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Together for Lincoln volunteers, Democrats host lunch, Immanuel hymn sing, blood drive, Jason Hoffman's art, Germanfest, Kelly Miller Circus, writing club, Woofstock, Musical Offering for World Hunger, Community Action LIHEAP applications, VFW essay competitions

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[September 29, 2012]  Volunteers still needed as organizers make final preparations for Together for Lincoln

Together for Lincoln is making a final push for volunteers to assist with projects throughout the community. Organizers say there is still a need for people to help from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Saturday.

"We have had a really good late turnout and are up to right around 500 volunteers, which is above where we were at going into the last two years' project dates," said Dustin Fulton, preaching minister at Jefferson Street Christian Church and public relations coordinator for TFL. "However, due to the amount of labor involved in some of the bigger projects this year, we still need at least 100 more volunteers to complete all of the projects."

Fulton adds that if they have that turnout, they won't have to say no to any of the approved project requests.

Anyone who wants to volunteer can simply show up at Latham Park on Saturday starting at 8:30 a.m., and they will be assigned to a specific project. Volunteers are also asked to bring any tools they might be able to use on projects, such as gloves, hand tools, ladders and especially trucks.

Those who have signed up ahead of time but have not heard from their project leader by Saturday morning should go to Latham Park to get their project assignment.

Also, any participants wishing to purchase this year's T-shirt can do so at the park for $10 each.

This year there are several midsize to large-scale projects.

"We will be constructing two good-sized wheelchair ramps for people who need help with home accessibility," said Norm Newhouse, Together for Lincoln president.

There are also more than 30 weatherization projects, which typically involve installing multiple windows in a home. Volunteers on Saturday will also be painting, assisting with basic electrical and plumbing repairs, and even visiting nursing home residents, among many other things.

Fulton encourages families to come and serve together.

"I think it's great for children to serve with their parents and siblings and experience how rewarding it is to give back to those throughout the community," Fulton said.

There is also an opportunity to be involved on Sunday night during the community worship service in the Hargrove Chapel at Lincoln Christian University. Several of the songs during the service will be led by a community choir. Those wishing to be part of the choir can come to the LCU chapel from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday for a rehearsal.

The 7 p.m. worship service will feature former WAND-TV sports anchor Ron Rector. Rector is currently the campus minister for South Pointe Church in Decatur, a new church start sponsored by Grace United Methodist Church, where he has served on the ministry staff since March 2010.

Following his 13 years at WAND-TV (1989-2002), Rector served as area representative for the Greater Decatur Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He was also pastor of Maroa Christian Church for seven years. He is a 2011 graduate of the Lincoln Christian University Seminary.

Rector says he can't wait to share how the Lord is using the disability of multiple sclerosis in his life for God's glory.

An offering will be collected at the end of Sunday night's service.

"We have never done this in previous years," said Fulton, "but basically everything that is given will be matched dollar for dollar by the Woods Foundation as seed money for next year's TFL, as well as for ongoing needs such as wheelchair ramps that have become year-round projects for TFL volunteers."

The Woods Foundation in Lincoln has agreed to match individual and businesses donations given between now and the end of the year, up to $10,000.

[By DARA BROCKMEYER]


Logan County Democrats host 'Grab & Go' pork BBQ Oct. 3

Logan County Democrats are hosting a "Grab & Go" pork barbecue sack lunch event at their campaign headquarters, 503 Woodlawn in Lincoln, on Wednesday, Oct. 3. Meet Steve Waterworth, Democratic candidate for 18th District congressional seat, from 11:30 to 1:30 p.m. Pork barbecue sandwiches, chips and drink will be available for a donation to his campaign.

All Logan County Democrats are welcome to attend. 

Also, certified deputy registrars will be available to register voters who have a name or address change or those who have turned 18 years old this year.

For more information or to volunteer, call Rebecca Drake, Logan County Democrat chair, at 217-796-3519. 


Immanuel Lutheran will host old-fashioned hymn sing

The congregation of Immanuel Lutheran Church invites one and all to an old-fashioned outdoor hymn sing on Saturday, beginning at 5 p.m. The event will be at the shelter building on the northwest corner of the church property, across from Lincoln Community High School.

In case of inclement weather, the hymn sing will be moved into the church.

Hymns chosen include well-known old favorites such as "Church in the Wildwood," "I'll Fly Away" and "Give Me That Old-Time Religion."

Pastor Andrew Nyren will give a brief history and description of each hymn. Glenda Downing, keyboard, and Shirley Klink, guitar and banjo, will provide accompaniment.

A light supper will follow the singing.


Lincoln Kiwanis Club to sponsor blood drive at Lincoln Masonic Center

To help ensure an adequate blood supply for the region, Lincoln Kiwanis Club is sponsoring a blood drive Monday at the Lincoln Masonic Center, 2022 N. Kickapoo. The hours of the blood drive are noon to 6 p.m.

For your convenience, call Alexis to sign up toll-free at 1-866-GIVE-BLD (1-866-448-3253), ext. 158, or schedule an appointment online using sponsor code 60057 at www.bloodcenterimpact.org. Walk-ins are also welcome and truly appreciated.

Central Illinois Community Blood Center, a not-for-profit organization, is the provider of lifesaving blood for 14 hospitals throughout central Illinois, including Abraham Lincoln Memorial Hospital, Memorial Medical Center and St. John's Hospital in Springfield. CICBC is a division of the Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center, which collects more than 180,000 units of blood annually and serves 85 hospitals in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin.


"Healing" -- Jason Hoffman art exhibit comes to Lincoln Art Institute

An exhibition of sculptures by Jason Hoffman opens at the Lincoln Art Institute, 112 S. McLean St., on Saturday and continues until Nov. 2. There will be a public reception for the artist on Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m.

Hoffman's work is related to acceptance and the power of healing. He takes objects that we see on a regular basis but never contemplate how they can be viewed out of their normal context.

"These objects are used to create open-ended sculptural narratives. The pieces seem direct, but underneath their skin, they hold infinite possibilities," Hoffman commented. "The reality and meaning of the art happens in the moment the viewer gives their own interpretation of the sculptures from their experiences. The objects and images alone do not have value. The value comes from the ability to help heal, which is made possible through the viewer."

Hoffman is a woods and drafting teacher at Lincoln Community High School. He earned his bachelor's degree in fine arts from Illinois State University in 2005. His art was recently on display in New York, N.Y.


Germanfest at St. John United Church of Christ Oct. 20

The 13th annual Germanfest will be celebrated at St. John United Church of Christ in Lincoln on Oct. 20. Authentic German food will be served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of the church. The Alley Kats band will furnish music during the serving time, including polka music for dancing or listening.

Brats, red cabbage, sauerkraut, German potato salad, apple strudel, German chocolate cake or angel food cake will be served with apple cider, tea or coffee. A hot dog meal with chips, dessert and drink will also be available.

The church youth group will offer the same menu at a drive-thru line at the alley alongside the former ALMH east parking lot.

Tickets are available from church members, by calling the office and at the Germanfest. Free delivery in town will be available with orders of six or more prepaid tickets. Tickets for the German meal are $7.50 and for the hot dog meal $3.50.

Parking for the church is at the corner of Maple and Eighth streets.

Proceeds will benefit mission projects, which have been the recipients from the beginning. Missions served have been Austin Bahn Fundraiser, Back Bay Mission, Boy Scout Troup 106, Church World Service Disaster Relief Fund, Community Action Food Pantry, Habitat for Humanity of Logan County, Hope from the Rubble (UCC CWS/9-11-01), Ill. Conference Hurricane Relief Fund, CROP, Mom and Me Camp, Reinhold Niebuhr Memorial Plaque, Salvation Army, SHARE, St. John UCC of Chicago (sister church), St. John UCC Youth Veterans Dance and Teddy Bear Project of ALMH.


Tickets on sale now for Kelly Miller Circus

The Kelly Miller Circus is coming to Lincoln. The circus will roll into town on Oct. 6 to set up on the front lawn of the Best Western Plus on Lincoln Parkway and historic Route 66.

Everyone is invited to come out and watch the animals being unloaded and fed, as well as the elephants raising the big top. Activities will begin at 7:30 a.m., and the tent will be raised at 9 a.m. Throughout the day as setup continues, guides will be furnished for school groups and anyone attending.

The day will be filled with activities, all to raise funds for the preservation project for The Mill on 66, spearheaded by the Route 66 Heritage Foundation of Logan County.

The Railsplitter Antique Auto Club will once again host their annual cruise-in to support The Mill. The car show will be at the corner of Fifth Street and Lincoln Parkway between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

The traditional, "old style" circus will present performances at 2 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Circus tickets are now on sale at several locations throughout Lincoln. Beck's Travel Plaza, all State Bank of Lincoln branches, Kroger, the Information Station and the Best Western Plus all are selling adult tickets at $10 each and children's tickets at $6 each for the big event.

The circus promises to be more exciting than ever with many new acts and entertainers to amaze and amuse you. Come out and enjoy a day of fun-filled excitement.


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Lincoln Writer's Club will meet Oct. 9

Lincoln Writer's Club will meet Oct. 9 at 6:30 p.m. in the Alumni Room of the Lincoln College dining hall.

Suggested topics: story about autumn, harvest time or Halloween.

All are welcome.

For more info, call 732-2723.


'Woofstock' -- Humane Society fundraiser

Bring your furry friends and join Anytime Fitness and the Humane Society of Logan County at Kickapoo Creek Park on Oct. 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for "Woofstock." This is a furry friends and fitness fair fundraiser to benefit the Humane Society. Walk and shop with your pets and purchase items to help support the organization.

At the event there will be hound and human health vendors, face painting, games for kids, a balloon artist, hot dogs, chips and drinks.

There will also be contests and an auction. Auction items include a recliner from Jake's Furnishings, power tools from R.P. Lumber, a freezer from McEntire's Direct Maytag and many more. A raffle will also take place, and you do not have to be present to win.

For more information or to get involved, call Anytime Fitness at 217-732-1155.


Lincoln Christian Church presents 20th Musical Offering for World Hunger

This year's Musical Offering for World Hunger will be on Oct. 14 at 2:30 p.m. in the Lincoln Christian Church sanctuary.

2012 marks the 20th year for the Musical Offering for World Hunger. Linda Storm and Tim Searby developed the idea for a "musical offering" in the early years of Harvest of Talents at Lincoln Christian Church for musicians to have a way to share their talents in helping to feed hungry people around the world.

Throughout the years the musical offering has included music from the masters to Broadway, and this year is no exception. The concert will include organ, piano, vocal solos and duets, choir, handbells and the H.O.T. vocal ensemble.

A freewill offering will be taken, and all proceeds will be given to Harvest of Talents to feed hungry and hurting people all over the world.

Participants this year are Linda Storm, Tim Searby, Gail King, Kay Dobson, Laurin Hill, Dinelle Frankland, Darrin Akin, Paula Landess, Deb Parker, LaVerne Tesh, Paula Knopp, Donnie Parker, Bev Kurka, Jennifer Ramsey, Barry King, Bob Kurka, Cheryl Baker, Rich Knopp, Mike Vernon, Lorna Searby, Randy Storm, Brenda Maddox, Julie King, Brandon Davis, Lincoln Christian Church Sanctuary Choir, John Stein, Zach Ramsey, Lincoln Christian Church Bell Choir and Jeremy Goeckner.

Immediately following the concert, the ministry team for Harvest of Talents for World Hunger will host a punch and homemade cookie reception in celebration of the 20th anniversary. Everyone attending the concert is invited to attend the reception, offering them an opportunity to express their appreciation to the musicians.

Harvest of Talents is celebrating 29 years of ministry, and the musicians involved in the musical offering are delighted to share their talents in support of this vital ministry.


Community Action utility assistance program begins

The Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois announced that Tuesday was the beginning of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, LIHEAP. Community Action administers the program, providing a one-time benefit toward utilities to eligible households in DeWitt, Logan, Mason, Menard and Piatt counties.

To qualify during the priority period of Sept. 4-28, individuals must have incomes of no more than 150 percent of the federal poverty level. Seniors or disabled residents can apply.

Beginning Oct. 1-31, accepted applications will be expanded to include households that have families with children under 5 and disconnected households.

All other households that meet the 150 percent federal poverty guidelines will be eligible for the program beginning Nov. 1 and will continue to May 31, 2013, or until all funds are depleted.

The amount of utility payment is determined by the household income, size, fuel type and geographic location in the state. Source of gas does not have to be natural gas or electricity in order to receive assistance. Payments are made directly to vendors on behalf of the households.

Interested participants can contact their local Community Action Agency Partnership of Central Illinois office to schedule an appointment:

  • Logan County: 217-732-2159, ext. 226

  • Menard County: 217-632-3878

  • Mason County: 309-543-6988

  • DeWitt County: 217-935-2455

  • Piatt County: 217-762-2421

Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois Agency serves low-income, disabled and elderly households in six central Illinois counties. For more information, visit www.capcil.org.


Local student could win $5,000 in college money

Commanders of Veterans of Foreign Wars posts across Illinois have announced the kickoff of this year's VFW and Ladies Auxiliary "Patriot's Pen" essay competition. Middle school students in grades six to eight in this area have the opportunity to compete in the annual competition and win thousands of dollars.

Students are invited to write a 300- to 400-word essay on a patriotic theme. The theme for 2012-2013, which is the 18th year of the contest, is: "What I Would Tell America's Founding Fathers."

Students begin by competing at the local post level. Post winners advance to district, and district winners participate in the state competition. The state winners compete for $46,000 in awards, and first place wins $5,000.

Each year, around 126,000 students participate nationwide.

Deadline for student entries is Nov. 1. Interested students and teachers should contact their local VFW post for more information.

For details, visit http://www.vfw.org/Community/Patriot-s-Pen/.


Local high school student could win trip to Washington, DC, and $30,000 scholarship

Commanders of Veterans of Foreign Wars posts across Illinois have announced the kickoff of the 66th year of the VFW and Ladies Auxiliary Voice of Democracy Scholarship competition. Local high school students have the opportunity to compete for thousands of dollars in scholarships and a trip to Washington, D.C.

The Voice of Democracy Scholarship contest is an annual nationwide audio essay competition designed to give ninth- to 12th-grade high school students, ages 15-19, an opportunity to voice their opinion on their responsibility to our country. Home-schooled students are also invited to participate.

Students must write and record a three- to five-minute essay on this theme for 2012-2013: "Is Our Constitution Still Relevant?" The recording is to be on an audio cassette tape or audio CD. Students competing enter their recording, typed essay and entry form at their local VFW post. The deadline is Nov. 1.

Post winners advance to district judging, and then the first-place district winners advance to the state competition in Springfield. All state winners receive a four-day trip to Washington, D.C.

A total of $152,000 is awarded to national finalists. First place is a $30,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational-technical school.

Annually the VFW provides more than $2.3 million in scholarships. Around 50,000 students participate in the competition each year.

The Voice of Democracy contest was started by the National Association of Broadcasters in the late 1940s, and the VFW became involved in the late 1950s. The VFW took over primary sponsorship in 1961, when the broadcasters could no longer sponsor the program nationally. Then in 1964, the VFW Ladies Auxiliary joined in sponsorship of the program.

Because of the active program promotion and participation, the national scholarship funds have steadily increased from four national winners in 1962, with total scholarships of $3,750, to the current level of 63 national scholarships totaling $152,000.

For more information about the Voice of Democracy competition, contact the Veterans of Foreign Wars post in your area. If you are unsure of the post in your area, contact Illinois VFW headquarters in Springfield at 217-529-6688.

For more information, visit http://www.vfw.org/
Community/Voice-of-Democracy/
.


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