Author Archive

The 2007 Women’s Lifestyle Show will be entertaining and educating women on Saturday, October 27 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This is the 16th year of educational seminars, guest speakers, entertainment, handouts, healthcare screenings, makeovers and give-a-ways. The expanded floor space of the Civic Center will showcase over 300 exhibitor booths....
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Both the Senate and House were prepared to hear the General’s report on the surge against the enemy. The General commanding the troops was ready to deliver details. Was the surge working? Was it a failure? It had been several months since the new war strategy had been implemented. Before the four star General...
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Dear Allison, When you called to announce your engagement, the excitement in your voice was wonderfully contagious! How great hearing your good news! As your “beloved aunt,” your name for me, I’m permitted a certain nostalgia about this life-changing event for you. I can vividly remember when your mother called telling us of your...
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Dress for Success provides much more than a business suit to a needy woman seeking employment and independence. The international non-profit organization, dedicated to improving the lives of women, provides professional clothing, employment retention programs and ongoing support. Such resources help women to be self-sufficient and successful both personally and professionally. Founded in...
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Don’t be surprised if Peoria County officials soon announce plans to construct a new Bel-Wood Nursing Home. A recent study of the existing facility revealed the need for an estimated $12 million in updates. Rather than spend that kind of money on changes and renovations, some in the County believe it would be fiscally wiser...
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 Details were checked extensively before we decided on the specifics of our get-away. Twelve women involved in numerous activities make for lots of phone calls, emails and revisions in choosing a mutually convenient time. Our original number of 12, we all play Bunco together each month, was reduced to seven. A spa weekend isn’t for...
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Fascinated by police work, but realize that’s likely not to be a career choice? Enjoy the unique opportunity to have lunch with Peoria Chief of Police Steven Settingsgaard, tour the Police Department and ride on the streets with the Chief. Rubbing elbows with politicians your idea of a great time? Break Bread with the...
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Everyone was taken by complete surprise when Ray LaHood announced he would not seek an 8th term as 18th Congressional Representative. It was the best-kept secret in a town known for political rumors. Once his retirement plans became known the rumors and speculation started running like a freight train out of control. Truth is,...
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Dog days of summer remind me of restful times rather than scorching Midwest afternoons. Probably because when I hear the word dog, my ears perk up, similar to my canine friends, and my heart bubbles over with love. Dogs have occupied a special place in my life since I was a child....
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Joan Hickman isn’t specifically asking people for their money or their time, although she’d welcome the opportunity to put both to good use, but she’d really like it if people would donate their used cell phones to Friendship House in Peoria. Joan, who also goes by Joanie, is a devoted, enthusiastic supporter of Friendship...
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