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Foster’s office helps victims file flood insurance
U.S. Rep. Bill Foster, D-Geneva, announced Monday his Batavia office staff will help victims of flooding in the 14th Congressional District file insurance claims or report flood damage.
People can use the Internet, phone and fax systems at the office to file claims, Foster said in a news release. Those most heavily impacted can call a toll-free number and a member of the office staff will pick them up and bring them to the office to figure out the next step, according to the release.
For more information, call 630-406-1114 or toll-free at 866-324-6128.
Local Special Olympians place in golf competition
The 2008 Special Olympics Illinois Outdoor Sports Festival was cut short last weekend because of rain, but two athletes competing with Opportunity House in Sycamore did manage to earn honors in the golf competition.
Andy Whitwell of Hampshire placed second in the 9-hole golf competition and Kayla Craig of Genoa placed second in the golf individual skills competition, according to a news release from Special Olympics Illinois.
The Opportunity House softball team was not able to compete, as the entire softball competition was rained out. The games took place Sept. 13 and 14 at locations in Forsyth and Decatur.
Attorney general warns of scams following floods
Home repair scam artists are known to swoop into areas hit by storms or floods to take advantage of people scrambling to make repairs to flood-damaged property, according to a news release from Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan.
Consumers should report suspicious contractors to both Madigan’s office and to local police, the release said. Madigan also warned homeowners to be cautious and investigate contractors before entering into contracts or making down payments for repairs.
Whenever possible, use established local contractors and get several estimates, Madigan said. Make sure you understand the terms of a contract and get a copy of the contract. Do not pay in cash and don’t pay in full until the work is completed.
If residents suspect a contractor is trying to scam people in the area, they are asked to call the Consumer Fraud Hotline at 800-386-5438.
Poster contest for local students
DeKalb County students in third- through sixth-grades can enter to win a $500 U.S. savings bond in the 15th annual poster contest sponsored by the Plumbing and Mechanical Contractors Authority of Northern Illinois.
The theme for the contest is “Be Water Friendly — Make Every Drop Count,” according to a news release. The contest is open to third- through sixth-graders in DeKalb, DuPage, Kane and Kendall counties. The deadline for entries is Oct. 10, and winners will be announced by Nov. 14.
First through third prizes will be awarded at each grade level, and one grand prize winner will receive the $500 savings bond. The schools of all first-, second- and third-place winners will also receive cash prizes.
For more information, call 630-960-3970 or visit http:// www.pamcani.org.