Curves reopens to La Salle after being closed due to fire

When you’re serious about hitting the gym, you’ll drive out of your way to get in a workout.  The women that belonged to the Curves in Peru had to drive to Spring Valley, Mendota and other towns after the fire at Westclox closed the Peru location.  These days they only have to drive to First La Salle.

Libby Bailey owns the fitness center that was in the front building of Westclox.  It was closed for two weeks while she searched for a large enough space to relocate at.

Bailey was able to get the former United Way building on the east end of First Street and the gym reopened last Wednesday.

Marien Mae Bridal and Boutique was in the building with Curves.  It’s also moving to a new storefront on First Street La Salle.

Sen. Kirk doing better than expected after stroke

CHICAGO (AP) – A Chicago neurosurgeon says Sen. Mark Kirk is speaking and doing better than doctors expected after emergency surgery following a weekend stroke.

Dr. Richard Fessler says the Illinois Republican is answering questions and is very aware of his surroundings while he is in intensive care at Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

Fessler on Tuesday said Kirk has some facial paralysis and speaks with a slight slur. The doctor says Kirk appears eager to get back to work and has asked for his Blackberry.

Kirk is expected to remain in intensive care for several days as swelling goes down in his brain. Surgeons removed a piece of his skull to alleviate pressure from the swelling.

The stroke affected the senator’s left side. Doctors say he has a difficult road ahead with regaining movement.

Teen Admits To Starting Westclox Fire

One of the teens arrested for setting the old Westclox on fire has pled guilty.

The 15-year old boy from Peru charged in the fire pled guilty this morning to aggravated arson.  He’ll be sentenced in La Salle County Juvenile Court March 6^th.

17-year old Steven Gallacher of La Salle is looking at a March 5^th trial date for his alleged role in the New Year’s Eve fire.  Gallacher is being tried as an adult and faces prison time.  The 15-year old is being tried as a minor so he will avoid prison time.