RC&D Hires Outreach Coordinator for iFiber Broadband Project

Dan Payette

The Blackhawk Hills Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council is pleased to announce that Daniel Payette has joined their organization as Outreach Coordinator for the region’s iFiber Broadband Project, effective March 14, 2011.

Dan, a native of Shannon, Illinois, is a recent graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Department of Urban and Regional Planning, where he concentrated in economic and community development. He has worked in the private sector and state government, most recently at the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs.

“We feel extremely fortunate to have Dan joining our staff. His knowledge and experience will help our organization to better serve the communities in Northwest Illinois in the area of economic development,” stated William Tonne, Blackhawk Hills RC&D President.

The $69 million iFiber Broadband Project will enhance broadband technology in Northwest Illinois. The project will improve high-speed Internet access for schools, hospitals, and government buildings in the region’s underserved areas. On behalf of the Blackhawk Hills RC&D Council, Dan will coordinate and implement the grant’s scope of work. The grant is administered by Northern Illinois University (NIU) and provided through the National Telecommunications and Information Agency’s Broadband Technology Opportunity Program. He will also be responsible for assisting NIU in engagement of Community Anchor Institutions and will work closely with the iFiber Management Team.

For more information on the iFiber Broadband Project, please contact Blackhawk Hills at (815) 625-3854.

Get Ready for Spring Activities with FHN’s Spring Warmup Presentation

FHN physical therapist Jenna Zientek, PT

Learn how you can enjoy spring’s outdoor activities pain-free at a special FHN Speakers Series presentation Thursday, April 14 in Freeport. FHN physical therapist Jena Zientek, PT, will talk about how to get your body ready for all sorts of spring activities – from running around after the kids to gardening, DIY projects, spring sports and more – at this free program.

“After a long winter cooped up inside, the warmth of spring makes us feel like we can tackle anything,” Zientek said. “Unfortunately, many of us find ourselves with sore arms and legs or a backache the next day. Warming up properly before any activity can help prevent that pain.”

The program begins at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 14 at FHN Family Healthcare Center – Burchard Hills in Freeport. It is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Visit www.fhn.org/SpringWarmUp or call toll-free 1-877-6000-FHN (1-) ext. 901 to reserve your seat. For more information on FHN’s Spring Warmup or our orthopaedic and sports medicine services, visit www.fhn.org.

EHS National Honor Society

Front row (L to R): Kyndra Nielson, Connie Hammer, Austin Steen, Katrya Lessman, Samanatha Sturtz Middle row (L to R): Jenna Simpson, Logan Feltmeyer, Katelyn Janssen, Drake Walker, Brittny Olson, Katelyn Hasken, Kaitlyn Bissell, Kerby Kniss, Jordan Weaver Back row (L to R): Katie Woessner, Abbey Grisham, Faith Stoner, Kayla Barnes, Alex Todd, Kelsie Kirtley, Courtney Blair, Taylor Ruter, Collin Macomber, Zeke Hartman, Calvin Cassens Missing from photo: Annabelle Borota, Morgan Moll, Sara Runyan, Briana Sligar

The National Honor Society ranks as one of the oldest and most prestigious national organizations for high school students. Chapters exist in more than 60 percent of the nation’s high schools and, since 1921, millions of students have been selected for membership. Millions of dollars in scholarships have been awarded to senior members since 1945 by the sponsoring organization, the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

Eastland High School Artists

The Main Street Art Guild, NFP is pleased to share the creative talents of Elizabeth Tessendorf of Photography by Elly at the Exchange State Bank in Lanark. Elly is among seven local artists on display at various locations including the Thomson Public Library, Milledgeville State Bank, Mount Carroll Banking Center, The National Bank and Market Street Commons in Mount Carroll, First Savings Bank in Savanna and the Mount Carroll Public Library. A special thanks to all sponsoring venues in this effort to share the arts with our communities of Carroll County. (Courtesy of Heather A. Houzenga)

Dunlap, Kluck Receive Tim Milroy Memorial Award

Eastland High School senior Tony Dunlap receives the Tim Milroy Memorial Award.

The Tim Milroy Memorial Committee is pleased to announce that 5 Northern Illinois students have been chosen to receive the Tim Milroy Memorial Award. The award is given to graduating seniors who plan to attend a Junior College or Division III School, exhibit outstanding character and want to pursue a degree in a sports or education field.

Locally, recipients are Brad Dunlap, Eastland High School; and Kelsie Kluck, Pearl City High School. The three other recipients are Nathan Sharp, Durand High School; Tyler Jennings, Pecatonica High School; and John Timm, Stillman Valley High School.

This award is given in honor of Tim Milroy who was a 3-sport All Conference Athlete at Pecatonica High School and went on to play Basketball at Rockford College. Tim passed away in January of 2009. More information available at www.timmilroymemorial.com.

An annual golf outing, dinner and program support the award. This year it will be on September 10th, 2011at Westlake Golf Course, Winnebago, IL. Golf at 8am, Dinner/Program at 12:30pm. Contact information – Stacey Schaller, 702 Jarvis Dr., Winnebago, IL 61088 or Billy Lewis (815) 871-5305.

4-H Members Attend Tractor Clinic

The 4-H members learn about farm safety.

A group of Stephenson County 4-H members attended a Tractor Clinic at Holland and Sons John Deere dealership in Freeport. They toured the facility and learned about tractor operation, maintenance, and safety. Gary Groezinger and Andrew Gustafson led the group through an interesting and educational session that was part classroom and part demonstration.

Everything from basic safety and maintenance to the latest innovations were discussed. A highlight of the evening was learning about the new John Deere Greenstar Guidance System, the latest technology in satellite guidance positioning.

4-H offers project opportunities available for every interest. Many of the students will enroll in tractor projects this year, but some came just to learn. To learn more about the

4-H program, call the University of Illinois Extension - Stephenson County Office at .

Morrison’s ‘Derby Divas’ Begin Competition

Sports fans, mark your calendar for Saturday, April 23, 2011. On this evening, the Midwest Derby Divas, Morrison’s own Roller Derby team, will hold their first official bout against the River Bend Bombers (the A-Team of the Quad City Rollers) at the River Center, 136 E. 3rd Street, Davenport, IA. The doors open at 5:30, and the game begins at 7:00 p.m.

Will there be blood? A portion of each ticket will be donated to the Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center!

Children 12 and under are free if accompanied by a paying adult. There are several ticket options but here’s the best: as a round-trip travel package from Wiersema Charter Service, Inc., for $30. The bus trip offers three pick-up and drop-off locations:

4:15 p.m. Rock Falls, at the Community Building, 601 W. 10th Street

4:45 p.m. Morrison, at Wiersema’s Bus Garage, 15049 Lyndon Road

5:00 p.m. Fulton, at First Christian Reformed Church, 510 15th Avenue.

To reserve your seat on the bus, contact local Midwest Derby Diva “Anita Painkiller,” aka Andrea Wakeman. Reservations are required and due with payment by April 19 at 5:00 p.m. to Wakeman. Contact her at or by email at .

Gather some family or friends for a unique evening of flat track roller derby to support our local athletes-on-wheels. You can visit their website at www.midwestderbydivas.com.

(Photo courtesy of Steve Siefken)

National Ag Week

Freeport’s Jones-Farrar Magnet School Principal Jackie Neukirk (center) and Librarian Rita Leerhoff (right) gather with several students to look at the new ag book titles presented by Stephenson County Farm Bureau president Ryan Keltner during National Ag Week. This is the fourth consecutive year that the Farm Bureau has presented new book titles to the sixteen elementary school libraries in the county, with the help of a generous donation from a local farmer.

Thumbs-Up Winners

American Pickers

(Top) Frank Fritz of the popular television show, “American Pickers” is shown on his motorcycle in front of the Antique Mall in Savanna. Frank brought along some things that he will have for sale in Savanna as he unloaded many items for display and sale at his spot in the Savanna store.

At right, Fritz shows a couple of the items he brought along from his personal collection from he and partner Mike Wolfe’s store “Antique Archaeology” in LeClaire, Iowa. Iron Horse’s Vicky Gendreau (right) is cataloging the items that will be for sale at the Antique Mall beside the Iron Horse Social Club in downtown Savanna

.(PA photo/Craig Lang)

NARFE Meeting

Chapter 604 of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) Association will hold their monthly meeting at noon on Thursday, April 21st at the House of Events in Savanna. A luncheon buffet will be available for those who wish to eat. The business meeting and program will follow at 1 p.m. The guest speaker will be a financial advisor/planner from Clinton, IA. All active and retired federal employees, spouses and survivors are cordially invited.

Carroll County Soil & Water Conservation District Scholarship Winner

The Directors of the Carroll County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) are proud to announce their 2011 scholarship winner. Matthew Strauch of Mt. Carroll is the recipient of the $500 award. Mr. Strauch is the son of James and Kendra Strauch.

He has demonstrated outstanding academic ability as well as extra-curricular involvement in many organizations. Matthew will major in Aquatic Biology in the fall.

The directors and staff of the Carroll County Soil and Water Conservation District would like to congratulate this outstanding young man and wish him the best of luck in all future endeavors.

Lanark Sesquicentennial//Quilt Show

The Lake Carroll Quilters are looking for old quilts, or reproductions of old quilts, to display at an upcoming quilt show.

The show will be held on May 14 at the Heritage Center in Lanark. Anyone who would be willing to put a quilt on display must call Nancy at or Phyllis at as soon as possible.

The show will be open to the public and admission will be by donation. All proceeds from the show will be used to help fund special events to commemorate Lanark’s Sesquicentennial. The show will be held in conjunction with a special presentation by two women from central Illinois who will tell about the life and love of a man and wife separated by Civil War. Their presentation is based on letters a couple wrote to each other during the war.

The event will kick off a number of activities to celebrate Lanark’s sesquicentennial which will include a major celebration during Old Settlers Days June 23 – 25.

WCHD Offers Pandemic Flu Preparation

Pandemic flu is a reality. Getting a yearly flu shot is one solution. The time to get prepared is now.

How can you prepare?

If you work in a business, have a leadership role in a church, volunteer with a group or organization or would like to be a volunteer in case of an emergency, plan to attend one of three Pandemic Outreach programs sponsored by Whiteside County Health Department. All three are taking place in June, with programs designed specifically for business owners and managers, volunteers, and parish nurses and leaders.

“The best way to prepare for a pandemic is to get a yearly flu shot and educate yourself and your family. These programs are a great way to get that education. By educating key groups in the community, we hope to be able to reach out to all residents,” said Marcia Widolff, Director of Public Health, Whiteside County Health Department.

The programs are free and target specific groups that have ties to the residents of our community. The business program is 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. June 28. The parish nurse program is 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. June 21. Both programs include lunch. The volunteer program is from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. June 7, and includes dinner.

Whiteside County Health Department will present an informational, educational and enlightening program, featuring discussions, power point presentations and an exercise.

For more information about attending a Pandemic Outreach programs, contact Spencer Schein at (815) 626-2230, or send an e-mail to . For more information about Pandemic Flu, go to www.whitesidehealth.org.

FHN to Offer Three $1,000 Healthcare Scholarships

FHN is looking for students interested in healthcare careers – and the reward is $1,000.

FHN will award $1,000 scholarships to three area students pursuing healthcare careers. Applications will be accepted from any student currently enrolled in an undergraduate program of study involving the following healthcare careers: Medical technology/CLS; pharmacy; nursing (RN/BSN); respiratory therapy; and rehabilitation services (PT, OT, PTA, COTA, SP). Benefit-eligible FHN employees may not apply.

To apply, eligible students must complete an application form, providing evidence of a current GPA of 3.0 or better; Submit a typed, approximately 500-word essay responding to both of the following questions: “Why did you choose your career path, what have you done to support it?” and “How do your strengths and personal goals support the healthcare needs of FHN’s service area?” All entries will become the property of FHN and will not be returned; Participate in an interview, if selected as a finalist.

The submissions must be postmarked by Wednesday, Sept. 15, 2011. Finalists will be interviewed through October and November and winners will be announced in December. The funds will be dispersed to the winners’ colleges or universities to be applied toward the winter term in 2011.

To obtain an application you may go to the FHN website at www.fhn.org/scholarship.asp. If you have any questions regarding the scholarship, call the FHN Learning Center at or e-mail .

Electronics Recycling Collection in Stephenson County

Are you looking to get rid of an old TV or computer and have no idea what to do with it? Mark your calendar for the Electronics Recycling Collection that will be held on Saturday, April 23 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Highland Community College Parking Lot B. There is no fee for the collection but it is limited to the residents of Stephenson County. Items that will be accepted at the collection include: Televisions, CRT and LCD monitors, computers, laptops, printers, scanners, fax machines, copiers, VCRs, keyboards, mice, DVD players, stereos, speakers, microwaves, miscellaneous cables, computer parts and peripherals, telephones, cell phones, PDAs, game consoles, and handheld electronic devices (iPods, cd players, game boys). Only items on the list will be accepted.

The Electronics Recycling Collection is sponsored by the University of Illinois Extension and the Stephenson County Health Department. For more information about the event please call the University of Illinois Extension-Stephenson County at (815) 235-4125.

Calling All Carroll County High School Art Students

The Main Street Art Guild, NFP would like to offer the opportunity for an art installation and media collaboration to interested area high school art students. This year’s inaugural May Day High School Art Collaboration, which will be a continued annual event for area art students to participate, will be held Sunday, May 1 from 2-5pm at the Market Street Commons, 320 N Main Street, Mount Carroll.

Various materials and media will be will be provided, but students are also invited to bring materials of their preference. The event will be held, rain or shine, and finished art work will be on display during the weekend of Mayfest, Memorial Day Weekend.

For details, please contact Heather A. Houzenga, Main St. Art Guild, at .

Advertising and Cross-Marketing Your Business Workshop

Small businesses in West Whiteside County have expressed interest in a workshop focused on how to advertise their business better, as well as cross-market with other businesses in the area. On Thursday, April 28 from 7:30-9:00 a.m., a workshop, “Advertising and Cross-Marketing Your Business,” will be held at the Community Room, Odell Library, 307 S. Madison St., Morrison, Illinois with a light breakfast at 7:15 a.m. 

This workshop will help local business owners identify the best ways to advertise their particular business, as well as examine cross-marketing tools that can save money and be most efficient. Topics will include cost-sharing, collaborative marketing, community marketing, using your Chambers, and what type of advertising is best for your business. Terry Feinberg from the University of Illinois Extension will be the speaker, and there is a five dollar, charge which includes breakfast and materials.

The project is coordinated locally by the Morrison Chamber of Commerce, Prophetstown Mainstreet Program, Fulton Chamber of Commerce, and Whiteside County Enterprise Zone Administrator with help from the Center for Governmental Studies at NIU and funding from USDA Rural Development. With the aim of improving the overall regional business climate and business expansion, marketing the area as a region is one way to promote business activity and increase employment.

Workshops for businesses on topics such as Marketing over the Internet and Customer Service, two needs identified by recent business survey have also been held in the area. For more information on the workshops, and the project, contact your local coordinators.

How to Convince Your Parent to Move to Supportive Living

Part 2

By Diana Lopez, Marketing Director

Heritage Woods of Sterling

Convincing your parents it’s time to consider Supportive Living is one of the hardest decisions we will have to make in our lifetime, and believe me when I say it will be a huge learning process as well. Most of us do not explore the options until the time it is needed. Then WOW! The information you gather can be overwhelming.

Another hurtle is convincing a sibling. So often I see one sibling that disagrees and would rather see parents stay at home with some help, the other sibling convinced that a Supportive Living Community is the better option. Children also have a problem seeing their childhood home broken apart. It is hard to let go of “going back home to mom and dad’s.” Usually this is the underlying cause of one sibling disagreeing with another who is realistic in realizing a Supportive Living Community is really best for their parents.

I can’t stress enough how important it is to be on the same page as your siblings before talking to your parents about anything. Discuss what is in the best interest for mom and dad between you. Keep differences between yourselves. Work them out together remembering this is about their health, safety, and well-being. Parents do not need added stress from children who disagree. They will first want to know that this is “OK” with all they’re children. Parents are reluctant to make any decisions that will go against one of their children, therefore refusing to do anything at all. Work it out any differences between yourselves, make a decision, then the time is right to talk to your parents about what you feel will be best for them.

Convincing Mom and Dad

Part of the problem with convincing elders, and many younger people for that matter, is that people are not aware of the new concept of Supportive Living. Deep inside their gut, they harbor the outdated image of an “old folk’s home” or the “dreaded nursing home.” They consider a move from the family home one more step away from independence and one step closer toward death. This is very much on the contrary. Supportive Living Communities like Heritage Woods of Sterling are beautiful independent communities where seniors can thrive and their health improves just after a short time of residency.

Ok, now you’re convinced! You know that you can’t keep providing the constant oversight for you parent that has been taking over your life and the lives of your spouse and children. Here are my thoughts on convincing an elderly parent that it’s time to think about Supportive Living.

First, plant the seed. Don’t approach your parent as though you’ve already made a decision for them. Just mention that there are options that could make life easier and more fun.

Next, suggest shopping around and visit a Supportive Living Community if they are willing, but don’t push it. Drop the subject if necessary, and wait for another day.

Watch for a “teachable moment.“ Did Mom fall, but escape getting hurt? Use that as a springboard. Wait a bit, and then say something like, “Wow, that was close Mom. Once you’re feeling better, maybe we could go look at the new Supportive Living Community after all. We’d both feel better if you had people around.”

Don’t push unless you consider this an emergency. Give them some time and try again. Now you can introduce ideas like: no more worrying about the climbing stairs, yard work, taxes, insurance, cleaning, and maybe it’s time for help taking care of an ill spouse. It’s time to take it easy in a beautiful community that is just like a large apartment building for seniors where you can just enjoy life much easier with less stress and we know you will be safe.

Suggest taking a tour and having lunch just to see how good the food is. If they don’t know anyone, (most of the time the will), they will have made friends by the time they leave. Seeing familiar faces when moving in is comforting. Remember, change is very scary for anyone. Take things slow, calm and steady, making your loved one’s safety your goal.

While there, ask for help from the Marketing Director or Administrator. Staff members are very familiar with this problem and deal with it daily. They can be very helpful, gain trust, and build a rapport.

Have a discussion regarding what you have seen. Keep them involved with the decision making. Check with friends of your parents. See if any live happily in a Supportive Living Community. Just like your first day of school when you looked for a friend. You always felt better with a friend.

If a parent is ill and still very animate about staying home, doctors and social workers can also be a big influence on their wellbeing. Once a doctor say’s, ”you cannot be alone anymore” they realize and accept that fact.

Reach out for help. Don’t even think you can do it alone! Realize that everyone who has and aging parent has or will experience the same difficult decisions. It’s a part of life.

(part 3: The differences between assisted living and supportive living and the cost.)

Lena Looks Up When Others Look Down

By Tyson Terhune

Lena Village Administrator

During the last couple of years, we have all heard stories about challenging economic times and struggles on Main Street. Many news outlets have painted a gloomy picture of what towns like ours are going through. Happily, Lena doesn’t fit that mold. Our population has grown since the 2000 Census, and we have seen nearly a dozen new businesses open their doors, expand or come under new management in town.

In case you haven’t visited them yet, here’s a summary of our newest stores, shops, restaurants, and industries that are keeping Lena vital and growing.

Edler Power Services: Down by Sullivan’s on Evergreen Drive, Edler Power Services has set up shop specializing in relay and control system fabrication, installation and testing. They are working all over the country and already plan to expand their operations in Lena in the coming years.

Reclaimed Treasures: Heading downtown we’ve seen Reclaimed Treasures open up on Schuyler Street across from Citizen’s State Bank. The shop offers a variety of antiques and collectibles. Originally only open on the weekends, Reclaimed Treasures has recently expanded their hours and is now inviting customers to browse six days a week.

Railroad Street Antiquities: As their name suggests, Railroad Street Antiquities opened their doors on, where else, Railroad Street! The store specializes in country store antiques and antique advertising. In addition to doing business right in the downtown, Railroad Street Antiquities has a successful web-based business that is associating the Village of Lena with quality antiques throughout the region and country.

Coins ‘N More: Last spring saw the opening of Coins ‘N More on Main Street. It is a shop run by collectors, for collectors, and specializes in collectible coins, cards, NASCAR items, knives and more. Business has been good for the shop. In fact, they have recently expanded their inventory to accommodate new items and collectibles.

Sapritos: Our new pizzeria, located downtown at the old police station, offers a new dining option in a unique setting. If you’ve been there, you know they are working hard to keep up with the orders. Indeed, they have been so busy they recently expanded their hours and their menu to provide even more tempting choices and convenience.

The Hangout: Another new face in an old building downtown is The Hangout, on the corner of Route 73 and Main. This business provides a safe and supervised place for Lena’s youth to spend time with friends and get active with sports, games and more.

The Lena Family Restaurant: Downtown on Main Street, this is a great place to visit when you’re hungry for carefully cooked daily specials, homemade soups and pies.

AJ’s Lena Maid Meats: The area’s favorite meat processing and retail store is under new ownership. High quality meats, cut the way you like with plenty of that old country flavor are waiting at the new AJ’s Lena Maid Meats.

Home Town Trophies and More: Located on Main Street, this new business creates plaques, awards, memorials, wedding mementos, trophies and a whole lot more for Lena and the surrounding communities.

Pearl City Elevator: Our friends at Pearl City Elevator are planning to expand their facilities at their current location next to Adkins Enery in order to serve more farmers in the region.

Whole Latte Java: We don’t only need to look to the recent past for examples of Lena’s business success. “Whole Latte Java” will be located right off Route 20 W (you won’t even have to turn off the road) and begin serving fresh-brewed coffee, espresso drinks, fruit smoothies, breakfast/lunch sandwiches & Panini’s, soups, desserts and more 6 days a week within the month.

Please welcome these new establishments to our town. Congratulate our expanding ones and thank them all for choosing Lena as the place to nurture their endeavors. When talk of hard times is on everyone’s lips, we feel honored to have these entrepreneurs select Lena as the right environment to achieve their goals.

Remember, businesses like these – new as well as firmly established -- are the economic pillars of all hometown community. As we look forward to achieving new growth in the future, the Village of Lena continues to pursue a proactive approach to business expansion and retention, and is working with the Lena Economic Development Corporation to pursue new opportunities that will keep Lena “looking up.”

How You Can Help Wild Baby Animals

In springtime wild critters emerge from their winter hideaways and before you know it, baby animal season is here. When you go out to enjoy the warmer weather, you may hear the peeps of baby birds high up in the trees, or the little chirps of baby rabbits hiding in their nests of grass.

But, wait! You see no sign of the mother. You begin to worry about the helpless little ones. You sit on your porch, waiting for the mother to return. After several hours with no sign of the mother, you conclude that these animals must be orphaned. What can you do to save them?

According to Anne Rivas, a veterinary student and co-manager of the Wildlife Medical Clinic at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, approximately half of the “orphaned” animals brought to the wildlife clinic are perfectly healthy. Some of these animals have been removed from their nest to avoid such dangers as the family pet or tree removal. But unfortunately, well-meaning people often “kidnap” baby animals that are being cared for by their parents.

Why don’t you see the mother? It’s because mothers in the wild instinctively try to protect their nests. That means not drawing attention to the area where the newborns lie. If the mother detects that her nest is being watched by a potential predator (even a human standing at a distance), she will stay away from the nest completely until the coast is clear. If you would like to ensure that the mother visits the nest to feed her babies, it is best to watch from afar (completely out of sight) for 4 to 6 hours. In fact, even without the prospect of danger, mother rabbits normally spend no more than 5 minutes at their nest per day.

If you find a baby animal out of its nest, however, this is a time when you can take action to help the newborn! What to do depends on the age of the animal.

Young birds with feathers are likely fledglings that may be ready to leave the nest even though they are not yet fully able to fly. If the bird is featherless, it needs to go back to its nest as soon as possible.

For baby mammals, age is more difficult to estimate and depends on the species. The most commonly found baby mammal is the wild rabbit. If the rabbit is about the size of a tennis ball, looks just like a miniature form of its adult counterpart, and is able to hop around, then it is old enough to survive on its own.

If the baby animal appears too young to survive on its own, it is very important to remember that any baby animal’s best chance for survival is with its mother.

“Even in the best possible scenarios, humans will be nowhere near as proficient in care for these delicate little animals as their mothers will. Survival rates for animals raised in captivity can be significantly lower than those raised in a natural setting,” Rivas says.

There is also a risk that the baby animal will “imprint” on humans, meaning that it will no longer have a fear of humans. In order for the animal to have a good chance of being successfully returned to the wild, it needs to maintain a healthy fear of humans to avoid harm to itself and to people. This is particularly true for raccoons, deer, and birds, who may pose a risk if they approach people once they are returned to the wild.

Contrary to popular belief, it is not true that the mother won’t feed a baby that has been touched by human hands. If a baby animal has fallen or been removed from its nest, you can certainly pick up the baby and return it to its nest if possible. If you are unable to find the nest or the nest is no longer intact, you can place the baby in a shallow box with grass and place it near where the baby was found (in a tree for birds, on the ground for baby mammals). Then, out of sight, you can once again monitor the make-shift nest for the mother to return.

Unfortunately, you may also find a baby animal that is injured. According to Rivas, “If the animal appears to have broken a bone, is very cold, is bleeding, or has been attacked by a predator, the baby animal needs medical attention.”

There are many wildlife rehabilitators throughout the country who know how to care for an injured baby animal and ready it for release back into the wild once it has healed. To find a wildlife rehabilitator, you can call your state wildlife agency, a local veterinarian, humane societies, Audubon societies, animal control officers, or the US Fish and Wildlife Service.

If you are unsure whether an animal is old enough to survive on its own or needs medical attention, then it is best to contact a wildlife rehabilitator before removing it from the area where you found it.

“Remember,” Rivas stresses, “any baby animal’s best chance for survival is with its mother in the wild.”

If you have any questions about orphaned animals, contact your local veterinarian or visit the website of the University of Illinois Wildlife Medical Clinic at vetmed.illinois.edu/wmc/.

Local Church Hosts Easter Program

Savanna Bible Church, located at 1825 Michigan Ave., will host an Easter Program on Saturday April 16, 2011. The program will begin at 10:30am and include an entertaining puppet show and an Easter egg hunt for children age nine and under. The puppet show will present an Easter message and will appeal to individuals of all ages. We hope that many community members from Savanna and surrounding areas will attend.

Savanna Bible Church has been a fixture in the Savanna community since 1904. Although the church has changed its name and location over the years, its mission has remained the same. The goal of Savanna Bible Church is to reach the community with a message of hope and encouragement.

The current pastor at Savanna Bible Church, Mike Meyer, grew up in Muskogee, OK and graduated with a Masters of Theology in 1987 from Dallas Theological Seminary. Mike has 23 years of pastoral experience. He has been serving at Savanna Bible Church since 2004.

Savanna Bible Church will also be hosting a Vacation Bible School for children in the Savanna community this summer.

A.M. Best Confirms Superior Rating for COUNTRY

COUNTRY Financial has once again received an A+ Superior rating for its property/casualty and primary life and health companies from A.M. Best Company, an independent insurance rating agency.

COUNTRY life/health and property/casualty companies have retained Best’s highest rating category for more than 75 consecutive years.

“We are proud we’ve become financially stronger despite the difficult economic times,” says Dave Magers, COUNTRY chief financial officer. “A.M. Best looks at every aspect of our business to determine these ratings. As we have for more than 85 years, we’ll continue to use our financial strength to make good on the promises we make with our clients and help them achieve financial security no matter where they’re starting from.”

Property/casualty companies

According to A.M. Best, the A+ Superior rating for the property and casualty companies was based on “an effective distribution network, customer loyalty, broad technology platform and local market knowledge.”

The A+ Superior rating applied to all nine companies in the COUNTRY property and casualty group.

Life/health companies

According to A.M. Best, the A+ Superior rating for Life was partially based on its “superior absolute and risk-adjusted capitalization as well as improved direct premium growth trends.”

About A.M. Best

A.M. Best is an independent, third-party rating organization, which evaluates insurance companies based on the same criteria to provide a benchmark for comparing insurers regardless of geographic location. A.M. Best rated the financial strength of insurance companies and their ability to meet ongoing obligations to clients.

About COUNTRY Financial

COUNTRY Financial, founded in 1925, serves one million households and businesses throughout the United States. COUNTRY and its nearly 2,000 financial representatives in 14 Midwestern and Western states help clients protect what they have, save for a comfortable future, and achieve financial security. For more information, go to www.countryfinancial.com.

Morthland Proposes Sale of Thomson Prison

State Representative Rich Morthland (R-Cordova) sent a letter to the chairman and Republican spokesperson of the House Appropriations - Public Safety Committee calling for the sale of the Thomson Prison to the Federal government.

“As our state is in a dire financial position, one of the main goals we should focus our energy upon is job creation. By selling the Thomson Correction Center to the federal government we can aid the creation of new jobs for the people of northwestern Illinois,” Morthland said. “Furthermore, the sale will bring an estimated $200 million to the state.”

Rep. Morthland noted that sale of the prison would have a positive effect on the local economy in Thomson.

“Once the federal government takes over operations of the prison and begins to transfer inmates from other facilities, positions will quickly open for support staff and corrections officers. Many out-of-work and underemployed individuals living in the region of the Thomson facility will immediately find good jobs available.”

For further questions call (309) 762-3008 or email

Serve Illinois Honors Illinoisans for Exemplary Community Service

Volunteer Service Awards Include Lanark Resident

Governor Pat Quinn and the Serve Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service today presented 25 Illinoisans with the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award. The award recognizes volunteers who have made a difference in Illinois and highlights the importance of volunteerism and community service.

One of the Northwest Illinois Award Recipients is Ezekiel D. Hartman of Lanark, IL, for service to Freeport Community Foundation - Youth Advisory Council (YAC), adult category.

“Every day in Illinois, thousands of volunteers donate their time and talents to help others and to build stronger communities,” said Governor Quinn. “We honor these individuals that have made positive change in our state and set an example for others to follow with their initiative, creativity and energy.”

Individual awards in each of the commission’s five service regions (Northeast, Northwest, East Central, West Central and Southern Illinois) are presented in three categories: youth ages 18 and under, adult ages 19-54 and seniors ages 55 and older. Additionally, National Service Awards were presented to one Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, and Learn and Serve Member in each region.

The Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards focus on five areas: Economic Opportunity, Education, Environmental Conservation, Disaster Preparedness/Response, Health, and Veterans’ Affairs.

A list of the 2011 Governor’s Volunteer Service Award recipients is attached. To learn more about the winners and Serve Illinois Commission and volunteerism in Illinois, visit Serve.Illinois.gov.

ABW Spring Luncheon

The American Baptist Women (ABW) of the First Baptist Church of Mt. Carroll will host their Spring Luncheon on Thursday, April 28. The event will be held at the Church, 201 N. Main St. in Mount Carroll.

The menu consists of several soups, three kinds of sandwiches, delicious pies, and drinks. Tickets are $7. Two seatings are available, at 11 am and noon. Carry outs are also available.

You don’t want to miss this luncheon. For tickets, please call Wylma Colehour at , or LaVona Cheeseman at .

Make Your Voice Heard In Springfield

The Sauk Valley Tea Party is sponsoring a bus trip to the upcoming Illinois Tax Day Rally event in Springfield IL on Friday April 15th. The bus will pick up at the Sterling K-Mart parking lot at 7:25am, and the Dixon WalMart parking lot at 7:45am. Tickets are $20 per person and seats are still available. Please plan on bringing a sack lunch and lawn chair. The rally is scheduled at our Capitol Building from 12:00 – 2:00pm. Return to the Sauk Valley is expected between 6:00 – 7:00pm. To reserve a ticket please email or phone .

Greening Our Communities Seminar

Greening Our Communities: Moving from Ideas to Action is an informational seminar offering an opportunity for community leaders and public officials to come together and share ideas for leading our communities towards environmental sustainability. The program will take place Thursday, April 21, 2011 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Buck’s Barn in Thomson, Illinois. .

The featured speaker is Mayor Ed Malloy of Fairfield, Iowa. Mayor Malloy will discuss how his city has approached sustainability planning and encouraged green development. Fairfield, a city of 10,000 population, has received national recognition for their green efforts.

Dr. Michael Ward of the Illinois Natural History Survey will be on hand to share how the past and future urbanization of northern Illinois will affect wild bird populations. Other seminar topics include permeable pavement, responsible outdoor lighting, stormwater management, and neighborhood rehabilitation.

Pre-registration is recommended. The seminar pre-registration fee of $25.00 includes a continental breakfast and lunch buffet. Registration at the door is $35.00. The event is sponsored by the Green Fair Alliance, the Jo-Carroll Solid Waste Agency, and University of Illinois Extension. You may register online at http://jdc.extension.uiuc.edu or call University of Illinois Extension, , for a brochure.

HCE Annual Meeting

The Home Community Education Associations of Carroll County will hold their annual meeting Monday, April 18th at 7:00pm at Naaman Diehl Auditorium at the intersection of Routes 64 & 78 in Mt. Carroll. The public is invited to attend.

The program for the night will be the Morrison Grand Squares. They are the newest square dance club in Illinois, having organized in December of 2008 with 25 members. All of their Square Dances are held at the Odell Library in Morrison, IL.