SALVATION ARMY REACHES THEIR GOAL

Through Wind Rain and Freezing temperatures, hundreds of people came out to ring the Salvation Army Bells and collect money to fill the buckets.  The people of Bond County rallied together to pass the goal of $16,500.  With money still coming in Treasurer Frank Joy reports that a total of $17,403.65 has been deposited to date.  Appreciation is extended to all who made contributions, all who participated as bell ringers, and the businesses who allowed bells and buckets at their stores.  Also, to the Capri IGA for matching contributions collected up to $1000.  The needs are great this year, and contributions can still be made at Bradford National Bank.

BLOOD DONORS RECEIVE INCENTIVE

The Central Illinois Community Blood Center and the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum have announced a joint effort to increase blood donations. Anyone who donates blood to the CICBC will receive a coupon for $1 off the admission to the museum. Donors who have donated 20 gallons or more receive 1 free admission to the museum. The CICBC operates a donor center in Springfield and also conducts mobile blood drives throughout the area. For more information call 217-753-1530 or check out their web site at www.CICBC.org.

FIREWOOD DEALERS MUST REGISTER

Beginning January 1st all firewood dealers importing firewood into the state of Illinois must register with the Illinois Department of Agriculture.  The new requirement is intended to help prevent accidental spread of the Emerald Ash Borer. This new law is necessary to control the state's infestation of EAB and other invasive insects.  The new firewood importation certification rule requires all out of state firewood dealers to register annually for a nominal fee of $25 per business.

TROY MAN DRUG BY A CAR

According to Madison County Sheriff Department, 3 Troy residents are facing felony charges for Obstructing justice and Mob Action.  20 year-old Derek Herzing, 20 year-old Travis King and 18 year-old Chelsea Spengel all of Troy were charged on December 26^th.  Through the investigation, Detectives allege that King and Spengel lured the victims to an area on Lebanon Road in Troy with the intention of inflicting bodily harm on him. Herzing approached the victims in their vehicle and allegedly started hitting them.  While the victims were defending themselves and trying to drive away, Herzing was stabbed in the arm and drug by the vehicle.  Madison County Deputies located Herzing while he was being treated at a local hospital.  Bond was set at $10,000 for King and Herzing and $5,000 for Spengel. Herzing also faces two misdemeanor counts of alleged battery.