northeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter of Section 26, T3N-R9W, Rocky Run Township, Hancock County, IL).

DOUGLAS E. VOTH ESTATE | SELLER OF TRACTS 1-6

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

GREAT RIVERS BANK, ADMINISTRATOR 694 BAINBRIDGE ST, BARRY, IL 62312

DOUGLAS E. VOTH ESTATE & RICK PEIKETT SELLER OF TRACT 7 Representing Attorney: William L. Siebers Scholz, Loos, Palmer, Siebers & Duesterhaus, LLP 625 Vermont | Quincy, IL 62301 | (217) 214-1909

ADVERTISE WITH US!

LAND AUCTION MANAGERS: John Borrowman (217) 430-0645 & Joe Sullivan (844) 847-2161

This Day In History Feb. 10

The Treaty of Paris ended the French and Indian War. In the treaty France ceded Canada to England.

Primo Carnera knocked out Ernie Schaaf in round 13 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Schaaf died as a result of the knockout punch.

Britain’s Queen Victoria married Prince Albert of Saxe Coburg-Gotha.

The first imperforated, ungummed sheets of postage stamps were issued by the U.S. Postal Service in New York City.

Members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints began their exodus to the west from Illinois. In New York City, two of the world’s most famous midgets, General Tom Thumb and Lavinia Warren were married. In Virginia, the first fire extinguisher patent was issued to Alanson Crane. The city of Anaheim was incorporated for the first time. The YWCA was founded in New York City. The electric arc light was used for the first time. “The New York Times” began printing “All the news that’s fit to print” on their front page. Major league baseball representatives outlawed pitches that involve tampering with the ball. Ink paste was manufactured for the first time by the Standard Ink Company. The first waterless gas storage tank was placed in service in Michigan City, IN. The singing telegram was introduced by the Postal Telegraph Company of New York City.

The Pennsylvania Railroad began passenger service with its electric locomotive. The engine was 79-1/2 feet long and weighed 230 tons. The Normandie, the former French liner, capsized in New York Harbor. The day before the ship had caught fire while it was being fitted for the U.S. Navy.

No-Reserve Timed Online

FARM ESTATE AUCTION ITEMS BEGIN CLOSING

TUESDAY, MARCH 9 AT 10:00 A.M. South African President F.W. de Klerk announced that black activist Nelson Mandela would be released the next day after 27 years in captivity. Mike Tyson was convicted in Indianapolis of raping Desiree Washington, Miss Black American contestant. The U.S. Army suspended its top-ranking enlisted soldier, Army Sgt. Major Gene McKinney following allegations of sexual misconduct. McKinney was convicted of obstruction of justice and acquitted of 18 counts alleging sexual harassment of six military women.

“Death of a Salesman” opened at the Morocco Theatre in New York City.

A man became the first to be convicted of committing a hate crime in cyberspace. The college dropout had e-mailed threats to Asian students.

The Soviet Union exchanged capture American U2 pilot Francis Gary Powers for the Soviet spy Rudolph Ivanovich Abel being held by the U.S.

Voters in Maine repealed a 1997 gay rights law. Maine was the first state to abandone such legislation.

The 25th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified. The amendment required the appointment of a vice-president when that office became vacant and instituted new measures in the event of presidential disability.

Avalanches killed at least 10 people when they roared down the French Alps 30 miles from Geneva.

The U.S. Post Office issued a commemorative stamp that featured NASA’s Pioneer 10 spacecraft.

North Korea publicly announced for the first time that it had nuclear arms. The country also rejected attempts to restart disarmament talks in the near future saying that it needed the weapons as protection against an increasingly hostile United States.

The Las Vegas Hilton hotel-casino caught fire. Eight people were killed and 198 were injured.

A Russian and an American satellite collide over Siberia.

Ron Brown became the first African American to head a major U.S. political party when he was elected chairman of the Democratic National Committee.

Amazon announced the Kindle 2. https://www.on-this-day.com/onthisday/thedays/alldays/ feb10.htm

PHYSICAL ADDRESS: 1627 N 200th Ave. | Plainville, Illinois Selling late model John Deere tractors, farm machinery, hay equipment, wagons, late model vehicles, trailers, large selection of construction tools including scaffolding, building materials, tools and a large selection of other quality items.

LARGE AUCTION!

DOUGLAS E. VOTH ESTATE GREAT RIVERS BANK, ADMINISTRATOR 694 BAINBRIDGE ST, BARRY, IL 62312 EQUIPMENT AUCTION MANAGERS: Matt Sullivan (309) 221-7001 & John Borrowman (217) 430-0645

SULLIVAN AUCTIONEERS, LLC 0 5 ++ 5 + ( (5 5 12!$$* 4!' *& 1'&

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Public notices help expose: ● fraud in government! ● dishonest businesses! ● unfair competitive practices! Find out about these and much more in your local newspaper!

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Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Winchester, Illinois

COOKING

COURT/PUBLIC NOTICE/CLASSIFIEDS/NEWS/OPINION

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Morgan, Scott, Cass identify fugitives of the week Wanted this week by the local CrimeStoppers organization are: Heather A. Gunin, female, 9/28/80, 6’1, 175 lbs., long hair with green eyes. Last known address, 215 4th Street, Carrollton, wanted for failure to appear on two counts of delivery of methamphetamine and two counts of

possession of methamphetamine. Eric M. McCormick, male, 1/8/1980, 6’, 160 lbs., shaved hair, blue eyes. Last known address, 506 7th Street, Manchester, wanted for failure to appear on possession of weapons by a felon and possession of methamphetamine.

HEATHER A. GUNIN

ERIC M. McCORMICK

Prairieland FS offering scholarships Prairieland FS will be offering five $1,000 scholarships to local fulltime area students with an interest in pursuing a career in agriculture or agribusiness. Scholarships will be awarded upon successful completion of the fall semester. The primary goal of this program is to encourage area students to prepare for a career in agriculture or agribusiness To apply for a Prairieland FS

Scholarship, an applicant must: Q Be active or seeking membership in local agriculture groups or vocational classes, including membership in his/her local FFA chapter or 4H. Q Be at least a high school senior or already enrolled in a college and must have maintained a satisfactory grade point on at least 3.0 of a 4.0 point scale. Official transcripts will

Winchester, Illinois

need to be submitted. Q Scholarship recipients can only receive a Prairieland FS scholarship once. Q Scholarship recipients agree to attend a Prairieland FS Board Meeting or company-sponsored event. An application is posted on the company’s website at https://www. prairielandfs.com/Scholarship-Program.

Farm Bureau scholarships available to local students Applications for Pike-Scott Farm Bureau scholarships through the Two Rivers Farm Bureau Foundation are now available. A total of five scholarships valued at $1,000 each will be available to graduating seniors in Pike and Scott counties. Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded to successful applicants—one from Bluffs High School and one from Winchester High School. A $1,000 scholarship will be available to a qualifying high school student from Pike County. The foundation offers the $1,000 Rod Webel Memorial Scholarship to a qualified high

school senior in Pike County. The $1,000 Wayne Riley Scholarship is open to an FFA student graduating from Griggsville-Perry High School. The scholarships will be awarded to a graduating senior pursuing a major in an agriculture field at a technical school, community college, college, or university of their choice and are a dependent of a Farm Bureau member. Applications and selection criteria are available from the Pike-Scott Farm Bureau, high school guidance counselors or high school ag teacher. All scholarship applications must be returned by March 31.

WE ARE HIRING

good GROWING Keeping you growing with good ideas s University of Illinois Extension

Don’t overlook trees when adding value to property

Trees in the landscape can be easily overlooked for the all the benefits they provide us whether that be casting shade on a warm, summer day, housing our feathered, birds friends, or adding a touch of color to our lawns. According to the Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers, trees on a property can increase the value of a home by almost 20 percent. However, that value can be diminished when trees are not properly maintained through pruning and thinning. Pruning deciduous trees is best done in late winter around February and March when the trees are dormant. Pruning at this time can help to avoid certain diseases or physiological problems such as oak wilt in oaks, stem cankers in honey locusts, Dutch elm disease in elms, and fire blight in apple trees (includes flowering crabapples, mountain ash, and hawthorns). With the tree leaves dropped, we can see the structure of the tree allowing us to make easier pruning decisions. Pruning should begin when trees are young; by doing this, pruning later in the tree’s lifetime can be reduced. In a young tree, it is important to develop a single dominant leader from which branches will

develop. Trees can produce multiple leaders which can result in greater issues further down the road. It is also important to remove dead and diseased branches; this helps defend against the spread of pests and diseases to prevent further damage to the tree. Removal of dead and diseased branches can really be removed at any point in the year. Trees should also be thinned out to remove any branches that are crossing or rubbing as this can create wounds making the tree susceptible to diseases. Branches with a narrow crotch angle should also be evaluated for removal. As trees mature, bark becomes enclosed in the narrow crotch creating a weak joint; in the occurrence of a wind storm, that joint will easily split. As I have already mentioned, it is much more effective for the life of the tree and for your wallet to practice proper pruning while the tree is young. Before getting started, be sure that your tools are clean and sharp. When cutting diseased branches, it is a good idea to clean your tools when finished to prevent spread. The tools you may need will vary based on the size of the branch to be cut. For smaller branches, a pair of pruning shears will work. For branches up to 1.5” in diameter, lopping shears

can be used. For larger branches, you may choose to use a hand saw or a chain saw. Pole saws can also be useful for pruning branches out of reach. When using these tools, it is also important to protect yourself with the proper PPE. When making cuts, the limb should be removed at the collar; the collar is where the limb attaches to the tree. Cutting at this point allows the tree to form a natural protective boundary. In the past, wound paints or dressings were often used for this; however, research has shown they are not as effective with most expects recommending they not be used. If tree pruning is something you think you might need done, but the idea of properly pruning seems daunting, we do have certified arborists that can be of great help. The International Society of Arboriculture has an online directory to help you find a local certified arborist https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist. Q Good Growing Tip: Proper tree selection and placement can also help to cut down on tree pruning needs. You can look for features such as a single dominant leader when purchasing a tree.

Maybe we need to rethink the JFK assassination

By BILL HOAGLAND For years, I believed John F. Kennedy was assassinated by a lone gunman, Lee Harvey Oswald. I eventually arrived at that conclusion after reading a book by Vincent Bugliosi entitled “Reclaiming History.” Bugliosi prosecuted Charles Manson and later in life, became a successful author. This particular book about the Kennedy assassination, written in 2007 and consisting of more than 800 pages, appeared to leave no stone unturned in proving that Oswald acted alone and that there was no conspiracy. Bugliosi certainly convinced me. Frankly, I was glad Bugliosi wrote the book. Being convinced that a lone gunman killed Kennedy brought closure for me and a lot of others. Finally, we could accept the findings of the Warren Commission because a guy of Bugliosi’s stature analyzed it for us in convincing fashion. But a week ago, a new book was released that could be unsettling for those of us who moved on from that fateful day of Nov. 22, 1963. The book, entitled “Last Second in Dallas” written by Joshua Thompson, claims in very convincing fashion that there were two and possibly three shooters participating in the Kennedy assassination. I had been waiting several months for this book to be released and bought it the first

day it became available at Amazon. Although the book is rather technical and therefore not an easy book to read, it absolutely changed my beliefs about whether Oswald acted alone. Fortunately, the author is only focused on the sole issue of whether any shots were fired other than those three from the Texas School Book Depository. The author does not attempt to go beyond that simple issue. Frankly, if only three shots were fired, and they all came from the Texas School Book Depository, that is the end of the story. But, that is not the end of the story. Thompson uses three basic aspects of the case to prove that five shots were fired. First, the famous Zapruder home video, taken as the Kennedy vehicle was approaching the camera, is analyzed with modern technologies not available even five or six years ago. That video, when broken down with these modern techniques, clearly shows that Kennedy was first shot in the head from the right front by someone behind Zapruder on the “grassy knoll” or beyond, followed by a second fatal shot from the rear—presumably from Oswald in the Texas School Book Depository. The second area of focus has to do with re-evaluating the medical evidence obtained from the treating doctors in the emergency room at Parkland Hospital in Dallas as well as

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SOUTH JACKSONVILLE POLICE DEPARTMENT

Come work where our police team has built trusting relationships and has strong community support! The South Jacksonville Police Department is actively recruiting full and part-time police officers. South Jacksonville is a safe Village of 3200 residents with interstate access where officers have time to practice community policing as well as the possibility of interdiction work. We have up to date Ford Explorer SUV’s, mobile data terminals, in car/body cameras, patrol rifles, Multi Jurisdiction Special Response Team, Mobile Command Center, continued training opportunities and access to a large range training facility. Benefits package with full time positions. Applications can be found at southjacksonville.org under the Documents tab. Please submit complete applications to Chief Hansell at 301 Dewey Drive in South Jacksonville, IL 62650. Email sjpdchief@southjacksonville.org or call 217-243-1241.

GENERAL INFORMATION the official autopsy performed later in Washington D.C. This review confirms that Kennedy was struck in the head from two separate directions almost at the same time. The third area of focus has to do with a police radio that was inadvertently left on during the 8.3 seconds when all five shots were fired. When the sounds of this radio are broken down with the aid of modern technology, it is clear that five, not three gun shots, were fired. We know Oswald only fired three shots, and because it took at least 2.3 seconds for Oswald to eject each shell and reload, Owsald could not possibly have fired the second of the three initial shots heard on this radio, and he could only have fired one of the two shots heard 5 seconds later. Thompson supplements his primary evidence with interviews with eyewitnesses, some of whom were never seriously considered in the Warren Commission investigation, as well as a variety of new experts. It becomes readily apparent, in reading the book, that Thompson is not a “nut job,” but rather,

an educated, dedicated investigator who refused to give up over a span of 50 years trying to solve the ultimate issue in this case—whether more than three shots were fired. Maybe the only people disturbed by the conclusions in this book will be those of us old enough to remember exactly where we were when Kennedy was shot. Maybe the “30-somethings” couldn’t care less. But for those of us who do remember, we also know that that single event led to lasting and, in some cases, unfortunate consequences for those of us who survived it. It is particularly unsettling, at this time in our nation’s history, to have new evidence that it resulted from a conspiracy. ––––––––––––––––––– 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.

Ph: 217-742-3313 Fax: 630-206-0320 Submit your news: sctnews@campbellpublications.net Advertising information: jcjadvertising@campbellpublications.net Public notices: publicnotice@campbellpublications.net A D V E R T I S I N G 5x7-$9.00; 8x10-$10.00. POLICY: We are not ADVERTISING RATE: responsible for more than $11.95 per column inch. one incorrect insertion Example: of display and classified 1 column by 3 inches advertising. Please let us would be know immediately upon publication of any errors. 3 col. inches x $11.95 = $35.85 Responsibility is limited to the cost of the space For more information error occupies in the ad. about display rates, quanAll transactions under $50 tity discounts and insert must be paid in advance. rates, contact the Scott Proper identification of County Times at 217-285the person placing the ad 2345. is required. Scott County CARDS OF THANKS, Times reserves the right to MEMORIALS: $8.00 reject or edit any advertise- minimum; 25¢ per word ment submitted for publi- after 65 words, pre-paid. cation. SUBSCRIPTION DEADLINES: Reunions - RATES: $31 per year in 5 p.m. Thursday; Society, Adams, Brown, Calhoun, weddings, birthdays, anni- Greene, Jersey, Macoupin, versaries, engagements, Madison, Morgan, Pike 12 p.m. Friday; Classified and Scott Counties, IL and ads, 3 p.m. Monday; Lincoln, Pike and Ralls Display advertising, 5 p.m. Counties, MO. $62 per Monday. We reserve the year elsewhere. $90 per right to reject any photo year outside the continenthat will not reproduce tal United States. clearly. TO MAIL A SINGLE DROP OFF LOCATION: ISSUE: $4. Scotty's Winchester COLLEGE RATES: $27 Convience. nine months in Illinois. $36 PHOTO REPRINTS: nine months elsewhere.

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

NEWS

Winchester, Illinois

Benton & Associates names new principals

Benton & Associates, Inc. (B&A), which is Winchester’s city engineering firm, has announced that the following people have attained the position of principal of the firm in recognition of their years of service, contributions to their client’s projects and their commitment to the future of Benton & Associates, Inc. Kenneth E. Sturgeon, PLS, has been employed with Benton & Associates, Inc. for 31 years. Mr. Sturgeon is the surveying manager for all offices in Illinois and Missouri. Sturgeon is responsible for strategically leading all surveying efforts for property, right-of way services and surveying services for infrastructure projects and their construction. He is a Licensed Professional Land Surveyor in Illinois and Missouri and is a member of the Illinois Professional Land Surveyors Association and the Missouri Society of Professional Surveyors. Adam J. Dorrell, PE, has over 16 years’ experience and is in charge of the Kirksville and Macon, Mo. offices. He provides local leadership for planning, design and construction on all types of infrastructure projects in northern Missouri. He has served as project manager and design engineer on water and wastewater systems including treatment

plants, distribution/collection systems and storage tanks. Dorrell’s experience also includes street/ highway projects, site development and complex affordable funding programs. Dorrell actively participates in the leadership and strategic planning for the firm. He has over 20 years’ experience in civil engineering. He actively participates in local activities including Kiwanis, Chamber of Commerce and Boy Scouts. He is also a member of MSPE/NPSE, AWWA and ACEC-MO. Matthew B. Hardy, PE, SE, has over 14 years’ experience as a project engineer on structural and civil engineering projects. Hardy leads the structural efforts on all projects for B&A. He has led the structural design for infrastructure projects in Illinois, Missouri, Kentucky and Indiana on water and wastewater treatment facilities including deep and complicated concrete structures. Hardy is a dedicated structural engineer that identifies critical elements on projects immediately while assisting other design staff to complete projects timely. He also assists industrial clients with building additions/ modifications, and has a major role in elevated water storage tanks. As a principal, he has participated in the firm’s

strategic planning efforts and expanding the firm’s offerings to industrial clients. Matt is a licensed Structural Engineer in Illinois and a licensed Professional Engineer in Illinois, Missouri, Indiana and Kentucky. Benjamin M. Spreen, PE, has over 10 years of experience in civil engineering design, environmental/civil engineering and construction observation with contract administration. He has served as project engineer and project manager on numerous water distribution systems and treatment plants, wastewater collection systems and treatment plants, and storm water collection and conveyance systems. Spreen has been involved in all facets of the project from planning and design through construction and facility operations and has specialized experience in computer hydraulic modeling and the IDNR/IEPA/ IHPA permitting process. As a principal, Spreen has been integrally involved in strategic planning efforts and growth of the firm’s water/wastewater services to municipal clients. Spreen has earned the trust of clients through responsiveness, attention to detail, while listening to client’s needs. He is a licensed Professional Engineer, Water Supply Operator and certified Swimming Facility

Professional Engineer; all in the state of Illinois. He is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and the American Water Works Association. Douglas J. Erickson, PE, is the Office Manager for B&A’s Macomb, Illinois office and has over 15 years of experience in civil engineering and construction management. Before joining B&A, he worked for consultants that specialized in cause and origin analysis and damage assessments during construction dispute proceedings. Erickson has been involved in facility planning, design, and construction administration on a variety of municipal projects and serves as a project manager for B&A. His engineering work has spanned a variety of sectors including water/wastewater infrastructure, roadways and streetscapes, transportation/transit facilities, educational facilities, stadiums, industrial process plants, residential housing, commercial properties, and research laboratories. Erickson’s ability to take on a leadership role at B&A in an early part of his career has allowed him to develop into an outstanding firm leader. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in Illinois and Iowa. He is a member of the American Society

Bluffs board plans for consolidation meeting By DAVID CAMPHOUSE Scott County Times A draft version of the study analyzing the feasibility of the consolidation of Bluffs and Winchester school districts has been received by Superintendent Kevin Blankenship. Blankenship reported at the Monday, Feb. 8 Bluffs school board meeting that he was in the process of correcting and revising the 250-page document. He plans to have all revisions completed this week. Blankenship notified board members that a joint meeting with Winchester’s board and the consultants who carried out the feasibility study would need to be planned. “The sooner, the better for the joint meeting,” Blankenship said. “We need to find a time to get everybody together.” The report, Blankenship said, would interest the board members and other stakeholders in the two districts. “It’s actually a pretty good read,” Blankenship said. “It’s got a lot of research and local data.” During his superintendent’s report, Blankenship said that state and federal guidance surrounding public schools continue to change rapidly. “It’s been a whirlwind over the last month,” Blankenship said. “The push from the federal level is that every school needs to be open.” Blankenship said that he and other

superintendents were lobbying at the state and federal level to not require state assessments this year, because it would create more time students were not receiving instruction. “Nearly 700 superintendents signed a letter to the Department of Education to give a waiver for testing,” Blankenship said. “Our kids need to be in class, not out a week taking tests with all the time we’ve already lost.” In Principal Joe Kuhlmann’s administrative report, he said that the reintroduction of athletics had energized student athletes and made them more focused on academics because of eligibility requirements. “Some students have more of a sense of purpose since sports have started,” Kuhlmann said. The principal also credited staff for overcoming difficulties in the district and focusing on serving students. “When the water main broke, we had all of 40 minutes of warning,” Kuhlmann said. “Staff all worked together to make sure every student was fed before they went home.” Kuhlmann also asked that board members and community members contact the school with senior service activities, since students are behind in their service hours. The board voted to continue delivering remote instruction on in-person instruction days that were cancelled because of winter weather.

Board members voted to amend athletic policies to make parents responsible for student transportation to and from all home games. In addition, spectators at boys junior high and high school basketball games are limited to one sibling, grandparent or parent per player or cheerleader. Two siblings, parents or grandparents per participant are allowed for other sports. The board voted to keep the current school schedule in place, with dismissal remaining at 2:05 p.m. The graduation dates for the high school and junior high were scheduled by the board. High school graduation will occur May 28 at 7 p.m., while eighth grade advancement will occur May 27 at 7 p.m. Blankenship was authorized to explore refinancing a bond held by the district in an effort to save money at a lower interest rate. In addition, the March school board meeting date was changed from March 8 to Wednesday, March 10 because of a scheduling conflict. Following closed session, the board approved naming Kelly Mast as junior high volleyball head coach and Krista Kunz as junior high volleyball assistant coach. Brian Van Meter, Jared Plunk and Jeremy Reardon were approved as volunteer football coaches. Finally, the board approved the resignation of PE teacher Christian Bonjean.

McCann faces allegations of fiscal wrong-doing By BETH ZUMWALT Scott County Times William Samuel ‘Sam’ McCann, who served as senator to the 49th District from 2011 to 2013 and the redistricted 50th District from 20132019, has been indicted by a grand jury. Both districts included Pike County. He faces charges of fraud, money laundering and tax evasion related to misuse of campaign funds for personal use. “I wasn’t surprised,” Republican Chairman of Pike County John Birch said. “I’d heard in Springfield he was under investigation.” Birch said he felt sorry for McCann and his situation. The 18-page indictment alleges McCann received more than $5 million from 2011 to 2018, when McCann formed his own political party and ran as a third candidate in the Illinois Governor’s race. One of the allegations in the indictment is that he diverted funds donated to him as a Republican Senatorial candidate to his Conservative Party. Another part of the indictment

alleges McCan purchased vehicles, which he titled in his own name but later used funds from his campaign to make payments and pay insurance on. He also made mileage payments to himself, which was not allowed. In March, 2018, McCann purchased a motorhome and gave a $10,000 deposit from his campaign account. The transaction was not finalized, and McCann instructed the business to issue a refund check to him personally, which he deposited in his personal checking account. He then used $18,000 in campaign funds to purchase a recreational travel trailer and motorhome and established an online account with an RV business in Ohio, listing the units for rent using the name Sam McCann. He then established a second online account with the same RV rental business and identified himself as William McCann, a potential renter with a residence and e-mail address different than the fist account. From approximately May 2018 to June 2018, McCann, while representing himself as William, rented both the campaign-purchased travel trailer

and motorhome from himself (Sam), the owner, through the RV rental business. In so doing, McCann, as the purported renter, caused a total of approximately $62,666.70 in funds from his campaign accounts to be used for rental payments to the RV rental business, which, after retaining commission expenses of approximately $9,838.90, then paid himself as the identified owner, approximately $52,827.80 in rental fees. The payments went to his personal checking account. He did reimburse the campaign the original $18,000. A number of other allegations charge misuse of campaign funds for personal debt and book-keeping, campaign finance and tax reporting laws being broken. Once McCann has been served with the indictment, he will be issued a summons. Because of COVID19, federal court appearances are being held via telephone. McCann’s arraignment will be Feb. 16 at 2 p.m. at which time a trail date should be set.

ADAM DORRELL

KEN STURGEON

BENJAMIN SPREEN of Civil Engineers and the American Water Works Association. Benton & Associates, Inc. of Jacksonville, Ill., is a Consulting Engineering Firm providing Civil Engineering and Land Surveying Services for both public and private clients in Illinois and Missouri. Services include: environmental, transportation, land development and structural Engineering.

MATTHEW HARDY

BENJAMIN SPREEN

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