Peoria Public Library McClure Branch to Close for Remodeling
Peoria Public Library, engaged in a $28 million dollar building program for all facilities, will close McClure Branch, 315 W. McClure Avenue, at the end of the day, Saturday, February 19 in order to remodel the building.
Expectations are that the refurbished McClure Branch will reopen in early fall 2011 after approximately five months of work. The building, which sits in a flood plain, can not be expanded, but will receive improvements that will make it more efficient and return some of the original architectural elements.
Currently two floors and the parking lot of Peoria Public Library Main Branch remain closed and under construction. The Local History and Genealogy Department, located in the WTVP building for the last year, closed January 7 and is scheduled to reopen at the beginning of February in the Main Library. The newly constructed North Branch will open this spring, the remainder of the Main Library will open in the summer and McClure Branch and the newly expanded Lincoln Branch will open in the fall of 2011. Lakeview Branch is also slated for some remodeling during 2011.
Those wishing to use the library may call 309-497-2000 or visit:
www.peoriapubliclibrary.org to confirm what facilities are open during construction.
Peoria Area SeniorNet Schedules Two Events in February
Peoria Area SeniorNet is sponsoring an Open House on Saturday February 12, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church at 411 W. Lake Avenue in Peoria. The meeting will be held in the Media Center. The purpose of this meeting is to introduce prospective new students to SeniorNet and to answer any questions they might have about computers and computer classes. The second event is registration for our spring 2011 classes. It will be on Saturday, February 19, 2011. Registration will take place any time from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the First Baptist Church in the Fellowship Hall. Mail-in registration is also offered for those who cannot attend, however, on-site registration is recommended in order to ensure that students are placed in a class or in classes that are suitable for them. The deadline for mail-in registration is March 4, 2011. Most classes will begin during the week of March 21, 2011. For more information call 1-800-872-4651, ext. 1510 and leave a message. A SeniorNet volunteer will return your call and answer any questions you may have. Registration documents and a detailed schedule of classes are also available on our web site at www.PeoriaAreaSeniorNet.org. Click on the Spring Classes button.
The purpose of the Open House is not only to introduce prospective students to SeniorNet but also to provide a forum where present and future computer users acquire information that will help them make choices when buying computers, selecting computer accessories, and choosing computer courses. SeniorNet instructors and coaches will be available for one-on-one questions and discussions with the attendees. Students may also register for classes at the Open House.
All spring classes will be held at the First Baptist Church in Peoria. Traditional classes will include: Computer Fundamentals for Windows 7, Introduction to Scanners, Email for the Beginner, File Management-Where Did It Go?, How to Use the Internet, Email for the Intermediate User, Digital Camera Tutorial/Picasa, Print Artist, Computer Maintenance/Security, eBay-Buying and Selling, and Intermediate Fundamentals for Windows 7. New classes will include: Digital Photo Editing/Slide Shows, Social Networking, and Microsoft Publisher. Lab time will also be available at the First Baptist Church for those students who want to spend extra time on their class work with SeniorNet tutors.
Peoria Area SeniorNet is sponsored by Illinois Eye Center and PNC Bank.
American Lung Association Report Card Gives Illinois an “A” for Smoke Free Air, “D” for Cigarette Tax
The American Lung Association in Greater Chicago released their 2010 State of Tobacco Control Report on key tobacco control policies and Illinois’ effectiveness at adequately protecting citizens from the enormous burden caused by tobacco use. Illinois earned an “F” for tobacco prevention and control spending, an “F” for coverage of cessation treatments, an “A” for smoke-free air laws and a “D” for cigarette tax rates.
“Illinois is 1 of 24 states and the District of Columbia to receive an “A” for smoke-free air,” said Harold Wimmer, President & CEO of the American Lung Association in Greater Chicago. “We’re proud to lead the nation on this initiative but there are, however, attempts to weaken Illinois’ Smoke Free Air Act that would compromise the health of Illinois citizens.”
House Bill 171 is one such example of a threat to the health of casino workers in Illinois. The bill seeks to exempt casinos from the Smoke Free Illinois Act by allowing designated smoking rooms in gaming facilities. Should this bill pass, it sets precedence for other possible exemptions including restaurants and bars.
“There is no safe level of exposure to tobacco smoke,” continues Wimmer. “Separating smokers from nonsmokers, cleaning the air, or ventilating buildings cannot and does not eliminate exposure to deadly secondhand smoke.”
Increasing the cigarette tax is another area on which the report focuses. Illinois received a “D” on their report card and currently ranks 32nd in the nation for their $.98 per pack tax. Raising Illinois’s cigarette tax by $1 would create $375 million in new state revenue and save lives by preventing 77,600 Illinois kids from becoming smokers and encourage 59,400 Illinois adult smokers to quit.
On a positive note, the State of Illinois has recognized the importance of funding tobacco cessation treatments and recently increased their funding to the Illinois Tobacco Quitline (1-866-QUIT-YES) by 100%. For every dollar spent in the state of Illinois on smoking cessation, $1.29 is returned in the form of decreased medical costs, increased productivity and reduced absenteeism.
The American Lung Association report shows vital action on some fronts in the fight against tobacco, yet it also underscores tobacco’s grim national toll. Each year 443,000 people die from tobacco-related illnesses and secondhand smoke exposure, making tobacco the leading cause of preventable death. It is responsible for an estimated 16,600 deaths in Illinois. In addition, it costs the state’s economy $8,317,453,000 annually in healthcare costs and lost productivity.
State Grades – Eight states — Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia – received all “F’s”, and no state earned straight “A’s” in State of Tobacco Control 2010.
Federal Grades – The federal government received all passing grades. It drew a “B” for FDA regulation of tobacco products; a “C” for cessation coverage provided under four major federal health care programs; a “D” for the federal cigarette tax; and a “D” for failure to ratify the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, an international treaty.
SOUTH SIDE TRUST & SAVINGS BANK ANNOUNCES PROMOTIONS
South Side Trust & Savings Bank promoted Kathy Burt to Assistant Cashier, Thomas (Chip) Hill to Branch Manager, and Milad Doueihi, Brett Moehring, and Clint Naugle to Assistant Vice President at their December Board Meeting.
Burt’s responsibilities include managing the Bank’s 50+ Program and providing off-site banking to various retirement communities. Burt is a graduate of Southern Illinois University in Carbondale.
Hill’s responsibilities include managing the new Pekin Facility, located at 3200 Veterans Drive, opening spring of 2011. He started with the bank in December 2007. He is on the Board of Directors for the Pekin Boys & Girls Club of America and a member of the Pekin Chamber of Commerce. Hill is a graduate Illinois State University.
Doueihi is the manager of the Data Processing Department. He started with the bank in August 2001, and has 30 years of data processing experience. He is a member of St. Sharbel Church and the Central Illinois Backgammon Club. Doueihi is a graduate of Bradley University.
Moehring’s responsibilities include assessing the risk associated with the Bank’s loan portfolio. He began his banking career in 2001, and has been at South Side Bank since 2006. Moehring has a BS in Economics from Illinois State University.
Naugle is a senior mortgage lender. He started with the bank in December of 1991. Naugle has a BS in Finance from Illinois State University.
South Side Trust & Savings Bank, a locally owned financial institution since 1922, has $628 million in assets and serves the tri-county area with 12 full service locations. Their new Pekin Facility located at 3200 Veterans Drive will be open in the spring. South Side Trust & Savings Bank is owned by Mid Illinois Bancorp, Inc., which also owns Mid Illinois Insurance Services.
Peoria Players Off to See the Wizard!
We’re off to see the Wizard! Join Dorothy and friends as they travel down the Yellow Brick Road to Emerald City in Peoria Players Theatre’s production of The Wizard of Oz! This family favorite musical, directed by Mary Ellen Ulrich, hits our stage in February.
The production runs at 7:30 p.m. on February 4, 5, 10, 11 and 12; at 1:30 on February 5 and 12; and at 2:30 on February 6 and 13. Tickets are $17 for adults, $12 for patrons 18 and under, and will be available January 24.
Call 688-4473, or visit us online at www.peoriaplayers.org.
Adult Basic Literacy/English as a Second Language Volunteer Tutor Training Workshop in February
LVA/Project U.P.W.A.R.D. adult literacy program, which is sponsored by the Peoria County Regional Superintendent of Schools, will be conducting an adult Basic Literacy/English as a Second Language Volunteer Tutor Training Workshop at the Peoria Lakeview Library, 1137 W. Lake Ave., on February 7, 9, 16, & 23 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. This four session workshop will enable volunteers to tutor adults needing to raise their reading levels. There is no charge for the workshop. Call 309-672-6087 to register. You can also call this number to raise your reading levels. There is no charge. This project was made possible by a grant awarded by the Illinois State Library, a Division of the Office of Secretary of State, using funds designated for literacy.
Proctor Offers Discounted Coronary Assessments During Heart Month
Proctor Hospital is offering discounted Coronary Risk Assessments during February in honor of American Heart Month. This venipuncture blood test includes: glucose, total cholesterol, HDL & LDL, triglycerides, blood pressure, height & weight as well as an individualized twelve page heart health report.
All this for just $25.00 (a $100.00 retail value) through February.
Visit at the following sites:
Thursday, February 3 – Proctor First Care Knoxville Square, Peoria 9118 N. Lindbergh Dr. (near Kroger North)
Friday, February 4 – Proctor First Care East Peoria2535 E. Washington St. (across from Fon Du Lac Plaza)
Wednesday, February 9 – Proctor Medical Group Bartonville Family Practice1506 W. Garfield Ave. (across from Kroger)
Friday, February 18 – Proctor First Care Morton, 621 W. Jackson
Appointments available from 8:00 -10:30 a.m.
Call (309) 689-8334 for an appointment at one of these four locations.
Screenings available Monday and Tuesday mornings at the Hult Center for Health Education during the month of February! Please call (309) 692-9595 to schedule a appointment during February!
NOTE: This screening requires a 12 HOUR FAST
(You may have water and black decaffeinated coffee or tea only)
EXPANSION OF THE 2011 HOMELESS PREVENTION AND RAPID RE-HOUSING (HPRP) ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
The City currently offers energy assistance payments to homeowners and renters that reside in the City of Peoria and are at risk of becoming homeless due to a pending shut-off or final notice. In addition to energy assistance, the City will now include financial assistance for water and sanitary utilities.
Eligible households can receive a one-time payment for each utility. All utility payments must be as a result of a pending shut-off or final notice.
Maximum Utility Payment Allowances:
Energy: $1,500 per household
Water: $ 500 per household
Sanitary:$ 250 per household
In addition to utility assistance, the City of Peoria has added a new HPRP program: The HPRP Rental Assistance Program (RAP). The RAP program provides up to $2,500 in past due rents for tenants that are at risk of becoming homeless due to an eviction notice or court order.
All eligible HPRP households must reside in the City of Peoria and have a family household income that does not exceed the following income ranges per family size. The chart is based on 50% of Area Median Income (AMI)
For a family of 1, the income limits are at $23,350; for a family of 2, the income limits are at $26,700; for a family of 3, the income limits are at $30,050; for a family of 4, the income limits are at $33,350; for a family of 5, income limits are at $36,050; for a family of 6, income limits are at $38,700; for a family of 7, income limits are at $41,400; and for a family of 8, income limits are at $44,050.
Residential properties built prior to 1978 AND have children under the age of 6 years old, AND/OR have pregnant women residing, will require a lead inspection before assistance can be approved. Properties under this category that have visible cracking or peeling paint on the outside and inside of the home will not be eligible. The inspection will be performed by the City of Peoria.
HPRP Utility and Rental Assistance Programs Applications will be available Monday, January 24, 2011 at the following locations:
• PCCEO COMMUNITY ACTION AGENCY, 711 W. McBean St., Peoria, IL 61605, (309) 671-3900
• SALVATION ARMY ASSOCIATION, 401 NE Adams St., Peoria, IL 61655, (309) 655-7272
This program is made available through a grant from the City of Peoria and funded through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), American Reinvestment and Recovery Act (ARRA), Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP).
Peoria Camera Club to Hold Annual Photography Seminar Featuring International Photographer David duChemin
The Peoria Camera Club will be hosting its annual photography seminar featuring international photographer, David duChemin, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 19, 2011 in the Performing Arts Center on the Illinois Central College main campus. Doors will open at 8:00 a.m. and lunch and refreshments will be provided during breaks in the presentation.
Both instructional and inspirational, this seminar will help attendees discover how to find and express their photographic vision, specifically where people, places, and cultures are concerned, and produce better images overall. duChemin will cover how to tell stories, and the technology and tools we have at our disposal in order to tell those narratives.
Most importantly, he’ll stress the crucial theme of vision when it comes to photography and help seminar attendees to cultivate and find their own vision. Vision leads to passion, and passion is a cornerstone of great photography. With it, photographs draw the eye in and create an emotional experience. Without it, a photograph is often not worth – and can’t capture – a viewer’s attention.
Advanced sale tickets are $70.00 for general public and $35.00 for full-time students and are required by March 9, 2011. After this date, general public tickets will be $80.00. Tickets can be ordered from the Peoria Camera Clubs’ website at http://www.peoriacameraclub.com.
Red Cross Seeks Coloring Contest Entries
Children from pre-kindergarten through third grade are invited to submit original artwork depicting National Child Passenger Safety Week
WHO CAN COLOR: Children in grades pre-kindergarten through third are eligible to submit original artwork. Any teacher in Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, Marshall, Mason or Stark counties can have his/her class participate.
WHAT TO COLOR: The child’s original artwork must depict the importance of using an age-appropriate child passenger safety restraint (car seat, booster seat or seat belt). A slogan can be added. The picture must be colored and drawn by the child. (If there is any writing on the drawing, it may be made legible by a parent or teacher for children in grades pre-kindergarten & kindergarten.)
JUDGING AND PRIZES: One winner will be selected from each grade level. Their drawings will be put on posters and placemats to be distributed during National Child Passenger Safety Week, observed in September 2011. Also, one overall winner will be chosen. The overall winner’s class will receive T-shirts featuring the child’s artwork and school name.
HOW TO ENTER: Entries must be postmarked February 11, 2011. For entry forms, please call Marie Dietrich at 677-7272, Ext. 232, or visit www.redcrossillinois.org/color
Area Students Nominated to a Military Academy for the Class Entering in the Fall of 2011
Congressman Aaron Schock (R-IL) announced that he has nominated the following students to a military academy for the class entering the fall of 2011.
These students were nominated for attendance at the mentioned academies after a highly competitive application and interview process. Final determination on admission is made by the individual academy.
The process is not political and applicants do not have to personally know their Congressman to be nominated. Graduates receive a Bachelor of Science degree and most are commissioned as the lowest rank for a commissioned officer in each of the branches of the military.
United States Merchant Marine Academy
Elizabeth Simmons of Pekin; Pekin High School; Parents: Gregory Simmons
Daniel Ardis of Peoria, Richwoods High School; Parents: Jim and Mimi Ardis
Jonathon Block, of Morton; Morton High School; Parents: Walter and Melissa Block
Demi VanDerWal of Springfield; Springfield High School; Parents: Folgert and JackieVanDerWal
United States Naval Academy
Patrick Root of Springfield; Sacred Heart-Griffin High School; Parents: Michael and Leslie Root
Keith Williams of Sherman; Williamsville High School; Parents: Don and Fran Williams
Eric Groeteke, Jr. of Springfield; Lanphier High School; Parents: Marianne and Corey Hankins
Benjamin Miller of Rushville; Rushville-Schuyler-Industry Community District; Parents: John and Marianna Miller
Cody Benway of East Peoria; East Peoria High School; Parents: Lee and Robin Benway
United States Air Force Academy
Molly Gilroy of Princeville; Princeville High School; Parents: Patrick and Teresa Gilroy
Neal Buck of Riverton; Riverton High School; Parents: David and Debra Buck
Amber Christ of Edwards; Peoria Christian; Parents: Ron and Carol Christ
Demi VanDerWal of Springfield; Springfield High School; Parents: Folgert and Jackie VanDerWal
United States Military Academy at West Point
Conrad Bray of East Peoria; East Peoria High School; Parents: William and Diane Bray
Matthew Clausen of East Peoria; East Peoria High School; Parents: Robert and Marcia Clausen
Laurel Neposchlan of Springfield; Springfield High School; Parents: Jay and Julie Neposchlan
Joseph Staats of Sherman; Williamsville High School; Parents: Kirk and Rebekah Staats
Scott McGregor of Peoria; Richwoods High School; Parents: Craig and Carol McGegor
Christian Kim of Washington; Peoria Christian; Parents: Thomas and Yeon-Soo Kim
Robert Hill of Springfield; Springfield High School; Parents: Shaun and Shari Hill
Jacob Conley of Golden; Camp Point Central High School; Parents: Shawn and Tracy Conley
James “Reid” Greer of Chillicothe; Illinois Valley Central High School; Parents: Amy and Mike Greer
Annual Peoria County Democrats President’s Day Dinner on Feb. 21st
The Guest Speaker will be Lieutenant Governor of the State of Illinois, Sheila Simon. Cocktails are at 5:30 p.m.; the dinner will be at 6:30 p.m. and the program will follow at 7:00 p.m. at the Itoo Hall, 4909 W. Farmington Rd., Peoria. Ticket Info: $30.00 Advance Tickets; $35.00 Tickets At the Door; $300 for Table of 8; $500 Sponsorship which includes your name on the sponsorship board
To make reservations send your check asap to: Peoria County Democrats, P.O. Box 258, Peoria, IL 61650-0258 or call 309-676-0380
Heart of Illinois Senior Games & Fine Arts Festival New Name, New Date, New Location – Same Great Event
By Shelly Peters
With the New Year come resolutions and a quest to improve our health and happiness. During these cold and sometimes gloomy winter months, it can be a challenge to stay motivated and achieve those goals. But don’t give in to the sedentary life just yet – get those sneakers on, dust off the paint brushes and make plans to participate in the 2011 Heart of Illinois Senior Games & Fine Arts Festival May 26th through May 29th.
This annual event, now in its eleventh year, has been revamped with a new name, new date, and a new location and promises to be a favorite among seniors across the Region. Past participants will see all the same events plus a few new ones and new attendees will be thrilled to see the many offerings available.
The HOI Senior Games & Fine Arts Festival, formerly the Heart of Illinois Senior Olympics, is a local non-profit organization run by volunteers and presented this year by OSF St. Francis Medical Center. Its sole purpose is to enrich the lives of people age 50 and older by encouraging active lifestyles and healthy living through physical, social and creative experiences.
The big news for this year is the centralization of many events into one location: the RiverPlex Recreation and Wellness Center in Peoria. With nearly 40% of participants coming from outside the tri-county area, this state-of-the-art facility offers close proximity to food and lodging and easy access for all. Participants can relax between events, take advantage of health & wellness education, meet new friends or visit with old ones, cheer on fellow competitors or just hang out and have fun playing Bingo, Texas Hold ‘Em, or even Wii Bowling!
For those who love athletics there is much to choose from: track & field, cycling, tennis, golf, basketball, swimming, weight lifting, badminton, pickle ball, and table tennis. Always wanted to add a triathlon to your list of accomplishments? Now you’ll be able to with the new “Senior Short-Course” triathlon (swim, bike, run). Looking for something a bit less intense? Try the football throw, soccer kick, softball throw, bowling, miniature golf, washer toss, ladder “bolo” golf, horseshoes, bean bags or a leisurely walk along the river.
Not an athlete? No worries! The Fine Arts Festival provides the perfect backdrop to showcase talent and is comprised of the following three categories: Literary Arts (poetry, fiction, non-fiction), Visual Arts (painting, drawing, photography, sculpting, quilting), and Performing Arts (music, drama & dance). Artwork, photography, literary works and more will be on display in a gallery setting for all to see in the beautiful Riverview Room. Following the Opening Ceremony where Jim Wilhelm, host of WTVP’s Illinois Adventure will be the keynote speaker, performers will be dancing, singing and playing instruments on stage. Last year, a group of line dancers from Lutheran Hillside Village, which included a 91 year old, wowed the audience! Hors d’oeuvres and beverages will be served while attendees enjoy social time and music provided by a local quartet plays in the background.
And participants won’t go away empty handed. Gold, silver and bronze medals will be awarded to the top three competitors in each event and age division and ribbons will be awarded to all other participants. “Goodie bags” and tee shirts will be distributed to all participants and volunteers.
With nearly 100 events to choose from, it might seem a bit overwhelming, but don’t let it be! Simply find your area of interest and sign up! You don’t have to be an expert to participate – just come play . . . there’s something for everyone!
To find out more about participating, volunteering or sponsoring, visit
www.hoiseniorgames.org or email speters@peoriaparks.org or call Shelly at the Peoria Park District at 681.2860. We look forward to seeing you May 26th through May 29th!
Progressive Business Group’s Annual Valentine Ball to benefit The Center For Prevention of Abuse
There is Still Time to Treat Your Sweetheart!
The Progressive Business Group (PBG) will host the 9th Annual Valentine Ball to benefit The Center for Prevention of Abuse, Saturday, February 12th. The black tie optional affair will be held at the Embassy Suites Hotel in East Peoria, beginning with a champagne reception and hot hors d’oeuvres at 5:30 p.m.
The evening includes a gourmet four-course meal, a chocolate fountain, a keepsake photo and live music, all setting the tone for a romantic Valentine’s celebration. In addition there will be a silent auction as well as a raffle with the winning prize being a 5 ct diamond Tennis Bracelet from Jones Bros. Jewelers.
The PBG is a non-profit organization made up of business men and women in central Illinois who combine fostering leadership and building long lasting relationships while helping local charities. “It is our goal to have a wonderful evening to celebrate Valentine’s Day and support a community pillar in The Center for Prevention of Abuse,” explains Wendy Simmons, event chair. “Our invitation list grows because people have a fabulous time and want to share the evening with friends and business associates.”
With the growth of this event has come greater awareness and support for The Center for Prevention of Abuse, a non-profit agency that works to achieve its vision to build a safe, peaceful community. For over 30 years The Center has been serving women, men, children and seniors in central Illinois affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, elder abuse and providing prevention education to help keep children safe. It is the only agency in the state of Illinois to offer all those services under one roof. Each year The Center serves more than 4,000 victims of violence and reaches another 20,000 students through violence prevention education in area schools.
Tickets for the event are $150.00
For additional information about the Valentine Ball or to make a reservation call,
Wendy Simmons @ 309-303-7831 or visit Progressive Business Group’s website, www.progressivebusinessgroup.org.
To learn more about The Center for Prevention of Abuse visit their website,
www.centerforpreventionofabuse.org or call 309-691-0551.
Muir Joins the Peoria Public Schools Foundation
Muir Omni Graphics President, Andrew Muir, has been inducted as a member of the Peoria Public Schools Foundation’s Board of Directors. The Peoria Public Schools District 150 Foundation resolves to help build strong schools and make the Peoria community stronger.
A graduate of Whittier Grade School and Manual High School, in Peoria, IL, he has remained grateful to his former “outstanding” teachers. And as a member of the Board he hopes to repay the community for “the wonderful education I received in District 150” by ensuring that future generations of children are able to experience a similar positive and nurturing learning environment.
“I feel very strongly about Peoria’s education system,” Muir said, “and from an economic development and quality of life perspective, feel our community must have a solid education system to thrive in the future.”
“Andrew will be a great fit to our dynamic and engaged board. We are committed to raising private dollars towards investment in public schools, which has been primarily done through awarding classroom grants,” said Cindy R. Morris, President and Corporate Secretary of the Foundation. “This year we awarded 10. A few were to bring technology to the classroom, fund an afterschool art program, and institute a drum program for a primary school. Applications for grants are extremely diverse.”
According to Morris, Andrew is joining at a pivotal time for the Foundation when they are working with the Treasurer and the school district’s Head of Technology to find new ways to help the school district.
Other board members include former Caterpillar, Inc senior executives, community activist and business owners.
Methodist Medical Center Mobile Mammography Schedule – February-2011
The following is the schedule for the Methodist Medical Center Mobile Mammography Van for the month of February 2010. Methodist now features all digital mammography equipment providing improved, faster and more comfortable exams.
February 1-Methodist at Morton-1909 Morton Ave.
February 2-Methodist Medical Group at Chillicothe-525 Sweetbriar
February 5-Methodist Medical Group at East Peoria-200 River road
February 8-Illini Family Medicine-Washington
February 9-Heartland Clinic-1701 W. Garden Ave.
February 10-Methodist Medical Group at Metamora-901 Walnut
February 11-Wal-Mart-2071 N. Main St.-Canton
February 14-Manito Foods-Manito
February 15-Methodist at Morton-1909 N. Morton
February 16-Heatland Clinic-1701 W. Garden
February 17-Farmington County Market-Farmington
February 18-Methodist at Lacon-1112 E. Fifth St.
February 23-Methodist at Pekin-1800 Broadway
February 24-Methodist Medical Group at Princeville-223 E. Main
February 24 Heartland Clinic-2321 Wisconsin Ave.
There is no need for a doctor’s order for a screening mammogram if you’re 40 or over. If you are uninsured or underinsured, tell us when you call for an appointment. You may qualify for a free mammogram
Call for an appointment at 671-8282
Doing The Most Good in All Times Of Need
The Salvation Army Nears Final Two Weeks of Tree of Lights Campaign
As we near the end of January, the Salvation Army continues its efforts to meet the level of need in the tri-county area. In addition to recent Christmas efforts, we are seeing a consistent need for the most basic of necessities, as rising food costs are resulting in increases in our Salvation Army food pantries.
These difficult times reaffirm our commitment to serving all mankind. In this economy, that commitment means that not only are the homeless and disenfranchised seeking our aid, but so are the displaced and broken-hearted.
We are fortunate that your generosity enabled us to serve many more people this past Christmas and believe that same generosity will help us to meet the many needs of the broken-spirited among us now.
“The kettles may be gone and the bells silenced for another year, but these next few weeks are crucial to our Tree of Lights Campaign,” said Mike & Kay McCord, the Honorary Co-Chairs. “We are always amazed by the continued generosity of central Illinois and thank everyone who has helped us again this year. We are looking forward to a fantastic finish and a great Victory Celebration on February 11th!”
As January 2011 winds down, the overall campaign has raised $1,271,426 of its $1,430,000 campaign goal, or 89%. The remaining few weeks will include direct mail receipts, business contributions and other donations to hopefully reach the goal.
To donate, simply send a check to The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 1468, Peoria, Illinois, 61655, donate online at www.usc.salvationarmy.org/heartland, or call 655-7220 to donate with Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card, or American Express.
Illinois Mountain Dulcimer Winter Weekend at Three Sisters Folk Art School
From February 25th through February 27th, music will fill the air at the second annual Illinois Mountain Dulcimer Winter Weekend at Three Sisters Folk Art School. With classes for both new and advanced dulcimer players as well as a Make-Your-Own Cardboard Dulcimer class, everyone will find something to enjoy at the park. Check in is on Friday from 6:30 – 7:00 p.m. at the registration desk. Instructors will present a brief class overview from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Classes continue Saturday from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. and on Sunday from 9:00 – 11:00 a.m. On Saturday and Sunday at 8:30 a.m., a continental breakfast will be provided to students and instructors and lunch will be provided to students on Saturday.
Tickets for 5th Annual St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway Available
As of January 11th, tickets for the 5th Annual St. Jude Dream Home giveaway have been available at Peoria County Kroger locations or by calling 1-800-390-3196. Tickets can also be reserved at:
The St. Jude Dream Home house will be located in the Sommer Place subdivision and is valued at approximately $330,000. the house will feature 4 bedrooms as well as 3 baths, a large master bedroom with double door entry and vaulted ceilings am many more amazing features. Other prizes will include $1,500 V Gallery gift certificate, $1,000 shopping spree at The Shoppes of Grand Prairie, a year of indulgences at Five Senses Salon & Spa, one year family membership at Gold’s Gym in Peoria or Morton, $500 shopping spree at Kohl’s and many more. Winners of the St. Jude Dream Home giveaway will be drawn on Sunday, April 10 during the 10:00 p.m. news on WEEK-TV 25.