As we've already told you, we have a winner for this year's Read and Win contest. Brandon Davis of Lincoln dropped by the offices of LDN this morning to collect his check for $500 from our director of advertising, Karen Hargis.

Davis is quite excited about being the winner of the contest, and says he plans to put some of the money in his savings, and also use part of it to help make his car payment.

LDN wishes to thank all the local sponsors who made this contest possible.

We hope that if you entered the contest, you enjoyed playing. While there could only be one winner, it may be you next time.

Moreover, we want to encourage all our readers to ‘Shop Locally’ whenever possible.

Photo by Lisa Whitson  (Click on image for larger version.) 

Rajiv Ravulapati spoke on behalf of the Citizens Utility Board at a recent meeting at the Oasis Senior Center. The meeting, sponsored by Senator Bill Brady and CUB, focused on helping seniors understand their phone, electric, and gas bills, and pinpoint places where they can save money on those bills. In addition to Ravulapati other speakers included Brady, Caitlyn Smith of the Illinois Attorney General's office, and Andre Jordan, Associate Director of the Illinois branch of the American Association of Retired Persons. Read more about this in the Senior Life section below.

Photo by Curt Fox  (Click on image for larger version.)

A man sleeps during the final of the Gold Cup British Open Polo Championship match between Ellerston and Loro Piana at Cowdray Park near Midhurst, southern England.

 REUTERS / Luke MacGregor  (Click on image for larger version.)

Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks throws against the Cincinnati Reds during the first inning at Great American Ball Park.

David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports     (Click on image for larger version.)