November  Breakfast and Lunch Menus for  LaHarpe Schools

November School Calendar

Red Cross asks you to TEST your smoke alarms as you TURN your clocks back

this weekend to help stay safe from home fires

 Daylight saving time ends on November 5 and the American Red Cross encourages everyone to test their smoke alarms as they turn their clocks back to make sure the alarms are working.

“Home fires claim more lives every year than all natural disasters combined, but working smoke alarms can cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half,” said Trish Burnett, Executive Director of the Red Cross Serving the Quad Cities and West Central Illinois. “The sooner an alarm alerts you to a fire, the sooner you can get out. When you turn your clocks back this weekend, test your smoke alarms too to help prevent a tragedy in your home.”

Over the past week, local Red Cross volunteers responded to help 46 people, including 20 children, in Rushville, Illinois City, Fort Madison, Davenport, Moline, Liberty, Ft. Madison, LaHarpe, and Keithsburg affected by 12 home fires, which account for most of the more than 60,000 disasters that the Red Cross responds to annually across the country.

SMOKE ALARMS When turning your clocks back this weekend, test your smoke alarms and replace the batteries if needed. Visit redcross.org/fire for more information, including an escape plan to create and practice with your family, or download the free Red Cross Emergency app by searching “American Red Cross” in app stores.

• Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas.
• Replace smoke alarms that are 10 years or older. Components such as sensors can become less sensitive over time. Follow your alarm’s manufacturer instructions.
• Practice your two-minute home fire escape plan. Make sure everyone in your household can get out in less than two minutes — the amount of time you may have to escape a burning home before it’s too late.
• Include at least two ways to get out of every room and select a meeting spot at a safe distance away from your home, such as your neighbor’s home or landmark like a specific tree in your front yard, where everyone can meet.

IF YOU NEED HELP If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Call 800-Red Cross for more information or visit  redcross.org/homefires. 

HOME FIRE CAMPAIGN SAVE LIVES Since October 2014, the Red Cross Home Fire Campaign, working with community partners, has saved at least 1,928 lives by educating families about fire safety, helping them create escape plans and installing free smoke alarms in high-risk areas across the country. To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit redcross.org/homefires. 

Bluff City Theater- Gala Event is this Saturday, November 4th

Our Gala Event is this Saturday, November 4th

Your ticket includes a sumptuous buffet dinner, free wine, beer and soft drinks, a cabaret performance featuring the greatest love songs of Broadway and our live and silent auction.  Once again, the event is hosted by St. Louis comedienne Christine Stedman with live auctioneer Dale Delaporte.

The theme is Some Enchanted evening and our gala committee have transformed the American Legion into an enchanted forest.  Cocktails at 6 p.m.  Dinner at 6:45.

Click below to reserve your tickets.

   http://ticketpeak.co/bluffcitytheater/events

First week of veto session wraps up with little legislative movement 
Lawmakers to return to Capitol Nov. 7 to address lingering issues
 

By ANDREW ADAMS 
Capitol News Illinois
 

SPRINGFIELD – Lawmakers are heading back to their districts after three days of legislative session in Springfield this week that saw little movement on several major initiatives. 
They will have a week off before returning to Springfield on Nov. 7 for the second of their annual two-week veto session during which they consider bills the governor vetoed since they last met in the spring.
When they return, they’ll consider measures including reforms to the state’s nuclear policy and a potential extension of a controversial tax credit program that funds private school scholarships. 

Halal and kosher foods 
In a 43-15 vote Wednesday, the Senate passed a measure sponsored by Sen. Ram Villivalam, D-Chicago, that would require schools and state-run facilities like prisons to offer kosher and halal food options for those with religious dietary restrictions. 
The bill, Senate Bill 457, mirrors a similar proposal from Rep. Abdelnasser Rashid, D-Bridgeview, which Gov. JB Pritzker vetoed this summer due to technical concerns about the contracting language. 
The new bill would require the State Board of Education to identify and contract with vendors to provide kosher and halal food options to school districts. Once those master contracts are executed – provided that the General Assembly has allocated funding to do so – school districts would be required to adopt procedures regarding ordering, preparing, and serving prepackaged meals offered under the statewide contracts. 
Schools would not be required to offer these foods until ISBE enters into at least one master contract for the state. 
“There are districts that are doing this right now,” Villivalam said in an interview. “They have the option to continue to do it with the contracts they have entered into or they can enter into the master contract that’s created.”   
The bill was met with some pushback from Republican senators, who questioned the reasoning for some of the penalties for violating the bill’s provisions. 
Villivalam said during debate Wednesday that those and other concerns can be addressed through future amendments in the House or with follow-up legislation when the lawmakers return in the spring.

Energy policy 
Rep. Larry Walsh, D-Elwood, announced Wednesday that he would not pursue a veto override vote for a policy that would have granted downstate electric utilities – notably Ameren Illinois – the “right of first refusal” for transmission line construction, allowing them to have first crack at the projects. 
Pritzker this summer vetoed the portion of a broader bill containing the proposal, citing concerns about stifling competition and increasing consumer prices. 
Read more: Proponents drop push to give downstate utilities dibs on new transmission lines
While he conceded the veto override, Walsh said he will push for a broader bill that would provide the right of first refusal across the whole state in the spring. 
Pritzker also vetoed a bill earlier this year that would have partially lifted the state’s 1980s-era moratorium on new nuclear construction, writing in his veto message that it didn’t include sufficient protections for the “health and safety of Illinois residents who would live and work around these new reactors.” 
But since then, the original bill’s sponsor has introduced a new bill that she hopes addresses these concerns and Pritzker has indicated that he’s open to supporting a bill allowing some nuclear construction. 
“I’m hopeful that we’ll be able to get a bill that does that,” Pritzker said Tuesday. “We should be able to. We’re all competent adults who understand what the goal is and I believe there’s a strong majority of people who want to do this.” 

Private school scholarships
While there wasn’t a formal vote on the subject, advocates for the Invest in Kids tax credit program for donors to private school scholarship funds flooded the Statehouse this week to rally support for renewing the program before it’s scheduled to expire at the end of the year.
The program, which has been the subject of partisan debate for several years and was originally introduced as a concession to Republicans during the creation of the state’s evidence-based funding model for schools, was not extended during this year’s budget negotiations. 
Hundreds of advocates – including school uniform-clad children and a few nuns – rallied inside the Capitol, with their loud chanting in the rotunda at times interrupting debate on unrelated bills inside the House chamber.
Rep. Angelica Guerrero-Cuellar, D-Chicago, introduced a bill this week that would extend the program until 2028 with a $50 million budget cap, down from the $75 million it has received in recent years. It would also limit the individual tax credits to be 100 percent credit for the first $5,000 and a lower percentage credit for any donations beyond $5,000. It was previously 75 percent on all donations. 
Guerrero-Cuellar's House Bill 4194 hasn’t been considered by any committees, meaning it cannot clear both chambers with just three session days left on the calendar this year. The topic will likely come up for discussion when lawmakers return in November, but for any negotiated extension of the program to pass in that second week of lawmakers’ session, the proposals would have to be moved to a bill that’s further along in the legislative process.
Capitol News Illinois’ Jennifer Fuller and Andrew Campbell contributed to this story. 

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of print and broadcast outlets statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association.

"Lunch Break with Memorial – Cooking for your Health" to Take Place

Virtually November 9

As National Diabetes Month approaches, Memorial Hospital is proactively
raising awareness about diabetes and healthy living with an engaging live virtual event. This forty-five-minute event will take place on November 9 at Noon and will provide valuable insights and practical tips for individuals looking to manage or prevent diabetes. This event will be accessible via the;Lunch Break with Memorial – Cooking for Your Health; Facebook event page, with a Zoom link provided on the event page for all attendees. Attendees may also visit mhtlc.org/services/health-wellness-center/teaching-kitchen/ to access the Zoom link.

The event will primarily focus on diabetes awareness, featuring an interactive and informative virtual live education and a cooking segment. Ashlyn Housewright, Executive Director of Health and Wellness, RDN, LDN, CDCES, CLS, CHWC, and Kayce Fuhrman, Director of Diabetes Services, BSN, RN, will host this live segment by providing valuable insights on managing diabetes through a healthy diet and lifestyle choices. Attendees can look forward to an interactive presentation and cooking demonstrations.

November is recognized as Diabetes Awareness Month when communities across the United States seek to bring attention to diabetes. Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your blood glucose, also called blood sugar, is too high. It affects about 37 million Americans, including adults and youth. Diabetes can damage the eyes, kidneys, nerves, and heart and can be linked to some cancers. Taking charge of your health may help you prevent diabetes and other health problems. Memorial Hospital Health and Wellness Center offers a variety of programs to support patients with diabetes, weight loss, and nutrition education. For more information visit mhtlc.org/services/health-wellness-center/diabetes-services/ or call (217) 357 – 6540.

Counterfeit $100 Bills are going around Carthage Area 

 link below to teach you ways to check your bills

http://youtu.be/B1GjgR0UoWw?si=cmecacSYNsgSfUvu

Carthage Fire Departments Called to 232 Walbash to vacant home  fire  9:30 am

Ameren and Carthage Fire Department remain on the scene @ 232 Walbash where a vacant home is filled with smoke. 

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL FOUNDATION TO HOST BOOK FAIR

Memorial Hospital Foundation is pleased to announce the
upcoming "Midwest Book Fairs” book and gift fair, formerly known as ;Books are Fun. This  event will take place on Tuesday, November 21 st , 2023, from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, in the front lobby and hallways of Memorial Hospital at 1454 N. County Road 2050, Carthage, IL. We cordially invite the public to join us for this exciting shopping opportunity.
All proceeds from the Book and Gift Fair will benefit the Memorial Hospital Foundation's
Grow Our Own; Scholarship Campaign, which aims to provide scholarships for Memorial
Hospital and Hancock County Senior & Childcare Services employees pursuing further
education in the healthcare field. The scholarships will also serve as a means to recruit and retain healthcare resources in Hancock County.
For further information on this event or the Foundatio;s Grow Our Own Campaign, dont
hesitate to contact Colleen Wildrick Memorial Hospital Foundation Director of Development, at cwildrick@mhtlc.org or 217-357-8504.

House Republican Leader Tony McCombie - McCombie discusses fall veto session

Statehouseradio, IL <statehouseradio@hrs.ilga.gov>	Tue, Oct 24, 3:28?PM (18 hours ago)
to Aledo, Alton, Anna, Atlanta, Rushville, Benton, Bloomington, Burlington, Burlington, Burlington, Canton, Cape, Carbondale, Carlyle, Carmi, Carmi, me, Centralia, Champaign, Charleston, Chester, Clinton, Clinton, Clinton, Crystal, Crystal, Danville, Danville, Danville, Davenport, Decatur, Decatur, Decatur, DeKalb, Dekalb, Dixon, Dixon, Dubuque, Dubuque, Dubuque, Edwardsville, Effingham, Effingham, Elgin, Erie, Erie, Fairfield, Fairfield, Festus, Flora, Freeport

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As the two week fall veto session gets underway in Springfield, House Republican Leader Tony McCombie (R-Savanna) says there are a number of issues that require fixing within our state agencies where we have seen continual cases of mismanagement and disarray, issues that are ongoing and need to be addressed.

 

McCombie said during a capitol press conference Tuesday, the General Assembly needs to do its job and assure that government services are rendered and there is accountability and transparency.   She pointed to problems in the Department of Children and Family Services, the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, the Department of Corrections, the Illinois Department of Employment Security, and others.

 

Attached are comments from the leader.

 

One thing state lawmakers won’t be discussing during the fall veto session is the current situation in the Middle East.

 

The House Speaker and the Senate President, both Democrats, say lawmakers should be focusing on state issues and not what is happening in another part of the world.

Leader McCombie has shown her position on the issue by filing House Resolution 446, which condemns the violence in the Middle East and shows support for the state of Israel.

 

 

 

American Agri-Women Oppose EPA Herbicide Strategy Proposal

 – American Agri-Women (AAW), a coalition of farmers, ranchers, and women in agribusiness from across the nation, expressed grave concerns with the EPA's Draft Herbicide Strategy Framework to Reduce Exposure of Federally Listed Endangered and Threatened Species (ESA) and Designated Critical Habitats from the Use of Conventional Agricultural Herbicides.

In an impassioned letter to the EPA, AAW joined with agricultural stakeholders to seek EPA’s withdrawal of the strategy because of the likely widespread ramifications on food and feed production and conservation practices.

The group raised a multitude of concerns, including the intricacy of the proposal that makes it challenging for producers and applicators to understand their regulatory requirements and achieve practical compliance.

AAW President Heather Hampton+Knodle said the maps of proposed trial areas appear nearly impossible to pin down. “It looks like splatter paint you might see in an art gallery.  It’s unrealistic to require retailers and producers to ‘color’ within the lines as they are proposed.” The coalition voiced concerns regarding the lack of affordable compliance options for growers, which could result in significant financial burdens for many farms and even lead some to an inability to comply, jeopardizing their access to indispensable herbicides.

Hampton+Knodle cited AAW policy on endangered species by saying deeper concerns underlay the entire proposal.  “For years, we’ve been concerned about how critical habitat designations are defined and how species are listed and not delisted.  We are concerned that the science on each product’s chemistry’s individual impacts on species and subspecies is nowhere near what is needed to determine final boundaries and management requirements.  This action is premature.  The agency should first focus on understanding the chemistry.”

The importance of herbicides in agriculture is highlighted, as they are crucial tools for weed management. Weeds can cause significant yield reductions, and the economic impact of leaving them unmanaged would be substantial. The stakeholders stress the necessity of using a variety of herbicides with different modes of action to combat herbicide-resistant weeds effectively.

The proposal's erosion/runoff and spray drift compliance obligations are also criticized for their complexity and impracticality. The stakeholders argue that determining compliance obligations in these areas is overly complicated, and it may result in producers favoring herbicides with higher compliance point requirements, which could exacerbate herbicide resistance issues.

Implementation of the herbicide strategy is expected to be costly for many agricultural herbicide users, especially for those operating in pesticide use limitation areas (PULAs). The proposal's suggested erosion/runoff mitigation practices may not be practical for various crops, and some might not have enough options to achieve compliance. Furthermore, the stakeholders express concerns that some mitigation practices could inadvertently incentivize the use of herbicides in ways that accelerate herbicide resistance issues.

In conclusion, the stakeholders emphasize that while they support the EPA in meeting its ESA obligations, they oppose the current herbicide strategy proposal and urge the agency to consider alternative means of achieving compliance that do not jeopardize agricultural operations and conservation efforts. They call for a more practical, science-based approach to safeguard the interests of farmers and the environment.

About American Agri-Women

American Agri-Women (AAW) is the national coalition of farm, ranch, and agribusiness women's organizations and state and commodity affiliate organizations. AAW’s Vision for the 2023 Farm Bill can be found at www.americanagriwomen.org. AAW promotes the welfare of our national security through safe and reliable food, fiber and energy supply. Since 1974, AAW members have worked together to educate consumers, advocate for agriculture, and offer networking and professional development opportunities. Go to the AAW website for more information and to join www.americanagriwomen.org. Find AAW on social media at: Facebook.com/AgriWomen/, Twitter.com/Women4Ag/ (@Women4Ag) and Instagram.com/americanagriwomen/ (@americanagriwomen). #standupspeakout4ag
 

House Republican Deputy Leader Norine Hammond - Fall Veto Session gets underway

Sandburg Board Approves Funds for HVAC, Loading Dock Projects

The Carl Sandburg College Board of Trustees approved funding for a pair of Protection, Health and Safety projects at its regular monthly meeting Thursday on the Galesburg campus.

Several areas of the college were identified as needing the replacement of HVAC units due to normal wear and tear over the life of the systems. The project is estimated to cost $240,000. The steps to the college’s loading dock also need repair due to usage and weather exposure. That project is expected to cost about $6,400.

Trustees also adopted tentative tax year 2023 levies, which were based upon a projected tax base of more than $2.3 billion and would represent an increase of 2.5 percent over the EAV growth for tax year 2022.

The board also heard an informational presentation on Sandburg’s participation in SkillsUSA, a national program that serves students preparing for careers in trade, technical and skilled-service occupations and for further education. Presenters included students Gavin Gerard and Faith Kiprop, who were gold medalists at the SkillsUSA Illinois Championships last spring. Gerard won first place in the Job Interview category, and Kiprop won in Technical Computer Applications. Both competed at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills conference in June in Atlanta.

In other business, the Board approved the following:

• Employment of Cameron Fitch as grounds assistant, effective Nov. 1.
• Employment of Amy Kaufman as full-time radiologic technology instructor, effective Jan. 1.

Tech Tips To Keep Trick-Or-Treaters Safe On Halloween 

 Halloween is one of the most anticipated holidays of the year. Children pick out their favorite costume, celebrate with friends and community, and collect treats. But for parents, safety is a priority.

Smartphones now have a variety of helpful safety features, like a built-in flashlight, easy access to emergency numbers and real-time location sharing. Older children and adults can easily have these in their pocket or purse in case it’s needed.

“Parents want to make sure their kids are safe on Halloween, whether they are in their own neighborhood or further away from home,”  “Technology tools can help bring peace of mind to trick-or-treating and offer fun ways to enjoy the day.”

• Research a trick-or-treat plan: Families can use the Nextdoor app to find the best places to trick-or-treat and check neighborhood rules. The app’s Halloween Treat Map allows neighbors to mark their homes if they plan to pass out candy or display decorations.

• Set ground rules and expectations ahead of time: Families can use mobile navigation tools prior to trick-or-treating, such as Google Maps, to establish boundaries and create routes to follow.

• Capture the Moments: Don’t forget to take pictures of your kids in and out of their costumes. It’s a great way to preserve the moment and post to social media channels, but also a good idea to have a reference of the costume your child is wearing, and what they are wearing underneath, in case they get lost.

• Use location tracking devices: If kids don’t have phones, Apple AirTags are a great way to help with location tracking. They can give children independence when trick-or-treating while parents can feel peace of mind.

Kibbe Hancock Heritage Museum in Carthage will end its season at 4 p.m., on Tuesday, Oct. 31.
Until that closing, the museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. and on Sunday
from 1 to 4 p.m.
The museum plans to be open as part of the Carthage Christmas Open House on November 30
featuring the model train displays of Galen Wollbrink.
For several years, Wollbrink has set up his model train displays at the museum for public
viewing beginning with the Carthage Christmas Open House.
Additional model train viewing days in December and January will be announced by the Kibbe
Museum closer to the holiday season.
The museum will reopen for the next season on April 1, 2024.
The museum is located at 306 Walnut, in Carthage, one block south of Rt. 136. For information,
call 217-357-9552.

 U OF I EXTENSION KRISTIN HULSUPCOMING MASTER NATURALIST CLASS COMING UP IN APRIL GO TO go.illinois.edu/MNInterest OR CALL THE EXTENSION OFFICE FOR MORE INFORMATION 4-H SEASON IS IN FULL SWING

CHECK OUT ALL THE GREAT THINGS GOING ON WITH THE MTC COMMUNICATIONS WEB PAGE THE WIFI APP, BUILDS AND MORE

WESTERN ILLINOIS REEGIONAL COUNCIL- JAMIE ROTH DOMESTIC VIOLENCE MONTH, ILHEAP APPLICATIONS AND PROJECT SANTA APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN 

HANCOCK COUNTY SHERRIF'S OFFICE 

PRESS RELEASE

Sheriff Travis Duffy reports that on October 14, 2023, at approximately 7:30 PM Hancock
County Dispatch received a call from Memorial Hospital. Staff at Memorial had called to report that a male subject had driven himself to the emergency room after receiving multiple gunshot wounds at his residence near Webster, IL.
The male victim identified a suspect in the shooting when interviewed by deputies.
Terry R. Lansford (age 49 of Yates City, IL) was identified by the victim and later located at the scene, 2540 E. Co Rd 1850, by deputies and local law enforcement.
Deputies also learned that the victim’s girlfriend was still inside the residence with the suspect. 
Contact was made with the female, and she was able to get out of the residence without the suspect being aware.
At approximately 9:50 PM deputies made entry into the residence and were able to take Lansford into custody without further incident. Lansford was transported to the Hancock County Jail where he was lodged and charged with offenses resulting from the shooting incident. Further charges are expected to be filed as the investigation progresses.
The victim was flown from Memorial Hospital to St. Johns Hospital in Springfield, IL by Air
Evac. The victim is in stable condition. We are not releasing the victim’s name at this point in the investigation.
Sheriff Duffy would like the public to know that this was not a random incident and there is/was no threat to the public. All parties involved in this incident knew each other and the incident was isolated to that relationship between parties. The incident remains under investigation.
The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Carthage Police Department. Hancock County State’s Attorney’s Office, Hamilton, Police Department, Hancock County EMS, LaHarpe Police Department, Illinois State Police, Air Evac, and Memorial Hospital.
All persons arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

HANCOCK COUNTY SHERIFF TRAVIS DUFFY- BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR SCAMS AND FARMERS THIS HARVEST SEASON

HANCOCK COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT- MELITA FINNEY- OCTOBER IS BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH 

DECK YOURSELF OUT IN PINK FOR FRIDAY NIGHTS FOOTBALL GAME

Hancock County Farm Bureau- Jade Miles with  updates  for October

PUBLIC NOTICE- CITY OF CARTHAGE CLEAN UP DAYS ANNOUNCED

VFW POST 11041 TO HOST 11th ANNUAL MEADOR INVITATIONAL

The 11th Annual Meador Invitational Rifle Competition will take place at 9:00 am on
October 21, 2023, and is open to the public. This Rifle Competition is unique in that the
competitors use vintage military rifles. Each competitor will need to bring their own ammo
and rifles. This is a team competition, however individuals can participate and will be
allowed to join a team at registration. Every year, new teams and friendships are formed.

Who: Palmyra American Legion and VFW posts will host
Where: David Berth Shooting Range (Clarence Cannon Dam Gun Range)
What: Surplus Rifle Competition
When: October 21, 2023 - 9:00 am
Why: Benefit for the Mexico Veterans Home

For questions, please call Trevor at (573) 763-4545 or Andy at (660) 998-5618.

ENJOY AN EVENING AT THEE BLUFF CITY THEATER WITH THE WHITNY HOUSTON EXPERIENCE!   OCTOBER 19TH 20TH OR 21ST!   TICKETS ARE ONLY $24!

   TICKETSTICKETS AVAILABLE AT

ticketpeak.co/bluffcitytheater/events?mc_cid=6d1080ec85&mc_eid=2fbb10322f

ACTIVITIES PLANNED FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

Chances are high that everyone knows at least one person who has
been impacted by domestic violence. That is one of many reasons why nonprofit counseling and advocacy organizations increase their awareness efforts during the month of October, which is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Victim Services, a program of Western Illinois Regional Council-Community Action Agency (WIRC-CAA), is increasing their outreach efforts to reassure survivors that they are not alone and share free resources that are available to them.
Victim Services has planned several activities in collaboration with local organizations and businesses during the month of October.

On October 12, Victim Services will have an awareness and outreach table at Forgottonia Brewing, 324 N Lafayette, Macomb, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. during their Trivia Night. Drumming Out Domestic Violence, a free POUND class that doubles as an awareness event, will be held at Make Fit Happen,
1208 North Lafayette, Macomb, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. on October 18. Pet owners and anyone who loves animals are welcome to attend the Pets Against Domestic Violence event on Saturday, October 21 from 9:00 a.m. to Noon at the Jackie & Dave Thompson Dog Park, 869 South Ward Street, Macomb.
Victim Services officials added they are grateful for continued support from Western Illinois University (WIU), who is once again collaborating with them for two awareness events: The Clothesline Project and Take Back the Night March & Rally. The Clothesline Project is an emotional art display that showcases t-shirts designed
by survivors of abuse or loved ones of survivors who have died as a result of violence. The display can be viewed at the WIU Multicultural Center from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. on October 23. On October 26, WIU will once again host Take Back the Night March & Rally, starting at 5:00 p.m. in front of Sherman Hall. After a presentation with guest speakers, participants are invited to walk as a group from Sherman Hall to Chandler
Park where survivors will be invited to share their stories in a safe space.

Purple ribbons will also be displayed in several communities in Hancock, Henderson, McDonough, and Warren counties. Purple is the official color of domestic violence awareness.
At all of their events, Victim Services counselors will be available to anyone who wants to have a confidential
conversation.

“Domestic violence is often thought of by some as only being physical, but it also includes child neglect and psychological, financial and elder abuse,” said Community Services & Public Relations Director Jamie Roth. “It is often difficult for survivors to leave their situation because of financial issues or threats of harm to pets or
other household members if they do so. We host these events to remind survivors they are not alone in their struggle and to raise aw areness of these crimes with the public.”
WIRC-CAA Victim Services provides confidential crisis counseling and advocacy to survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and/or stalking in multiple western Illinois counties. All services are free to survivors and their loved ones. If you have experienced abuse at any point in your life, call Victim Services’ 24/7 crisis hotline at 309-837-5555. WIRC-CAA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

HANCOCK COUNTY  SHERIFF'S OFFICE ACTIVITY REPORT SEPTEMBER

DATE NAME AGE CITY STATECHARGE DISPOSITION
09/01/23 JOHN MATTHEWS 23 Chicago Heights IL Speeding 35 + over NTA
09/03/23 STICE, SHELBY C. 33 Basco IL Operating Uninsured Vehicle NTA
09/03/23 HOGAN, RILEY P. 26 St. Louis MO Speeding, DUI Detained
09/03/23 BISWELL, TONY R. 55 Bowen IL Driving While License Revoked NTA
09/04/23 HORTON, DALLAS D. 43 Hamilton IL Expired Registration Citation
09/07/23 DANIEL JACKSON 48 Niota IL Operating Off Road Vehicle on Roadway, Operating Uninsured Vehicle NTA
09/08/23 JULIA R DENNISON 42 Alexandria MO Operate Uninsured Vehicle NTA
09/08/23 MYERS, ROSS A. 26 Augusta IL Squealing, Screeching Tires Citation
09/08/23 BOSTIC, CAITLIN A. 33 Plymouth IL Speeding Citation
09/08/23 KYLEE CHURCHILL 29 Ursa IL Speeding PTC
09/10/23 DIAZ, KRYSTAL 19 Montgomery IL Speeding Citation
09/12/23 WASHBURN, JOEL D. 48 Hamilton IL Improper Lane Usage Detained
09/12/23 WASHBURN, JOEL D. 48 Hamilton IL DUI Alcohol Detained
09/12/23 WASHBURN, JOEL D. 48 Hamilton IL Driving While License Suspended Detained
09/16/23 HUFFMAN, BRANDON C 29 Hamilton IL Speeding PTC
09/16/23 HARMANPRETT, SINGH 33 Cambridge ON Speeding PTC
09/17/23 NEWPHER, TRISTIN A 24 Niota IL Speeding, DUI Bond
09/17/23 DUNNING, CHEYANN N 23 Hamilton IL Registration Suspended, Operating Uninsured Vehicle NTA
09/17/23 BOSTIC, DERRICK, A 28 Augusta IL DUI Alcohol NTA
09/21/23 BURR,MADDOX M 16 LaHarpe IL Improper Use of Electronic Communication Device CITATION
09/26/23 HULL, JACOB M 40 Hannibal MO Expired Registration PTC
09/12/23 WILLIAMS, KYLE, D 31 Colchester IL Disorderly Conduct NTA
09/14/23 VICKERS, JADE R.R. 22 Keokuk IA Speeding Citation
09/21/23 PURDY, CARSON M. 16 LaHarpe IL Speeding CITATION
09/21/23 ROBERTS, KIRSTEN A. 17 Lomax IL Speeding CITATION
09/21/23 RAVENSCRAFT, JOHN J.E. 17 Lomax IL Speeding CITATION
09/21/23 FINCH, BRUCE C. 16 Laharpe IL Speeding and Expired Registration 2 CITATIONS
09/21/23 COMBITES,JADYN T 16 Stronghurst IL Speeding CITATION
09/21/23 SHALLENBERGER,JACKSON D 16 LaHarpe IL Speeding CITATION
09/23/23 BENCE, ASHTON W. 18 Quincy IL Speeding and Suspended Registration NTA
09/24/23 SCHEERINGA, DAVID D. 21 Lake Village IN Speeding CITATION
09/29/23 GILLHAM, JOSHAWA R. 43 Keokuk IA Driving While License Revoked CITATION
09/29/23 GILLHAM, JOSHAWA R. 43 Keokuk IA Child Passenger Protection Act CITATION
09/29/23 GILLHAM, JOSHAWA R. 43 Keokuk IA Operating Uninsured Vehicle CITATION

09/03/23 HOGAN,RILEY P 26 St Louis MO DUI BONDED
09/11/23 HOWE,KARI J 38 Warsaw IL Hancock County Warrant BONDED
09/12/23 WASHBURN,JOEL D 48 Hamilton IL DUI, Driving While License Suspended BONDED
09/12/23 MCSPERRIT,JONATHAN R 31 Blandinsville IL Retail Theft NTA
09/12/23 DEHAVEN,KACIE L 28 LaHarpe IL Retail Theft NTA
09/13/23 WISENER,HANNAH B 24 Elvaston IL Domestic Battery NTA
09/14/23 BOUDEWYN,MICHELLE L 43 Warsaw IL Domestic Battery NTA
09/14/23 ANDREWS,BONNIE J 52 Elvaston IL Driving While License Revoked, Possession of Methamphetamine NTA
09/17/23 BOSTIC,DERRICK A 28 Augusta IL DUI NTA
09/17/23 NEWPHER,TRISTAN A 24 Niota IL DUI BONDED
09/18/23 HEAVIN,JOEL N 33 Warsaw IL Hancock County Warrant NTA
09/20/23 MILLER,STEPHEN R 30 Keokuk IA Hancock County Warrant NTA
09/28/23 FOSTER,NICHOLAS C 21 Warsaw IL Disorderly Conduct, Trespass, Resisting a Peace Officer, Obstructing NTA
09/28/23 HUDSON,ADAM L 37 Keokuk IA Hancock County Warrant HELD
09/30/23 PENNINGTON<CHRISTINE M 43 Hamilton IL Hancock County Warrant HELD

HANCOCK COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE PREESS RELEASE

Sheriff Travis Duffy reports that an investigation into a report of a Domestic Battery led to an executed search warrant and an arrest warrant on October 2, 2023.
On October 1, 2023, Carthage Police Department received a report of a Domestic Battery
incident. After the initial report it was discovered that the incident occurred outside of city limits, so the case was transferred to the Sheriff’s Office.
On October 2, 2023, Sheriff’s Deputies began investigating the report and learned that there were also firearms in the home illegally possessed by the suspect due to felony convictions.
Deputies then worked with the Hancock County State’s Attorney’s Office to apply for a search warrant and arrest warrant for the identified suspect.
Jason E. Fink (40, Carthage, IL) was identified as the suspect and the residence to be searched was located at 2145 E Co Rd 1150.
At 1:10 AM the search warrant was executed, and Fink was taken into custody on the arrest warrant.
Deputies located and seized a firearm, a brass knuckles knife combo, and less than five grams of methamphetamine.
Fink was arrested on the warrant for Domestic Battery and charges for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, Unlawful Possession of a Weapon by a Felon, and Possession of Less than Five Grams of Methamphetamine were also filed.
Fink was later charged with an Illinois Department of Corrections Parole Violation Warrant.
Fink remains in custody awaiting an initial court appearance on October 5, 2023.
The Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Hancock County State’s Attorney’s Office, Carthage
Police Department, and the Hamilton Police Department during the investigation and execution of the warrants.
All persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

HANCOCK  COUNTY ECONOMIC DELVELOPMENT  - SAM HARNAK 

MEETING TO DISCUSS BRIDGE WORK NOVEMBER 7TH FROM 4-6 PM AND NEW FOOD FESTIVAL COMING YOUR WAY IN THE FUTURE

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Area Police Officers Get Training on VR System at Carl Sandburg College

Knox County Sheriff’s Deputy Shawn Keith turned to his partner after they had just fired some rounds at a shooting range.

“Did you see the cartridge come out?” Keith asked. “It’s lying next to you there on the right.”

Except there was nothing but carpeted flooring in the area where Keith was pointing. What he was looking at came through a virtual reality headset as part of an Apex Officer Pro Training Simulator System. The state-of-the-art VR system is part of Carl Sandburg College’s criminal justice lab, where Keith and six other officers from three local law enforcement agencies recently received training on how to use it.

“It completely disengaged you from the room and turns you into something totally different,” Keith said, noting it was his first VR experience. “The cars, the license plates. Everything was very real.”

Keith said he felt so immersed in the space that he and his partner even stepped behind a virtual wall to talk to each other.

“We were like, ‘Why are we standing here?’” Keith said. “But it's that real. It's very, very cool.”

With the system, users can create fully customizable environments and scenarios that law enforcement officials may encounter. Officers can be placed into a host of locations such as city streets, alleyways, apartment complexes, night clubs, abandoned factories, suburban neighborhoods and more.

Subjects and witnesses of all shapes and sizes can be dropped into the situation, as can vehicles and other objects like weapons or bottles. Subjects can be made to be cooperative, under the influence or show signs of being mentally ill. Officers can be dispatched to calls ranging from a routine traffic stop to a domestic disturbance to a hostage situation. The possibilities are seemingly endless.

Users don a backpack, goggles, a headset and can carry a taser, pistol or rifle. Once dropped into the situation, they can get to work right away on honing their skills in scenarios they might encounter while on duty. Another person uses the system to operate how the subjects react and can communicate with the officers wearing the headset.

“Ultimately, it’s a big video game, except it's a virtual reality,” said Josh Kramer, an investigator with the Monmouth Police Department. “I didn't know what to expect. Obviously, I'd seen virtual reality training, I'd seen demos of it, but I’d never had it hands-on. Pretty much what you're going to encounter in the street is what you're going to encounter in this machine.”

Although the system allows users to carry and use weapons, much of the training emphasizes the use of de-escalation tactics by officers and reducing the need for greater levels of force.

“The de-escalation is huge,” Keith said. “It's nice that you go into this and don't always have to use force. You can talk to people and switch everything up. I think it's going to be very good for our department. It’s going to benefit all of us, honestly, because you guys could be involved in a call that we got training on from here.”

The training session was led by Dr. Christopher Barber, coordinator of Sandburg’s criminal justice program. Officers who went through the training are now certified to train officers in their own departments on how to use the system.

Being able to share this equipment with area departments and officers was one of the goals for Barber when Sandburg acquired the Apex system last year through a $100,000 grant from the Illinois Community College Board. Barber welcomed each of the officers in attendance and their departments to come in and use the system at any time for additional training.

“It makes for a nice, close family unit. We all work together. We get officers out here and they get training,” Barber said. “They also get to see students, and students get to see them in training. It promotes nothing but positivity.”

Nationwide Wireless Emergency Alert Test Set for Oct. 4

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will conduct a national test of the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) on Oct. 4, 2023*. This is inclusive of Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA), and a test alert will be sent to all wireless phones.

WCAZ wants to ensure that everyone is aware and knows that there is no imminent danger and no action needed.

Beginning at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET on Oct. 4, towers will broadcast the test for approximately 30 minutes.

The test message will state: "THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed."

There are four categories of alerts sent through WEA:

• National Alerts are a special class of alerts only sent during a national emergency.
• Imminent Threat Alerts include natural or human-made disasters, extreme weather, active shooters, and other threatening emergencies that are current or emerging.
• Public Safety Alerts contain information about a threat that may not be imminent or after an imminent threat has occurred. 
• AMBER Alerts are urgent bulletins issued in child-abduction cases. An AMBER Alert instantly enables the entire community to assist in the search for and safe recovery of the child.

This will be the third national test

Sandburg Hosting College Fairs Oct. 4 in Hamilton, Oct. 5 in Galesburg