Fire department called to get a boat off of the river

What a day for being out on the river.  An area fire department had to bring out the hovercraft for three people who were stuck on the Illinois River late Saturday morning.

The boat, which had two adults and a child, was north of Lake Senachwine.

2011 not looking like a better year for selling a home

Compared to a year ago, home sales are showing a small improvement.

According to the latest state housing survey, 68 homes were sold in La Salle County last month, compared to 52 homes sold in July of last year.  The average sale price of a house in La Salle County was $102,000, $20,000 less than last year.

In Bureau County, 23 homes were sold last month, up from 20 sold in July of 2010.  The average sale price of a house in Bureau County is $89,000, down from last year.

In Putnam County, one house was sold in July for $11,000.  Three homes were sold last year in July for an average price of $55,000.

Through the first seven months, Bureau, La Salle, and Putnam Counties have all sold fewer homes than last year.