The Carroll County Singers to Perform

The Carroll County Singers will be performing their Spring performance entitled “Jesus Remember Me.” The performance will be held Saturday April 16th at 7 p.m. and Sunday April 17th at 2 p.m. at First Evangelical Lutheran Church 301 S. Clay St, Mt Carroll, IL.

Come out and hear a wonderfully talented group of Carroll County Voices. Cost is a free will donation, with funds to be used for purchase of future music.

For more information, please contact Stacy Kalina at .

Disabled Veterans Peer Group

Northwestern Illinois Center For Independent Living will be hosting a Peer Group for Disabled Veterans. It is a chance for local disabled Veterans to get together with other veterans in a non clinical setting. This is a purely social gathering. Come on out for some camaraderie and light refreshments on April 21, 2011 at 6 p.m. 229 First Avenue, Suite 2, Rock Falls. Please direct any questions and RSVP to Emily at . NICIL is hoping to make this a monthly event.

Tax Time Draws to a Close

Tax Counselors are available to help low to moderate income taxpayers at the Senior Center until April 15. To schedule an appointment for taxes or transportation to the Senior Center, call or toll-free .

Taxpayers have until April 18 to file returns for 2007 through 2010. If no return has been filed for previous years, taxpayers may still file for a refund without penalty. Returns for the 2007 year will not be accepted after the April 18, 2011 deadline. The IRS estimates that there are many potential 2007 refunds available from taxes withheld or from overlooked EIC (earned income credit) for low to middle income families. Ask your Tax Preparer for more information.

The IRS also reminds taxpayers that they do not send unsolicited e-mails about tax accounts, tax situations or personal tax issues. If you receive such an e-mail, most likely it is a scam. IRS impersonation schemes flourish during filing season. These schemes may take place via phone, fax, internet sites, social-networking sites and particularly e-mail.

Many impersonations are identity theft scams that try to trick victims into revealing personal and financial information. Some have links which, when clicked, download malicious code that infects your computer or directs you to a bogus form or site posing as the IRS. As always, remain cautious.

AARP Tax-Aide program provides free tax assistance and preparation throughout the country to low and moderate income taxpayers, with special attention to seniors, age 60 and older. The Carroll County Senior Center joins the Internal Revenue Service and the AARP Foundation in offering this free tax assistance to the local community.

CRP General Sign-Up

Carroll County Farm Service Agency (FSA) County Committee Chairman, Alan Flikkema, announced that CRP General Signup is underway. There will be a general signup period from March 14, 2011 through April 15, 2011. This is the second consecutive year that USDA has offered a general CRP signup. CRP is the largest private land voluntary conservation program that helps farmers, ranchers and other agricultural producers use their environmentally sensitive land for conservation benefits. Producers enrolling in CRP plant long-term, resource-conserving covers. In return, the FSA provides participants rental payments, cost-share and technical assistance.

Eligible acreage includes cropland that has been cropped or is considered to be cropped for four of the six years, 2002-2007. To be eligible the acreage must also meet at least one of the following: (1) be located within a conservation priority area; (2) have an average Erodibility Index (EI) of eight or greater, which means it is highly erodible; or (3) land that has been in CRP but the contract is expiring this fall.

FSA will select the highest ranked offers that provide significant environmental benefits relative to cost by using an Environmental Benefits Index (EBI) based on six factors. All offers will be evaluated competitively. After the end of signup, offers will be ranked and an EBI cutoff score selected. During May, FSA expects to notify producers about offers that are accepted or rejected.

The EBI factors are: (1) wildlife habitat cover benefits that encourage covers and habitats on contract acreage that will be most beneficial to wildlife: (2) water quality benefits from reduced erosion, runoff and leaching; (3) on-farm benefits of reduced erosion; (4) enduring benefits (5) air quality benefits from reduced wind erosion; and (6) cost.

One significant change to the EBI since the last general signup in 2010 is that practice CP42, Pollinator Habitat, has been added as an available practice. Offers will receive 50 points for this new CP42 practice. Prior to submitting an offer producers should be prepared to identify specific acreage they wish to offer.

CRP annual payments are made in arrears, so participants with an effective contract date of October 1, 2011, are scheduled to receive their first annual rental payment after October 1, 2012. For more information, Flikkema urges producers to contact the Carroll County FSA Office.

‘Crime and Punishment’ Conference

The Whiteside Forum’s annual conference “Crime and Punishment” will begin at 7:30pm in the Community Room of the Odell Public Library at 307 S. Madison St. Morrison, IL on Friday night April 8, 2011. Friday night’s keynote speaker is Professor Barry S. McCrary from the School of Law Enforcement and Justice Administration at Western Illinois University, Macomb. The conference and discussion will continue at 9:00am Saturday morning April 9, 2011 at the same venue with 3 panel members presenting: John L. Hauptman, Circuit Court Judge, Illinois 14th Judicial Circuit (courts and sentencing); Kelly Wilhelmi, Whiteside County Sheriff (law enforcement and corrections); and John Maki, Executive Director of The John Howard Association (prisoner advocate).

Professor McCrary teaches Criminology and courses on Criminal Justice Policy at WIU, is an advisor to the Corrections Club, and is the author of 2 training manuals on mentoring and supervising youth within urban communities as an alternative to institutionalization. He has been working in the field of juvenile justice since 1984 and is the founder of a nonprofit organization Maleness to Manhood Inc. which is a faith based mentoring program for inner-city youth.

Professor McCrary will speak to “Crime and Society” during our conference, but has also made presentations at other events including “An Afro-centric Perspective for Understanding Black Adolescent Male Violence” at WIU and the University of North Carolina, Greensboro. A moderated question and answer period will follow his presentation.

The Whiteside Forum is a nonpartisan, non-profit community group which sponsors presentations and discussions of issues of importance and interest to the public. Your concerns about Thomson Prison, rising prison populations, recidivism, crime, terrorism, the death penalty, social justice and the criminal justice system in general are open for discussion. This event is free and open to the public thanks to generous donations from our individual and business sponsors. For more information about this conference and The Whiteside Forum contact Marc Adami at .

Tech Savvy Seniors Session Offered by 4-H Tech Team

Are you a senior that gets frustrated at the computer or with your cell phone? Our Stephenson County 4-H Tech Team, a.k.a. Geeks in Sneaks, will be leading another Tech Savvy Seniors Session. Some things you will learn include: how to set up a Facebook account, how to surf the internet, how to send a picture message on your phone, and how to send a text message on your phone. Senior citizens who attend this session will be taught at their own speed and one-on-one with a confident, patient teenager.

Tech Savvy Seniors will be held on Monday, April 25 from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. at Highland Community College, Community Services Center, South Lobby. The cost for this one-to-one learning experience is just $5 per person (scholarships are available for those in need). If you are interested in attending this session, please call the University of Illinois Extension Office @ . Registration deadline is Wednesday, April 20, 2011.

Manzullo: Patent Reform Bill Will Harm Small U.S. Inventors, Send More American Jobs Overseas

U.S. Rep. Don Manzullo (R-IL) released the following statement expressing his concerns with patent reform legislation that was introduced today in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“I am deeply concerned that ‘The America Invents Act,’ which was introduced today as H.R. 1249, will stall American innovation and send more of our jobs overseas. This legislation reflects an approach to patent reform that stalled previously, in 2007, in the face of massive opposition from American innovators.

“Like its Senate counterpart (S. 23), the House bill includes an unfortunate provision that would shift America’s current patent system – where the first person to conceive of an invention is granted a patent – to a ‘first to file’ system that would turn our system into a foot race to the Patent Office.

“The U.S. has always awarded a patent to the first inventor to come up with an idea, even if somebody else beat them to the Patent Office. The Constitution, in fact, mandates that inventors have exclusive right to their discoveries. This is a system that produced game-changing inventions from people like Samuel Morse, Alexander Graham Bell and Dr. Ray Damadian. Despite that track record, some people are now insisting that the U.S. should ‘harmonize’ with the rest of the world. With all due respect to our friends and allies abroad, I would not trade America’s record of innovation for that of any of those first-to-file countries.

“The bill would also devastate small inventors by effectively eliminating the one-year ‘grace period’ that U.S. inventors currently have. This grace period is critical to small inventors, who can use that year to develop their invention, seek investors and raise funds to begin the expensive patent application process.

“The House bill also fails to provide appropriate safeguards, like those included in S.23, for the controversial new administrative post-grant review process it proposes. Current law already provides two separate administrative tracks to challenge a patent within the PTO, and this bill proposes to add a third ‘post-grant review’ process. Any additional layers of administrative review must be accompanied by safeguards that will diminish the potential for abuse, particularly by infringers with deep pockets and other third parties.

“Moreover, the bill also establishes a transitional review proceeding at the PTO that would affect certain financial service business method patents. Subjecting patent holders who have proven the validity of their patents, both administratively within the PTO and at trial, to a new type of retroactive challenge seems like unnecessary harassment.

“Many of America’s inventors and innovators are alarmed over these fundamental changes to our patent system, and we must hear them out and address their concerns. I urge the House Judiciary Committee to listen to stakeholders of all sizes and perspectives and to find a truly consensus approach to modernizing our patent system. I look forward to working with my colleagues on and off the Committee to craft legislation that will support and encourage all of our American innovators.”

Spring has Sprung at Cook’s Corner

Now that Spring is here many of you have or will be spring cleaning your homes and the kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your home. So now would be the time to look through your gadget drawers, your baking sheets and mixing bowls and see if any of these items are worn out and need to be replaced with new ones before summer arrives with all it’s wonderful berries and produce! We have OXO Good Grips Cherry Pitter’s, Strawberry Huller’s, Corn Holders and Corn Strippers. Food Mills and Mandolin’s that will make quick work when you are canning the abundance from your garden. Pie shields, Pie Weights, Pie Savers, Servers and Pie Plates for making those delicious berry pies for picnics and get together. We have beautiful aprons to protect your clothes from the delicious goodness you are whipping up in the kitchen. The grilling utensils are also a major part of summer if not year round for many so make sure you take a look at your utensils, basting brushes and grill woks! We have many items to choose from here at A Cooks Corner. Table top pieces, gourmet foods, coffee and teas and so much more. Find us at 2501 Avenue E in Sterling (YMCA Way).

April is National Child Abuse Awareness Month

April is National Child Abuse Prevention/Awareness Month. This is recognized with the symbol of the blue ribbon. The Blue Ribbon Campaign to Prevent Child Abuse began as a grandmother’s memorial to her grandson who died as a result of child abuse. Tyler’s Justice Center for Children’s annual Blue Ribbon Postcard Campaign hopes to bring awareness of the continued existence of child abuse and to recognize that thousands of children continue to suffer from sexual and serious physical abuse. Area businesses have committed their time and compassion to helping Tyler’s in educating our community and helping Tyler’s in asking for help in our continued efforts to fund our services. Money from the Blue Ribbon Postcard Campaign will go directly to help Tyler’s with daily operational costs for the many free services the Center provides.

The following businesses will have the Blue Ribbon Postcards available at their locations for $1 apiece.

· Boco of Pearl City, 101 S Main Street, Pearl City

· Community Bank, 420 E Lena Street, Lena

· Exchange State Bank, 126 N Broad Street, Lanark

· First State Bank, 1 S Linn Street, Shannon

· Kent Bank, 996 W Fairview Road, Freeport

· Mt. Carroll Banking Center, 410 S Clay Street, Mt. Carroll

· R.I.A. Federal Credit Union, 103 Third Street, Savanna

· Ron’s BP, 1015 Spring Street, Galena

· U.S. Bank, 953 Gear Street, Galena

In the past, child victims of abuse were interviewed several times, by many people in many locations, insensitive to the child’s needs. The Center coordinates members of a multidisciplinary investigative team along with the child and his or her non-offending caregiver, to be interviewed by a trained, forensic interviewer, in one location, at one time. This process is proven to lessen the trauma for children and brings professionals working together in the best interest of the child victim. The Center also provides crisis counseling, intervention and education, follow-up advocacy services, specialized sexual exams and licensed therapy. All services are provided at no cost and are available to all children in Carroll, Jo Daviess and Stephenson Counties. Tyler’s is a recipient of the Northwest Illinois Chapter of United Way.

Hospice of the Rock River Valley Celebrates National Volunteer Week

National Volunteer Week is April 10 through 16 and Hospice of the Rock River Valley is honoring its volunteers who bring hope, dignity, and love to those facing a life-limiting illness.

Hospice volunteers make sure that the people they care for and their families find hope within each day, have their dignity preserved, and are surrounded by love even at the final moments of life. Hospice volunteers understand that every person they care for is a unique individual with a lifetime of experiences, relationships and gifts to share. These dedicated volunteers help people live every moment of life to the fullest. Most hospice volunteers choose to give their time helping others because of their own experiences with the compassionate care hospice provided to their dying loved one.

“Hospice volunteers play an indispensable role in enabling Hospice of the Rock River Valley to offer the best care possible for patients living with life-limiting illness, their families and caregivers. By sharing their time, energy and expertise, our volunteers bring compassion and comfort to the lives of those in need,” commented Carolyn Spencer, executive director.

Hospice began in this country about 30 years ago as a largely, volunteer-driven community movement, and volunteers continue to be at the heart of hospice. The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization reports that there are an estimated 468,000 hospice volunteers providing more than 22 million hours of service to hospice programs each year.

At Hospice of the Rock River Valley, more than 250 volunteers provide 3,000 hours per year in service to HRRV through direct care, the baking brigade or during special projects or events like the Festival of Trees. “Hospice volunteers are a valuable component of the compassionate care that HRRV offers to people in our community. Volunteers bring hope, love, and dignity to families who are going through one of life’s most difficult times,” commented Judy Jellerichs, Volunteer Coordinator. “We are pleased that we have this opportunity to honor our hospice volunteers.”

More information about Hospice of the Rock River Valley is available at www.hospicerockriver.org.

VA Volunteers Honored

The Iowa City VA Health Care System (VAHCS) celebrates America’s most valuable national resource during National Volunteer Week, April 10 -16, 2011. A ceremony honoring health care system volunteers will be Wednesday, April 20, 2011 at 10 a.m., at the Moose Lodge, 3151 Highway 6, Iowa City.

Last year, volunteers accounted for 85,530 hours of work in the health care system. Their duties range from traditional roles as patient escorts, to more specialized work as transportation drivers. Currently, there are 447 volunteers in the Iowa City VA Health Care System.

Local volunteers from Lanark are James Callaway with 7 years and 1774 hrs, William Kurth wtih 6 years and 1862 hrs; and John Lamoreaux with 5 years and 726 hrs.

Mt. Carroll volunteer, Michael Ritchie with 3 years and 514 hrs. Savanna volunteer, Daniel Buck with 7 years and 1910 hrs. Volunteers from Sterling are Lawrence Frederick with 7 years and 1683 hrs, Lowell Grummert with 4 years and 879 hrs, and Kenneth Shawver with 3 years and 806 hrs. Thomson volunteer Thomas Higgins with 5 years and 489 hours.

“Young or old – student, middle age, or retiree, there is a fulfilling volunteer role for everyone at the VA Health Care System,” said Mike Foster, Volunteer Service Officer. “Our youngest volunteer last year was only 14 and our oldest is 90. There’s plenty of room in our program for all those in between,” he said.

The Department of Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service (VAVS) is the largest centralized volunteer program in the federal government. In fiscal year 2010, approximately 140,000 active VAVS volunteers contributed over 12.5 million hours of service. VAVS volunteers and their organizations contributed an estimated $107 million in gifts and donations in fiscal year 2010.

As summer approaches, the Iowa City VAHCS wants to remind teenagers of the opportunities to both serve and learn as a VA student volunteers. “It’s a great learning and maturing process for young adults.” said Foster. “They work alongside top-notch health care professionals and work with a living part of our American History - Veterans who have served their country since World War II making the history they study and read about.”

National Volunteer Week is a good time to find out more about being a VA volunteer. If you want more information, call Mike Foster, Volunteer Services Officer, at (319) 339-7129.

Shannon Baptist Church Hosts Frazor Evangelistic Team

Shannon Baptist Church, 101 N. Broad Street, invites you to join us for special meetings with the Frazor Evangelistic Team on April 10–15. (April 10 – 9:45 AM; 11:10 AM and 1:00 PM) (April 11–15 @ 7:00 PM) Evangelist Jeremy Frazor is known as a dynamic Bible teacher and preacher, with a deep passion for reaching people with the gospel. After traveling with Evangelist Steve Pettit for five years, he and his wife, Misha, began traveling on their own in evangelism. God has blessed them with three boys. They have a team that travels with them ministering in music and they have a special program for children each night and a one night “Teen Cola Wars.” The greatest need for the teens of today is to come face to face with the glory of God and the power of the gospel. A nursery for 0 – 3 year olds will be provided.

Will Corn Following Corn Face Decreased Yield?

The 2010 season was a disappointing one for corn growers in many parts of Illinois, said University of Illinois Extension agronomist Emerson Nafziger. With a statewide average yield of only 157 bushels per acre, just 4.2 bushels higher than the U.S. average, and the third-worst yield in the past decade, many Illinois producers are hoping for a more bountiful 2011.

Over the past 10 years, the Illinois corn yield has averaged 13.7 bushels per acre above the U.S. national average, and has been below the national average only once (by 4.9 bushels in 2005) and above it by as much as 25.1 bushels (2008).

“The major problem in 2010 was heavy rainfall in June that resulted in standing water and saturated soils, which in turn resulted in nitrogen loss and damage to root systems which could not be repaired,” Nafziger said. “As a result, affected fields and parts of fields ended up with shortages of both nitrogen and water, problems made worse by high temperatures and early maturity, and in some cases by dry weather during the latter part of the grainfilling period.”

Corn following corn was particularly hard hit in 2010, and there were numerous reports of larger yield penalties for corn following corn compared to corn following soybean than most have seen for a number of years, he added.

In research trials conducted since 2003, Nafziger saw similar results. He has been comparing continuous corn, corn rotated with soybean, and corn following either corn or soybean in a corn-corn-soybean rotation.

Nafziger said that the rule of thumb for many years has been that corn following corn yields about 10 percent less than corn following soybean. This difference has often been less than that in some recent comparisons, but he said it varies depending on the year.

Across four northern Illinois sites, the yield penalty for continuous corn was about 11 percent in 2008-09, but 19 percent in 2010. Second-year corn in the corn-corn-soybean rotation yielded only 5 percent less than corn following soybean in 2008-09, and 10 percent less in 2010, indicating that having soybeans even two years ago helps lessen the yield penalty for corn following corn. At the two southern Illinois locations, with considerably lower yields, the penalty for continuous compared to rotated corn was substantially less, measured either as bushels or as a percentage, he noted.

Despite the relatively poor performance of corn following corn in 2010, Nafziger said most indications are that this shouldn’t be the expectation for 2011.

“Field and soil conditions are much different than they were a year ago,” he said. “None of the factors of a year ago - late fall harvest, poor tillage conditions, lots of fresh residue on the surface, and much nitrogen yet to apply - exist this spring. We did a massive amount of tillage last fall, in some cases perhaps more than was necessary.”

One additional benefit for producers is that it has not been wet for extended periods when soil temperatures were warm since nitrogen was applied last fall. Most of the nitrogen should still be present, with a good deal of it still in the ammonium form and so not subject to loss.

“Though we can certainly feel good about preparations we’ve been able to make for this spring, we know from history that a good fall doesn’t always mean a good crop the following year,” he cautioned. “Soils are starting to dry out nicely in some areas, but we need to be careful not to undo the compaction relief provided by last fall’s tillage by driving on soils before they’re dry enough.”

Waiting until soils are dry enough at depth (not just over the surface) will help minimize compaction effects, as will using controlled traffic, making fewer tillage passes, and lowering tire pressure.

Nafziger encourages producers to follow the same practices they have been using when planting corn following corn this year.

“Our research shows that both corn after corn and corn after soybean respond similarly to planting date and to plant population, so those should change only as soil conditions and productivity might indicate,” he said. “We’ve never been able to identify hybrids that do consistently better in corn following corn, though corn following corn may tend to experience stress (primarily drought stress) and foliar diseases more often, so that should be factored in. And corn following corn typically needs a little more nitrogen — see the N Rate Calculator for current numbers.”

Remember the important things this planting season, Nafziger said.

“Having good soil conditions where the seed is placed and good rooting conditions beneath the surface are critically important for corn no matter what the previous crop,” he said. “And the crop needs to be well provided with nutrients and protected from pests. Once we cover these basics, the crop will respond mostly to weather factors - water and temperature - that we don’t control. That has always been true, and will be true again in 2011.”

Garden of Sensory Delights

Sensory gardens invite interesting experiences, whether they come from a container garden on the balcony of a condo in the sky, or a 5-acre spread, said a University of Illinois Extension horticulture educator.

“Combine plants with a variety of textures, colors, shapes, fragrances and sounds to create gardens to savor,” said Nancy Pollard. “When choosing plants, check to be sure they will do well in your growing conditions: sun or shade; wet, medium, or dry soil.”

Here are some suggestions for the sensory experiences a garden can offer.

• Touch me. Look for contrasting textures like rough bark, and smooth, soft, fuzzy, sticky or waxy surfaces. Lamb’s ear (Stachys) is soft and woolly gray. Yarrow’s stiff flowers contrast with soft foliage. Smooth stones invite touch. Hens and chicks (Echeveria elegans) sculptural waxy gray leaves form rosettes (the hens) that send out runners (the chicks).

• Eye candy. Look for contrasting line, form, shape, texture, color. Lady’s mantle (Alchemilla) traps dew drops that sparkle in the waxy, crinkly folds. Gayfeather (Liatris spicata) displays soft vertical flower spikes in white, pink or purple blooms unusually from the top downward. Swiss chard ‘Bright lights’ exhibit vibrant, near fluorescent colored midribs running the length of the leafs.

• Nature’s music. Ornamental grasses and pines make gentle sounds. Moving water from a solar water fountain also provide water for songbirds. Hedges or soil mounds (berms) planted with evergreens softens the sounds of traffic.

• Fragrant memories. Look for rich, culinary, sweet, pungent, and spicy scents. Heliotrope (Heliotopium arborescens) smells like vanilla or cherry pie. Sweet Four-o’clock (Mirabilis longiflora) blossoms open in the evening or on cloudy days, revealing an orange-blossom scent. (Other Four o’clocks may not be fragrant, but they are still interesting.) Lavender, which flourishes in dry gravelly soils, shares both fragrant flowers and foliage.

Gardening with Young Children

What better place to inspire early childhood curiosity, inquiry and delight than in a garden, observed a University of Illinois Extension horticulture educator.

“The garden can be lettuces in a container, a delightfully leafy playhouse on part of the patio or a small themed plot in a larger garden,” said Nancy Pollard.

“Watch the cycle of life. Planting a few seeds once a week reveals changes from seed sprouting to maturity. In cool weather, divide a packet of lettuce seed for planting weekly mid-April through early May. As you harvest, examine changes in roots, stems and leaves. Draw or take photographs of the cycle of life unfolding. Experiment to see what dressing each family member likes best with lettuce.”

Lettuce planted during the cool season produces sweet leaves. As the days get longer and hotter, the stems in the center will “bolt” or stretch upward, creating a flower stalk.

“This bolting to flower changes the taste, making the lettuce bitter,” she explained. “Lettuce flowers look much like dandelion flowers. Let a few plants flower and go to seed. Save seeds to plant in the cool, short days of September, completing the cycle of life.”

Grow a playhouse. Children love small enclosures. Pole beans or sunflower planted strategically to create an enclosure with a soft grassy floor can create a marvelous temporary structure. Arching forsythia bush branches make great hiding places to peek out though. Think ahead though. Unencumbered trellises invite climbing, and mud puddles invite stomping in.

“Plant a theme garden,” she said. “Try one of these combinations for a theme garden: pizza garden of tomatoes, onions, peppers and oregano; a buried treasures garden of potatoes, carrots and onions; an edible flowers garden of nasturtiums, pansies and violas, chives and borage; or an herb garden of sage, thyme, oregano and parsley.”

Avoid thorny or prickly plants.

“Children should be able to touch anything in the garden,” said Pollard. “This applies to art forms like sculpture as well as plants. A great garden invites children of all ages to safely and satisfyingly enjoy all their senses.”

National 4-H Volunteer Week Celebrated

By Leanne Rahn, Carroll County Community Worker, 4-H & Youth

April 10-16 is National 4-H Volunteer Week. I can’t think of a better way to maintain a healthy and happy heart than by volunteering to help others, especially our young people.

You’ve read this many times and you will see it many more times - “Volunteers are the backbone of the 4-H program.” And, as we celebrate National 4-H Volunteer Week, I want you each to know how important our 4-H volunteers are.

Without the dedicated time and support of adults and teen volunteers our program would be severely limited. Because of volunteers we have a multiplier approach. If I train twenty club volunteers, and they organize twenty 4-H clubs of ten children each, then volunteers have helped our program to reach two hundred youth. And, chances are, each volunteers will train at least one other adult volunteer along the way. It takes this multiplier effect to make things happen.

But it isn’t just club leaders who make our Carroll County 4-H program work. It is also parents and other adults who help transport, who open their homes for meetings and project activities and who share their special talents through workshops and project clubs. The Carroll County 4-H program’s success also depends on other volunteers and council members who assist with needs assessment, plan and conduct programs and help secure funds for 4-H programs. Many young people also volunteer to help conduct 4-H programs.

To everyone who works so hard to help build future leaders from the youth of today, we salute you this week and always. If you would like more information on how to become a Carroll County 4-H Volunteer, contact Leanne Rahn at University of Illinois Extension Office, or .

CC 4-H Jr. Ambassador Group to Meet

The Jr. Ambassadors will be meeting Monday, April 25, at 6:30 p.m. in the Extension Office Meeting room in Mt. Carroll. They will continue with work and planning of their service learning project. Contact Leanne Rahn at the Carroll County University of Illinois Extension Office for more information on how to join the Jr. Ambassador team. Please call or e-mail . Bring a friend.

CC 4-H Federation to Meet

The next monthly meeting of the Carroll County 4-H Federation will be Saturday, April 16. The 4-H will be taking a bus to the Niabi Zoo. All 4-H families are invited to attend.

If you would like to attend the zoo outing, please send your registration form and money for the zoo tickets to the Extension Office by April 8th to pre-register. For more information contact Leanne Rahn at Carroll County University of Illinois Extension Office at 244-9444 or e-mail at .

CC Spring Health Fair Planned

The 21st annual Health Fair will be held Monday, May 2, from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Naaman Diehl Auditorium in Mt. Carroll. There will be a $2.00 donation payable that morning.

Screenings and services offered will include blood sugar (five hours of fasting is required, you may only have water), cholesterol, blood pressure.

Information booths will be available on cardiac; men, women & children’s health; poison; sleeping disorders; gerd; diabetes; vascular; arthritis; lifeline & memory. Other agencies attending with information include – Carroll Co. Farm Bureau, Carroll Co. Senior Center, Good Samaritan Society, Jo-Carroll Energy-First Call Medical Monitoring, On the Move Community Fitness Center, RAMP –ITAC Amplified phones, University of Il Extension FNP program, University of Il Extension Master Gardener Program.

The Carroll County HCE (Home & Community Education) will provide a complimentary snack in the morning. For more information contact Linda Davis, County HCE Family Living Chairman at . The Health Fair is sponsored by: Carroll County HCE, University of Illinois Extension, and FHN Top 50 Program.

Rain Barrels – How to build and use rain a rain barrel

Water is one of our highly valued natural resources. Water conservation is something everyone should incorporate into their daily lives. As gardeners, one way to manage municipal water use is to use a rain barrel. A rain barrel catches rainfall runoff from our homes roof collecting in a large container that stores the water until needed. Using this collected water recycles it in a manner that benefits our ornamental plants. Learn how to use and build your own rain barrel. University of Illinois Horticulture Educator Jennifer Nelson and Macon County Master Gardeners will show you how.

Plan to attend this Rain Barrels presentation on Tuesday April 12 at 1:00 p.m. or Thursday April 14 at 7:00 p.m. at the Carroll County Extension Office in Mt. Carroll or attend on Tuesday April 12 at 1:00 at the Jo Daviess County Extension Office in Elizabeth. The presentation will be via the University of Illinois telenet system and local computer PowerPoint presentations, allowing live discussion between the instructor and gardeners throughout Illinois. If interested please call to register in Carroll County or to register in Jo Daviess County. Registration fee is $5 for this event.

Spectacular Viewing of the American Woodcock

Attention all bird and nature lovers. The Northwest Illinois Master Naturalists invite you to join them Saturday, April 9th at Acorn Hollow in Scales Mound at 6:45pm to enjoy a much awaited encore performance starring the American Woodcock. The group will gather at Acorn Hollow for a brief program and then await the American Woodcocks spectacular April skydance. The American Woodcock is most frequently encountered at dusk when the male’s chirping and aerial displays attract attention. Following this spectacular display the group will then enjoy a bonfire.

The Master Naturalist program is offered through the Jo-Carroll University of Illinois Extension Unit and requires participants to conduct some level of volunteer stewardship and continuing training to maintain their certification. If interested in attending the event or learning more about the Master Naturalist program please contact Chris Kirkpatrick, Natural Resources Coordinator, at .

Easter Worship in Milledgeville

All are welcome to Maundy Thursday worship with Holy Communion, April 21st, at Trinity Lutheran, Milledgeville. Worship times are at 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Trinity Lutheran Milledgeville, located at the corner of Highway 40 and Stover Avenue, is handicap accessible at the north-east door under the canopy. For more information call:

Good Friday Worship, Friday, April 22

Trinity Lutheran, Milledgeville is offering Good Friday worship at 12:30 p.m. The church, located on the corner of Highway 40 and Stover Avenue on the west edge of the village, is handicap accessible at the north-east door under the canopy. For more information call .

Good Friday evening worship at 7 p.m. in Milledgeville is sponsored by four community churches (Brethren, Methodist and Lutheran). This service is hosted by Milledgeville United Methodist Church located on the corner of 4th and Holcomb near downtown. For more information call: .

Sunday, April 24th, The Resurrection of Our Lord/Easter

Faith on Forty Parish invites all to worship: 8:30 a.m. at First Lutheran of W. Jordan (located eight miles south-east of Milledgeville on Highway 40). Parish choir and Holy Communion are featured. A light breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m.

10:15 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran in Milledgeville (handicap accessible at the north-east door under the canopy.) Special music and the celebration of Holy Baptism and Holy Communion arefeatured.

For more information about both services and Faith on Forty parish, call: .

HCC to present 2011 Boyer Colloquium

Immigration: America’s Past, Present and Future

The 2011 Boyer Colloquium, “Immigration: America’s Past, Present and Future,” a panel presentation and discussion, is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 7, 2011. Admission is free and the public is invited to attend this presentation, which will be held in the Highland Community College Student/Conference Center.

The Boyer Colloquium, an annual event sponsored by the late Dr. M. E. Boyer, was created in 1994 to help students and the community understand the importance of the inter-relationships between ethics, economics, and ecology. The impact of immigration, legal and otherwise, affects each of these in an interrelated fashion. The Boyer Colloquium Committee believes that if communities understand the issues, the history of previous decisions, and ramifications of prior actions, they will be better positioned to make informed decisions.

The May 2008 Immigration and Customs Enforcement raid on a Postville, IA meat packing plant resulting in the arrest of nearly 400 undocumented workers will be discussed as a microcosm of issues facing many American communities. The panelists will draw lessons and suggest solutions for the broader American society, but particularly rural areas. The panelists will include:

Erik Camayd-Freixas: A federal interpreter who was involved in the 2008 Immigration and Customs Enforcement raid on the Agriprocessors meat packing plant in Postville, Iowa.

Donald Harstad: Served as deputy sheriff in Clayton County, IA for twenty-six years. Part of Clayton County runs through Postville. Mr. Harstad has had intimate experience with immigration issues from a rural and law enforcement perspective.

Daryl Watson: HCC social sciences instructor, former director of the Galena Historical Society and Galena city administrator.

Sara Dady: Rockford, Illinois immigration attorney and adjunct instructor of contract law and business law at Rockford Business College.

A full history of the colloquium can be found by visiting www.highland.edu/boyer. Campus maps are available at www.highland.edu and directional signage will be posted the evening of the event.

Ballot Access Reform Bills in Illinois and 14 States Nation-wide

In the coming weeks, legislators in at least 15 states will be working on legislation to curb unnecessary restrictions on voter choice. In some of these states, ballot access reforms have already made it into law.

In Illinois, Rep. Jim Watson (R-Jacksonville) introduced House Bill 2854, to allow candidates to pay a filing fee in place of Illinois’ discriminatory petitioning requirements, “[helping] Illinois in this time of financial crisis, while opening up the electoral process,” according to Christina Tobin, founder of the Free & Equal Elections Foundation, which is backing the bill. Free & Equal held a press conference recently with former New Mexico Governor Gary Johnson, to highlight the national character of these reforms.

Christina Tobin of the Free & Equal Elections Foundation stated, “this is the largest number of states pursuing ballot access reform in over a decade. This is a sign that people are waking up, and demanding their right to vote for the candidate of their choice. We’re pleased with the number and quality of the legislation being introduced, and look forward to better government from the coming elections as a result.”

On March 16, Nebraska became the first state this year to enact ballot access reform, according to Richard Winger’s Ballot Access News, eliminating “the county distribution requirement for statewide non-presidential independent candidate petitions,” when Governor Dave Heineman signed LB 399 into law.

Three days later, Senate Bill 403, the New Mexico omnibus election law bill passed the New Mexico Senate unanimously after being passed by the House with a unanimous vote. The bill contains provisions to extend the petition deadline for independent candidates by three weeks, and lower the petition signature requirement for new parties in mid-term election years.

Moving east, the Pennsylvania Ballot Access Coalition is working with Rep. Eugene DePasquale (D-York) and Senator Mike Folmer (R-Lebanon) to push for passage of the Voters’ Choice Act (Senate Bill 21). The bill would lower the threshold for new parties to become recognized for the ballot, and reduce the number of signatures required for independent candidates.

In North Carolina, State Reps Stephen LaRoque (R-Lenoir), Glen Bradley (R-Youngsville), Paul Leubke (D-Durham) and Jean Farmer-Butterfield (D-Wilson) introduced the Electoral Freedom Act (House Bill 32) in early February. The Free the Vote Coalition, composed of fifteen organizations including Free the Vote North Carolina, the Free & Equal Elections Foundation, FairVote Action, the John Locke Foundation and Democracy North Carolina, are actively lobbying for the bill’s passage. State Senators Andrew C. Brock (R-Mocksville) and Eleanor Kinnaird (D-Chapel Hill) introduced Senate Bill 225, a companion bill, in the NC Senate in early March.

Oklahomans for Ballot Access Reform (OBAR) is working with Rep. Charles Key (R-Oklahoma City) to promote House Bill 1058, which would cut the signature requirement for new political parties in half. The bill calls for a 22,500 signature requirement, rather than the current requirement of 5% of votes cast in the last statewide election.

In Alabama, an organization called Independent Alabama is backing a ballot access reform effort, while Marylanders4Democracy is pressing the issue in Maryland. The New Hampshire Libertarian Party is backing a ballot access reform bill in their state. Other states with pending ballot access legislation are Alaska, Idaho, Maine, Missouri and New York.

When Do We Make the Choice for Assisted Living?

The children are grandparents, what is OUR next step in life? When should we plan for the next step?

By Diana K Lopez

Marketing Director,

Heritage Woods of Sterling

Part 1

As we age, we must face the fact that most probably, there will be a time we will not be able to live alone and will revise our living arrangements. Thinking about moving can be a source of anxiety and stress. Leaving your home full of memories is very difficult for everyone. Planning ahead early can give you more choices for the future, making a big difference in your level of independence and quality of life. If you have a spouse, planning early allows you to explore all your choices together and make decisions you both are comfortable with. Maintaining a home may be a longstanding source of pride for you, but it can also become a burden as you age. Lawn care, snow removal, maintenance upkeep, insurance, taxes, and utilities. Maybe it’s becoming more difficult to clean those extra rooms that are rarely used now your children are gone. If your home is difficult to access, such as on a steep hill or upstairs, it may be harder and harder for you to leave your home as often as you would like, leading to more isolation. Sometimes these challenges can be partially remedied by hiring outside help, or other family members giving assistance. However, it’s worthwhile to take a look at your current living situation and see if an alternate may give you and your family more freedom and flexibility in the long run. Making early decisions also relieves the burden from your children. Often times family members will ask, “I hope I am making the right choice for mom, do you think I’m right?” Children also my live out of state, or work long hours. In today’s world, it seems everyone is busy, busy, busy. It is very time consuming to get our parent’s lives in order. How wonderful it would be if everyone had already made their decisions for them.

Supportive living can be affordable, and may even be cheaper than living at home with services. You need to take all of the above into consideration when making this choice. Most often, when you do the math, Supportive living is the best choice with everything at your disposal.

The health of you and your spouse

Take a look at your current state of health. No one can predict the future with certainty. Do you have a health condition that makes it difficult to stay active, or a mobility issue that may cause a fall, medications to remember? As we age these conditions most likely will worsen with time. It’s also important to consider the health of your spouse if you are married. Are you already helping your spouse with daily activities? You can’t help someone else if you have run yourself down and your health has deteriorated. If you are shouldering a significant amount of care already, moving to a facility where some of the burden can be lifted and will help both of you stay in better health and independent much longer. Again, another reason why we need to make early choices.

Socialization

Are you finding it harder and harder to meet up with friends, or go to church? Maybe you have a difficult time getting out of the house, perhaps due to trouble driving or increased mobility issues. Family may be busy with other work and family commitments. You need socialization. It is very important in maintaining our overall health. The more isolated you are, the greater your risk for

depression and other mental health problems. Independent living facilities can give you a built-in social network while most provide structured activities and field trips.

Transportation

Transportation is a key issue. If you find yourself less comfortable with driving, you may find yourself relying more and more on family and friends to get out and about. It may be harder and harder to visit others, and keep doctor’s appointments. Supportive Living facilities usually offer transportation options to social events, and doctor appointments.

Yes, making a decision to move is very hard, but again, do it early. It is SO much easier to come before you really need a lot of help, or to help take the burden off the shoulders of your family. It allows you and you spouse to make this your home and make friends. How comforting to know your spouse is taken care of in the event of one’s passing. I like to tell prospective resident’s that moving to Supportive Living is a down sized home. We are a huge apartment building with amenities that are here when needed. You come and go when YOU want. We will assist you with your med’s, dressing, showering. We will do you laundry and housekeeping if YOU want. Yet, you have the privacy of your own apartment, furnished with your own furnishings. You do what -ever activities you like, or none at all. Most of all, remember that all of our residents have made this same transition. They all have had to make a very hard decision. And they all welcome new residents with open arms, realizing the hard choices they had to make. Everyone becomes family, no matter who you are, or where you have come from.

A quote from a resident: “I just love it here. There’s no place like home, but there comes a time in life when we just can’t be there anymore. Then this is the best place to be. This IS my home now.”

(Part II next week: How do I convince mom and dad they need assisted living?)

Keep Farm Equipment Well-Maintained

Spring is here and planting season is right around the corner. With fuel prices rising remember that well maintained equipment runs more efficiently. Irv’s Repair, Inc. stocks a large selection of engine oil, hydraulic and fuel filters along with engine oil and hydraulic oil in a variety of sizes. Dating your new filters is a quick reminder when they need to be changed and keep in mind to pay attention to your hour meter on any application.

When the unexpected breakdown happens and you need to get repaired and back in the field we know that time is a priority. We can make and repair most hydraulic hoses to get you running and have access to parts and accessories to fit most tractors and other applications. Need major repairs? Irv’s Repair, Inc. has a complete shop to handle the biggest job.

Looking for new equipment? Irv’s Repair, Inc. is a dealer for TYM tractors. With models available from 23 Hp to 99.5 Hp we can find the tractor that fits your needs. We can also assist you with financing and will gladly consider your trade-in. TYM tractors offer several incentive options as well as a variety of accessories.

Irv’s Repair, Inc. is also a stocking dealer for both Hustler zero-turn mowers and Bad Boy mowers. Zero-turn mowers are a great option for anyone with a good size lot or for commercial lawn care companies. Hustler and Bad Boy mowers both offer an extensive variety of sizes to allow our customers to find the mower to best fit their needs. We stock accessories for all of our mowers to make replacing belts, blades and filters quick and convenient.

Midwest Roundup at StephCo Fairgrounds

The “2nd Annual Midwest Roundup” on April 10th will be held at the Stephenson County Fairgrounds in Freeport. This all day event will once again focus on the beef industry.

“We will accomplish this by having between 30- 40 local, regional, and even national businesses setting up displays,” said Chad Bicker, CDK Angus. “These businesses will also be on hand to discuss different beef topics, such as, mineral programs, vaccination programs, AI programs, etc. This will allow visitors the opportunity to interact with the exhibitors by being able to ask questions, and to create an educational event for all members of the family.”

Each business will also provide one item to be put up for silent auction. All proceeds from this silent auction will go towards paying for the event (i.e. fairgrounds rental, trash removal, etc.)

Between 9-10:30am, three guess speakers presenting on three different beef topics. This will be followed up by a fitting demonstration by Purina at 11am. During these presentations enjoy a nice breakfast put on by the Lena FFA chapter. They will be serving breakfast from 9-10:30am. Lunch will be served by the Stephenson County Beef Association starting at 11am.

“In the afternoon, we will have a local 4-H organization on hand to provide us with desserts. These organizations will be able to keep all proceeds raised during the event,” Bicker added.

“Once we break for lunch we will turn our attention to cattle with the auction starting at 1pm. Currently we have 65 lots of cattle from 28 farms throughout Wisconsin, Iowa and Illinois that will be on sale. Since this is a beef event, we will be offering all breeds of cattle.”

At this point the breeds represented are: Simmental, Angus, Shorthorn, Herefords and even Crossbreds. This is unique as there are currently very few events that incorporate all different breeds into one sale offering. The conclusion of the sale will mark the end of the day’s festivities.

To request a catalog contact the Angus Hall of Fame at (816) 532-0811. You can also learn more at Midwest-roundup.com. For details, please contact Chad Bicker, CDK Angus, Lena, Illinois, at .

Fur Catch Reports Due by April 15

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reminds Refuge trappers to submit their fur catch reports before the April 15 deadline. Harvest data from reports is used for management purposes and shared with the respective State agencies. Trappers who fail to meet the April 15 deadline may not be eligible to receive trap tags for the 2011-2012 trapping season.

All trapping on the Refuge ended on March 15, 2011. Three hundred thirty-four Refuge trapping permits were issued for the 2010-2011 trapping season.

In addition to being the most visited national wildlife refuge in the country, the “Upper Miss” Refuge has the added complexity of a major navigation system, including 11 locks and dams, within its boundary. It is also a world-class fish and wildlife area which harbors 306 species of birds; 119 species of fish; more than 250 active bald eagle nests; thousands of heron and egret nests; spectacular concentrations of canvasback ducks, tundra swans, and white pelicans; and several threatened or endangered species.

Go Wild, Go Birding

2011 Migratory Bird Day is Saturday, May 14. This year’s theme is “Go Wild, Go Birding.” Come spend the morning with us and travel to different parts of the refuge via bus, golf cart or bike. It’s going to be a great day filled with excellent birding opportunities and the best part is that it’s free. Space is limited for the Bus Tour and Golf Cart Tours, therefore participants will need to register by calling .

Begin the day at 7:30 for a guided bird walk – Birders of all ages and skill levels are welcome! Meet with experienced birders as they teach you to identify birds by sight and sound, which you might not normally see in your own backyard. Participants are to meet at the visitor center and will leave promptly at 7:30 with their leaders. Dress for the weather so you don’t miss the fun!

Lost Mound Bus Tour will leave promptly at 9:30 from the Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center and will travel to the Lost Mound Unit (formerly the Savanna Army Depot) with Refuge staff and will return by 12:30 p.m. You will learn about historical aspects of the area along with current activities. Bring your binoculars and camera so you don’t miss those Kodak moments.

Travel on the newly completed Great River Trail that travels through the refuge. Participants will ride in silence on an electric golf cart and will learn about the history, management techniques and even be able to identify various species of birds and plants along the way. Tours will be at: 9:45; 10:45; 11:45. (Rain or Shine) An awesome video on hummngbirds and butterflies will be showing as participants wait for their tour.

Bring your bike and travel the Great River Trail with Refuge Ranger Pam Steinhaus at 10:00 a.m. We will ride through various habitat types of the refuge in search of those neotropical migrants. We will stop at different locations to see what birds we can find, along with getting a little exercise. We will be back to the Center by 12:10 in plenty of time to eat before the last program of the day.

Upon returning from your trip, grab a sloppy joe, chips and drink and join us for a program on Bird Migration – Why do they do that, where do they go? – Bob Walton.

The Ingersoll Wetlands Learning Center, Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, is located at 7071 Riverview Road (behind Metform on Highway 84), Thomson, Illinois.

Lunch will be available by the Stewards of the Upper ‘Miss’ Refuge. For additional information contact the Refuge Office at .

FHN Hospice, Volunteer Hospice of NW Illinois Team for Training

Volunteer Hospice of Northwest Illinois and FHN Hospice are offering their first-ever joint volunteer training for persons interested in volunteering for either or both hospices.

Hospice volunteers provide companionship and support for terminally ill patients as well as relief for caregivers. Training includes classes on concepts of death and dying, grief, communication skills, stress management, infection control, safety and the bereavement process. The 7-week training course is required for anyone who wishes to volunteer with patients, families or in the hospice offices. Participants are not obligated to volunteer for either hospice upon completion of training.

Classes will begin Wednesday, April 20 and continue each Wednesday through June 1. Classes will be held at Wesley United Methodist Church, 127 E. Benton Avenue, Stockton. Meeting time is 5:30 – 7:45 p.m., with a light supper provided at each session.

There is no charge for the training sessions, but class space is limited; please reserve your space as soon as possible by calling the FHN Hospice Volunteer Coordinator at or the Volunteer Hospice of Northwest Illinois at .

Volunteer Hospice of Northwest Illinois was incorporated in 1984 and began its “Neighbor Helping Neighbor” program to help caregivers and their loved ones deal with end-of life issues. Their office is located in Stockton, Illinois.

Whiteside County SWCD has Rain Barrels

In anticipation of the hearty vegetables and fragrant flowers, have you thought of a more conservational or economical way to water your plants?

The Whiteside County Soil and Water Conservation District is selling rain barrels. Our rain barrels are 60 gallon plastic barrels that are 100% recycled. The barrels have a perforated, screen mesh top to stop contaminates from entering. They also have top overflows and bottom drains along with a plastic spigot that can thread a hose. We now have many colors on hand. We have black, blue, grey and terra-cotta colors. We now keep a supply on hand. The cost of the Rain Barrels is $63.00.

Do you want some benefits of having a rain barrel?

Rain barrels help:

- Divert water from storm drain system and thus reduce pollutants and the velocity of water entering local rivers and streams;

- Store high quality water for gardens; harvesting rainwater with rain barrels to use for watering your landscaping, the rainwater can help to improve the health of your gardens, lawns, and trees. Rain is a naturally soft water and devoid of minerals, chlorine, fluoride, and other chemicals. For this reason, plants respond very well to rainwater. After all, it’s what plants in the wild thrive on!

- Direct overflow water away from building foundations to more desired locations;

- Reduce water and sewer bills, as well as electrical bills from sump pump usage.

For more information on any of these products, please contact the Whiteside County SWCD at 16625 Liberty Street, Morrison, Illinois 61270, call ( ext 3, email Wendy at or visit our website at www.whitesidecountyswcd.com.

CGHers put hearts and hands to work

CGHers are putting their hearts and hands to work for the good of the Sauk Valley and the public is invited.

A Flower Sale will be hosted April 6 and a huge Silent Auction, Bake Sale, Dessert Auction and Raffle will be on April 13, all at CGH Medical Center. The events are hosted by the CGH Health Foundation Employee Division Committee as part of the 2011 Annual Appeal.

“Hospital staffers are planning two amazing events and all proceeds go to CGH Health Foundation heart programs,” said Deb Gonzalez and Barb Brady, Employee Committee co-chairs.

Potted Easter lilies, Stargazer lilies, tulips, hyacinths and daffodils, plus lots of fresh custom and cash/carry bouquets will be available from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the CGH Lobby and in the 3rd Floor Conference Room at Sterling Rock Falls Clinic on Wednesday, April 6.

Nearly 150 Silent Auction baskets will be on display, in addition to loads of baked goods and specialty desserts on Wednesday, April 13 in the CGH Lobby, Ryberg Auditorium, Classrooms 1 and 2. Hours are 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. A Silent Auction booklet will be available with details of all the baskets. Bids for the baskets and specialty desserts will be closed at 6 p.m.

“Hospital employees are so giving and we can’t wait to see their beautiful creations, including delicious goodies,” said Gonzalez and Brady. “We have some fantastic bakers, but you’d better get there early for the best selection.”

In addition, two more gorgeous baskets, one for the home and one for kids, and a week’s stay at a Nuevo Vallarta condo in Mexico will be raffled off. Tickets are one for $2 and three for $5 for the “Heart of the Home” and “Young at Heart” baskets, valued at nearly $500 each.

Winner of the “Follow Your Heart to Mexico” raffle will win a week’s stay at a luxury condo in Nuevo Vallarta, just 20 minutes away from the nightlife of Puerto Vallarta. Tickets are one for $5 or six for $25. The one-bedroom condo sleeps up to six people. Available dates are June 4 – 11, Aug. 13 – 20, Oct. 22 – 29 and Nov. 19 -26.

Amenities include a pool, air conditioning, all linens provided, fully furnished kitchen, cable TV. The condo is directly across from the Paradise Plaza, where you can shop or enjoy dining at one of many fine restaurants. It is located near a golf course and the Puerto Vallarta Airport. Air fare is not included.

Winners of both raffles will be drawn at 6 p.m. on April 13. Need not be present to win.

All proceeds will help fund the Foundation Workplace Wellness and Cardiac Wellness programs, which provide cholesterol/glucose/blood pressure screenings at a low cost as well as educational presentations and information year-round.

Cash, checks, credit and debit cards will be accepted. For more information, contact Joan Hermes, executive director, CGH Health Foundation, , ext. 5672 or email to

‘Rally ‘Round the Library’ Ice Cream Social

The Friends of the Lanark Public Library (FLPL) will have an Ice Cream Social on Sunday, April 10, 2011, from 1pm to 3pm at the Heritage Center. The Eastland High School Jazz Ensemble will perform and there will also be a Read-A-Licious Book Sale.

The Rally ‘Round the Library is a kickoff for a series of events to provide information about the new Public Library and how the community can participate in funding. These events will include not only Lanark but Lake Carroll and Shannon.

Eastland School District Students submitted creative writings and artwork which will be on display. The winning artwork will be put on a t-shirt to be sold beginning at Old Settlers Day. The 12 finalist can be voted on at the Friends of the Lanark Public Library Facebook page, and in person at the Rally, which will end the contest.

The ice cream social is donation only. All proceeds will be earmarked specifically for library funding.

For further information you can contact the co-chairpersons Carol Kruzek at (815) 219-3367 or Ken Viglietta.

Partnerships for Success Project to Present Free Servers’ Class

FHN Family Counseling Center’s Partnerships for Success Project, with support from the Freeport Police Department and in conjunction with Alcohol Awareness Month, will offer free Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education Training (BASSET) to Freeport-area business that sell and serve alcohol.

BASSET, regulated by the Illinois Liquor Control Commission, is constructed as an alcohol awareness program specifically designed for alcohol sellers and servers. BASSET is a four-hour training session and will be held Monday, April 18 at the Eagles Club in Freeport. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. with a continental breakfast and the training will end at 1 p.m. Lunch will also be provided for participants.

The Freeport Police Department supports the BASSET program for area alcohol retailers. “Educating those who sell and provide alcohol will assist in enhancing accountability and awareness, and reduce sales of alcohol to minors,” said Freeport Chief of Police Jerry Whitmore.

The BASSET training will include information on the physical properties of alcohol, state statutes, local ordinances and DUI laws, identification techniques and dram shop information. BASSET is a resource and tool for local merchants to use to ensure compliance with state and local laws on alcohol sales and use.

FHN Family Counseling Center’s Partnerships for Success Project is funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services. The project works toward reducing underage drinking in the Freeport community. Questions regarding this program or requests for more information on BASSET should be directed to Sharon Mockridge at the FHN Family Counseling Center, or .

The Great Central U.S. ShakeOut Earthquake Drill

More than one million people in an eight-state region, including both Illinois and Missouri, are expected to participate in “The Great Central U.S. ShakeOut” earthquake drill April 28, at 10:15 AM. Schools, businesses, government agencies, families and others are encouraged to register now to participate in the drill, which will highlight “Drop, Cover and Hold On” protective actions people should take when an earthquake begins. There are many ways for everyone to participate. Learn more and register today at www.dnr.mo.gov/shakeout/index.html.