The country’s blood shortage

What does one or two days of severe winter weather do to your life? For the Red Cross, it can and has impacted blood product availability – especially in the Midwest, South and Eastern U.S. The Red Cross states all blood types are needed – particularly Type O negative and platelets. Type O negative blood is what’s used in an emergency when the patient’s blood type isn’t known. Red Cross’s national network can send blood and platelets from where they are to where they are needed – after local demand is satisfied. Individuals as young as 17, weighing at least 110 pounds and in general good health can donate blood Monday, February 17, 1 – 5pm at the Red Cross on fourth street in Peru. The week of January 10th saw six blood drives cancelled in Nebraska and eleven in Georgia.

Sheriff’s scholarships

Some 53-thousand in college scholarships will be distributed this year by the Illinois Sheriff’s Association and Sheriff Tom Templeton will get a piece of the action. Students wishing to pursue higher education in the coming school year can stop by the Templeton’s Ottaaw office for an application. The LaSalle County Sheriff will award one scholarship this year worth $500 toward tuition, books or fees. The student must be a full-time at a certified institution. Applications are available also at il sheriff dot org and must be completed and returned by March 11.

Mackowiak update

An accused murderer faces the death penalty – but that could change pending on Governor Quinn’s signature in the next several weeks. Keith Mackowiak of Seneca was in LaSalle county court Friday and again left without a court date. Mackowiak’s lawyers have filed various motions including one saying the death penalty is unconstitutional. Mackowiak is facing the death penalty if convicted of the July 2007 killings of Al and Katherine Twardowski of Seneca. Governor Quinn though may sign a bill banning the death penalty at any time. Mackowiak’s next court appearance is March 11th.

Moment of silence back

A law requiring a daily moment of silence in schools is in force again causing questions for area school superintendents. Dr. Kristin School is in her first year as superintendent of the Mendota Elementary Schools. Dr. School admits it’s difficult when such a law is under federal injunction and its future is determined. It’s also not easily administered. Dr. School says district buildings likely won’t observe the “moment of silence” this Monday. The former Waltham superintendent believes districts state-wide have some time to fit it into their school day.

Boil order

Do you live in Seatonville or Hollowayville? Due to water plant upgrades, a boil order will be in effect for both villages starting Monday the 17th.

Winter Wilderness Weekend concludes

Instead of spending the weekend inside where it’s warm, you could bundle up and head out to Starved Rock State Park. Today the Winter Wilderness Weekend continues with guided tours through the park including the ice falls at 9am and 1pm. The tours are free. You’re also likely to see the bald eagles.