More Important News

25 Years of Service

What can be said about an individual who has given 25 years of service to care for our elderly population? Dedication, caring, thoughtful, and devotion are words that describe Kelly Foley’s commitment to caring for your loved ones.

Kelly Foley, RN started at Big Meadows Nursing Home February 9, 1987. She reports that “It was close to home”, and has stayed ever since. That says it all. Kelly has been through so many changes that have occurred over the last 25 years and she remains a very integral part of the Big Meadows family.

Thank you for all you do. We are honored to have you here!

Outstanding Volunteers Recognized at Chadwick FPD Appreciation Dinner

The Chadwick Fire Protection District held their Annual Firefighter’s Appreciation Dinner on Sat., Feb. 11, 2012 at The Forest Inn of Morrison. There were 40 in attendance.

Board President Mike Johnson welcomed everyone and expressed appreciation for their attendance and service to the Department and their community this past year. He then led the group in a prayer and the meal was served.

Following the meal, Chief Brad Aude presented an “Outstanding Volunteer Award” plaque to Lisa Vos (at right) in gratitude for the excellent service she has provided above and beyond the call of duty by providing years of CPR Certification classes for the Department’s EMS.

A representative from Chadwick Oil and Ag Service was unable to attend but will also receive an “Outstanding Volunteer Award” plaque in gratitude for allowing their employees to leave work for fire and ambulance calls.

The following retiring personnel were not in attendance but will be presented with plaques in honor of their dedication to the Department: Tom Imel for his 10 years as a firefighter serving from 2001-2011 and Corey Adolph for his 6 years as a firefighter serving from 2005-2011.

A power point presentation was given by Trustee Johnson on team work, and exploring the characteristics of different personalities.

Rotarian Wayne Brooks (left) is pictured with Community That Cares (CTC) Project staff Laura Smith and Amy Adams. Smith and Adams explained to Mount Carroll Rotary Club members that the CTC mission is the sustainable development of a system of care for children’s mental health which integrates promotion, prevention, screening/early identification, early intervention, treatment, transitional care, and includes linkages with primary care providers. The CTC project includes Carroll, Lee, Ogle and Whiteside counties. For more information about Mount Carroll Rotary Club call .

Dedication of Memorial Plaque for Linda Ludwig

Prior to Friday evenings Regional Championship contest between Eastland and Forreston, the Ludwig family dedicated a memorial plaque just outside the new EHS gymnasium, honoring longtime teacher and coach Linda Ludwig. Attending for the presentation were: (l-r) husband Jim, daughter Karlee and brother Jeff Snyder.

The plaque reads:

“In gratitude and loving memory of Linda Ludwig (April 15, 1952-June 2, 2010) for her 36 years of service to the Lanark and Eastland Schools as a parent, teacher, coach, mentor, colleague, and friend; as a teacher of physical education, math, and computers; as a class sponsor; as the first coach of girls’ sports; as a school and community leader, and a leader of the Steering Committee that helped pass the February 2, 2010, referendum to construct this physical education addition.” (PA photo/Craig Lang)

The 1st Place winner of Eastland High School’s Operation Teen Safe Driving (OTSD) poster contest was Kimberly Johnson, daughter of Denise and Larry Johnson. Kimberly was awarded a $25 gift card for creating her poster about distracted driving. Other entries were submitted with the theme of seatbelt safety, speeding, or distracted driving.

Bill Timm (center), Carroll County Haiti Mission Project, receives a check for $1,200 from Rotarians Anna Gray (left) and Terrie Miller (right). Mount Carroll Rotary Club has provided long-term support for the CCHMP whose work in Juampas, Haiti includes the building of a medical clinic and current addition of a dental clinic, safe water projects, and support of a local school. For more information about Mount Carroll Rotary Club call .

Savanna Rotary Club learns about the many services offered at the Riverview Center located in Mt. Carroll. Riverview Center helps survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. Pictured above are Diane Heath, Legal Advocate for Riverview Center and Randy Morthland, Savanna Rotarian. To find out more information on Riverview Center call or visit www.riverviewcenter.org. To find out more about Rotary visit www.rotary.org

The Chadwick-Milledgeville Elementary Week 19 Thumbs Up Winners. From left to right, front row: Kloey Dowse, Emma Oldham, Jaycie Schmidt, JayCee Christensen, Peyton Stark. In back row: Claudia Hamilton, Gage Wilk, Jason Queckborner, Aiden Barkley, and Austin Lapp.

Science Siesta! Girls + Science = Fun!

Have you ever dreamt of spending the night in a museum? No, this isn’t a movie, it’s Science Siesta! Hosted by the University of Illinois Extension, this event for fourth-sixth grade girls will be held twice. Event dates are: Friday, March 30 to Saturday, March 31 and Friday, April 27 to Saturday, April 28. Both events will be held at the Discovery Center and Burpee Natural History Museums in Rockford. These action-packed overnights will combine the fun of a pajama party with hands-on science experiences. “This is our eleventh year of conducting Science Siesta, we have reached over 1500 girls so far and we are excited to continue to offer this fun, interactive event to encourage girls to consider science-related career fields,” said Kim Christman, University of Extension 4-H Youth Development Educator.

At Science Siesta, girls will also have the opportunity to meet actual females in science career fields from throughout northern Illinois. The scientists will share information about their background and involve the girls in activities much like they complete in their work every day.

Following the face-to-face interaction with female scientists, youth participate in activities based on the “Wonderwise” curriculum developed by the University of Nebraska. This curriculum highlights the work of female scientists and then translates their work into hands-on science based activities which are fun and engaging. Participating girls may choose one of three workshop tracks for breakout sessions. Their choices include activities from African Plant Explorer, Sea Otter Biologist, and Pollen Detective.

Statistics show that girls are less likely to pursue degrees and careers in science and mathematics than boys. Researchers agree that this is a complex problem with no easy answers, but believe that there are things that can be done. They suggest that having role models that girls can look up to, as well as making science fun and interactive will encourage girls to stay involved and interested in science. Events such as Science Siesta are designed to help bridge the gap for girls at a time when many may start to lose interest in science or question whether science is a field they should choose.

Both of the events will begin with registration at 5:00 p.m. on Friday and will conclude with check-out at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday. Registration will be open on February 29th. The registration fee is $40 per girl. The registration fee covers pizza, snack, breakfast, admission to the Discovery Center Museum and Burpee Museum of Natural History, and all hands-on activities. For additional information, as well as to register, go to the University of Illinois Extension website at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/bdo on or after February 29 or call (815) 758-8194. Registration fills up quickly and is limited to the first 150 girls for each event.

Spring Sales Closing Date Near For Crop Insurance

Brian Frieden, Director of the Springfield Regional Office, Risk Management Agency (RMA), reminds producers that the sales closing date for spring planted crops is March 15. Producers will not be able to purchase crop insurance, make coverage and policy changes, switch insurance providers or cancel a policy after this deadline.

Most producers in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan and Ohio will see a premium rate reduction for corn and soybeans this year because of a change in the method RMA uses to set premium rates.

Corn and soybean producers will also have a new option that adjusts a producer’s actual yield to reflect the yield increases because of improved production practices and crop genetics. This option, called the Trend-Adjusted Actual Production History (APH), increases a producer’s past yields based on the county’s historical yield trend. Check with a crop insurance agent for details and to elect the Trend-Adjusted APH endorsement. A decision to use this endorsement must be made by March 15.

Projected prices for corn and soybean will be released in early March. These prices are based on the Chicago Board of Trade and are used for all coverage options. Prices for other crops are either established by RMA or, for some crops, the producer’s contract price. Prices established by RMA can be viewed on the Information Browser on the RMA web site www.rma.usda.gov.

Frieden encourages producers to review their crop insurance options with their crop insurance agent by the March 15th deadline.

Producers who qualify as limited resource farmers may have administrative fees waived. Crop insurance agents will assist those qualifying producers with determining eligibility for waivers.

Lanark Student Serves During Spring Break

Katie Raab is among the approximately 200 students from Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa, who will travel across the U.S. and around the world for the college’s annual Spring Service Projects (SSP) March 3–12.

Northwestern mission teams are traveling to three international sites this year. Students will serve in two youth hostels in Amsterdam in the Netherlands; with the Moravian Church in Bluefields, Nicaragua; and with United Christians International in Haiti.

Ten Spring Service Project teams are partnering with ministries in the United States. Students will participate in an after-school program and community improvement projects in Jonesboro, Ark.; serve through work projects, relational ministries and recreational activities in Jacksonville, Fla.; help with construction, tutoring and community cleanup in Opelousas, La.; and renovate a new ministry center for Urban Impact in New Orleans.

In Minnesota, one team will teach English to Somalian immigrants in Minneapolis, while another will interact with youth and participate in work projects and a community snow carnival on the Grand Portage Indian Reservation.

Still other students will spend the week assisting with a dental clinic and child education programs in Cary, Miss.; working in a free health clinic and learning about urban ministry and racial reconciliation in Jackson, Miss.; helping at a homeless shelter in Spartanburg, S.C.; and serving with a ministry to ex-prisoners in Lindale, Texas.

Spring Service Project members raise their own travel funds through their individual families, friends and churches and also through fundraisers on campus and in the community.

Northwestern College’s short-term mission programs bear the Standards of Excellence in Short-Term Missions (SOE) seal, ensuring that participating organizations get NWC mission teams that are of high quality. SOE standards include adequate pre-trip training and resources, as well as consistent post-trip follow-up and accountability.

Raab is a junior and is a social work major at Northwestern College. She will be participating in short-term mission work with City Youth Ministries in Jonesboro, Ark. Raab is the daughter of Brian and Pam Raab of Lanark.

Northwestern College is a Christian college of 1,250 students in Orange City, Iowa. Rated the nation’s third-best baccalaureate college by Washington Monthly and a top-10 Midwestern college by U.S. News & World Report magazine, Northwestern provides an education that combines academic rigor with a faith perspective.

Stanton of Morrison Named to Dean’s List

Kevin Kraus, Luther College vice president for academic affairs and dean of the college, has announced that Luther sophomore Connor Stanton of Morrison, Ill. was named to Luther’s Dean’s List.

To be named to the dean’s list, a student must earn a semester grade point average of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale and must complete at least 12 credit hours with 10 hours of conventional grades (A, B, C, D).

Luther is a selective four-year college located in northeast Iowa. The college has an enrollment of 2,500 students and offers a liberal arts education leading to the bachelor of arts degree in 60 majors and pre-professional programs.

Rand McNally and Good Sam Team Up to Provide Woodall’s Campground Data in GPS Devices

Rand McNally, a leader in specialty travel and navigation, and Woodall’s, part of the Good Sam family of RV clubs, community and publications, are partnering to include Woodall’s campground data in Rand McNally’s TripMaker® RVND™ GPS units for RVers.

The data will be pre-loaded in devices shipping mid-April, and also will be available to current owners of TripMaker® RVND™ devices – both the 5” and 7” models – via a simple and free download in early Q2. Rand McNally will be reaching out to existing owners to ensure that they are able to download the new content.

“Woodall’s is North America’s leading source of campground information for RVers and campers. We are very pleased to offer this very valued content as part of our industry-leading RV GPS devices,” said Dave Muscatel, CEO of Rand McNally.

Highlights of the Woodall’s Campground data include:

Listings for more than 12,000 RV parks and campground locations, with amenities, Family-friendly campgrounds and pets-allowed locations, “Big Rig” parks, “Green parks”, Site information such as extended stay sites available, typical site width and pull thru information, Services such as fees, escort to site, dumping, and Essential information about seasonality and rates.

Importantly, the data also includes the proprietary “5-W” ratings, which reflect the views of unbiased inspectors who visit and rate every possible private campground each year.

“We are excited to bring together two well-known brands in the RVing community – Rand McNally and Woodall’s. Our carefully researched data will certainly enhance the value of the TripMaker® RVND™ GPS to RVers, especially those who have been loyal users of Woodall’s for decades,” said Ann Emerson, Vice President & Publisher, Woodall’s & Trailer Life Directory.

According to Muscatel, market research and direct feedback from current users indicates that the ability to find RV specific information on campgrounds is one of the top three features that RVers want in a GPS.

“And 65% of those surveyed told us that ratings, such as the 5-W ratings, were important. The Woodall’s data will augment the 12,000 campgrounds currently in the product, making our TripMaker® RVND™ the most robust provider of campground information with RV specific information available,” added Muscatel.

Rand McNally’s TripMaker® RVND™ GPS units are available at Camping World SuperCenters nationwide, at CampingWorld.com, and through Rand McNally’s retail channels.

FSA Reminds Dairy Producers of MILC Program Requirements

Lynn Bower, vice chairman of the Carroll County FSA Office, reminds dairy producers of some important program requirements to be eligible for payment under the Milk Income Loss Contract (MILC) program.

“At this time, prices haven’t fallen to level to trigger a MILC payment,” Bower said. “However, we want all dairy producers to be aware of the program requirements should there be an opportunity for payments.”

Bower said it is very important to notify the FSA office if there have been any changes to the dairy operation. Also, any new dairies that have not previously participated in the MILC program will need to fill out the CCC-580, Milk Income Loss Contract.

If a payment rate is announced, dairy producers enrolled in the MILC program will need to provide their local county office with documentation showing the eligible milk production and commercial milk marketing for the months with a MILC payment rate in effect.

When producers enroll in MILC, a payment start month is selected. This month remains the same through all program years, unless a change is requested by the dairy. Producers who wish to change their MILC program start month can do so unlimited number of times throughout their enrollment in MILC, provided the changes are made on or before the 14th day of the month prior to the new MILC production start-month. The production start month designated cannot be changed if the new month being selected has already begun or has already passed.

MILC program participants are also required to comply with FSA’s Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) requirements each fiscal year. This certification, on a CCC-931, must be completed prior to a payment being disbursed.

For more information on the MILC program, Bower urged producers to contract their county FSA Office or visit www.fsa.usda.gov.

Dean’s List announced for the University of Wisconsin-Platteville

University of Wisconsin-Platteville announced its 2011 fall semester Dean’s List. Students receive this academic honor in the College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture and the College of Liberal Arts and Education must achieve a 3.75 grade point average and students in the College of Engineering, Math and Science must earn a 3.5 grade point average.

Area students who made the Dean’s List were:

Cory Potter from Hanover; Calvin Cassens, Kaitlyn Bissell from Lanark; Tony Damhoff, Adam Cook, Abram Houzenga, from Morrison; Jacob Green from Mount Carroll; Channing Brown from Pearl City; William Hammer from Shannon; Joshua McLuckie, Jacob Getz, Katie Ritchie, Jacob Sweeney from Savanna; Mitchell Plambeck, Randall Denekas from Forreston; Krystyn Haenitsch from Polo.

UW-Platteville is settled in a historic mining town on the Iowa and Illinois border and enrolls nearly 8,000 students. It is an institution whose mission is to produce intellectually astute individuals who will participate in society as competent professionals and knowledgeable citizens. For more information on the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, visit www.uwplatt.edu.

WC Public Transportation Says it’s Essential to Maintain Dedicated Funding

As Whiteside County Public Transportation looks to expand capacity during record ridership, the organization expresses its strong opposition for the provisions in House Bill H.R. 3864, the federal American Energy and Infrastructure Jobs Financing Act. The bill would eliminate dedicated federal fuels taxes for public transit and create long-term uncertainty for public transportation funding for the first time since the Reagan administration.

The proposed change will have dire consequences for the thousands of people in Whiteside County who rely on public transit, according to Roxanne Bauer, Executive Director of the program.

“I strongly oppose HR 3864 . . . This change will make it very difficult for us to plan for the future, even as we are seeing more people than ever turning to public transportation to get around.

“Instead of creating jobs and encouraging economic growth, we will be forced to contend each year with a deeply divided Congress,” Bauer added.

Since 1983, nearly half of all public transportation funding has been provided from the federal motor fuels tax dedicated to the Highway Trust Fund. This funding structure has successfully provided highway and transit programs with secure, dedicated revenues.

“Under the proposed change, public transit funding would receive a one-time appropriation with no funding for public transportation after 2016,” Bauer stated. “This would create deep uncertainty for Whiteside County Public Transportation.”

Bauer said that public transportation is a proven solution to many of the economic problems facing the United States. For every $1 billion invested, more than 36,000 jobs are created and supported, resulting in nearly $500 million in federal, state, and local tax revenues. For every $1 invested in public transportation, $4 is generated in economic returns.

Governmental Electrical Aggregation Referendum in March

The Spring Primary Election on March 20th, 2012 will have a ballot question on it for the Village of Shannon, the City of Lanark and over 200 other communities in the ComEd service territory. What does this mean for the voters going to the polls?

The voters will simply give these governmental agencies the option to consolidate the loads of their residential and small commercial customers for purposes of effectively lowering the electrical power purchasing costs.

The ballot questions will State:

“Shall the (City/Village/County) have the authority to arrange for the supply of electricity for its residential and small commercial retail customers who have not opted out of such program?” YES or NO

Governmental aggregation is a program that allows a Municipality or County to purchase its electric supply at cheaper rates for residential and small business customers from a supplier other than ComEd. The goal of the program is to secure lower electric supply rates for residential and small business owners in their respective communities. Customers have the opportunity to save between 20-30% on their electric supply rates.

Why are the governmental leaders putting this ballot on the referendum? Simply, it’s economics. The dollars saved on electrical utility bills stay in the pockets of the ratepayers, thus creating an economic boost for the communities. These dollars add up when you look at virtually every household. Also, it is hoped that these dollars find their way around the community several times before they eventually leave, much like tourism dollars. In these economic times, everyone is looking to cut costs.

This is the most beneficial and least risky way for residents to choose a supplier. By pooling together customers, the reduced acquisition costs and economies of scale savings for the suppliers are passed onto the end users. One governmental official declared that “this is a rare opportunity that we can do something that could save our taxpayers money.”

In addition, this is not a mandatory program. Electrical customers may opt out of the program and choose to remain on ComEd or choose their own supplier. This just gives customers a third choice or option.

The City of Fulton in Whiteside County was the first community to pass an ordinance as their voters passed their referendum in the Fall of 2009. They were quickly followed by 18 other communities in the ComEd service territory who passed their referendums in April of 2011. On average, residents in those municipalities are saving 20-30% on their electric supply rates.

The City of Fulton was quickly joined by other local Communities such as the Village of Erie, Village of Mt. Morris, City of Polo, and the Village of Milledgeville in our area. All the residents and small businesses in these communities that did not opt out of the program are enjoying saving energy dollars.

Rock River Energy Services along with their partner NIMEC assisted 15 of the 19 communities in their quest for aggregation last year. They are all enjoying savings on their ComEd bills. They will be working with over 70 communities including several counties (representing the unincorporated areas) in the ComEd and Ameren service territories representing over 1,000,000 residents.

Communities that have not passed an ordinance for this Spring Election have other opportunities to put this initiative on the fall ballot or they can work with Rock River Energy on an “Opt IN” program for their residents.

Remember to exercise your option and vote. If you do not want to declare your Party Affiliation during the primary, just ask for a ballot with the referendum question on it.

Where can you learn more about this? The City of Lanark will be sending info with the water bills, and have info on their website. www.lanarkil.com.

The Village of Shannon delivered a pamphlet to each resident’s door and also has more info on their website. www.shannonillinois.com.

Contact your local government officials for additional questions and answers.

For additional information, view the ICC website at www.pluginillinois.org, the aggregation website at www.electricaggregation.org or contact Mike Mudge at Rock River Energy Services at .

Olivet Nazarene Dean’s List

Olivet Nazarene University recently released the dean’s list for the fall 2011 semester. To qualify for inclusion on the dean’s list, a student must have been enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student and must have attained a semester grade point average of 3.50 or higher on a 4.00 grading scale. Area residents named to the dean’s list are:

Lydia Bilyeu of Fulton, Jessica Dieken of Oregon, Michele Keckler of Lanark, Kathryn Peugh of Milledgeville, Ainsley Stebbins of Polo

Olivet Nazarene University is an accredited Christian, liberal arts university offering more than 100 areas of undergraduate and graduate study, including the Doctor of Education in ethical leadership. Olivet has one main campus in Bourbonnais, Ill. - just 50 miles south of Chicago; three sites: Rolling Meadows and Oak Brook, Ill., and Hong Kong; and more than 100 School of Graduate and Continuing Studies learning locations throughout Chicagoland and the Midwest. From Oxford to Tokyo, hundreds of Olivet students also experience the global classroom each year, whether through study abroad opportunities or worldwide mission trips.

Carroll County 4-H Horse Workshop To Be Held

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

A fun, learning opportunity is scheduled for Saturday, March 10, from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. at the Steve & Bryan Hollewell indoor horse arena near Milledgeville. The workshop will cover basic grooming, fitting and clipping, showmanship, braiding, and turnout for pleasure classes. No not bring your horse.

This workshop is open to 4-H’ers and non-4-H youth and adults. There is no cost to attend. Pre-registration is due to the Extension Office by March 2. For more information or to sign up contact the Carroll County University of Illinois Extension Office at or e-mail Leanne Rahn at .

Carroll County 4-H & FFA Livestock & Dairy Judging Contests Planned

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

Saturday, March 17, will be the annual 4-H & FFA Livestock & Dairy judging contests, at the Carroll Co. Highway Garage west of Mt. Carroll on Rt. 64.

Registration for the livestock contest will be 8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m., with the contest starting at 9:00 a.m. sharp. At this time 4-H’ers and FFA members will judge steers, heifers, production heifers, swine, sheep and have a questions class.

Dairy judging registration will start immediately following the Livestock judging contest. Registration will be from 11:45 – 12:15 p.m., with the contest starting at 12:30 p.m.

Before each contest the judge will go over what to look for when placing the classes. After each contest the judges will give reasons and placings. 4-H’ers & FFA members are encouraged to stay for both contests. You do not need to be enrolled in a livestock or dairy project to participate. The Clever Clovers 4-H Club will have a lunch stand on the grounds with breakfast and lunch foods.

We need many adults to help make the contests run smoothly, so any parents that would like to help out, please contact Leanne Rahn at University of Illinois Extension Office , or .

Carroll County 4-H Jr. Ambassador Group To Meet

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

The Jr. Ambassadors will be meeting Thursday, March 15, 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 HYPERLINK “mailto:” Bring a friend.

Sindy Main: Teacher in Antarctica

If you are an educator and you incorporate penguins, Antarctica, Antarctic animals or explorers, this is an opportunity for you to meet Sindy Main.

Carl Sandburg Middle School teacher Sindy Main was hand-selected by PSF for an icy opportunity of a lifetime. Four years ago, she took a break from teaching in Freeport to explore the frozen continent of Antarctica. Come hear her amazing story as she shares her experiences of the Tawani 2008 International Antarctic Expedition and how she has incorporated this into her classroom curriculum. Sindy will be speaking at the 1876 Banwarth House & Museum, 408 E. Sycamore St. behind the Law-Jones Funeral Home in the Village of Elizabeth on Saturday, March 3rd from 1:00-2:30pm.

The expedition included teams from the U.S., Russia and Austria and focused on the Schirmacher Oasis region of Antarctica and Lake Untersee, a perennially ice-covered hyper-alkaline lake with the highest production of methane of any natural aquatic system on Earth.

This lecture is free for PSF members and a $3.00 donation for non members. The Planetary Studies Foundation is a non-for profit organization. Their mission is to promote the study of planetary science and astronomy with emphasis on meteorites; and to sponsor, encourage, and assist in the physical, astronomical, earth, environmental and cultural sciences so as to broaden our knowledge of all phases of the universe. All proceeds go toward PSF scholarships for students interested in pursuing a career in the sciences. If you would like to reserve a spot, please contact Diane Sipiera at (815) 858-2014 or .

Local Students Named to Ashford University’s Dean’s List

The faculty and staff are pleased to announce the Fall 2011 Dean’s List for Ashford University’s online program, the on-campus accelerated programs and the on-campus traditional programs.

Undergraduate students in the online and in the on-campus accelerated programs are recognized if they completed 12 or more credits, have a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or above, began and completed at least one course since the time the previous Dean’s List was determined (August 22, 2011), and are currently enrolled, attending or on an approved leave of absence, and in good academic standing as of December 12, 2011.

Students in the on-campus traditional program are recognized if they completed six or more credits and received a grade point average of 3.5 or above during the semester ending on December 9, 2011.

Following are area students on Ashford’s Dean’s List:

Andrea Herin, Haley Knutti of Chadwick; Laura Anderson,Britney Dickman, Katelyn Hasken, Kelsey Pierce, Cameron Priewe of Lanark; Dean Hollewell of Milledgeville; Adam Benters, Jill Beswick, Patty Bush, Matthew Claeys, Michael Cozzie, Alyssa Dalrymple, Laini Jones, Tobin Kirk, Catherine Kuehl, Brandy McCrary, Pamela Pfister, Kyla Renkes, Jamie Rodriguez, Alyssa Weeks of Morrison; DeAnn Bartley, Andrew Hughes, Lulije Jusufi, Nicholas Meeker, Rachel Rasmussen, James Shamp, Loren Thacher of Mount Carroll; Adam Cauley, Christina DeMoss, Theresa DeReus, Jessica Gallacher, Ashley Huebner, Amy Johnston, Kuuiponani Kramer, Rorrie Kramer, April Miller, Emily Rath, Andrew Ritchie, Stephanie Valladares, Curt Yenney of Savanna; Alonzo Boardman, Faye Dyson. Devin Ehrich, Sarah Lucas, Whitney Martinez, Cassandra Meade, Jaimie Storjohann, Tyler Vandendooren of Thomson; and Mark Hebdon, Jesse Lawson of Sabula, IA.

MMTA “Cotton Patch Gospel” Auditions March 11 and 12

Morrison Music Theater Association will be holding auditions for “Cotton Patch Gospel” on Sunday March 11 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. and Monday, March 12 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Performance dates are June 7, 8 and 9, 2012. Auditions will be held in the lower level of Bethesda Lutheran Church in Morrison. Actors should use the South St. entrance.

This production, which features music by Harry Chapin, tells the story of the ministry, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus using “blue grass” style music and a 20th century setting. Atlanta, Georgia, serves as a modern-day Jerusalem. There are singing, non-singing and chorus only roles. The size of the cast is flexible, so there are spots for many performers. Those who wish to be considered for major singing roles should prepare a brief vocal solo. Singers may use their own accompaniment CD or bring sheet music for the piano accompanist provided by MMTA. Singing and non-singing actors will all read excerpts from the script. Those wishing to audition only for the chorus are not required to prepare a solo, but will be asked to perform a brief vocal audition.

Student Selected as Delegate at Summit

Faith Volz, of Mount Carroll, a student at Savanna Jr-Sr High School has been selected to represent Illinois as a National Youth Delegate at the 2012 Washington Youth Summit on the Environment at George Mason University.

Volz has been awarded opportunity to join a select group of 250 students from across the country to participate in an intensive study week-long of leadership in environmental science and conservation. Volz was chosen based on academic accomplishments and a demonstrated interest and excellence in leadership in the sciences and conservation studies.

George Mason University along with partners, National Geographic and the National Zoo are excited to welcome the nation’s youth scholars to Washington, D.C. With distinguished faculty, guest speakers, and direct access to elite D.C. practitioners, the Washington Youth Summit on the Environment offers aspiring environmentalists and student leaders an unparalleled experience. The week-long program is held at George Mason University’s state-of-the-art campus. The Summit will encourage and inspire young leaders who desire a unique experience focused on successful careers in this dynamic industry.

The Washington Youth Summit on the Environment will be held June 24-29, 2012.

“Brick Streets and Country Charm”

The Friends of the Mount Carroll Public Library will hold their “Brick Streets and Country Charm” Quilt Show this spring, scheduled for 4 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 4, and 10 a.m. – 4p.m. Saturday May 5 at the Mount Carroll Church of God, intersection of Illinois 64-78.

This event is a fundraiser benefiting the historic Mount Carroll Township Public Library restoration project.

Quilts and unfinished quilt tops (new and vintage), family heirlooms and personal creations (machine and hand quilted), are presently being solicited for the show.

Anyone having a quilt they are willing to loan to the show is asked to complete the exhibitor application form found on the library’s website: www.mountcarrollpubliclibrary.org or by calling Karen Davis at ext. 4.

Application deadline is March 15, 2012.

Concert at Ebenezer Reformed Church

Ebenezer Reformed Church, 309 East Park St. in Morrison, will host the A cappella Choir of Northwestern College, Orange City, Iowa, on Monday, March 12, at 7 p.m. The concert is free; community members are invited.

The 43-member A cappella Choir is directed by Dr. Thomas Holm, professor of music at Northwestern and conductor of the Sioux County Oratorio Chorus. The ensemble has performed across the U.S. and in Europe.

Mt. Carroll Ministerial Association Lenten Offering

Lenton Worship and Fellowship

The Mount Carroll Minister Association will be offering worship and fellowship five of the Wednesday evenings of Lent.All five of the Mount Carroll churches will be hosting a week on the theme Our Journey to the Cross. A free simple supper will be offered at each church at 6pm and the worship service will be at 7pm. Sts. John and Catherine Catholic Church--Feb. 29, First Lutheran—March 7, Church of God—March 14, M.C. Baptist—Mar 12, M.C. United Methodist—March 28. Holy Week will culminate with an ecumenical Good Friday Service at 7pm at the Mount Carroll Baptist Church. Look for information on the Ecumenical Choir to come.

Carroll County Relay for Life To Meet

The American Cancer Society, Carroll County Chapter of Relay For Life will be holding it’s “Kick Off” event on Monday, March 12, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. The location for the event will be Manny’s Pizza, 211 Main Street in Savanna, Illinois.

This years theme is “Stories of Hope” by sharing our stories of why we Relay, whether we are a volunter or a survivor. All teams are welcome to share their funds raisers the night of the event, or to just come as an individual to see what Relay is all about.

Our mission is to “Celebrate” the people that are the survivors of this dreadful disease and to “Remember” the ones that have lost the battle and by “Fighting Back” through our fund raising efforts help cancer paitents with the things thay need (travel asistance, wigs, etc.) and we can one day end this disease.

Bev Lundquist says, “I relay to honor my father who died from cancer and to give hope to my sister, a best friend, and many others that I know who have had cancer and are survivors. Someday, hopefully, cures will be discovered for more kinds of cancer. If I can help bring that day closer it would be wonderful. I especially enjoy working with the Survivor’s Dinner that the Carroll County Relay For Life committee sponsors each year to help honor those survivors whose life has been so trememdously upset. It’s a privilege to meet these survivor’s.”

So, come to the “Kick Off” event and share your “Stories of Hope.”

Scholarships Up to $25,000 Available from Rotary

Application for Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarships, up to $25,000 each, are available from the Rotary Club of Mount Carroll. Applicants should be college freshmen who plan to study abroad their junior year or upperclassmen who want to complete a year of graduate study overseas. This scholarship is for students whose families live in the Carroll County area. The deadline for applications is May 18, 2012.

Ambassadorial Scholarships for the academic year 2013-14 are for one academic year abroad and provide funding for round-trip transportation, tuition and fees, room and board, some educational supplies and “brush-up” language training (if necessary) up to a maximum of $25,000.

The scholarships, which are designed to further international understanding and goodwill, provide for study abroad in more that 160 countries where Rotary Clubs are located. During their studies abroad, Rotary Ambassadorial Scholars act as “Ambassadors of Goodwill.” Through appearances before Rotary Clubs and Districts, schools, civic organizations, and other forums, the students represent the United States and work to further international understanding.

For more information please contact Anna Gray, Mount Carroll Rotary Club president, at . The application for 2013-2014 can be downloaded at http://www.rotary.org.

The Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship program is the world’s largest privately sponsored international scholarship program. Focused on humanitarian service, personal diplomacy and academic excellence, the program has sponsored nearly 40,000 Rotary Scholars since it began in 1947.

Electronics and Battery Recycling Day – March 31

Northwest Illinois residents and businesses are invited to participate in a free electronics and battery recycling event set for Saturday, March 31, from 9:00 a.m. to noon at the Carroll County Highway Department, 10735 Mill Road, Mt. Carroll, Illinois. The Highway Department is located on the southeast corner of Route 52/64 and Mill Road just across from Land of Oz Subway/Phillips 66 Fuel Station.

Free recycling categories include consumer electronics such as computers, monitors, televisions, VCRs, DVD players, printers, keyboards, mice, laptops, cords, cables, phones, radios, speakers, copiers, cell phones, and more. Small household electronic items are also accepted for free and include microwaves, vacuum cleaners, coffee and bread makers, toaster ovens, small saws, drills, holiday lights, hair dryers and more. Batteries are also accepted for free and include all types of alkaline, rechargeable, and large lead-acid vehicle and machinery batteries.

Large household appliances, such as refrigerators, dish washers, stoves, and air conditioners, will not be accepted.

The event is sponsored by the Jo-Carroll Solid Waste Agency. For questions, please contact Mark Maidak, event coordinator, at , or via e-mail at .

HCC Presents ‘Godspell’ at Ferguson Fine Arts Theatre

The Highland Community College Fine Arts Department will bring Godspell, the popular musical currently revived on Broadway, to Ferguson Fine Arts Theatre on March 29, 30 and 31. Tickets for the 7:30 p.m. show go on sale Monday, February 27.

According to HCC Fine Arts Director Allen Redford, the show will appeal to a wide range of individuals. From pop to gospel, audience members will be singing along with songs such as “Bless the Lord,” “All Good Gifts,” “Light of the World,” and the Billboard-chart hit, “Day by Day.” So “Prepare Ye” for a family-friendly show, and “Come Sing About Love!”

Based on the Gospel of Matthew, the musical was originally written by John-Michael Tebelak and scored by Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Working, Pippin, Children of Eden). Also featured in a 1973 film adaptation, Godspell continues to be interpreted for new audiences. From the first act, Jesus is placed in a modern day setting to illustrate his parables’ relevance to today’s society.

Tickets are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and $8 for students. Purchase tickets online at www.higland.edu, or by calling the Highland Community College Box Office weekdays between 1 and 5 p.m. at .