News

Macomb, IL – The Annual Department of Art Faculty Exhibition at Western Illinois University features oil paintings, ceramics, and pieces made in a wide range of other mediums. 18 artists are represented in the show, which can be seen at the University Art Gallery. It will remain on display until October 20. Public Radio's Abraxas Thomas and Marc Nelson viewed the exhibit and found many of the pieces are technically well-done. But they also believe something is missing from the show. Listen to their review by clicking on the audio button above.

Macomb, IL – A business leader stressed the need to adapt to change in a lecture at WIU. Troy Rice gave the Ferguson Lecture for the College of Business and Technology. He began work with Home Depot 15 years ago as an associate manager. Now he heads the North American division. Rice says listening to the customer and remaining flexible are needed for business success. He also suggested that most business failures are attributable to a lack of character, citing examples such as Enron.

Nauvoo, IL – A group of volunteers has restored a rest stop and picnic spot south of Nauvoo. The group pulled brush and cleaned out the seven waterfalls at the state-owned David's Chamber along Route 96. Volunteer Doug Knowles said the site is supposed to have been named for David Smith, son of the LDS prophet, who used it for relaxation and thinking after his father was killed in Carthage. Knowles says the effort will lead to a Friends of Nauvoo group, which will work on other similar projects.

Lee County, IA – Two Lee County leaders will be stepping down within the next 15 months.

Rushville, IL – Rushville is working to increase its water supply. Mayor Ron Shepherd says irrigation during this summer's drought has stressed the town's ability to keep enough in the water tower. The supply from the three existing wells has also dropped off. In addition, he says the opening of the prison near town could mean even more demand. The city is drilling a test well near the Illinois River that could provide more water. In addition, Shepherd says two of the present wells will be treated with an acid.

October 6, 2005 – Victim Services Director Diane Mayfield of the Western Illinois Regional Council talks to Rich Egger about Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Warsaw, IL – The Warsaw School District's budget for next year has been approved. The district's $3.7 million dollar spending plan is projected to end the year in the red. That includes a projected $30,000 deficit in the fund used to pay teacher salaries and daily operations. Superintendent Kim Schilson says the district has about $1,000,000 in reserves in the education fund and in working cash, so education will not be affected. She says staff was not reduced and class sizes will remain small.

Macomb, IL – A school detachment plan will go back to the McDonough Hancock County regional school trustees for another hearing. Earlier his year the trustees okayed having 15 students transfer from Industry to Macomb schools. The board agreed with parents that opportunities for the children would be better there. Circuit Judge David Stoverink said the regional board acted improperly when it compared the advantages of the Macomb and Industry districts ... instead of comparing Macomb to the new Schuyler-Industry district.

Macomb, IL – A former McDonough County Deputy Sheriff will serve as interim Emergency Services and Disaster Agency director. County Board Chairman Bob Harwick says Dave Nissen has the background to oversee the agency. Nissen is an EMT and a member of the multi-county medical emergency response team as well as a ham radio operator. Harwick says the county is checking with state-level emergency management staffers to determine what training Nissen will need to get. The county plans to advertise the position to select a permanent director.

Fort Madison, IA – The Recorder's office in Lee County may have to reduce its hours of operation due to staffing levels. County Recorder Larry Holtkamp says he will have a hard time maintaining regular office hours in both Keokuk and Fort Madison with just 4 full-time and 2 part-time employees. Last week, the Board of Supervisors voted against replacing a full-time employee leaving the office. Without that employee, Holtkamp says his focus will be on keeping one office open on a daily basis.