When?
Am being asked a lot recently about the finalization of the Wyoming water project.  With the weather improving, seems folks are getting anxious to get the area cleaned up and back to normal.  Although we agree, we don’t have any answer other that when the weather improves they promised to begin working again.  But we think it’s time to begin.  Winter does not present a very pretty landscape and the dirt piles, mud, equipment tracks and etc. are beginning to get old.  Progress does have a downside, albeit short in the overall scheme.

Some clarity?
A couple of weeks ago, I inquired about how TIF was working.  I stated that I had questions, but not all answers.  Heard from a few folks since then and it appears there are some favorable results.  Sid Stahl, Princeville’s Village President, advises that their TIF fund provides about $24,000 back to the local school district each year.  Wyoming leaders also say they would have not gotten the Dollar General store without TIF funds as well.  These two endeavors show the progress and purpose the TIF fund was designed to provide.  Thanks for the update.  Let’s use these TIF funds wisely and help each community grow.

Coming soon?
The former ‘Off the Track’ in Toulon will soon become the R Bar. The opening of the establishment is scheduled for Thursday, April 1.  The business is to be owned by a trio of Connie Jacobson, of Connie’s Country Kitchen fame, my classmate Fred Sams, of Indian Creek Vineyard fame, and ‘cuz’ Don St. John.  We wish them well.

Toll road in central Illinois?
It may be possible.  State Senator Dale Rissinger is part of a proposal for such.  Dale states that the idea is universal, but talk is already going on about maybe having such to complete the ‘ring around Peoria’ on the north and east side.  Route 6 runs from I-74 north around to north side but dead ends near Mossville and puts you on Rte 29 to Chillicothe.  Given the financial shape that the State of Illinois is in, this might be a remedy for completion.  A lot of work and studying has to be done first, so don’t expect an immediate answer or results.  But that area needs a bridge and an alternate means to travel east and west without having to go thru Peoria.

Dunoria or Poelap?
With the  recent Dunlap school administration office move to Peoria, should the district change it’s name?  It might reflect the district’s area more accurately.  But then again I have a thing with names, I.E. NoPeoCo!  (For those of you not knowing, this is our North Peoria County Connection newspaper).  One of my favorites is the University of Illinois at Springfield in Peoria.  What a mouthful!

Easter dining?
After Easter Sunday services, are you going out for lunch (or is it dinner?)?  Check out some restaurant specials in this edition.  They offer some great specials and deserve your support.
HAPPY EASTER