Annual bird count logs beautiful birds

 “Is that a beautiful bird, or what?”  The beautiful bird, an indigo bunting, continued catching insects in the grass, giving the 18 bird-watchers a chance to focus their binoculars and see its feathers glimmering iridescent blue in the sun.

The small, brown bird feeding nearby was not so cooperative.  He flew away before anyone could get a positive identification. 

“I think it was a Savannah sparrow, but I can’t be sure,” leader Steve Coogan said.  “We’ll have to log it as a ‘question-mark’ sparrow.”

The birders who met in Kickapoo Creek Park at 7 a.m. Saturday were able to positively identify another 31 species, along with brief sightings of a question-mark thrush and a couple of question-mark warblers.  Coogan, an ardent naturalist who lives in Latham, added the 32 species to the five other migrating warblers he had seen earlier at Skunk Hollow.  These birds, and the ones he would see later that day, would be reported to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Division of Natural Heritage, as part of the annual spring bird count.

The bird count helps state naturalists keep track of the species moving through on migration as well as those birds coming back to this area to nest.

This year both the number of participants and the number of species identified were lower than usual.  “We usually see about 50 species and have about 35 people present,” Coogan said.

Coogan thought the decrease in the number of species was because of the early warm weather.   Many migrating birds are insectivores, and if flowers and trees bloom early, insects and the birds who eat them arrive – and move on – early, too.  In addition, Coogan said, trees have already leafed out, making birds harder to spot.

With this in mind, Coogan set next year’s official bird count day as the last Saturday in April.  The day was not a disappointment to the birders, though, who ranged in age from 9-year-old Benjamin Conrady to senior citizens.

A handsome gray catbird sat on a low limb and serenaded the group with a series of tweets, whistles and warbles, ending with a raucous screech that some people think sounds like a cat.  The bird is a mimic, like its cousin the mockingbird, which is now occasionally seen in the Lincoln area.    

A phoebe was seen building a nest, mostly of mud, on a rafter under a shelter.  Canada geese protested the birders’ approach to the creek where the geese were swimming, perhaps looking for a nest site. 

Something small and twittery caught the attention of a sharp-eyed birder, and half a dozen others thought it was worth wading through poison ivy to see the black-throated green warbler he’d spotted.  The warbler sat in a small tree preening its feathers, providing an excellent view of a bird that would not be back until the fall migration.

“I’ve never seen a warbler so cooperative,” Coogan said.  “This is a gift.”

In the open area of the park, meadowlarks sang and an eastern kingbird sat on a small tree, ignoring the birders and occasionally diving down into the grass or swooping through the air to catch an insect.

“That bird is one of the tyrant flycatchers,” Coogan said.  “They can be mean birds.  I’ve seen them mob hawks.”

Donna Hellman, wife of park ranger Don Hellman, said she knew all about those mean birds.  “Last year we had a pair nesting at the edge of our property.  When I mowed I had to wear a hard hat because they would dive-bomb me.”

The birder everyone agreed had the sharpest eyes, Mark Tebrugge, spotted a medium-sized, bright yellow bird in the top of a sycamore.  Everyone agreed it was an oriole, but the question was what kind?  Field guides came out of pockets and backpacks. The bird was yellow, not orange, so it ought to be a female.  But it was singing, which made it more likely to be a male.  Then the bird turned, displayed its black bib, and the puzzle was solved.  It was an immature male orchard oriole, which will turn russet red next year.

 It was a beautiful bird.

[Joan Crabb]

More than 50 people are expected to participate in the "Walk for Life" today (Saturday, May 6) at Kickapoo Creek Park to help raise funds for the Crisis Pregnancy Center in Lincoln. "It’s a life-saving, soul-saving ministry," says Linda Nelson, interim director for the center.

The Crisis Pregnancy Center relies solely on contributions, which often come from church and individual donations. It serves as a resource for women of all ages in crisis due to an unplanned pregnancy. "The purpose of the Crisis Pregnancy Center is to save the lives of the unborn and share the Lord with each client," explains Nelson.

Women are counseled and their individual needs are met, including housing, infant supplies and medical referrals. Volunteers at the center work to educate the women about pregnancy, sexual health and alternatives to abortion. "We try to help them change from a state of crisis to a state of normalcy," Nelson says. Trained counselors are available to help women sort through their feelings and consider alternatives to abortion, while receiving emotional, spiritual and material support.

Nelson calls the center a ministry because it reaches out to so many women in need. The work of the center has saved approximately 50 babies from being aborted and has helped at least 500 women in crisis. "There are a lot of girls who are brokenhearted. They need to know it’s OK to say no, and that God has a plan for their life," she explains.

The money raised during the walk will be used to "keep the center going," says Nelson. Everything provided for the clients is free, and funds are needed for overhead expenses and supplies. Those interested in helping can donate money or items such as clothing for newborns, cribs, car seats and diapers. Any items for the women or children are greatly appreciated.  Approximately $7200 has been raised so far. For more information about how you can help the Crisis Pregnancy Center, call 735-4838.

[Katherine Heller]  

Prom Grand March steps off Saturday evening

The Grand March, an 11-year prom night tradition in Lincoln, will be at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, May 6,  at the courthouse. Prom-goers will march out the Kickapoo Street side of the courthouse.  Several hundred onlookers are expected.

The local Grand March tradition began with Melody Shew of MKS Jewelers. As her own children approached high school age, she was inspired to start the tradition of having all the prom couples announced from the courthouse to be seen by friends, family and community members.

Main Street Lincoln, in cooperation with 10 downtown businesses, is sponsoring this year's march. The theme chosen by the students this year is “Somewhere in the Night.”

Students have spent time compiling songs to be played during the march, as well as preparing elaborate decorations. In the past, the downtown businesses have provided baskets with balloons; however, this year Flowers by Tibbs has volunteered to put together all decorations for the Grand March, and they have decided, as Melody put it, "to go all out."  Included will be a lattice arch for the students to walk under, along with a garden setting where friends and family can take pictures as the students walk down the courthouse sidewalk.

The traditional Grand March schedule is designed for students to plan an early dinner out and arrive at the McLean Street entrance of the courthouse between 6 and 6:30p.m.  They register their names and then stand in line until they are announced.  Inside the courthouse, volunteers including Melody Shew and other business owners from around Lincoln will help organize the students.

Directly outside of the courthouse, Steve Sauer will announce the more than one hundred couples attending this year's prom. Sauer is a teacher at Lincoln Community High School and has been the announcer for nine of the 11 Grand Marches in Lincoln.  Also helping outdoors will be Ben Vogel, who provides and controls the sound system. Tim Rogers and Jim Ash, in a truck provided by Graue Chevrolet, will videotape the Grand March to be aired on Channel 15.

Those planning to attend the Grand March should be aware that parking will be limited. In the downtown area, Pulaski Street and half of McLean Street will be blocked off for student parking only. Broadway will not be blocked. 

In the case of rain or inclement weather, the Grand March will be held in the Lincoln Community High School gym at the scheduled time.

An interview with Ladies Day speaker Dee Brestin

Dee Brestin was the keynote speaker at the annual Ladies Day seminar held on the campus of Lincoln Christian College on Wednesday, April 26. Over 1,300 Christian woman attended from all over the state of Illinois and Indiana, Missouri and Ohio.  These women come to Lincoln hoping to be encouraged by the speakers and also to enjoy the fellowship of so many ladies.

Dee Brestin is a nationally known Christian author and speaker who can be heard at seminars and conferences all over the United States.  Her most recent book, “My Daughter, My Daughter,” encourages women to "pan for gold" in God's Word and pass along the rich heritage of faith to the next generation.

Following is an interview she graciously gave during her busy schedule filled with speaking and book-signing opportunities.

Q: How did you know you were called to this ministry of speaking and writing?

A: "I began writing Bible study guides 26 years ago before many were available." Dee's first interest was in the friendships of women and how they differed from men and their relationships.  Being the mother of five children helped her analyze firsthand how women related to women and how they need each other differently than men need friendships. "These observations led me to explore the different dimensions of friendships of women."

Q: What has prepared you most for this ministry of speaking and writing?

A: "I have learned to be faithful in doing the things for which God opens the door and then watched as He opened more doors for opportunities of service and ministry.  My present project is a collaborative effort with the Christian singer-song writer, Kathy Tricolli.  She has paralleled her life as a single adult with her falling in love with Jesus.  Jesus is her companion and soul mate."  Mrs. Brestin shared how powerful this visual picture has been in her own life, and she will be encouraging others in her next book to "fall in love with Jesus."

Q: Give two specific pieces of advice for young women today.

A: Dee stressed the need to have a right relationship with God in order for other relationships in your life to be healthy and happy.  She firmly believes that "a problem with your vertical relationship will present problems in your horizontal relationships.   Her number two adage, especially when raising children in the teen years, is this:  "Rules are important but relationships are primary."   When talking about her own family, which includes two adopted daughters, she lovingly reminded us to say less and give an affectionate hug, back rub or tousle the hair, especially when words would not be kind or encouraging.   She suggests that when our children are making what seem to be poor choices, always remember a silent hug or touch rather than speak harsh words.

Q: How do you manage a busy household, a writing career and a speaking schedule?

A: Without hesitating Dee replied, "Give every day to the Lord and ask Him what He wants you to do."  She learned early in her ministry not to plan ahead of God. "Thankfully, I have a wonderful, supportive and understanding husband," to whom Dee gave much credit.  "He is home with our two high school-aged daughters while I travel, " grinned Mrs. Brestin.  A full-time assistant plans her travel schedule and now also helps edit and proof her books and Bible Study guides.  Together with a large circle of supportive friends and family, Dee Brestin has made a valuable contribution to the Christian community through her seminars and books.

  [Jeaneen Ray]

DARE fund-raiser scheduled Sunday, May 14

A DARE fundraiser will be Sunday, May 14, at 2 p.m. at Lincoln Community High School.

The Super Bowl champion St. Louis Rams and Lincoln Railer alumni will compete in an exhibition basketball game.

Autograph items will be given away at halftime.

Kids are invited to come and meet Darren the lion.

Tickets are $8, and all proceeds will benefit the Lincoln Police DARE program.

An ice cream social at St. John United Church of Christ, 204 Seventh St. in Lincoln, will be from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 12. Tickets are $5 each and will be available at the door. Children under 5 eat free. Tickets cover sandwich, chips, cake, ice cream and drink.

LCHS presents

an evening of music

The Lincoln Community High School choirs and symphonic band will present a spring concert Tuesday, May 9, at 8 p.m. in the high school auditorium. The symphonic band, beginning choir and advanced choir will perform music from classical to popular styles. This concert is free and open to the public.

American Red Cross classes offered in May

Upcoming American Red Cross classes will be offered at the Logan County office at 125 S. Kickapoo St. in Lincoln.

A Community First Aid and Safety class will be Wednesday, May 17, from 6 to 10 p.m. and Thursday, May 18, from 5 to 10 p.m. The class will cover adult CPR, child and infant CPR and first aid.

A Challenge class will be Saturday, May 20, from 9 a.m. to noon. People who have previously been certified in the above classes may demonstrate their skills and be recertified.

Preregistration is required. For further information, call 732-2134 between noon and 4 p.m. any weekday.

Choirs hit the road; Bible Bowl teams hit the Book
The junior high and senior high choirs of Lincoln Christian Church are hitting the road this summer to spread the Word of God through music. 

The senior high choir, known as the Good News choir, is directed by Tim Searby and will leave Friday, June 9, and return Sunday, June 18. They will perform at seven churches throughout Illinois, Florida and Georgia. Upon their return to Lincoln, the choir will perform at 7 p.m. at Lincoln Christian Church. HeartSong, the junior high choir directed by Karen Gerdts, will tour June 1 through 4, performing at several churches in Illinois and Southeast Missouri.

This marks the 27^th year that the youth choirs have gone on tours around the United States. Tracy Thomas, youth minister at Lincoln Christian Church, says the purpose of the choir tours is “to bring the message of the gospel to people in a unique format, and show that young people are committed to the gospel.”

Bible Bowl participants will also be on the road this summer. The teams will be traveling to the national Bible Bowl Tournament, which will take place during the North American Christian Convention July 10 though 14 in Louisville, Ky.

The teams have been studying texts from Acts chapters 13 through 28, 1 and 2 Corinthians and 1 and 2 Thessalonians. At the tournament, the local youth will compete against approximately 250 teams from across the nation. Last year, the top team from the church placed 14^th.

[Katherine Heller]

ALMH accepts applications for summer teen volunteers

Applications are currently being accepted for this summer’s teen volunteer program at Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital.

Teen volunteers work throughout the hospital, performing a variety of duties in many different departments. To be eligible for the program, teens must be an eighth grade graduate and must complete an application form that includes personal references. All teen volunteers must also complete the training session scheduled on Friday, June 9, from 9 a.m. to noon at the hospital.

Applications are available at ALMH from Barbara Dahm, director of volunteer and special services. Applications should be filled out and returned in person to the volunteer office as soon as possible. A brief interview will be conducted at that time. For more information, call 217-732-2161, ext. 184.

Citizens in Lincoln will join thousands of individuals around the country as part of the National Trust’s Historic Preservation Week celebration. "Taking the Past Into the Future" is the theme of the week, with events scheduled May 7-14.

Citizens in Lincoln will join thousands of individuals around the country as part of the National Trust’s Historic Preservation Week celebration. "Taking the Past Into the Future" is the theme of the week, with events scheduled May 7-14.

"The millennium is a time to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re going," said Richard Moe, president of the National Trust. "This year’s theme celebrates that link between past and future, challenging us to plan for the issues that will confront us in the years to come. It is essential that we be vigilant, flexible and well-informed in order to deal with the rapid changes that are sure to have an impact on our irreplaceable historic treasures."

Students in grades four through eight are encouraged to write a one-page paper on the "Most Historically Influential Lincoln Resident." One winning entry from each grade will win an entertainment package and be recognized on May 7 at the Taste of Lincoln. Entries must be submitted by May 1 to the Main Street Lincoln Office on the second floor of the Union Planters Bank building, 303 S. Kickapoo in Lincoln.

As a prelude to Historic Preservation Week, the "Lincoln Legacy Quiz" will begin in The Courier May 1 and run daily through May 6. Readers can answer the five questions posted each day and send the results to the Main Street Lincoln office. The participant with the highest number of correct responses will win dinner for two at a local restaurant and will be recognized May 7 at the Taste of Lincoln.

A May 3-14 drive by tour of architecturally significant homes, sponsored by the Logan County Board of Realtors and The Courier, will be featured in a special insert on May 3. The insert will include a brief description of the homes and a numbered map so the public can enjoy a leisurely look at all of Lincoln’s treasures.

Mayor Joan Ritter will present the annual awards for Historic Preservation at 11:45 a.m. Sunday, May 7, on the north lawn of the Logan County Courthouse during the Taste of Lincoln. Awards are available in both residential and non-residential categories for preservation, exterior rehabilitation and sympathetic addition. For more information or to make a nomination, call the Main Street Lincoln office. Homes included in the drive by tour are not automatically nominated for an award.

[Lincoln City Hall --
The LaFrance fire truck shown was purchased
by the city in 1924 and retired in 1970.]

Historic displays will be in the windows of many downtown businesses May 6-14 for Historic Preservation Week. Some windows will feature Western Illinois Regional History Fair entries by junior high students from Zion Lutheran School and New Holland/Middletown.

"More Love Than Money Restoration" will be the theme of a workshop to be held Wednesday, May 10, at 7 p.m. in the Union Planter's Bank Conference Room on the second floor at 303 S. Kickapoo. Mike Fak will share low-cost tips on how to renovate your home and give examples. There is no fee and pre-registration is not necessary.

Also that evening, Ruth Sloot from Lincoln Community High School will showcase the project on historic homes compiled by civics classes this year. This will be the first opportunity for residents whose homes were included in the project to see the results.

Another historically based event, the Elkhart Chatauqua, will be May 21 on Elkhart Hill from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information on the Chatauqua, call 217/947-2323.

Historic Preservation Week is based on the 29-year-old tradition of the National Trust for Historic Preservation and is sponsored locally by the city of Lincoln and Main Street Lincoln with financial support from Beans ’N Such and the Blue Dog Inn. For more information on the activities, people can call the Main Street Lincoln office at 732-2929.

[LDN ed.]

Atlanta 4-H club invites youth from town to join

The members of the Atlanta Town and Country 4-H club invite eligible youth from town to join. Jeff Jones, the club reporter, says, "4-H isn’t just for people who live in the country. There are lots of things for a guy or a girl from town to do." Activities include cooking, growing flowers, woodworking, small engines, arts, crafts and herb gardening. For more information, people can call 217-648-2973.