Community News
Local optometrist attends conference
Dr. Shawna Heddinghaus, O.D., recently attended the Illinois Optometric Association’s annual conference which offered continuing education courses on innovative products, medical eyecare diagnosis and treatment, AMD, and LASIK surgery.
The conference was three days, September 28-30. Dr. Heddinghaus and the whole staff of 6 attended: Melena Jockisch, Vicki Schwarz, Sherry Tosovsky, Chris Yurkovich, Tiffany Johnson, and Diane Gibson.
From attending the conference, Heddinghaus was able to view and gather insight for the latest advancements in the eye care industry such as new medications and treatments for macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts and diabetes. In addition, the Fireside Eye Care staff was able to observe new technology to diagnose those conditions earlier.
“The staff received training in ocular emergency triage, pediatric eye care and were updated on the latest trends in eyewear and contacts, Heddinghaus explained. Doctor Heddinghaus took a hands-on seminar regarding the latest in low vision technology. She learned about the newest medications available to treat eye disease.
The whole staff attended the exhibit hall and spoke with industry representatives regarding the newest frame designs and materials and contact lens advancements.
Overall, Dr. Heddinghaus gained valuable knowledge to stay at the forefront of eye disease management of dry eye and macular degeneration. For those, she purchased Liposome eye spray-new treatment for dry eye and Nordic Natural Fish Oil and MacuHealth eye supplements-new treatment for macular degeneration which will be available to her customers. Heddinghaus also purchased new low vision devices for patients with limited or poor vision and the Diopsys Visual Evoked Potential instrument for management of Glaucoma and Pediatric patients.
“It is very important to stay up to date in eye care because it is constantly changing,” Heddinghaus added. “Our community supports this office because we continually have the most up to date equipment/technology for the detection and management of eye diseases.”
Fireside Eye Care, formerly Gillespie Eye Care, opened in July of 1999 and has been serving the BenGil area for over 13 years now. In April of 2008, Gillespie Eye Care moved to Benld and changed the name to Fireside Eye Care where it remains today at 600 South 8th Street in Benld.
Dr. Heddinghaus is the owner and optometrist of Fireside Eye Care. She graduated from Moberly Senior High School in Moberly, MO in 1990. In 1993, she graduated Kansas State University with a BS in Life Sciences/Pre-Optometry. Then in 1999, she graduated with a Doctor of Optometry from UMSL School of Optometry.
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The Gillespie Public Library is having a promotional giveaway during the month of December. The “December Spin Giveaway” will allow patrons to spin for prizes each time books are checked out during the month of December.
The prizes are to Gillespie businesses.
Although December is a hectic month with the holidays, take time to relax with a “good book” and visit the library.
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Limited Spots Available, Register By December 20
This winter, Blackburn College invites children ages 6-12 to participate in an exciting All-Sports Camp from December 30-31, 2024 and January 2-3, 2025. The camp will be held at the newly opened Blackburn Athletic Center and newly redesigned M.C. Court in the historic Dawes Gymnasium. The four-day camp runs from 9 am to 12 pm each day, offering young athletes the chance to stay active during the holiday season while exploring a variety of sports. With limited spots available, early registration is encouraged. The registration fee is $100, and the sign-up deadline is December 20, 2024.
Participants will engage in baseball, basketball, soccer, softball, and volleyball activities designed to build confidence, encourage teamwork, and inspire a love for sports in a fun and supportive environment. They will spend part of the day developing essential skills and putting those techniques into action by playing games. Most equipment will be provided, but attendees should come dressed in athletic clothing and ready to play.
“This camp is a fantastic opportunity for kids to stay active during their winter break, make new friends, and experience the thrill of learning skills taught by NCAA coaches and players,” said Kim Camara-Harvey, Blackburn College’s Director of Athletics and Recreation. “Our brand-new Blackburn Athletic Center, with its 200-by-120-foot turf field and retractable batting cages, and our revitalized basketball and volleyball court will be the perfect setting for fun and growth.”
In addition to the camp activities, all participants will receive two (2) tickets to watch the Blackburn Men’s Basketball Team take on the University of Dubuque on Monday, December 30, at 3:00 pm.
Don’t miss this opportunity to give your child a memorable winter break experience! To register or for more information, visit blackburn.edu/recreation or contact Heather Heater, Blackburn College Recreation Coordinator, at athletics@blackburn.edu or 217-854-5719.
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Madison Communications sponsored the Community Hope Center’s Christmas Toy Drive once again this year. The new and unwrapped toys for girls and boys ages 0-12 were collected from the middle of October through the first week of December.
Madison was overjoyed with the outcome of the Toy Drive and wants to thank anyone who took the time to donate. The holiday season is a perfect time to give back to the local communities.
