Register Today for Explore Sandburg Open House on Oct. 11

GALESBURG — Discover what opportunities are available to you at Carl Sandburg College during our Explore Sandburg Open House on Oct. 11 at the Main Campus in Galesburg, 2400 Tom L. Wilson Blvd.

Participants may attend in person or virtually. The in-person open house is from 10-11:30 a.m., and the virtual event will take place from 2-3 p.m. Learn about Sandburg’s array of academic programs and support services in addition to taking a tour of campus with one of our student ambassadors. You can also sit in on a Q&A session with current students to hear why Sandburg has been the right fit for them. This event is ideal for high school students enjoying a day off school for a holiday but is open to prospective students of all ages.

Visit www.sandburg.edu/events to reserve your spot today. For more information, contact the Carl Sandburg College Welcome Center at 309.345.3500 or welcomecenter@sandburg.edu.

To learn more about Carl Sandburg College, visit sandburg.college-tour.com.

Hallie Ray and Katelyn Blanton have been named Chargers of the Month for October at Illini West High School.

This award goes to students who have demonstrated dedication, achievement, and outstanding effort at IWHS. They receive food cards, their pictures on the school website/social media, special parking spots for the month, and recognition in the local newspapers.

Ray was nominated by teacher Mr. Hoener. An excerpt from the nomination letter is as follows.

“Hallie has been a definite “ray” of sunshine these past few years. Even when Covid hit, she was a person that stood up and did whatever it took to get things done. This year we are beginning to get more involved with community service work and she has done a tremendous job. I am so proud of her efforts.”

Blanton was nominated by teacher Mrs. Knicl. An excerpt from the nomination letter is as follows.

“Katelyn has been an outstanding leader, student, and friend to all in and out of the classroom. She is always prepared and taking on roles that haven’t been assigned to her. Katelyn is a positive role model and an absolute joy to be around”

Congratulations to Hallie & Katelyn!

ILLINI WEST HEAD COACH LYLE KLINE  BREAKS DOWN THE RUSHVILLE GAME AND THE IMPORTANCE OF HERITAGE AND FAMILY

ROBERTS SISTERS DISCUSS THEIR NEW BOOK OF SHORT STORIES HEART TO HEART on Still Talking

(Macomb, Illinois, September 27, 2021) – With the holiday season only three months away, the elves at Western Illinois Regional Council-Community Action Agency (WIRC-CAA) are getting ready for the agency’s longstanding Project Santa program.

Since 1983, the mission of Project Santa has been to provide a happy holiday full of gifts, food, and clothing to children of income-eligible families in the western Illinois counties of Hancock, Henderson, McDonough, and Warren. Approximately $100 is spent on each child, which includes toys and clothing. In addition, each family enrolled in the program gets a holiday meal to prepare at home. In 2020, nearly 500 children were assisted by the program.

WIRC-CAA Public Relations Manager Jamie Roth said Project Santa aims to give children a sense of security and grow their giving spirit. “A few years ago, we helped a little girl who was more excited about getting a new winter coat than her toys,” said Roth. “That little girl was not an isolated case; other children have been excited about having their own blankets and shoes. The children we help, and their parents, are often worrying about things that many of us take for granted.”

To qualify, each household must meet the following criteria: the family did not receive Project Santa in 2019 or 2020; the family lives in Hancock, Henderson, McDonough, or Warren County; the household is not enrolled in a similar program offered by another organization; and the household’s gross monthly income is at or below 200% of federal poverty guidelines. 

The 2021 income guidelines are as follows: $2,147 for a one-person household; $2,903 for a two-person household; $3,660 for a three-person household; $4,417 for a four-person household; $5,174 for a five-person household; and for households of six people or more, add $757 for each additional household member.

The deadline to apply for full consideration is Friday, October 8, 2021. To apply for Project Santa, visit https://wirpc.org/projectsanta/ or call WIRC-CAA at 309-837-2997 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Applicants will receive a letter from the agency in mid-October about the status of their application.

The agency is taking extra precautions out of concern for the safety of all those involved in the program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Once again, the gifts will not be wrapped and Santa Claus will not be able to meet the children. Instead, each family will pick up their child’s unwrapped gifts at a designated date/time and will be given wrapping supplies to take home. 

While Project Santa is partially funded by the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, it relies heavily on donations from the public. Members of the public can support this program in several ways: make a monetary donation; sponsor a child; volunteer their time to shop with the Project Santa team; or donate wrapping supplies or toys. To make a monetary donation, visit https://wirpc.org/projectsanta/ or mail to WIRC-CAA, 133 West Jackson Street, Macomb, IL 61455. To volunteer, sponsor a child, or donate supplies, call WIRC-CAA at 309-837-2997.

WIRC-CAA is a multifaceted organization based in Macomb, Illinois, that offers social services programs throughout several counties in western Illinois.  Some of the agency’s programs include a food pantry, clothing center, energy assistance program, scholarships, Project Santa, and more.  The agency also provides counseling and advocacy services for survivors of domestic and/or sexual violence through its Victim Services department.  For more information about WIRC-CAA, call their office at 309-837-2997. 

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The Hancock County Health Department and Memorial Hospital report sixty-seven (67) laboratory-confirmed positive COVID-19 cases for the week of September 19-25, 2021.  Cases include one male in his 90’s, two males in their 80’s, three males in their 70’s, three  males in their 60’s, three males in their 50’s, seven males in their 40’s, five males in their 30’s, three males in their 20’s, five males in their teens, and one male in his pre-teens.  In addition, female cases include one female in her 80’s, four females in their 70's, four females in their 60’s, four females in their 50’s, two females in their 40’s, four females in their 30’s, two females in their 20’s, four females in their teens, two females in their pre-teens and seven females 10 and under.   

There have been a total of two-thousand-six-hundred-thirteen (2613) COVID-19 cases in Hancock County; two-thousand-four-hundred-eighty-six (2486) people have recovered, ninety-two (92) people are currently isolated, and thirty-five (35) have passed.  

NOTE: COVID-19 data can vary from one site to another, due to various factors, such as, further investigation of cases that result in transferring cases to other counties or states,  the time in which the LHD receives results of patients who test outside of the county, and when tests are administered and results are received.

If a person is having symptoms of COVID or has been exposed to someone who has COVID, it may be necessary to get tested.  In Hancock County, anyone who is having symptoms of COVID can contact 217-357-0617 to schedule an appointment.  Insurance companies may cover the fees associated with the test and office visit.  A person may obtain that information when calling the number to make an appointment.  Walk-ins for COVID testing will not be accepted, an appointment is required.  

COVID Vaccinations are still available in our county.  To schedule either a Johnson and Johnson, Moderna, or Pfizer Vaccine you can contact any of the Memorial Medical Clinics in the county or sign up on the Memorial Hospital website at mhtlc.org.  The Hancock County Health Department is also still offering the Moderna vaccine and an appointment can be scheduled by calling 217-604-3092.

There are many factors that can help reduce the spread of illness.  For the safety of yourself and others, it is important to social distance, wear masks, hand wash and use proper respiratory etiquette, stay home when you are sick, clean and disinfect, follow isolation and quarantine guidance and get vaccinated.   

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WIRC JAMIE ROTH DESCRIBES THE VERY NEEDED PROJECT SANTA PROGRAM HOW YOU CAN APPLY AND HOW YOU CAN MAKE DONATIONS OR HELP. THE DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR PROJECT SANTA IS OCTOBER 9TH.   

CARTHAGE ~ The Carthage Elementary School District #317 Board of Education voted to approve James (Drew) Dickerson to fill a board vacancy.  Dickerson lives in Carthage with his wife, Courtney, and their three children. Emmalyn and Aubriana are students in the Carthage Elementary School District, and son, Breton, will be joining them soon. Dickerson has an associate degree in agriculture and has spent most of his life involved in the agricultural industry.  He currently manages the family farm alongside his grandfather.  Dickerson is also a crop insurance adjuster.  “I love being a part of our small, growing community. I look forward to working with the board and everyone in the district. My hope is to contribute to the success of CESD by taking a more active role and joining the board,” stated Dickerson.

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Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-18) announced today that the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has selected Cape Air to provide Essential Air Service (EAS) at the Quincy Regional Airport for a four-year term from December 1, 2021 through November 30, 2025. Earlier this year, Rep. LaHood sent a letter of support to DOT advocating to approve Cape Air’s EAS contract at Quincy Airport.

"The Quincy Airport is a vital part of the transportation system and supply chain of west-central Illinois," said Rep. LaHood. "Expanded service at the Quincy Regional Airport will increase economic opportunity in the Quincy region. Reliable and constant access to both Chicago and St. Louis hubs will provide invaluable connections for my constituents traveling for business purposes or leisurely. I was proud to advocate on behalf of the Quincy Regional Airport for this selection and will continue to support Illinois’ transportation system."

“We are continually thankful for Congressman LaHood’s advocation for Quincy and western Illinois. The essential air service, with connections to two hubs, is an invaluable asset to Quincy and surrounding region. The concurrence of the United States Department of Transportation with the City of Quincy’s recommendation is the perfect example of how our representatives can speak for us. Congressman LaHood heard what his constituents had to say during the public input process and made sure we were represented in Washington,” said Sandy Shore, Airport Director at Quincy Regional Airport.

Read the full selection order here.

Read Rep. LaHood’s letter of support here.

Background:
Cape Air will provide Quincy with 36 round trips per week from Quincy Regional Airport (UIN) using 9-passenger Tecnam P2012 Traveller aircraft. Quincy will receive 18 nonstop round trips per week to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and 18 nonstop round trips per week to St. Louis-Lambert International Airport (STL). 

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Carthage, IL – Monday, September 27, 2021 – Memorial Hospital Foundation is excited to partner with the Carthage Chamber of Commerce Christmas Open House on Thursday, December 2^nd. This year, Memorial Hospital Foundation, along with Memorial Hospital, Carthage System-Professional Swine Management (PSM), and Carthage Veterinary Service (CVS), will host a “Lights of Joy Holiday Parade”. This parade will feature local tractors, trucks, and side by sides, decorated with holiday décor and lights. The parade will begin at 6:30pm and move west on Main Street, going around the historic Carthage Square, and ending at the Hancock Village senior living campus on Adams Street.

Greta Wetzel, Executive Director of Memorial Hospital Foundation, states, “We are so excited to kick-off this wonderful holiday tradition. We have all experienced a tough couple of years and know that this parade event is sure to bring a bit of joy and light into all of our lives, including the residents at Hancock Village, who will benefit from the generosity of community members as funds are raised for our campaign.”

Memorial Hospital Foundation is looking for parade participants! To enter your truck, tractor, or side by side in the parade, contact Memorial Hospital Foundation at (217) 357-8568 or email jgarner@mhtlc.org. A variety of sponsorship levels are available to parade participants. All proceeds will benefit the Memorial Hospital Foundation 2021 campaign: You are my Sunshine. The You are my Sunshine campaign will raise funds to build a beautiful four-seasons room on the campus of Hancock Village. The four-seasons room will be located where the existing outdoor patio sits at Hickory Grove. This sunroom will offer a superb location for seniors to enjoy the outdoors in an enclosed space. The room will have an open space concept with seating and planters for a lovely garden atmosphere.

Kristen Doyle, Director of Nursing at Hancock Village, feels the sunroom will be a positive addition to the Hancock Village campus.  Doyle said, “The past year has been hard for a lot of people, especially our seniors. This is a great opportunity for our community to show our residents how much we care about them!”

To learn more about the You are my Sunshine campaign, visit mhtlc.org or contact the foundation office. Memorial Hospital Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 corporation and subsidiary of Memorial Hospital. The foundation's purpose is to support Memorial Hospital, Memorial Medical Clinics, Hancock Village, and the Hancock County region by raising privately donated money that supports local healthcare. 

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Memorial Hospital acquires mabas tent

Carthage, IL – Monday, September 27, 2021 – Memorial Hospital has acquired a MABAS tent that is now located outside of their Emergency Department entrance. Memorial Hospital received this tent from the state emergency management group, MABAS.

MABAS is an acronym for Mutual Aid Box Alarm System. MABAS of Illinois offers a statewide mutual aid response system for fire, EMS and specialized incident operational teams. MABAS has representatives from the Office of the State Fire Marshal, Department of Public Health – EMS Division, and Illinois Fire Chiefs Association. The system defines a resource response plan to any location within the state when the Governor orders a Declaration of Disaster.

Raigan Brown, Chief Nursing Officer at Memorial Hospital states, “We are very grateful for this tent in order to plan and prepare for potential patient overflow as COVID-19 cases continue to surge in the county and region.”

Currently, Memorial is utilizing this tent as a location to administer Regeneron monoclonal antibody infusions. These infusions are given on an outpatient basis to those who are experiencing more severe symptoms of COVID-19.  

As the region continues to see an influx of COVID-19 cases, Memorial Hospital would like to remind the public to continue taking precautionary measures and to consider receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Individuals may sign up online to receive the COVID-19 vaccination by visiting MHTLC.org. For more information regarding MABAS, visit mabas-il.org.

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Pictured L to R: 

Chip Wilmott, MABAS, Division Chief

Jim Hubbard, Chief, West Point Fire Department

Adam Rhodes, Macomb Fire Department

Coulton Wascher, Training Officer, Carthage Fire Department

Kody Horn, Chief, Carthage Fire Department

Nathan Reid, Captain, Carthage Fire Department

LaHood, Davis Announce 183d Wing Base Project Included in House-Passed NDAA

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Reps. Darin LaHood (IL-18) and Rodney Davis (IL-13) today announced the FY2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passed out of the U.S. House of Representatives with a project request they made jointly for $10,200,000 for the 183d Wing of the Illinois National Guard based in Springfield.

On September 3rd, Reps. LaHood and Davis announced the project had passed 57-2 out of the House Armed Service Committee. Details from the previous announcement can be found here. The NDAA bill will now likely go to conference after consideration in the Senate to reach a final agreement.

The funding would be used to construct a base civil engineer complex. More detailed information on the project can be found here. The project was requested by Illinois National Guard Adjutant General Major General Richard Neely and has the approval of the Department of Defense. It also had the support of Springfield Mayor Jim Langfelder and Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport Executive Director Mark Hanna.

“The men and women in the Illinois Air National Guard 183rd Wing deserve up to date resources to continue providing exceptional emergency response and support services,” said Rep. LaHood. “I was proud to vote in support of the FY22 NDAA and work with Congressman Davis, and my colleagues on the Armed Services Committee, to ensure funding was included in the NDAA to help build and upgrade the Base Civil Engineer Complex for the 183rd. This funding will enhance training efforts, and modernize the facilities for better operations and maintenance productivity of our military. In Congress, I’ll continue to work with Rodney to ensure the men and women in the 183rd have the resources they need.”

“This project is a top priority of our military leaders at the Illinois National Guard and I am proud to support their mission,” said Rep. Davis. “Congressman LaHood and I’s NDAA project request would fund a new Base Civil Engineer Complex for the 183d Wing of the Illinois National Guard. Our troops here in Central Illinois deserve to have a proper facility to meet their maintenance and preparedness needs. This project would support their important mission. I’m hopeful that this project will eventually be included in legislation that is signed into law and will continue to advocate on its behalf.”

“The federal funding requested for this project will provide the much needed resources for the Illinois Air National Guard 183d Wing to operate efficiently while enhancing emergency response capabilities,” said Langfelder. “Our community supports this project, and we appreciate all your [the Congressmen’s] efforts in championing this important initiative.”

“Completion of this project ensures the continued growth and sustainment of the 183d Wing and supports our own efforts to provide the best aviation facilities to the City of Springfield and its residents and visitors,” said Hanna. “We look forward to working with the ILANG to gain authorization and funding to construct this project.”

Background on the NDAA: 
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is the annual budget for the Department of Defense (DOD) and the military. During his time in Congress, Rep. LaHood has been a consistent supporter of the NDAA and advocated for the inclusion of funding for the Illinois National Guard, the 182nd Airlift Wing in Peoria, and the 183rd Wing in Springfield. In addition, to funding this important project for the 183rd, this year's NDAAs: 

• Authorizes a 2.7% pay increase for servicemembers and extends military recruitment and retention bonuses and special pay authorities
• Focuses investment in new and emerging weapon systems capable of penetrating denied operating environments such as China
• Authorizes $250 million to conduct counter-terrorism operations in Afghanistan and prohibits DoD from providing any financial support to the Taliban
• Requires the DoD to immediately submit a plan to Congress on how it will support the evacuation of American citizens from Afghanistan, maintain air superiority, conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions, and carry out counter-terrorism operations
• Prohibits the transfer of terrorists housed at Guantanamo Bay to any country that is a state sponsor of terrorism
• Prohibits the use of DoD funds to conduct research, including biomedical, infectious disease, and genomic research in China
• Requires DoD and Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to assess the involvement of the Chinese Communist Party in the origins of COVID-19
• Requires biennial reporting on Russian influence operations and campaigns targeting U.S. military alliances and partnerships and continues prohibitions on military cooperation with Russia and any activities that recognize Russian sovereignty over Crimea

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FREE BUDGETING CLASS WILL BE HELD IN MACOMB AND GALESBURG

(Macomb, Illinois, September 27, 2021) – Thanks to ongoing partnerships with local organizations, Western Illinois Regional Council-Community Action Agency (WIRC-CAA) will once again host a budgeting class that is free and open to the public. One class will be held in Macomb and another in Galesburg. 

During the two-hour class, attendees will learn about basic money management, how to design a budget, and how to track their progress. Instruction for each class will be provided by Tessa Hobbs-Curley, who is an experienced Family Life Extension Educator at University of Illinois Extension. 

Pizza and refreshments will be provided to all participants during the class. Out of concern for the safety of all attendees, masks will be required when participants are not actively eating.

WIRC-CAA Public Relations Manager Jamie Roth said that this class was requested by people the agency serves. “Our Community Services department sends out a survey to people who are assisted through WIRC-CAA, and this class is something that has been requested year after year,” said Roth. “Budgeting is a valuable skill that can help people feel empowered.”

After 90 days, participants will have the opportunity to review their progress one-on-one with the instructor. “This will be a great opportunity for people to get feedback about their specific situation,” said Roth. To reward their hard work, participants who attend and participate in the first class and the follow-up class may qualify for a $25 Wal-Mart gift card. 

The class in Macomb will be held on Monday, October 18, 2021 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Village at Wheeler Clubhouse, 1641 East Wheeler Circle. The follow-up class will be held on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at the same time and location. 

The Galesburg class will be held on Tuesday, October 19, 2021 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at Knox County United Way Meeting Room, 1215 Monmouth Boulevard. The follow-up class will be held at the same time and location on Thursday, January 20, 2022. 

To register for either budgeting class, call WIRC-CAA at (309) 837-2997. 

WIRC-CAA provides a wide range of social service programs for people in need, including a food pantry, clothing center, energy assistance program, and more. For more information, visit wirpc.org, find the agency on social media, or call their office at (309) 837-2997. 

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 Click on Link below for a stream off Tonights game! 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA6JaXnRVJfcXnMSwPw6g9w/featured

HANCOCK COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENTS MELITA FINNEY GIVES US DATES AND TIMES OF UPCOMING  DRIVE THROUGH FLU AND PNEUMONIA SHOTS

HANCOCK COUNTY SHERRIF TRAVIS DUFFY- ABOUT BEING SAFE THIS FARMING SEASON AND VEHICLE THEFT PREVENTION 

4-H YEAR KICK OFF, SHOOTING SPORTS-PISTOL EVENT AND MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID PROGRAM

The Legacy Amy Graham-UPCOMING WEATHERS SHOW ON SEPTEMBER 29TH AND WAR BONDS COMING IN OCTOBER

GRAIN SERVICES SAFETY RISK DIRECTOR NICK DEARWESTER REMINDS US TO START SEEING FARM VEHICLES.

URSA FARMERS COOP DOUG GREEN TALKS GRAIN BIN SAFETY NOT JUST DURING FARM SAFETY WEEK

JENNIFER GARNER DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT FOR MEMORIAL HOSPITAL FOUNDATION TALKS HARVEST FOR HOPE FALL MARKET THIS WEDNESDAY ! 

Joy Swearingen from the Legacy Theater on Still Talking about Sandi Patty 9/17/2021 Show! There is still time to get tickets! 

Memorial hospital achieves five star rating for second consecutive year

Carthage, IL – Wednesday, September 15, 2021 – On July 21^st, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released their annual patient experience ratings for hospitals nationwide. This rating is based on the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) scores collected in 2020. Of the 3,478 hospitals rated, Memorial Hospital is one of only 263 hospitals to have achieved a five star rating in patient experience. This equates to the prestigious standing of ranking in the top 10% of hospitals in Illinois and in the top 8% of hospitals nationwide (CMS, 2021). This esteemed ranking is the result of stellar patient feedback even amidst one of the most difficult years in healthcare history due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ada Bair, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Memorial Hospital, states, “Our team at Memorial touches the lives of our patients, families and friends in a very personal and caring manner.  Internally, we witness five star care every day. However, to have our patients’ survey responses reflect this five star care, provides this team with the national recognition that they deserve.  If you ask them why they provide quality care to each and every patient, you will hear them respond, ‘because it is the right thing to do.’  I simply could not be more proud to work alongside this team.”

Raigan Brown, Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) at Memorial Hospital states, “We were so proud to have received five star recognition in 2020, due to our 2019 patient satisfaction responses. However, to maintain that five star rating during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 is even more incredible! We truly have the most caring, patient centered staff and we could not be blessed with a better team.”

Memorial Hospital would like to sincerely thank their patients for taking the time to provide them with feedback by completing patient satisfaction surveys. Memorial is also incredibly grateful for the community’s constant and enduring support as the team continues to battle COVID-19.

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LINDSEY MOORE FROM LITTLE CREEK ALPACAS INVITES YOU TO THE NATIONAL ALPACA FARM DAYS EVENT THIS SEPTEMBER 25TH AND 26TH

HANCOCK COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENTS MELITA FINNEY GIVES US DATES AND TIMES OF UPCOMING FLU AND PNEUMONIA SHOTS 

Kristin Huls  with Hancock County Farm Bureau  PAST AND UPCOMING EVENTS

Carthage, IL – Tuesday, September 14, 2021 – Memorial Hospital and Memorial Medical Clinics are pleased to introduce Katie Ruebush, PT, DPT, to their team. Katie specializes in pelvic floor therapy and treats a variety of women's health needs. She sees patients at Memorial Medical Clinic's 630 Locust Street location in Carthage, Illinois.

Ruebush is a Bushnell, Illinois native. She graduated from St. Ambrose University with a double major in Exercise Science and Human Performance and Fitness and a minor in Biology. She went on to earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, completing clinical rotations at Rush Hospital in Chicago, Illinois, and The Rehabilitation Institute of St. Louis. After completing a women's health clinical at Rush Hospital and participating in a women's health focus study under a women's health board-certified physical therapist and professor at Washington University, Ruebush began specializing in pelvic floor therapy in 2013.  She now treats patients with pelvic floor needs while also treating a variety of other conditions, including conditions relating to urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, constipation and bowel issues, and pregnancy and postpartum needs. Ruebush is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and the Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy.

Katie Ruebush, PT, DPT states, "As a lifelong athlete and now mother, I have a passion for helping patients reach their personal goals of returning to their activities of daily living, hobbies, and exercise routines after injuries, surgeries, or childbirth. I'm thrilled to be a part of the team at Memorial and can't wait to serve patients throughout the tri-state region."

Ruebush treats both men and women. To schedule an appointment with Katie Ruebush, PT, DPT, call Memorial Medical Clinic's 630 Locust Street at (217) 357-6560.

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MARLA WILLIARD AND THE WCCCC PROVIDE A LENDING LIBRARY TO SUPPORT CAREGIVERS WITH ACTIVITIES AND OTHER RESOURCES.

The Hancock County Health Department and Memorial Hospital report one-hundred-sixteen (116) laboratory-confirmed positive COVID-19 cases for the week of September 5-11, 2021.  Cases include two males in their 80’s, two males in their 70’s, seven males in their 60’s, nine males in their 50’s, eight males in their 40’s, three males in their 30’s, one male in his 20’s, nine males in their teens, one male in his pre-teens and six males 10 and under.  In addition, female cases include one female in her 80’s, five females in their 70's, twelve females in their 60’s, ten females in their 50’s, nine females in their 40’s, ten females in their 30’s, five females in their 20’s, eleven females in their teens, three females in their pre-teens and three females 10 and under.   

There have been a total of two-thousand-four-hundred-eighty-three (2483) COVID-19 cases in Hancock County; two-thousand-three-hundred-forty-three (2343) people have recovered, one-hundred-five (105) people are currently isolated, and thirty-five (35) have passed.  

NOTE: COVID-19 data can vary from one site to another, due to various factors, such as, further investigation of cases that result in transferring cases to other counties or states,  the time in which the LHD receives results of patients who test outside of the county, and when tests are administered and results are received.

If a person is having symptoms of COVID or has been exposed to someone who has COVID, it may be necessary to get tested.  In Hancock County, anyone who is having symptoms of COVID can contact 217-357-0617 to schedule an appointment.  Insurance companies may cover the fees associated with the test and office visit.  A person may obtain that information when calling the number to make an appointment.  Walk-ins for COVID testing will not be accepted, an appointment is required.  

COVID Vaccinations are still available in our county.  To schedule either a Johnson and Johnson, Moderna, or Pfizer Vaccine you can contact any of the Memorial Medical Clinics in the county or sign up on the Memorial Hospital website at mhtlc.org.  The Hancock County Health Department is also still offering the Moderna vaccine and an appointment can be scheduled by calling 217-604-3092.

There are many factors that can help reduce the spread of illness.  For the safety of yourself and others, it is important to social distance, wear masks, hand wash and use proper respiratory etiquette, stay home when you are sick, clean and disinfect, follow isolation and quarantine guidance and get vaccinated.   

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Award-winning Christian vocalist, Sandi Patty, is performing live at The Legacy Theater in
Carthage at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 17.
In her 30-year career, Patty has received five Grammy awards, four Billboard Music Awards,
and has 40 Dove Awards. She was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2004 and
was named an Indiana Living Legend in 2007.
She has three platinum records, five gold records, and 11 million units sold.
Contemporary Christian music is her specialty, but Patty has performed with groups across
the country, including the New York Pops, Boston Pops, Cincinnati Pops, Dallas Symphony,
Baltimore Symphony, Houston Symphony, and Oklahoma City Philharmonic.
Sandi and her husband, Don, have eight children. They currently reside in Oklahoma City,
OK.
Tickets are available on at The Legacy Theater box office from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to
Friday, or call the theater at 217-357-9479 and leave a message. They are can be purchased
on the theater’s website, www.thelegacytheater.com. Tickets may be available at the door the
night of the show.

WCAZ is sadly not able to carry this game as the stream is a pay per view, and there is no radio stations on the field.   WCAZ will be back with Illini West Charger Football September 17th @ 6:45 for the pre game. 

Hancock County Sheriff Travis Duffy joins Brad Still for a brief recap of his first few months  as Sheriff.  Duffy replaced Sheriff Bentzinger earlier this year when he retired.  Duffy brings his over twenty years of experience in the Sheriff''s office serving the area in the narcotics division.  Duffy did note the challenges posed by methamphetamine in Hancock County.

Carthage, IL – 9/8/2021 – Memorial Hospital is pleased to welcome two new Certified
Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) to their team. Steven Knight and Bryon Sobczak have
joined the surgical and obstetrics team at Memorial and provide a variety of anesthesiology
services.
Steven Knight, CRNA, received his Master of Science in Nursing and Nurse Anesthesia from
Bradley University in Peoria, IL, in 1992. Regarding his onboarding at Memorial Hospital,
Steven Knight states, “I am thrilled to join a team that is so thoroughly committed to providing
high-quality health care to our patients. In addition, an extraordinary family atmosphere makes it
possible for incredible accomplishments and possibilities at Memorial Hospital, and I’m very
excited to be a part of that.”
Bryon Sobczak, CRNA, received his diploma of Nurse Anesthesia from Evanston Northwestern
Healthcare School of Anesthesia in Evanston, IL, in 2003. Bryon Sobczak states, “It is a pleasure
to be at Memorial Hospital in Carthage to provide anesthesia and interventional pain
management services. It is a field that I enjoy immensely and greatly look forward to bringing
my 18 years of experience to the patients at Memorial Hospital.”
Sobczak and Knight provide many services, including peripherally inserted central catheter
(PICC) treatments, which can be used to administer cancer treatments and other infection
treatments, and arterial line placements, which are used to treat patients with cardiac conditions,
including heart failure and cardiac arrest. They also perform labor epidural placement and
management, as well as ultrasound-guided transabdominal plane (TAP) blocks, which aid in pain
management and general anesthesia without requiring opioid medication. Sobczak and Knight
also conduct pre-surgical consultations with patients, and both bring much knowledge and skill
to patients at Memorial Hospital.
Memorial Hospital would like to officially welcome Steven Knight and Bryon Sobczak to the
team. To learn more about the surgical services available at Memorial Hospital, visit mhtlc.org.

SAM HARNAK OF THE Hancock County Economic  Development   BRINGS THE REVERSING THE EXODUS TOWN HALL TO CARTHAGE IN SEPTEMBER 14th  at Marine Bank

Girls Results:

    Marie Desotel - 16th 25:06

 

Boys results:

 

Cole Kirkham-10th 18:08

Rolando Bartolome-37th 24:19

The Hancock County Health Department and Memorial Hospital report ninety-two (92) laboratory-confirmed positive COVID-19 cases for the week of August 29-September 4, 2021.  Cases include four males in their 70’s, seven males in their 60’s, four males in their 50’s, five males in their 40’s, five males in their 30’s, three males in their 20’s, four males in their teens, three male in his pre-teens and seven males 10 and under.  In addition, female cases include three females in their 80’s, one female in her 70's, six females in their 60’s, five females in their 50’s, five females in their 40’s, six  females in their 30’s, four females in their 20’s, six females in their teens, two females in their pre-teens and twelve females 10 and under.   

There have been a total of two-thousand-three-hundred-sixty-seven (2367) COVID-19 cases in Hancock County; two-thousand-two-hundred-forty-one (2241) people have recovered, ninety-one (91) people are currently isolated, and thirty-five (35) have passed.  

NOTE: COVID-19 data can vary from one site to another, due to various factors, such as, further investigation of cases that result in transferring cases to other counties or states,  the time in which the LHD receives results of patients who test outside of the county, and when tests are administered and results are received.

If a person is having symptoms of COVID or has been exposed to someone who has COVID, it may be necessary to get tested.  In Hancock County, anyone who is having symptoms of COVID can contact 217-357-0617 to schedule an appointment.  Insurance companies may cover the fees associated with the test and office visit.  A person may obtain that information when calling the number to make an appointment.  Walk-ins for COVID testing will not be accepted, an appointment is required.  

COVID Vaccinations are still available in our county.  To schedule either a Johnson and Johnson, Moderna, or Pfizer Vaccine you can contact any of the Memorial Medical Clinics in the county or sign up on the Memorial Hospital website at mhtlc.org.  The Hancock County Health Department is also still offering the Moderna vaccine and an appointment can be scheduled by calling 217-604-3092.

There are many factors that can help reduce the spread of illness.  For the safety of yourself and others, it is important to social distance, wear masks, hand wash and use proper respiratory etiquette, stay home when you are sick, clean and disinfect, follow isolation and quarantine guidance and get vaccinated.   

Hancock County Sheriff Travis Duffy reports the following arrests for the week of August 30th, 2021 through 

September 5th, 2021 

08/30/21 

Gunner W Ward, age 28, of Nauvoo, Il was arrested by Hancock County Sheriff's Office for Disorderly Conduct and Criminal Damage to Property. Ward was released on his own recognizance and given a future court date. 

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08/31/21 

Frank D Hoewing, age 48, of Carthage, IL was arrested by Hamilton Police Department for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and a McDonough County Warrant. Hoewing was released after posting the required bond and given a future court date. 

Darrell R Hamilton, age 47, of Hamilton, IL was arrested by Hamilton Police Department for Domestic Battery. Hamilton was released after posting the required bond and given a future court date. 

09/02/21 

John D Last, age 56, of Ottumwa, IA was arrested by Hancock County Sheriff's Office for Driving Under the Influence of Drugs and Possession of Methamphetamine. Last was released after posting the required bond and given a future court date. 

John L England, age 45, of Hamilton, IL was arrested by Hamilton Police Department for a Henderson County Warrant charging him with Failure to Appear on original charges of Driving While License 

ed. England was released after posting the required bond and given a future court date. 

Dustin A Forquer, age 46, of New London, IA was arrested by Hancock County Sheriff's Office for Probation Violation. Forquer remains lodged in the Hancock County Jail awaiting his next court appearance. 

09/03/21 

James Mahlon Newton, age 79, of Banderra, TX was arrested by Hancock County Sheriff's Office for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol. Newton was released after posting the required bond and given a future court date. 

09/04/21 

Greg D Kirlin, age 28, of Camp Point, IL was arrested by Hancock County Sheriff's Office for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol. Kirlin was released after posting the required bond and given a future court date. 

Jose R Chavas Loye, age 36, of Augusta, IL was arrested by Hancock County Sheriff's Office for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol. Chavas Loye was released after posting the required bond and given a future court date. 

Keith D Eggleston, age 60, of Dallas City, IL was arrested by Hancock County Sheriff's Office for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol and Possession of Methamphetamine. Eggleston was released on his own recognizance and given a future court date. 

Darren M Monroe, age 45, of Keokuk, IA was arrested by Hancock County Sheriff's Office for Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol. Monroe was released after posting the required bond and given a future 

court date. 

ALL SUBJECTS ARE CONSIDERED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW. 

Box Score Report - Regular Season - Lewistown Boys Varsity Football @ Illini West Boys Varsity Football - 9/3/2021 7:00 PM 

Lewistown @ Illini West - 9/3/2021 7:00 PM 

BOX SCORE 

SCORING PLAYS 

TEAM STAT COMPARISON

PASSING - LEWISTOWNPASSING - ILLINI WEST 

RUSHING - LEWISTOWNRUSHING - ILLINI WEST 

RECEIVING - LEWISTOWN

RECEIVING - ILLINI WEST 

DEFENSE - LEWISTOWN

DEFENSE - ILLINI WEST 

KICKING - LEWISTOWNKICKING - ILLINI WEST

PUNTING - LEWISTOWNPUNTING - ILLINI WEST 

PUNT RETURNS - LEWISTOWNPUNT RETURNS - ILLINI WEST 

KICKOFF RETURNS - LEWISTOWNKICKOFF RETURNS - ILLINI WEST

Illini West played in the Gold Division at the Suns Classic vs. Payson and Camp Point. 

Illini West defeats Payson in two: 25-18. 25-13

Leading stats for IW...

Kills- 

Ava Bliss leads with 7, Josie Bryan, Reagan Reed, and Rylee Reed each end with 4. 

Assists- 

Caydee Kirkham with 12, Kaytan Finney with 8. 

Digs-

Kaelyn Ferrill ends with 9, Marie DeSotel and Josie Bryan snag 8. 

Service Points-

Marie DeSotel leads all with 14 and 4 aces, Sarah Stinemates adds 7 and 1 ace, Josie Bryan gets 6 and 1 ace. 

Illini West defeats Camp Point in two: 25-17, 25-18. 

Leading stats for IW...

Kills-

Ava Bliss and Josie Bryan each get 7, Marie DeSotel adds 6, Reagan Reed adds 5. 

Assists- 

Caydee Kirkham leads with 17, Kaytan Finney adds 6.

Digs-

Marie DeSotel and Caydee Kirkham each with 12, Josie Bryan adds 11, Ava Bliss gets 9. 

Service Points-

Marie DeSotel leads with 8 and 2 aces, Josie Bryan adds 6 and 1 ace. 

SUNS CLASSIC   ALL TOURNAMENT TEAM- Volleyball

GAY DICKERSON FROM THE AREA AGENCY ON AGING TALKS ABOUT OPEN ENROLLMENT COMING NEXT MONTH ON REAL COUNTRY WITH STILL TALKING 

CARTHAGE LIBRARY AMY GEE AND TORI BUCKERT HIGHLIGHT A MULTITUDE OF EVENTS INCLUDING A BANNED BOOK DISCUSSION. on Still Talking with Brad Still

LEGACY THEATERS TERRY  MARLER AND EXCITING UPCOMING ACTS FOR 2021 SEASON. on STILL TALKING with Brad Still