How many times do you complain about the high cost of electricity and gas utilities?

Well, there is something you can do about it, and it comes at a very low cost to you, the homeowner.

It’s always hard to say goodbye, especially when one is leaving something they have been doing for a quarter of their life.

After 10 years of covering East Peoria as editor of the East Peoria Times-Courier, I am taking on a new role as executive editor at TimesNewspapers.

I’ve always loved the movies. My mom used to take my brother and me to see all the current features when we were young. That was our special time.

I moved to East Peoria 15 years ago. A lot of good things have happened in that short amount of time. I have had three children. I’ve become active in my local church and schools. My husband has a successful position with the park district. I also became a member of our community’s Green Team over a year ago.

Recently, I noticed the signs at an East Peoria business. They had both English and Spanish words on them.

My initial reaction was anger. I thought, ‘This is America where people speak English. Why are we catering to Hispanics?’

A routine assignment was anything but Thursday night.

I attended the Operation Teen Safe Driving wrap up reception at East Peoria Community High School.