From the editor’s desk
I backed out of my heated garage on my way to work early Monday morning, and the digital thermometer on my vehicle’s dash looked like it was in a freefall. By the time I got to the highway — only about five or six blocks, the temperature had dropped to a single digit — only 7 degrees! Now somebody much smarter than me decided a few years back to figure in something called “wind chill,” which means the temperature Monday morning was nothing short of brutal.
The wind chill is simply how cold it feels when you factor in the wind ... although when I was growing up a bazillion years ago, I never remember anyone talking about a wind chill factor, or for that matter, nobody ever uttered the words “heat index” either. I’m not sure who invented those formulas, however, I think it’s fairly safe to say it was someone who had way too much time on their hands. While the National Weather Service claims the wind chill factor helps to protect people from bitter temperatures that feel even colder when the wind is blowing, it seems to me one just has to stick their head out the door to understand how terribly cold it is.
So far, it’s been what I would call a mild winter, but these most recent temperatures are brutal. Please remember to check on your neighbors, family and friends — especially those who are older, and don’t forget your four-legged friends who can be adversely affected by these bitterly cold temps. Stay warm.
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So what’s the BigDeal? Every week, the Bureau County Republican teams up with a local area merchant to offer you, our readers, an opportunity to save some cash. You can find our BigDeals! on our website at www.bcrnews.com. Following is this week’s BigDeal!:
• Are you ready to treat yourself? A Sugar Glow Spa treatment exfoliates unwanted cellular debris and sweeps away lifeless cells. Soothing natural oils provide the nourishment and tender loving care your skin deserves. Get a Sugar Glow Spa treatment followed with a luxurious Swiss Rain Shower treatment at Sophisticuts Salon & Spa in Princeton for only $22.50. This is a great deal, since it’s regularly priced at $45.
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Illinois Valley Living: I’m understanding the Winter 2012-13 edition of Illinois Valley Living is becoming increasing scarce. It’s been so popular that it’s difficult for us to keep them in the racks and on the shelves. We still have a few copies left at the office, and I think the Prouty Building in Princeton still has a few copies too. They’re going fast, so if you’d like an opportunity to check out this fun-filled magazine full of the people, places and things in the Illinois Valley, better grab your copy today. We’re already working on our Spring 2013 edition. You are going to love it!
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The Baltimore Ravens and the San Francisco 49ers ... who are you rooting for?
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Thought for the day: “Some of us think holding on makes us strong; but sometimes it is letting go.” Hermann Hesse.
Thought for tomorrow: “The hardest arithmetic to master is that which enables us to count our blessings.” Eric Hoffer.
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Check out our Seeking Sources on Page 2 of today’s BCR. Interested?
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I was listening to an out-of-town fellow the other day who was having a conversation about the BCR. He didn’t know me or that I am the editor. It was kind of fun to hear him sing the praises of this newspaper. He said he especially likes the photos contributed by you, our readers, on the back page of every BCR. I just thought you should know that your contributed photos are special. Thanks.
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I wanted 2013 to be different. I wanted it to be filled with leisurely moments and time for family and friends. I realized it’s not going to happen unless I make it happen. Take time for you and those you love. And remember ... you are important to me and the BCR.
