An unusual sight in Lincoln, this white-tailed squirrel is one of two that has been visiting the backyard of a Lincoln resident this week. According to online research, the white tail is possibly the result of a genetic albinism. In 2013, Carl Handel, a wildlife biologist with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources explained the recessive traits of the white tail. In other areas, the white-tails seem to arrive, then disappear quickly. Handel noted that the flashy white tail makes these particular squirrels easy prey for wildlife predators, which may partially explain why they are rare.

Photo by Nila Smith    (Click on picture for larger image) 

Thursday evening the gymnasium/auditorium of Zion Lutheran School was packed with parents, family and friends who were there to see the students' annual Christmas play. This year's play The Secret of Snowflake County was filled with lively music and dance and with an important message -- that Christ is the foundation of Christmas and the reason we celebrate.

Photo provided by Zion Lutheran School  (Click on image for larger version.)  

Comedian Stephen Colbert gestures during the "Rally to Restore Sanity and/or Fear" on the National Mall in Washington, October 30, 2010.

REUTERS/Jim Bourg    (Click on image for larger version)

Los Angeles Lakers guard Kobe Bryant (24) reacts during the game against Indiana Pacers forward Solomon Hill (44) at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Indiana Pacers defeat the Los Angeles Lakers 110-91.

Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports    (click on picture for larger image)

LCHS Fall Sports Schedules & Rosters