Link Cards coupon program

Low-income Illinois families can receive twice the dollar value when they use their LINK card at farmers markets this season.   Gov. Pat Quinn issued a statement Saturday reminding working families to take advantage of the LINK Up Illinois Double Value Coupon Program.  The state uses the LINK card to provide benefits for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly known as food stamps. The Double Value Coupon Program is designed to connect low-income residents with nutritious food options, such as fresh fruit and vegetables.  Quinn says many underserved communities have limited access to affordable fresh foods, and healthy options sold at farmers markets can be more expensive.  The Chicago Democrat says the program helps support Illinois children and the economy, by driving LINK dollars to Illinois farmers.

The State pays up

An unexpected windfall of $1.2 billion has given the state’s service providers a moment of relief. But those agencies still are waiting on $5.8 billion in bills the state has not paid and prospects for longer-term relief are uncertain.  Comptroller Judy Baar Topinka’s office warns that the $1.2 billion in unanticipated tax revenue used to pay down the bills is a one-time occurrence. She says lawmakers should not count on having that money next year.  Lutheran Social Services of Illinois says it continues to operate in crisis mode. The agency is owed $8 million from the state. Elgin’s Community Crisis Center fears the problem won’t be permanently solved until the state also deals with its pension crisis. 
The Democratic controlled Legislature approved a $35.4 billion budget last week.

Tractors don’t rock…they crawl

Tractors certainly crawl along roads…so Jay Harvey decided why not let them raise money for Seneca’s food pantry this Saturday. Classic tractors this Saturday will travel from Boondock’s Riverfront Resort to Kinsman Bar and Grill, then Captain J’s Sports Bar and back to Boondock’s. All locations are south of the Illinois River and cover a distance to 23 miles. The cost to join in is ten dollars. Contact Jay Harvey for any answers you need at 228 – 48 – 66.

All about Laura Ingalls Wilder

 A Wisconsin historical site is getting set to honor author Laura Ingalls Wilder.
 
     Wilder, who was born in Wisconsin, wrote the famous “Little House” series of book chronicling pioneer life in the late 19th century. The series gave rise to a television series titled “Little House on the Prairie” starring Michael Landon.
 
     Old World Wisconsin is planning to honor Wilder every weekend in July. The program, dubbed “Laura Ingalls Wilder Weekends,” will offer visitors a chance to try chores and games from the period, participate in look-alike contests and threshing events.
 
     Old World Wisconsin features dozens of historic buildings relocated from around the state. It’s located just outside Eagle in southeastern Wisconsin.

Festivals to visit

Ottawa Two-Rivers Wine and Jazz Fest continues 12 -5 today.   Lobster served from 1 – 5 but a limited number are available. Other food is being served and music from Matt Nelson trio and Brother John/ Chicago’s Blues Man. Wineries from across Illinois will be inside a tent.  Buffalo burgers are on the menu in LaMoille at its Buffalo Days Celebration.  Volleyball tourney, Buffalo Wing Cook-off, live auction and live music from Steve Sharp. The proceeds are used for village activities.  And in  Utica, you can tour gardens and buy plants and items for your yard at the Utica Garden Faire and Walk. Hours are 9 -3.  Vendor will be downtown.  You can buy a ticket for a self-guided tour of Utica gardens for eight dollars.

Simon pushing for assault weapons ban

Lieutenant Governor Sheila Simon is urging Illinois communities to consider banning assault-style weapons before a new law is enacted that could prohibit future bans. The Legislature approved a measure last month that would end Illinois’ last-in-the-nation prohibition on the concealed carry of firearms. It also would prevent local governments from approving bans on assault weapons. But Governor Pat Quinn, a fellow Democrat, hasn’t said whether he will sign the measure.

LaSalle County Broadcasting expands

There’s another station in the LaSalle County Broadcasting family. 103.9 FM signed on this past week to carry WLPO AM programming 24 hours a day. Vice President of Programming, John Spencer said some listeners in the Illinois Valley could not hear WLPO AM after sunset because of a required drop in power. All regular programming – Rod Thorson, Jennifer Nagle, Rush Limbaugh, Dennis Miller, local news, sports and weather will be heard 24 hours a day on WLPO AM and FM – 103.9.