Braidwood Journal

Micro pantry helps those in need

Published by admin on Tue, 10/30/2018 - 6:58pm

The Fossil Ridge Public Library already provides a public service to the residents of Braidwood. Now, those in need can find more than books, DVDs, and educational programs at the building at Kennedy and Walker Roads.

On Oct. 27, the library became the latest host of a micro pantry – a 24-hour per day free service that provides food and goods to those in need.

The idea was sparked two years ago by a Joliet business owner. Jeff Eberhard placed the first micro pantry in December 2016 outside his business, E-Z Auto Sales in Joliet.

Commissioners argue over budget issues

Published by admin on Tue, 10/30/2018 - 6:56pm

Tensions were running high at the most recent meeting of the Braidwood City Council, as commissioners lost their tempers regarding some budget issues.

On Oct. 23, the council approved a motion to hire an additional police officer, to act as the city’s second school resource officer (SRO) to the Reed-Custer School District. The hire was actually made over the summer, with the new officer taking up his post at Reed-Custer Elementary School at the start of the school year.

RCMS celebrates Red Ribbon Week

Published by admin on Tue, 10/30/2018 - 6:55pm

 

Reed-Custer Middle School celebrated Red Ribbon Week Oct.15 to 23.

Red Ribbon Week commemorates the ultimate sacrifice made by DEA Special Agent Enrique "Kiki" Camarena. He died at the hands of drug traffickers in Mexico while fighting the battle against illegal drugs to keep our country and children safe.

Coalition assists BPD in drug takeback

Published by admin on Tue, 10/30/2018 - 6:52pm

The Braidwood Area Healthy Community Coaltion (BAHCC) stepped up efforts to battle drug issues over the weekend, participating in an event to help pull prescription drugs away from the grasp of potential misuse.

The Braidwood Police Department and the BAHCC participated in the national Drug Takeback event hosted by the DEA on Saturday, Oct. 27, where residents were encouraged to bring in their expired, unused, or unwanted medications.

Tollway model an option for crumbling I-80

Published by admin on Tue, 10/23/2018 - 6:35pm

Anyone who travels north knows that a trip along I-80 can be slow, bumpy, and downright dangerous.

Now, the Illinois Tollway System is throwing its hat in the ring, suggesting turning the troubled roadway into a toll road to help pay for needed repairs and upkeep.

Earlier this month, Robert Schillerstrom, Chairman of the Illinois Tollway, gave a presentation in Joliet on the possibility of turning I-80 into a toll road, as a way to pay for desperately needed upgrades and infrastructure improvements throughout the region.

Braidwood Fire hosts open house

Published by admin on Tue, 10/23/2018 - 6:33pm

The Braidwood Fire Department held its annual open house on Saturday, Oct. 20 at Station One on Main Street.

The annual event is a community information and outreach effort by the department, and coincides with Fire Prevention Month. Fire Prevention Month, along with Fire Prevention Week earlier in the month, are national efforts to raise awareness about fire safety and home safety.

Local departments nationwide host events to assist families on how to prepare in case of fire, and how to set an escape plan.

School district to survey staff on needs, wants

Published by admin on Tue, 10/23/2018 - 6:31pm

The Reed-Custer School Board will continue to look at options for a new high school cafeteria. But before the project moves forward, the district will do an informal analysis on district needs in an effort to prioritize its operational and educational needs.

On Oct. 17, the board held a brief discussion on the potential new space at the high school. Superintendent Mark Mitchell said that before things move ahead, the district would like input from staff.

RCES school yard issues persist

Published by admin on Tue, 10/23/2018 - 6:30pm

Some persistent problems on the outside grounds of the Reed-Custer Elementary School continue to linger. But, the school district said, a solution may be in sight.

Last week, Superintendent Mark Mitchell told the School Board on Oct.. 17 that the administration was working with the contractors at the elementary school site on issues around the baseball field outside the new building between School and Walker Streets.

River alliance seeks Will County support

Published by admin on Tue, 10/16/2018 - 7:03pm

Turning on the faucet, most folks take for granted that the water coming from the tap is safe.

But, what it takes to provide safe, abundant and affordable water is seldom something people consider, including where that water comes from, what it takes to bring it to homes and businesses, and what funds are available to develop new water sources, treatment options, and storage and delivery systems.

Cannon’s ‘pitch’ to Comets: Find your passion

Published by admin on Tue, 10/16/2018 - 7:00pm

Long before writing for an award-winning television show, penning a “perfect” script, and making her directorial debut, screenwriter, producer and actor Kay Cannon roamed the halls of Reed-Custer High School.

Cannon, a Custer Park native and 1992 Comet alum, paid a visit to her alma mater last week, stopping in to visit with students to talk about Hollywood, working hard, and finding her inspiration for the box office success Pitch Perfect.

Cannon is one of seven children raised in Custer Park, where her parents still live.