More Important News

JDCF’s Spring Wildflower Walk Coming Up!

On Saturday, May 11, please join the Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation for a spring wildflower hunt through Schurmeier Forest. Expert staff and volunteers will guide you through the forest on an approximately one mile hike while pointing out migratory birds and unique wildflowers. This is a free family event that will run from 1pm-2:30pm.

To reach Schurmeier Teaching Forest turn south on Derinda Road off of Hwy 20 just east of Elizabeth, follow Derinda to Tower Road and turn right. Take Tower to the end and turn left on Reusch Road. The forest is about one-half mile down on the left with parking on the right. Meet at the shelter near the parking area. Be sure to wear boots and weather appropriate clothes. Bring your binoculars to spot all those birds.

For more information, visit JDCF at 126 N Main Street in Elizabeth, call them at or find them online at http://www.jdcf.org.

The Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation is a local non-profit whose mission is to conserve and enhance natural wildlife habitat, cultural heritage, scenic vistas, and the agricultural character of Jo Daviess County and the surrounding area for future generations. JDCF owns several beautiful and unique properties all of which are open to the public for hiking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. For more information, visit their office at 126 N Main Street in Elizabeth, IL, call , or find them online at http://www.jdcf.org.

Thumbs Up Winners - Week 24

The Milledgeville Elementary Week 24 Thumbs Up Winners are (L to R) front row: Abbygail Branscomb, Jersey Schmidt, Kendra Schave, Brooklyn Balsiger, Maliah Grenoble. Back row: Caden VanDyke, Bryce Aude, Hunter Gallentine, Anthony Speers, and Zachary Pauley.

Thumbs Up Winners - Week 25

The Milledgeville Elementary Week 25 Thumbs Up Winners are (L to R) front row: Carson Diehl, Kaige Ferrell, Payten Ehredt, Erika Braunstein, Olivia Schurman. Back row: Carlynn Hackbarth, Paige Miller, Matthew Lapp, Adriana Pyse, Anthony Speers.

Mississippi Riverview Run

Nearly 200 participants’ start line was Marquette Park in Savanna where they traveled along the scenic trail for 5 or 10 kilometers for the third annual Mississippi Riverview Run. The event brought all ages of runners and they celebrated with beautiful spring weather and an after party at Manny’s Pizza! Overall 10K male winner: Charles Lange, Albany, IL, Overall 10K female winner: Becky Wenthold, Overall 5K male winner : Brian Parker, Morrison, IL, and Overall 5K female winner: Taylor Froeliger, Erie, IL. The event is a fundraiser for the Riverview Center (serving survivors of domestic and sexual abuse), and is coordinated with the help of All Our Kids Network. Sponsors and promoters of the event this year deserve a special thank you: Savanna-Thomson State Bank, Sullivans Foods, Neumiller Farms, Manny’s Pizza, and the City of Savanna. For more information on Riverview Center and the race results, visit www.riverviewcenter.org and visit us on Facebook.

Kiss the Pig, Ms. Swanson!

West Carroll Kindergarten teacher Laurie Swanson kisses the pig, an event that raised $622.77 for the West Carroll PTO. Students voted for the teacher they wanted to see kiss the pig, and paid a penny per vote (That’s a lot of pennies!). The PTO is planning to make this an annual event. The WCPS 1st Annual Kiss the Pig contest was held on Friday, May 2nd.

Senior Scholarship Recognition Night

The 33rd Annual Senior Scholarship Recognition Night, sponsored by the Chadwick-Milledgeville School District, was held on Wednesday, May 1st, at the Milledgeville Trinity Lutheran Church.

A total of 100 scholarships from 38 area donors, were presented to 24 seniors totaling $16075. Students also received recognition for scholarships awarded from other sources totaling $ 92,610. New scholarship donors, who would like to contribute to next year’s scholarship night, can do so by contacting Paula Rademacher, Principal at , ext. 224. Scholarship-Amount-Recipients

Bushman’s Service- $200-Emily Bush

Glen Dittmar Memorial-$200-Sarah Leif

David Hefty Memorial Scholarship-$150-Jeff Swanson-Elizabeth Bryant-Miranda Weltzin-Sarah Leif

RSB Computers -$175-Miranda Weltzin-Sarah Leif

Persona Studios-$100-Daryn Quinn-Kelsey Shores

Milledgeville Fire Department-$100-Kaylee Hayen-Kelsey Hayen-Nick Nelson

Chadwick Fire Dept.-$100-Andrew Wiersema-Bridgette Prince-Elizabeth Bryant

Chadwick Lions Club-$200-Jeffrey Swanson-Kelsey Shores-Sarah Leif

The National Bank-$100-Emily Bush-Elizabeth Bryant-Tara Ritenour-Miranda Weltzin

Milledgeville Women’s Club-$100-Sarah Leif-Kaylee Hayen

American Legion Women’s Auxiliary-$200-Bridgette Prince

Dr. Gene R. Kleckler & Mildred (Kleckler) Woodard Memorial Scholarship-$100-Miranda Weltzin-Doug Williams

Milledgeville Athletic Boosters-Milledgeville Athletic Boosters- $150-Doug Williams-Elizabeth Bryant-Andrew Wiersema-Carli Hunter-Emily Bush-Kelsey Hayen

Justin L. Seavey Memorial-$300-Bridgette Prince

Chadwick Masonic Lodge-$100-Sarah Leif-Elizabeth Bryant

Chadwick Community Boosters-$100-Kelsey Shores

American Red Cross Scholarship-Milledgeville Student Council-$300-Kaylee Hayen-$150-Emily Bush-$100-Kelsey Hayen-Bridgette Prince-Tara Ritenour

SBM Business Equipment Center-$500-Kaylee Hayen

Chadwick-Milledgeville Education Assoc.-$250-Doug Williams-Emily Bush

Chadwick-Milledgeville Fine Arts Boosters-$100 -Andrew Wiersema-Kaylee Hayen-Sarah Leif

Country Financial Insurance Agency-$250-Amber Ebersole-Kelsey Hayen-Kaylee Hayen-Doug Williams

Shanks Veterinary Equipment-$250-Nick Nelson

Chadwick American Legion Post 739-$100-Andrew Wiersema-Sarah Leif-Elizabeth Bryant

Ewers Garage-$150-Carli Hunter-Tara Ritenour

Gibbs Drywall-$100-Andrew Wiersema-Carli Hunter-Nick Nelson-Amber Ebersole-Kelsey Hayen-Kaylee Hayen

Milledgeville State Bank- $250-Carli Hunter-Tara Ritenour-Miranda Weltzin-Daryn Quinn

Milledgeville Development Commission- $ 200 -Elizabeth Bryant-Jacey Scribner-Nick Nelson

Herff Jones-$100-Kasondra Merkel

Running Education Scholarship-$200-Sarah Leif

Gibbs Heating & Cooling-$100-Bridgette Prince-Kaylee Hayen-Jeff Swanson-Sarah Leif

James D. Ridgway/American Legion-$125-Doug Williams

Schilling Scholarship-Schilling Funeral Home-$250-Nick Nelson-Amber Ebersole

Milledgeville Men’s Club-$250-Nick Nelson-Jacey Scribner-Taylor Murphy-Doug Williams-Elizabeth Bryant

Gibbs Machine Corporation-$500-Sarah Leif-Nick Nelson

Milledgeville Community Credit Union-$100-Amber Ebersole-Kaylee Hayen-Kelsey Hayen-Taylor Murphy-Nick Nelson-Jacey Scribner

Administrator’s Leadership Scholarships-$150-Emily Bush-$100-Kelsey Hayen

Morrison Rotary Cleans up Mother Earth

It was a much cooler day than last year when Morrison Rotarians Merle Reisenbigler, Ron Coplan, Stephanie Deckro, Suellen and Tanner Girard, Kevin Schisler, Mark Schuler, John Prange, and Kathy Schmidt went to clean up the 2 mile stretch of Rte 30. Much winter mess was available for the picking. Special findings included a muffler, a photograph, multiple beer bottles and pop cans as well as fastfood wrappers and cups. (Courtesy of Morrison Rotary Club)

Fifty West Carroll Junior and Senior FFA Members went on a field trip to the John Deere Harvester Works Plant in East Moline on May 1. The plant is the world’s largest combine assembly plant. After touring the combine plant, the students visited the John Deere Pavilion and then enjoyed lunch at the North Park Mall.

Student Leadership Brunch

Northwest Region of the Illinois Principals Association held its annual Student Leadership Brunch on Friday, May 3 at Maxon Riverside Restaurant in Oregon, Illinois. The Northwest Region of the IPA recognized those students that who have stepped into leadership roles in their prospective schools. Every attendance center in the region was invited to bring two students who represented examples of character, achievement, and leadership. The students were to be chosen from the exiting grade level of the attendance center. The Illinois Principals Association is proud to honor these students and have them recognized in front of parents, peers, and administrators. All participating seniors were eligible for one of four $250 Scholarships that were awarded as a blind draw. Kimberley Johnson from Eastland and Kelsey Hayen from Milledgeville were lucky winners from Carroll County.

Morrison Rotary recognized March Students of the Month

Joining the Morrison Rotary for their March 20th meeting were Savannah Horn and Calvin Harridge, Morrison Rotary March Students of the Month.

Savannah is the daughter of Joel and Susan Horn. She is very active in music and participates in Concert, Pep and Jazz Band and performed at the IHSA Solo & Ensemble Contest. She is an active member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church and Jennifer’s Dance Center. Savannah enjoys reading, biking, tennis, art (painting and drawing) and flute. She plans to attend Luther College to major in art or music performance, and will continue playing flute in an ensemble with her music scholarship.

Calvin, son of Cheryl and Tim Harridge, is active in Key Club and is a member of the National Honor Society. He is active in Football and Wrestling and enjoys working on construction/remodeling of homes in his spare time. Future plans are to study business and continue playing football.

Carrie Brinkmeier Inducted into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi

The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi is pleased to announce that Carrie Brinkmeier of Mount Carroll, Ill., was recently initiated into Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines. Brinkmeier is pursuing a degree in International Relations at Bradley University.

Brinkmeier is among approximately 32,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. Membership is by invitation and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10 percent of seniors and 7.5 percent of juniors, having at least 72 semester hours, are eligible for membership. Graduate students in the top 10 percent of the number of candidates for graduate degrees may also qualify, as do faculty, professional staff, and alumni who have achieved scholarly distinction.

Founded in 1897 at the University of Maine and headquartered in Baton Rouge, La., Phi Kappa Phi is the nation’s oldest and most selective all-discipline honor society. The Society has chapters on more than 300 college and university campuses in North America and the Philippines. Its mission is “To recognize and promote academic excellence in all fields of higher education and to engage the community of scholars in service to others.”

Rich Morthland at CC Republican Women’s Meeting

The Carroll County Republican Women met April 26 at Dusty’s in Thomson.

Rich Morthland former Representative spoke on the Positive Outlook for 2014.

State IL Federation of Republican Women President Michelle Schurman reported on the State meeting held in Champaign April 19th & 20th.

Brian Kruse gave a report from the C.C. Central committee. He announced that Clint Elmore is the Chairman of the C.C. Central Committee & Marty Rapp is Sec.-Treas.

Wanda Stewart announced the winner of the $500.00 Scholarship will be Tyrus Hartman of Eastland. He is the son of Dale & Annette Hartman.

The Fund Raiser will be making funnel cakes at Mayfest.

Arlene Bickelhaupt reported we will participate in the Memorial Day Service held at West Carroll Middle School by passing out flags. Ji

ll Bess County Coordinator for Dan Rutherford has pocket constitutions to be passed out at the 4th of July Parade.

Plans are being made to celebrate Carroll County Republican Women’s 70th Birthday in Sept.

The next meeting will be June 28th hosted by the Chadwick ladies.

1st Annual Mad Dash Mud Run

Assault and Abuse Services of Stephenson County is pleased to announce the First Annual Mad Dash Mud Run to be held on Saturday June 8, 2013 at the Stephenson County Fairgrounds from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

This event is open to men and women ages 14 and up and is a 5K, non-timed, non-competitive run for all athletic abilities. The mud run will include 12-15 obstacles of varying difficulties. The event promises to bring a lot of challenges, fun and mud!

100% of the proceeds from the event will go to help victims of sexual assault and sexual abuse. Assault and Abuse Services provides medical, legal, and court advocacy as well as therapy services to victims and their families.

We have excellent sponsorship and are proud to announce FHN, FVV Bunco Group, Lingle Design Group, and Titan Tire as our event sponsors. We also have many obstacle sponsors and supporters whose names you will see on our event information and advertisements. We are so fortunate to have such a supportive community in helping this event to be a great success.

The event will include food, music, a beer garden, entertainment, and a lot of fun for everyone. If you don’t want to run and just want to be a spectator come on out and enjoy the day watching others get really muddy!

The agency is still in need of volunteers to support the event, and a few obstacle items. Please call if you’re interested in supporting MAD DASH 2013. Go to aassc.org for registration information and click on the Eventbrite link. Help Us Make A Difference Against Sexual Harm.

Rivers City Quilters Guild

The River Cities Quilters Guild will be hosting Linda Halpin for their May 21st meeting. The program will begin at 7 P.M. at Fulton Presbyterian Church, 311 North 9th Street. The program is free to guild members; there will be a $5 charge for non-members.

Ms. Halpin’s program is entitled “Borders on Parade”. Over three dozen quilts will be shown, all will different border treatments. This program explores the wide range of possibilities for border treatments by examining dozens of variations on border treatments. How wide to make borders, making edges that don’t ripple, and working with Jinny Beyer border strips are just a few of the topics to be covered. Cameras are welcome.

In addition to her program, Ms. Halpin will be presenting a class entitled Lincoln Logs and Tinker Toys at Susan’s Calico Creation in Fulton. The class will be held May 21st at Calico Creations. Reservations for the class can be made by contacting Susan May at .

Linda was fortunate to grow up with a mom who did all kinds of needle arts. She began sewing doll clothes at the age of six, graduating later to making all of own clothing. By the time she discovered quilting years later, she had a healthy supply of scraps just waiting to become quilts. Combining that with her love of puzzles made quilting a natural.

Actively teaching quiltmaking across the United States and Canada for over 35 years, Linda has enjoyed being on the faculty of several distinguished conferences nationwide, including the AQS show in Paducah, as well as working with guilds of memberships ranging from 25 to 400.

Ms. Halpin is a graduate of the Embroiderers’ Guild of America’s Teacher Certification Program. The intensive two year examination program tests not only the candidates’ stitching skills but also their knowledge of color and design, history of their chosen field, and classroom abilities. Linda is one of only nine instructors nationwide who have been certified by the Embroiderer’s Guild of America (EGA) as an Instructor in Quiltmaking.

In addition to teaching, Ms. Halpin also enjoys writing. Her seven quiltmaking books range from quilt history, three dimensional applique, and quilted clothing, to scrap quilts, and patterns inspired by the Little House on the Prairie books. She has served as Chairman of both EGA’s National Master Craftsman Program for Quiltmaking and Teacher Certification Programs. Ms. Halpin has curated numerous quilt exhibits, as well as been involved as a judge at regional exhibits, and participated in an Exhibit Judging Forum which established guidelines now used nationwide.

For additional information on Ms. Halpin’s program, please contact Susan’s Calico Creations at or Julie Wolbers at .

Area Seniors Invited to Compete in Spelling Bee

The Association of Illinois Senior Centers, the Illinois Department on Aging, and Carroll County Senior Services Organization will host a free Illinois State Senior Spelling Bee competition for area senior citizens this spring at the Carroll County Senior Center in Mount Carroll at 10 am, Wednesday, May 29, 2013.

The Illinois State Senior Spelling Bee competition is an exciting state wide program that provides Illinois adults age 50 and older the opportunity to showcase a lifetime of knowledge and to celebrate years of experience through their spelling abilities.

Local spelling bees are being held throughout Illinois in 2013. Local winners and runners up will advance to regional semi-finals. The State Finals will be held at the Illinois Building at the 2013 Illinois State Fair on Senior Day, Monday, August 12, 2013.

The Carroll County Senior Center is looking for spelling competitors, judges, and a pronouncer for the local competition. A Participant Handbook and a1,000 word list are available upon request at the Senior Center or can be sent by email.

For more information or to sign up for this free event, contact Nancy Gable at the Carroll County Senior Center, or .

Quilt Raffle for Mother’s Day Gift

The Carroll County Senior Center Quilters recently completed a beautiful quilt and donated it to the Senior Center for fundraising.

The Quilters are FayEllen Sanetra, Bev Atherton, Virginia DeSwarte, Nancy Flickkema, Nancy Cartwright, Jan Smith, and Phyllis Davies Since it would make a beautiful gift for someone’s mother or other special lady, it is being raffled with tickets available at the Senior Center, 306 N. Main St., Mt. Carroll, until 10:00 am, Friday, May 10. The winning ticket will be drawn at that time, and the winner may pick it up before closing time at 1:00 pm.

National Nursing Home Week, May 12-18

The Good Samaritan Society-Mount Carroll is celebrating National Nursing Home Week, May 12-18 with the theme: “Helping Each Other Along the Way.”

National Nursing Home Week is set aside each year to honor residents of long-term care centers, their families and those who work in long-term care. The American Health Care Association established the week in 1967.

The Good Samaritan Society – Mount Carroll will celebrate with the following special events:

Saturday, May 11, Mother’s Day Tea

Monday – Glitz and Glamour Day. Crowning of King and Queen and a special party with refreshments served by the Good Samaritan Society Auxiliary.

Tuesday – Pajama/Loungewear Day with root beer floats served.

Wednesday- Sports Day- Tail gate party watching the Cubs play on large screen TV.

Thursday – Fiesta Day with South of the border treats and musical entertainment.

Friday- Country/Western Day, cookout and entertainment.

Family and friends are welcome to join in the theme celebration. For more information and reservations regarding planed activities, please contact Adrienne Johnson, activity director, at .

“During this special week, we will show our support and give thanks for those we serve,” says Administrator Cathy Smikle.

The Good Samaritan Society-Mount Carroll is part of The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society, a not-for-profit organization that owns and operates more than 240 long-term care centers and retirement living centers across the country. The Good Samaritan Society’s mission is to share God’s love in word and deed by providing shelter and supportive services to older persons and others in need, believing that “In Christ’s Love, Everyone is Someone.”

Energy Conservation Opportunities

Are you looking for a way to cut back on energy use in your farming operation and save some money in the process? Are you considering alternatives to improve your energy efficiency? If you answered yes to any of these questions, USDA-NRCS may be able to help through an On-Farm Energy Initiative. Would you be interested in having an energy audit performed?

The Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) can now be used to provide financial and technical assistance dollars to help program participants address on-farm energy conservation. The NRCS EQIP On-Farm Energy Initiative can provide financial assistance to develop an Agricultural Energy Management Plan (AgEMP) for either your headquarters or your landscape (row crop operation). An AgEMP will analyze your energy use (electricity, gas, and fuel), assess your equipment and farming processes, and develop energy conservation recommendations. In order to qualify for this initiative, AgEMPs must be written by a certified Technical Service Provider and adhere to ASABE S612 Type 2 Standard. Producers may be eligible for $1,900 in cost-share to obtain an AgEMP.

Once you have a plan completed, this On-Farm Energy Initiative can also provide financial assistance to implement approved conservation practices to address energy related resource concerns that were identified in the AgEMP. These improvements could include Farmstead Energy Improvement items such as upgrading grain drying equipment, upgrading motors, or installing high-efficiency lighting in your buildings at your headquarters. For your landscape, improvements may include items such as ways to reduce fuel usage through residue and tillage management, conservation crop rotation, or using cover crops. Irrigation water management is also a potential landscape improvement available. Cost-share amounts will depend on which energy conservation practices are recommended for your operation.

If you are interested in applying for the On-Farm Energy Initiative, please contact your local NRCS Office at ext. 3. The deadline for application is May 10, 2013. Your local NRCS Office can assist you in applying for the On-Farm Energy Initiative, locating a Technical Service Provider, and determining how much financial assistance your operation may be eligible for. Many of you will soon be busy with spring field work, so don’t delay in applying for this initiative as there will likely not be another application deadline in 2013. Call us today!

Apraxia Awareness Day

On May 14, 2013, the Childhood Apraxia of Speech Association of North America (CASANA) invites communities worldwide to become aware and educated about the needs, challenges, and abilities of children affected by apraxia. Apraxia is among the most severe speech and communication problems in children. Affected children have difficulty planning and producing the precise, highly refined and specific series of movements of the tongue, lips, jaw, and palate that are necessary to produce clear, intelligible speech.

“Families have truly longed to have a day recognizing the struggles faced by their children. There are many misconceptions about children who speak little or do not speak well. We aim to improve the public awareness so that accurate information is shared and understood,” says Sharon Gretz, Executive Director of the Childhood Apraxia of Speech Association of North America (CASANA). A statement acknowledging Apraxia Awareness Day is scheduled to be placed in the Congressional record of the United States House of Representatives as well as state level legislative bodies.

CASANA will be using social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube and blogs to mobilize families, friends, and professionals to help educate and raise apraxia awareness. An online Apraxia Awareness Day store has been set up to purchase t-shirts, buttons, and other awareness items. The first Apraxia Awareness Day will include an online apraxia quiz, Twitter chat, contests, and a question and answer webinar.

For more information on Apraxia Awareness Day visit the Facebook page established: https://www.facebook.com/events/926/

Shot, Framed and Hung

If you have ever aspired to become a photographer, want to take better pictures or just can’t find the shutter button, consider taking time to learn the basics of photography in this simple presentation. Local amateur photographer Elizabeth Myelle will share basic tips and advice, explain the rule of thirds and how some rules can be broken. Learn how to avoid blurry pictures and a simple trick to get the perfect shot.

The presentation will be on Saturday, May 11th starting at 1:00pm at the 1876 Banwarth House & Museum, 408 E. Sycamore St in Elizabeth, IL. Admission is $3.00 or free for Planetary Studies Foundation members. Reserve your seat today at (815) 858-2014 or Bring your camera and questions!

Walk for Memory

If you have found it challenging to stick to an exercise plan this past year, listen up! Routine exercise isn’t just good for your physical health, new research has found when you ride a bike, hike, walk outdoors or do laps around an indoor walking track, and you’re also helping your memory.

The takeaway message from new research is this: If you are over 50 and are having trouble sticking to a regular walking regimen, you may want to focus on committing to your walking schedule. Changes in patterns of walking—walking less frequently, walking with different gaits as you age, and walking slower and less steadily on even paths can indicate cognitive problems later on in life.

What’s more, new research from various institutes including the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology at the University of Illinois found walking or riding a bike for six months or up to a year can help improve memory as well as problem solving skills in older adults by up to 20 percent.

The new research also points out that adults over 50 who take regular walks are more likely to improve their memory than people of the same age with sedentary lifestyles.

The links between walking, exercise, and better memory are based on research that shows that staying fit through ongoing walking can increase the size of crucial parts of the brain. As human brains age they typically grow smaller, one reason for a shrinking memory.

A large study at the Mayo Clinic which involved basic walking, also found that walking was linked to cognitive abilities. This study found a strong connection between declines in executive function, the ability to plan and organize activities, and slower walking.

New evidence from several research universities has said that cognitive skills like memory and the ability to process information, parallels the ability to keep up a steady walking pace over time.

Why your will power may need “tweaking”

So why do many people have trouble sticking to an exercise routine, even when it may involve low impact walking?

Many people think they’ll find the willpower to get off the couch and go outside and walk a mile or so every day. But in reality they don’t have the willpower to resist the comforts of sitting in an easy chair watching TV.

Did you know that willpower is a source of mental energy? If you don’t have sharp cognitive skills often referred to as “executive decision” you may have difficulty getting up and going outdoors to walk around the block when the weather isn’t great.

So don’t blame all the distractions in your life on not making walking a priority.

Instead, blame it on poor executive decision, a term well-known by scientists who refer to our ability to multi-task, make good decisions, plan ahead, prioritize and weigh options.

Evidence has shown that those who fine-tune their executive function can have stronger willpower.

Tips to Increase Your Walking Schedule

Commit to doing it. Just like any new lifestyle activity, you’ll want to make sure you “practice what you preach.” Every person reacts to different motivators. Start by simply making a commitment to walking more frequently.

Put a plan together that you can realistically follow. Write down your goals such as walking two city blocks a day. Write down increments of how many blocks you want to accomplish by when such as after 30 days you want to get up to a mile 5 days a week. The purpose of goal setting is to give you something to work toward. If the goal isn’t working, fine-tune it to fit your lifestyle. Just keep walking on a consistent basis.

Sign up for reminders. Use whatever reminders you need to tell yourself it’s time to get out and walk. It might be memos on your computer or notes on a bulletin board. If the weather is bad, walk around a room. A small amount of exercise is better than none at all.

Share your goals with family and friends. Tell people what you are doing. They may want to join you on your walks which will extend the possibility for making walking more fun.

Don’t be too hard on yourself. Keep in mind that you need good executive function to keep on top of your goals. If you use willpower as a tool to get something you want, that’s the prize and ultimately the pleasure you’ll get from more frequent walking.

Mark Underwood is a neuroscience researcher, president and co-founder of Quincy Bioscience, a biotech company located in Madison, Wisconsin focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of novel technologies to support cognitive function and other age-related health challenges such as memory. Mark is also creator of popular brain health supplement Prevagen. Mark has been taped as an expert in the field of neuroscience for The Wall Street Journal Morning Radio, CBS and CNN Radio among others. Mark is also a contributor to the “Brain Health Guide” which highlights the research at Quincy Bioscience and offers practical tips to help keep healthy brain function in aging. More information can be found at: www.quincybioscience.com.

Contact Training Class

CONTACT of Northern Illinois will be offering training class for both Helpline Volunteers and Teen Line Volunteers. Training classes prepare volunteers to assist troubled callers by listening, providing referrals and intervening in crisis. Classes are informative and interesting and are held in a welcoming and fun atmosphere. Upon completion of the class, internship hours, and being on line, volunteers will receive 3 credit hours from Highland Community College that can be converted to CPDU’s for teachers.

Our next informational meeting on becoming a CONTACT Volunteer will be held on May 20, 2013 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., in the Board Room at Eilerts, 1100 W. Galena Avenue, Freeport. Remaining class times will be determined during the first class. Training topics include but are not limited to: Communication skills, Marriage and Family, Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Loneliness and Grief, Self Care, Crisis Intervention and Domestic Violence. For more information, please call CONTACT at and ask for Pam.

Hit a Hole-in-One for Hospice

Hospice of the Rock River Valley, a United Way Agency, along with CGH Medical Center & Sandrock/Mickley Insurance Agency presents the 11th Annual HRRV Memorial Golf Outing, Friday, June 28 at Emerald Hill Golf Course. The scramble format will begin with registration starting at Noon and a shotgun start at 1 p.m. Registration includes golf, cart, lunch, hole games and awards. Sign up as an individual or with a foursome.

Join Hospice for an afternoon of fun, food and fellowship with other hospice supporters and golf enthusiasts (or amateurs). All proceeds benefit hospice services to patients and families of Hospice of the Rock River Valley.

Maybe the sport of golf isn’t your “thing”. You can still participate by donating to the outing as a sponsor or prize donor.

To register your team, become a sponsor, make a general donation or for more information, call Hospice of the Rock River Valley at , visit www.hospicerockriver.org or email mailto:

Hospice of the Rock River Valley serves Lee, Ogle, Carroll, Bureau and Whiteside counties in Illinois.

Master Gardener Helpline Helps Home Gardeners

The University of Illinois Extension-Stephenson County Master Gardeners offer a helpline every growing season. The helpline is designed to help the home gardener with their horticulture questions. Master Gardeners volunteer their time on the helpline which is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., May through September. Each year the Master Gardeners field a variety of questions from across the county. During the 2012 growing season the Master Gardeners answered 193 horticulture related questions providing research based answers.

“Each year the calls to the helpline are documented so that we know the types of questions are coming in and where in the county the questions are coming from,” stated U of I Extension Program Coordinator Nikki Keltner, “it helps us to identify trends and key issues for that particular growing season.” From the 193 questions fielded in 2012 the majority of the questions were about trees and shrubs. Vegetable related phone calls were a close second. Master Gardeners also answer questions about bugs and other pests and are happy to identify that pest if the homeowner brings a sample to the office.

Master Gardeners are volunteers that go through horticulture training led by University of Illinois Extension Educators. During the training they learn about all aspect of horticulture but they also receive training about the resources that the University of Illinois Extension has available for them to use. A Master Gardener has the ability to find research based information from the University to provide to homeowners when they call with a question.

At the University of Illinois Extension-Stephenson County we are proud to work with 55 Master Gardener Volunteers. In 2012 the Master Gardeners contributed nearly 2,000 volunteer hours to the community. In addition to the helpline they also offer educational programs to the community, beautiful display gardens at many public locations, and much more.

To contact the Master Gardener Helpline please call the University of Illinois Extension-Stephenson County at .

Visit ‘Middle Earth’ at Timber Lake Playhouse Starting May 7

You are invited to join us in experiencing the magic of live theater this spring. Timber Lake Playhouse presents The Hobbit, adapted from the novel by J.R.R. Tolkein. TLP gives you the unique page-to-stage experience with this prequel to The Lord of The Rings. Originally published in 1937, The Hobbit, continues to be on the children’s recommended reading lists today.

Come join us as we follow Bilbo Baggins on his journey across Middle Earth. With adventure, fantasy and a few lessons to be learned, The Hobbit is perfect for children of all ages! It is also a great way to integrate the creative arts into a standard curriculum, by expanding a classic novel into the visual and performing arts.

There will be twelve performances of The Hobbit starting Tuesday, May 7 and running through Friday, May 10, 2013. Show times are 9:45 a.m., 11:15 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Performances will be 45 minutes to one hour long. Admission is only $5.00 per person! To purchase tickets please follow this link: https://app.ticketturtle.com/index.php?actions=4&p=284 .

Go to our website www.timberlakeplayhouse.org and click on Education to download the Preview Guide for Teachers and Parents. If you have problems opening the document, please let me know and we can send you a hard copy.

If you have any questions, please contact our office by calling .

See you at the show!

Want to make the most of your trip? Just down the street from the Playhouse is the Oakville Complex that operates through the Carroll County Historical Society. Your organization could have a fun-filled day with a trip to the play, followed by a flashback into life in the late 1800’s that includes a tour of an old schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, 2 log cabins and beautiful greenery.

Guided educational tours cost $2.50 per student, $3 for adults and include a fun activity like making butter or rope. Call to make your reservation.

Youth Camp Donations Requested

It would be great if you could support with the needs of the Children in this endeavor: a Mission trip to Narrow Canyon Christian Youth Camp in Kayenta AZ.

Here is a List of Items to make the kids camp a Success:

Shoes & Socks (age 5-16), School Supplies (Backpacks, ect), Blankets and Sleeping Bags (Gently used are welcomed).

There are 3 drop-off points, at Sullivan’s Foods in Savanna, Stockton, Lena. Box will be posted at the front entrances.

We will also be in need of prayers that God will prepare us for our visit and bless our efforts as we go to supply and minister to the youth.

Whether you feel led to contribute financially, through prayer, or both, all of your support is appreciated!

Other Donations can be sent to Beloved Church, P.O. Box 7, Pearl City, IL. 61062. Please write “Kayenta Missions Trip” on memo. Please visit our web site at Belovedchurchillinois.com.

Let’s Play Ball!

Morrison Little League invites you to celebrate the official Opening Day celebration on Friday, May 10, 2013, at the Morrison Sports Complex on E. Lincolnway and Bishop Road, Morrison, IL. Food (pork chop sandwich, hot dogs, chips, and drinks) will be available at the concession stand, beginning at 5:30 p.m.

The Opening Day ceremony begins at 6:30 p.m., with team and player announcements, first pitch, and team competitions. Festivities include a 50/50 raffle and prize raffle with donated items from our generous local merchants. All proceeds benefit the league. For more information visit www.morrisonlittleleague.com.

Final Call for 2012 Census of Agriculture

Don’t Miss Your Chance to Provide the Facts Straight from the Farm

With the window to respond to the 2012 Census of Agriculture officially closing on May 31, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is urging farmers and ranchers not to miss this opportunity to be counted and help determine the future of farming in America. USDA has already received more than 2 million completed Census forms.

“Our nation needs your help to ensure that decisions about U.S. agriculture accurately represent you, your communities, and your industry,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “For every 158 people in America there is one farm. I urge you to take action today and respond to the Census – your country is counting on the information to help ensure a continued supply of food, fiber and fuel for generations to come.”

The Census of Agriculture, conducted only once every five years, is the only source of consistent and comprehensive agricultural data for every state and county in the nation. It looks at farms, value of land, market value of agricultural production, farm practices, expenditures, and other factors that affect the way farmers and ranchers do business. The information is used by agribusinesses, town planners, local governments, and policy makers, as well as farmers, ranchers, growers and others to shape farm programs, boost rural services and grow the future of farming.

“Agriculture in America is an industry built on tradition, honor and pride,” said Vilsack. “We have heard this from the farmers and ranchers who completed their Census of Agriculture form. It’s not too late for those who have not yet responded to join the generations of producers who participated in the Agriculture Census since it was first conducted in 1840. Only you can continue to provide the facts straight from the farm.”

The 2012 Census will provide a complete picture of agriculture that will be used to shape the future of agriculture, rural America, and the lives of those USDA serves for years to come. The deadline to respond to the Census of Agriculture is only a few weeks away on May 31. USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) may contact producers by phone or in person to collect Census information since time is running out.

Farmers and ranchers can also return their forms by mail or online by visiting a secure website, www.agcensus.usda.gov. Federal law requires a response from everyone who receives the Census form and requires NASS to keep all individual information confidential.

For more information about the Census, including helpful tips on completing your Census form, visit www.agcensus.usda.gov or call 1-888-4AG-STAT (1-). The Census of Agriculture is your voice, your future, your responsibility.

Sheep/Goat Weigh-in & Tattooing For State Fair

By Leanne Rahn, Carroll County Program Coordinator, 4-H & Youth

Saturday, May 11, is the annual sheep/goat weigh-in and tattooing for any 4-H’er or FFA member that is planning to exhibit at the Illinois State Fair Jr. Show in August.

This is not a requirement to show on the county level only if you are going to State Fair.

The weigh-in will take place at the Terry Bocker farm near Lanark, from 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Please arrive during this time. This will be the only weigh-in for state in this area. Others are scheduled for the Quad Cities and in Central Illinois.

If you have any questions please call the Carroll County Extension Office at or e-mail Leanne Rahn at .

The weigh-in will be held rain or shine. You must be 10 years old by September 1, 2012 to exhibit at the Illinois State Fair Jr. Show.

Governor Declares Whiteside Co. Disaster

Citizens in Whiteside County that have been affected by damages caused by the recent flooding in April 2013, may qualify for federal assistance after Governor Quinn declared Whiteside County a disaster area. The first step after a disaster event has occurred is to conduct an initial damage assessment. Damage assessment forms may be obtained by visiting the lEMA website at

http://www.iema.illinois.gov/iema/disaster/idaforms.htm.

If a Presidential declaration is made, the Individual Assistance Program may provide Federal disaster assistance to the local home owners and businesses. Please note that there is no guarantee at this time that Federal disaster assistance will be made available.

After the damage assessment forms have been completed, they can be emailed to or faxed to the Whiteside County Sheriffs Office at .

These forms must be completed and received no later than April 30th , 2013. Questions can be directed to Emergency Services Disaster Agency Coordinator, Doug Buhler at or at .

The History of Men’s Clothing

There was once a time in history when a man’s hat reflected his occupation. From head to toe, learn about the history of men’s clothing. Diane Sipiera will use a simple PowerPoint presentation to illustrate how men dressed throughout the Victorian Era.

Program will be held on Saturday, May 4th from 1:00 to 2:00pm at the 1876 Banwarth House & Museum, 408 E. Sycamore St in Elizabeth. Admission is $3.00 per person, or free for PSF members. Visit www.banwarthmuseum.com for more information or to reserve a seat please email or call (815) 858-2014.