Board debates motion to pay deputy’s bill

[JULY 18, 2001]  At last night’s Logan County Board meeting, board member Jim Griffin made the motion to pay Deputy Bob Spickard’s legal fees. The deputy is faced with fees of $16,029.66, of which he has personally paid $8,000 to date. Spickard incurred the expenses from his defense against criminal charges initiated by Kevin Gleason of Hartsburg for a July 25, 1999, incident. The motion, immediately seconded by Sonny Sullivan, signaled the beginning of a strongly worded and lengthy debate.

Doug Dutz requested a last clarification of the law from State’s Attorney Tim Huyett. Huyett, seemingly impatient with another request, advised the board that Illinois law protects law enforcement officials against civil but not criminal charges. When Dutz asked Huyett if that meant the board could be sued for paying Spickard’s bill, Huyett stated that the county is required to expend funds for only legitimate public purposes. The question of whether an individual could sue the county for paying such bills was noted as a possibility by the state’s attorney. Huyett made it clear that his function at the meeting was to advise the board on the law and not to tell them which way they must vote.

Griffin, Sullivan and David Hepler all expressed their belief that the board should pay the deputy’s legal fees to show the board supports its employees.

Board members Roger Bock and Rod White both expressed concern about where the money to pay this expense would come from. Sullivan stated that the sheriff’s department had collected $400,000 this year in fines and fees but was advised by White that an expense such as the payment of the deputy’s fees was not part of any budget and must come out of the contingency fund.

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Board member Dale Voyles stated he had changed his mind based on the state’s attorney’s explanation of the law (and on roll call voted "no"). New member Gloria Luster stated she was concerned that this would create a precedent for future payments and also intended to vote "no."

Paul Gleason made a futile attempt to amend the motion to pay half of Spickard’s bill, but it fell on deaf ears. Before the vote, Spickard addressed the board, saying he believed that as his employer the board carried certain obligations, although unwritten or unsaid. He stated that he performed his duties as trained and did not believe his expenses should fall on himself and his family.

The vote, not taken until every board member except Chairman Dick Logan had spoken at least once, or in Griffin’s case six times, was quick and as decisive as a guillotine: seven votes against paying the deputy’s expenses, three in favor. Those voting against paying the deputy’s attorney fees were Logan, Voyles, Dutz, White, Bock, Luster and Gleason. Those voting to pay the bills were Griffin, Sullivan and Hepler. The meeting was adjourned.

[Mike Fak]

[JULY 18, 2001]  The Healthy Communities Partnership of Logan County received the Outstanding Rural Health Practice award of the National Rural Health Association. Julie Casper, of the Center for Rural Health of the Illinois Department of Public Health, presented an engraved glass plaque to Dayle Eldredge, coordinator of the local partnership, at the June 28 "Report to the Community."

The National Rural Health Association represents providers of health-care services, agricultural associations, government and industry. Their national convention in late May recognized leaders throughout the nation. The Outstanding Rural Health Practice award was given for innovative programs and strong community collaboration and support.

Healthy Communities Partnership Coordinator Dayle Eldredge said: "This award would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of many individuals. The community of Lincoln and all of Logan County has much to be proud of, and they can be especially proud of the Healthy Communities Partnership."

[HCP news release]

[JULY 18, 2001]  During the summer months, heat waves can occur anywhere in Illinois and affect anyone. Young children, elderly people and people with health problems are most likely to be affected. This is a reminder to everyone.

• Plan to check on the elderly and those with health problems at least once a day during hot weather.

• Don’t leave children in a parked car.

• Make sure you drink plenty of liquids during hot weather.

Doing small things can make a big difference.

This public service announcement is brought to you by Lincoln Daily News and the Logan County Health Department.

[News release]

[JULY 17, 2001]  CEFCU is proud to be able to assist the Lincoln Police Department in purchasing bulletproof ballistic safety vests for their newly established Emergency Response Team. The Lincoln Police Department ERT was formed a little more than a year ago in proactive preparedness for potential situations that require immediate action. It was recognized that while there are state-trained teams that will come here should the need arise, a local, quick-acting response will have much better results.

Every shift there are always at least two officers on duty who are trained in certain types of emergency responses, such as a terrorism or hostage situations. They are familiar with the layouts of our schools and have courses of action worked out that could save lives when time counts. Of course it is hoped that this will never be needed, but planning for it will make any efforts more successful if anything ever should happen. Knowing that our police department has made plans should be a comfort to the community and a hope that we will never need to implement them.

These vests will assure that the increased dangers encountered by the Emergency Response Team will not be as life-threatening and will allow the officers to successfully complete their missions.

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[Presenting a check to the Lincoln Police Department are Mary Conrady, CEFCU Member Center manager, and Laura Ziegle, CEFCU vice president of branch operations, with Lincoln Police Chief Richard Montcalm and Community Policing Officer Tim Butterfield receiving it.]

Laura Ziegle, vice president of branch operations, and Mary E. Conrady, Member Center manager in Lincoln, stated in a press release that CEFCU is "privileged to be able to work with such a dedicated group of people and play a part in their life-changing work."

With thanks to CEFCU’s members and board of directors, the women presented a check for $2,500 to the Lincoln Police Department.

[LDN and
CEFCU news release]

[JULY 17, 2001]  The on-again, off-again status of the East Park subdivision was finally resolved Monday evening when the Lincoln City Council gave Rodney White unanimous approval for his 16-home development on North Sherman Street.

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[Joan Crabb]

[JULY 16, 2001]  The swearing-in of Claude "Bud" Stone, Jr. to the 45^th District Senate seat is scheduled for 4 p.m. today at Freedom Hall, 349 W. Birchwood in Morton. Third District Appellate Judge William E. Holdridge will administer the oath of office to the newly appointed senator. Stone, of Morton, was chosen July 12 to serve the remaining 17 months of Sen. Bob Madigan’s unexpired term. The public is invited to attend the ceremony.

[JULY 16, 2001]  The house at 1208 N. Ottawa St., across from Lincoln College athletic fields, is moving today. It is being moved by Goodwin House Movers, Inc. of Washington, Iowa. The moving company owner, Rick Goodwin, says they have moved houses for six generations, since 1930.

The house was previously owned by Lincoln College and now is in the possession of S.M. Davis. It is not being moved too far. Its next location is 1302 N. Kankakee St.

Utility services involved with the move are CILCO, Insight and Verizon.

[LDN]

[JULY 14, 2001]  As the summer months roll along, workers continue to hammer away on major renovation and construction projects at Lincoln Christian College and Seminary. According to Ed Plumier, assistant vice president of physical services, most construction will be complete before students return in mid-August.

To complete LCC’s new look, college president Keith Ray wanted LCC to have a "visual impact," according to Plumier. Older campus buildings are being treated to an exterior stain consistent with the color of the newer Restoration Hall and chapel in order to create an appearance more conducive to the collegiate atmosphere.

Included in the building projects is the construction of a new athletic facility with a 108-car parking lot.

A new facility maintenance building is complete, along with the construction of a five-bay garage that houses the school’s fleet of vehicles.

The former facility management building has been totally gutted, and framing work is complete for converting this building into a student center with a "garage" motif. The newly remodeled building will also contain the offices of the student services staff. A new hip roof over the building is nearly complete, and exterior staining has begun.

The bookstore, adjacent to the student center, is also being completely remodeled and carpeted.

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All dormitories are getting a fresh coat of paint, as well as new furniture, which will begin arriving July 16. The college has upgraded the dorm electrical systems, which will include high-speed network and Internet access. Fire detectors have been added to each dormitory room. New hip roofs with dormers are replacing the current flat roofs on Alumni and Titus Hall. New windows have been installed in Harmony Hall, and framing and drywall installation is in progress.

Also receiving a facelift is the student apartment complex. New siding has been added to Buildings 1 and 2. Buildings 3 and 4 will receive siding by the end of July. On the inside, the apartments will be newly carpeted by the end of the month. They will also have new kitchen vinyl and appliances.

A current capital campaign will partially fund the current renovations. Other funding is the result of readjusted priorities in the current campus construction budget.

[LDN and news release from LCCS]

[JULY 14, 2001]  The Illinois Department of Public Health has awarded the Healthy Communities Partnership of Logan County a $53,772 grant. The Center for Rural Health of the Illinois Department of Public Health under the Rural/Downstate Health Act awarded the grant.

"This is the third year for funding through the department," states Healthy Communities Partnership Coordinator Dayle Eldredge. "The task forces of the partnership receive funding for program development, activities and education. Without this assistance our programs would be severely limited. Funds received also permit us to take our mobile medical unit to Greenview, Ill., again this year."

The Healthy Communities Partnership is a collaborative organization formed in 1997 and states as its mission: "To protect, maintain and improve the health and quality of life of all residents of Lincoln and Logan County."

[Healthy Communities Partnership news release]

[JULY 13, 2001]  Claude "Bud" Stone, Tazewell County Republican Party chairman, has been chosen to fill the unexpired term of former Sen. Robert Madigan of Lincoln. Madigan resigned at the end of June to take a post with the Illinois Industrial Commission.

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"It will be my privilege to serve the citizens of the 45^th District," said Stone. "Senator Madigan has left some pretty big shoes to fill, and I look forward to the challenges that lie ahead."

Stone will most likely be sworn in Monday afternoon. He will finish the last 17 months of Madigan’s unexpired term, which ends in 2002.

The newly appointed senator retired from a management position with Caterpillar in 1985 after 33 years with the company. He has extensive civic experience including work with Bradley University Alumni Association, Peoria Planning and Zoning Commission, Morton Planning Commission, Tazewell County Board Boy Scouts of America, White School PTA, Grundy School PTA, Morton Athletic Booster Club, and as a coach for Little League baseball, basketball and football. Stone is currently the Tazewell County Republican Party chairman.

This is Stone’s first state-level elected position, but he is no stranger to politics. His father, Claude Stone Sr., served as a congressman from the 18^th District.

Born April 30, 1926, Stone graduated from Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y., and Bradley University in Peoria. He also holds an MBA from Stanford University in California.

Stone and his wife, Mary Louise, have three adult children and six grandchildren.

Stone can be reached through Sen. Madigan’s former offices in Lincoln, (217) 732-1323; Eureka, (309) 467-5464; and Springfield, (217) 782-6597.

[Joan Crabb
and news release]

[JULY 13, 2001]  Tourists in Lincoln will have an easier time finding the downtown Courthouse Square Historic District thanks to new directional signs installed by the Illinois Department of Transportation at the request of Main Street Lincoln. The brown "Courthouse Square Historic District" signs have been placed at all the entrances to Lincoln. Some replaced existing signs that merely said "Historic District," but most are in locations where there were no such signs.

"Tourists are captivated by the small-town charm of a courthouse square," noted Jan Schumacher, Main Street Promotion Committee chairperson, who oversaw the project. "We wanted to be certain that visitors knew about our unique historic district no matter which route they took into Lincoln." Lincoln has one of only seven such districts in Illinois.

"Having the name ‘Courthouse Square Historic District’ on the signs was important because it differentiates our extensive district from other historic districts which may be just a block or two of historic buildings," she explained. "We expect these signs will bring more tourists downtown to see our historic attractions, eat at our restaurants and shop in our stores," she added.

In addition to installing new historic district signs, IDOT also installed new Postville Courthouse signs and removed "dead" signs that were faded, as requested by Main Street.

"We appreciate the cooperation of IDOT on this project," noted Wendy Bell, Main Street program manager.  "The signs make our downtown more visible to visitors and therefore benefit the retailers located there."

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The locations of the new courthouse square signs are:

• Lincoln Parkway (Route 66) northbound near Fifth Street

• Lincoln Parkway (Route 66) southbound at North Kickapoo Street and at Woodlawn Road

• Limit Street (Route 121) northbound at Broadway Street

• Woodlawn Road (Route 10) eastbound near Lincoln Parkway

• Route 10 westbound just past Lincoln Christian College

• Keokuk Road at North Kickapoo Street, eastbound and westbound

• North Kickapoo Street southbound near Budget Inn and near the intersection at Keokuk Street 

[News release]

[JULY 13, 2001]  Sheriff’s Deputy Bob Spickard and his wife, Sheila, stood nervously outside the Logan County Courthouse last night waiting for word. Word that would tell them if their request for financial assistance from the Logan County Board to help pay Spickard’s attorney fees would be approved.

The board, in executive session, ended the Spickards’ wait, for now, by announcing after the session that the request would be placed on next Tuesday night’s agenda. Since any funds given to the deputy and his family would come from the county’s contingency fund, a two-thirds majority vote will be required.

Spickard, a Logan County deputy, incurred $17,000 in attorney expenses to defend himself against criminal charges brought against the deputy by Hartsburg resident Kevin Gleason for battery and the use of excessive force in an incident on July 25, 1999.

Spickard has had to pay his own attorney costs because he had opted not to purchase an insurance policy that would have protected him against legal expenses from criminal lawsuits filed against him while on duty. He was also left on his own since Illinois law requires that officers be provided with mandatory insurance protection only against civil charges but not criminal. The FOP, through their collective bargaining agreements, has yet to require that their officers be protected from such costs.

In other business Roger Bock advised the board that he is still waiting for a preliminary report from T.H.K. Associates of Aurora, Colo., on a possible golf course design for 12 acres surrounding the county airport. The study, offered free by T.H.K., is being accepted by the board only as information at this time. Bock also stated that a proposed contract for the county’s health department employees has been ironed out in committee and is being forwarded to the employees for a vote as soon as next Monday.

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Sonny Sullivan, chairman of Animal Control, advised the board that the shelter’s new website had 298 hits in the first 10 days of July, with two dogs being adopted by Bloomington residents. Sullivan noted that there was also a call from Barrington about one of the dogs already adopted. The pictures of animals available for new owners are taken with a digital camera loaned to the shelter by the Logan County Health Department.

The board approved $8,640 to slurry coat Safety Complex parking lots and accepted a low bid of $86,000 from R.A. Cullinan to rework the Nicholson Road overpass.

Board member Terry Werth, as a point of fact, wished to have it known that Economic Development Director Mark Smith had made a half dozen calls to Wal-Mart headquarters after hearing of the initial rejection by the city of Heyworth of a 125-job tire distribution center. The Heyworth City Council later changed their vote and accepted the Wal-Mart plans for development of the center.

[Mike Fak]

[JULY 13, 2001]  Lincoln Police Department reports that there was a successful drug raid performed early this morning, Friday, July 13.

A husband and wife in their mid-40s were arrested at 1303 N. Kankakee and a quantity of cocaine was seized.

Police Chief Richard Montcalm stated that this was the result of a cooperative investigation by the Lincoln Emergency Response Team and the state drug task force.

Chief Montcalm says, "We want to send a message; we’re not going to tolerate anyone using or selling drugs in this community. Maybe with the next ones doing it, we’ll be at their door."

In regard to drugs in our community, he emphasizes, "It is not an enticing environment for children to grow up in when this is taking place. We’re doing everything we can to eliminate this problem."

[LDN]

[JULY 12, 2001]  Summer is here and the good times are on the roll, but don’t be caught off guard by a lack of awareness of potential hazards. Taking a few simple measures could spare you and your family from serious harm. Many residents have chemicals and fuels that could trigger a chemical disaster. The next Logan County emergency disaster drill will focus on just one such chemical leak, chlorine. According to hazardous materials experts, chlorine is the most hazardous material usually found in a community. A quick check of how and where you store your chemicals, especially pool chemicals, could preclude a chemical disaster.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency provides the following guidelines for residences and facilities:

Pool chemicals may become a hazard when they become wetted by a small quantity of water or when they are improperly mixed, such as with other chemicals or reactive materials. Although the potential hazards of swimming pool water-treatment and maintenance chemicals, also referred to as "pool chemicals," have been recognized for some time, news media reports over the last five years still show a significant number of fires, toxic vapor releases and personnel injuries in which pool chemicals were a factor.

A number of the pool chemicals, especially those exhibiting oxidation properties, can potentially be highly reactive and capable of generating high temperatures, as well as releasing toxic vapors if improperly handled or stored. Reactivity may be triggered by water wetting the chemical or by the inadvertent mixing of a pool chemical with an incompatible material. Some pool chemicals are self-reactive over time, even without moisture addition or mixing with other materials. The products of this decomposition may include chlorine gas, which may cause the corrosion of piping and other metal equipment in poorly ventilated areas. These chemicals are packaged in "breathable" containers to avoid pressure buildup while in storage.

A partial listing of pool chemicals includes chlorinated isocyanurates, lithium hypochlorite, sodium bicarbonate, potassium monopersulfate, hydrogen peroxide, sodium hypochlorite, calcium hypochlorite, and certain ammonium, brominated, copper and silver compounds, and muriatic acid. Pool chemicals involved in fire or toxic vapor release are likely to include those that add chlorine or a chlorine ion to the pool water for bacterial control. Chemicals that release chlorine are among the group of chemicals that are classified as oxidizers. These pool oxidizer chemicals include calcium hypochlorite, sodium hypochlorite and chlorinated isocyanurates. Other pool chemicals are used to control the growth of algae or fungus, to adjust the acidity or alkalinity (pH control), and to clarify pool water.

Large, nonresidential pools may use chlorine stored as a liquid under pressure in metal containers. The Chlorine Institute (http://www.cl2.com) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (http://www.osha.gov) provide guidance on the operation of pressurized chlorine systems.

Under normal circumstances, pool chemicals are intended to be added to large quantities of water. If, instead, a limited volume (amount) of water is added to a chemical, an unwanted reaction may occur, resulting in an increase in temperature and the release of toxic gas. Even a small amount of water splashed on the chemical may in some cases trigger a strong reaction. The main exception to this rule concerning water addition is when very large quantities of water are needed for fire fighting. Although the chemicals are usually packaged in plastic bags that are stored in sturdy cartons or drums, accidents have occurred when water leaked into damaged or open containers.

Possible sources of water entry have been traced to:

• Rainwater from a roof leak or from an open or broken window.

• Wet floor when the stored chemicals were not elevated off the floor.

• Leakage from fire suppression sprinkler system.

• Hose-down water generated during area cleanup.

There are other sources of water that may come in contact with pool chemical packages, including high humidity in summer weather. However, the effects of humidity are more likely to be slow-acting, with the rate of temperature buildup and chlorine gas release being less severe.

Chlorine is corrosive to metals such as steel and copper. Instances have been reported where exposed water piping has become corroded, causing leaks, and also where metal storage shelves have corroded and collapsed, leading to chemical spillage.

The most common pool chemicals are inherently incompatible with each other. Intentional or accidental mixing of incompatible chemicals is likely to lead to a chemical reaction that may generate temperatures high enough to ignite nearby combustible materials. Mixing can also lead to the release of highly toxic and corrosive chlorine gas. Reactions have also been traced to the mixing of old (partially decomposed) and new chemicals of the same type. The mixing of pool chemicals with completely unrelated materials, such as swept material from the floor, oily rags and other miscellaneous materials has been known to cause strong reactions with the potential for a resulting fire.

Improper chemical mixing incidents have occurred when:

• Tools and equipment used to handle one chemical were used with a different chemical before being cleaned.

• Spilled substances (e.g., from damaged containers or from sloppy handling) and other miscellaneous substances on floors were swept up together and mixed.

• Containers, residues or wastes are disposed of, resulting in inadvertent mixing in disposal containers or at waste disposal sites.

Liquid chemicals, such as sodium hypochlorite (bleach), if spilled, can leak into other containers or seep into cracks in the floor. Liquids, because of their properties, can create hazards not associated with solid or granular products and must be carefully handled.

Design and maintain designated areas for pool chemical storage so that water does not come in contact with containers or packaging. Any evidence of potential water entry from the following possible sources should receive prompt corrective attention:

• Roof, windows and doors.

• Wall and floor joints.

• Water pipes or hoses and sprinkler systems.

• Drains.

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Look for ways such as these to prevent water contact with stored pool chemicals:

• Close containers properly.

• Cover opened or damaged packaging.

• Store chemicals away from doors and windows.

• Ensure that there are no roof leaks, open or broken windows, or leaks from water pipes, hoses or the sprinkler system.

• Ensure that floors are sloped to keep water drained away.

• Store chemicals on shelves or pallets to keep containers off the floor.

• Use waterproof covers on packaging.

• Exercise particular caution to prevent water contact with stored chemicals any time water is used for cleanup of floor areas near stored packages.

• Ensure that water will not back up from faulty or clogged floor drains.

Review chemical storage arrangements and chemical handling tasks to identify situations where chemicals could be intentionally or accidentally mixed.

• Separate incompatible substances; avoid storing containers of liquids above containers of other incompatible substances.

• Do not mix old chemicals with fresh chemical, even if they are the same type.

• Consider separate, designated tools for each chemical. Handle only one chemical at a time and make sure that tools used with one substance are not used with another unless all residues are removed.

• Use separate, designated containers for cleanup of spilled materials to avoid inadvertent mixing of spilled substances. Consult your local hazardous waste disposal facility for more detailed information on proper waste disposal.

• Make housekeeping of chemical storage areas a priority. Don’t allow rags, trash, debris or other materials to clutter hazardous-material storage areas. Keep combustible and flammable substances away.

• For storage and handling of large quantities, see the American Chemistry Council (http://www.americanchemistry.com; formerly the Chemical Manufacturers Association) "Guidelines in the Safe Transportation, Handling, and Storage of Dry Chlorinated Pool Chemicals – 2001" for guidance on stack height and separation of different chemical types and separation of oxidizers from combustibles.

Prevent a chemical reaction ignition by avoiding wetting or mixing chemicals as described above. Avoid having combustible or flammable materials near the chemicals, particularly gasoline, oil, paint solvents, oily rags, etc. Do not allow ignition sources, such as gasoline, diesel or gas-powered equipment such as lawn mowers, motors or welding machines, in the storage area. Also, do not allow smoking in the storage area. Review bulk storage, including packaging and storage locations, relative to potential for accidental contact with water, including sprinkler systems, rainwater, etc.

Pool chemicals can cause injury if they directly contact a person’s skin, eyes, or respiratory or digestive system. The chemical will immediately react when wetted by perspiration, tears, mucus and saliva in the nose, throat, and respiratory and digestive systems. Such injuries may occur from direct chemical contact with the skin or if chemical dust in the air contacts eyes, is inhaled or settles on food that is consumed.

Consult the chemical manufacturer’s safety instructions as well as the Material Safety Data Sheets for guidance on the appropriate personal protective equipment (known as PPE) necessary to protect your employees. Also, share MSDSs with local emergency medical responders and practitioners.

The following protective measures address conditions that may arise during normal operations or the execution of routine tasks. If, however, additional information is needed for fire, spill, or release intervention, we suggest that you contact the LEPC (http://www.epa.gov/ceppo/lepclist.htm).

See that PPE is kept clean, in proper operating condition and available for use when needed and that the following practices are observed:

Use basic PPE including, as a minimum, chemical goggles and liquid impervious gloves, and boots for any chemical-handling activities.

For frequent or extended chemical-handling activities, add a face shield and liquid impervious apron or coveralls to the basic PPE.

As a minimum, use an air-purifying respirator approved by National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety when airborne chemical dust or mist may be present. The 29 CFR 1910.134 Respiratory Protection covers the OSHA requirements for respiratory protection.

For additional information on proper selection and use of PPE, consult the OSHA regulatory standards.

In addition:

• Consider development of work practices to minimize dust generation and accidental contact with pool chemicals.

• Provide a means of ready access to water (e.g., safety showers, eye wash stations, etc.) for removal of chemicals that may accidentally contact employees.

• Consider appropriate first aid and coordinate with local first responders and medical professionals for treatment of accidental exposure until professional medical treatment can be provided.

• Avoid accidental ingestion by storing and consuming foods and beverages away from chemical storage and handling locations, and ensure that employees wash before eating, drinking, etc.; and post the numbers for the local emergency responders and medical practitioners that are familiar with the appropriate treatment for the chemical present.

[LDN and news release from
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency]

[JULY 12, 2001]  Lincoln Mayor Elizabeth Davis and Logan County Board Chairman Dick Logan opened the Healthy Communities Partnership mid-year report on June 28. More than 125 members from throughout the area attended the gathering at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Lincoln.

The highlight of the event was a "Spotlight on Youth." A special presentation by the Lincoln Snowball organization featured a young woman tempted to engage in risky behavior and resisting due to the positive influence of her friends.

Miss Miranda Stone, a recent graduate of Lincoln Community High School, related her experiences with the Baby Think It Over program, which HCP helps to support. She indicated that after taking care of her "baby," her perception of what it takes to be a mother changed. She said that she thought the program was very good and taught a good lesson.

Members of the HYPE group — Helping Youth in a Positive Environment — from Lincoln Junior High School entertained the audience with an example of the puppet shows they take to area grade schools to teach the dangers of smoking, drug use and drinking.

Lincoln Police Chief Rich Montcalm also recognized the fourth-grade students who were winners in the recent violence prevention essay contest sponsored by the department.

Kristi Osborn of Sojourn related the negative impact domestic abuse has upon youth residing in the home. Sojourn will provide emergency housing for Logan County abuse victims and their children. Lincoln Police Department and Logan County Sheriff s office personnel will provide transportation to Springfield. Lincoln Land Communications and P & M Communications were both recognized for their participation in the "Call To Protect" program. Phones are made available to abuse victims for instant contact with law enforcement.

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Lincoln Area YMCA reported on their mentoring program, and members of the community were urged to participate individually by becoming a mentor to a young person.

The four task forces — Alcohol, Tobacco and Drug prevention; Healthy Families, Rural Health Partnership and Domestic Abuse and Violence — presented reports outlining the clients served, achievements and programs during the past six months. The various groups also announced new programs and events.

Julie Casper from the Center for Rural Health, Illinois Department of Public Aid presented the partnership with the National Rural Health Association's award for Outstanding Rural Health Practice. Miss Casper accepted the award on behalf of the Healthy Communities Partnership at the national convention of the National Rural Health Association in May.

People attending the local event also viewed a series of displays depicting the work of the various organizations.

[Healthy Communities Partnership news release]

[JULY 12, 2001]  On April 1, the U.S. Census Bureau released population counts for the nation, states, counties and local jurisdictions. This is the only information that is required to be collected, tabulated and released by April 1. In late April, the Census Bureau began releasing other information collected during the last census. Over the coming months, all kinds of information will be released. What do we know about Logan County from the information to date?

Our total, official population is 31,183. That is 385 more people than in 1990. Our growth rate was 1.3 percent. Of the 3,141 counties in the United States, Logan County ranked 2,336 in terms of percent growth. Counties ranked 2,453 or higher experienced zero or negative growth during the last 10 years.

Our median age is 37.0 years, almost three years higher than the state figure. The percentage of our population below 18 is 5 percent less than the state average.

There are 11,872 total housing units in the county. Of those units, 11,113 were occupied at census time. Of the vacant units, 20.2 percent were for sale, 26.7 percent were for rent and 3.7 percent were used seasonally or for recreational purposes. For-sale units averaged 4 percent higher than the state, for-rent units 7 percent below the state, and the vacancy rate was about equal at, 1.9 and 6.0 respectively.

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From a "textbook" perspective, Logan County could be viewed as holding its own — barely. Over the past decade, population and new housing developments have been flat. Our population is aging faster than average. Based on these preliminary statistics, and if the trend does not improve, there may be cause for concern as the next decade unfolds.

[source: Economic Development Views & News,
July 2001, Lincoln and Logan County Economic Development Council; Mark L. Smith,
director of economic development]

The Elkhart Homecoming this year will be Saturday, July 21. All events, food stands and entertainment will be downtown on the main street of Elkhart.

The day will kick off with the townwide yard sale starting at 8 a.m. There will be many first-timers this year, and the sale will include collectibles, crafts, antiques and much more.

From 10 a.m. till 3 p.m. there will be a cruise-in with all makes and models.

The St. Patrick's youth group will serve a rib-eye sandwich lunch from 11 a.m. till 1 p.m.

A parade at 3 p.m. will feature several exciting entrees.

From 4 till 7 p.m. the Elkhart Christian Church youth group will sponsor children’s carnival games with prizes.

The kiddie tractor pull is scheduled to begin competition at 5 p.m. Prizes will be awarded to all participants.

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A fried chicken dinner will be served from 5 till 8 p.m. The dinner includes potato salad, green beans, applesauce, marinated cucumber salad, dinner roll and drink.

Entertainment on stage from 5:30 till 7 p.m. will include the superb hypnotist Kent Sorrels and the merriment of several local talents.

A street dance featuring the band Up Front will begin at 8 p.m.

The winner of the 50/50 $1,000 drawing will be announced at 9 p.m. Only 200 chances will be sold.

Sunday morning from 7 till 11 a.m. biscuits and gravy will be served.

Mark your calendars for July 2l and 22, and come to enjoy the events and food at the annual Elkhart homecoming.

[News release]

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