An interesting historical account of Quincy and Adams County by Reg Ankrom, Executive Director of the Historical Society of Quincy and Adams County.  Reg told us about the "Lincoln in Illinois" photograph exhibit the society is currently displaying and noted the best statue of Lincoln, in his opinion, was in our Washington Park.  Cox, Feld, Johnston, and Douglas were just a few of the characters Reg told us about.  First I had heard about corruption at the Wigwam in Chicago back in 1860 as related to Lincoln's party nomination.  Corruption in Chicago?  Who woulda thunk it?  We thank Reg for sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for our area's history.  John Johannes with the introduction.

Jim Benz with the good prayer and Fred Lauder leading the pledge...  President Steve Green commenting on the "alleged" ticket scam from the week before when Mayor John Spring and Alderman Dan Brink both won airline tickets from Cape Air...  President Steve also reminding members about the October 21^st road trip to the beautiful Kroc Center...  Michael Brzank the guest of Rich Zeidler...  The above mentioned John Johannes providing a nice recap of the Youth of the Month/Year program prior to the introduction of our first recipient...  Rich Howell had the right 50/50 ticket but picked the wrong card (two of clubs).  Rumor has it the pot is growing again.  I'll believe it when I see it!  So for now, count on $200...  Hy-Vee Store Manager Steve Labs passing out invitations to their Holiday Show on Thursday, November 3^rd (5:00-9:00 p.m. in the Oakley-Lindsay Center).  Should be popular among Exchangites considering they will be offering samples of beer and wine from 30 different vendors at the event.  Sounds like our next social.  We'll miss you, Art!  Then again, you could join us incognito...  Congratulations are in order to Steve Labs and his wife, Karla.  The two became grandparents on September 25^th when their daughter, Kayla, had identical twins (Oliver Steven & Aiden Arthur).  Mom and the boys are doing fine.  Enjoy and spoil them, Steve...  Bruce Broemmel fleecing the flock with help from Sonny Christner.  Great story about band aides on the mirror...  Look for President Steve to recap activities from the October 10^th board meeting this week...  We have received news that our Service Person of the Year, Daniel Bowe, will be in town and joining us for our trip to the Kroc Center on October 21^st.  It will be a special treat for us to meet Daniel who was injured a couple months back while protecting our freedom...  Speaking of freedom, next Wednesday, October 19^th, the Illinois Veterans Home will be celebrating our 125^th Anniversary with a short parade on grounds starting at 1:30 p.m.  If you are available, join us...  260 days until the Perry Terwelp administration and still no cell phone...  That's all for now, 'til next time, may God's love, grace, and peace be with you and the ones you love.