Area News

The “Wild, Undomesticated” Homestead Longhorns …
… led by Betsy, the longhorn-Coriente mix cow.
Longhorn cattle are considered a “wild” breed, and are not allowed in the county and state fairs competitions because of their long, curved horns (which are to be avoided, as they sometimes suddenly toss or turn their heads without regard of something in their path).

Visit Children
Dane, Belinda and Mahala Harpster of St. Peter spent the weekend with Amanda, Ben, Madison and Ben Eller of Jackson, Mo.
Adult Instruction Class
Beginning Monday, Feb. 6, Pastor Emrick will hold an adult information class for those wishing to renew their understanding of the Lutheran faith, for those who are curious about what the Lutheran Church believes or for those who wish to become members of the Lutheran church. The class will meet from 6:30-8 p.m. each Monday through the end of March.
St. Peter Church

ANNOUNCEMENTS
Wednesday, Jan. 25
• Royal Neighbors of America, 1 p.m., Phillips Building. Those attending are asked to take ideas for this new year.
Thursday, Jan. 26
• Exxon/Mobil Annuitants, noon, Vandalia Ponderosa.
• The St. Elmo Unit of Home and Community Education, 1:30 p.m., St. Elmo Public Library.
• A self-defense class for women 18 and older will be taught by the Illinois State Police from 6:30-8 p.m. at the St. Elmo Public Library. There is no charge for class.
Sunday, Jan. 29

Smoky, the Little (Adorable) donkey…
…seems to have a touch of claustrophobia (or maybe cabin fever).
As he had chewed on the shutters of his barn until they were destroyed, Bill had put a piece of tin over his window to protect him against the cold wind until new shutters could be made.
Smokey likes to stand and look out his north window, although he has another opening, a doorway, on the east side. The north window gives him a good view of the driveway, and he seems to like to watch who is coming and going.