Thomson Ambulance Association
Your Thomson Fire Protection District is made up of an EMS Association and a Fire Association and is funded by your tax dollars, insurance billing, donations, fundraisers and grants.
In talking about the Thomson Ambulance Association only, we have an Ambulance and a Rescue truck that is used during fire or accident calls or whenever an ambulance is needed.
The Ambulance Association alone responded to 139 calls last year. Some are medical calls and others are fire, accident, rescue or whenever someone needs our help. In the event that there is a fire, accident or rescue call, it may be necessary to have the fire department called out with the ambulance. Both Associations do training 2 nights out of every month plus, they each have their own meeting night too. To become an EMT you must attend school for 2 nights a week, 4 hours a night, for up to 6 months. Then that person has to pass a State EMT test before being put on the ambulance department as a licensed EMT. An EMT has to earn 120 CEU’S (Continuing Education Units) points every 4 years to keep their EMT licenses. These points are earned during the ambulance training nights we have once a month and extra training is available for CEU’S at other departments, volunteering at the hospital for extra points, some fire training that has a CEU point system, or taking an online class. We also have First Responders that have taken a 40 hour First Responder Class and are required to have 60 CEU’S every 4 years. A lot of us on ambulance and fire are double trained, as EMT’s, First Responders and Firefighter II. All of these classes are taken by the members as volunteers. We give up our time to attend these classes to train in order to serve and protect you, the tax payer and to teach us how to protect ourselves too.
We can always use more help! If you would like to volunteer your time to your community by becoming an EMT, please contact us, we could use your help and so can your community!
Peugh Make Dean’s List
Katie Peugh, a junior at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, IL was named to the Dean’s List during the recently completed Spring 2010 semester. Katie, the daughter of Marv and Barb Peugh of Milledgeville is majoring in English Education with a minor in History Education. She is a 2008 graduate of Milledgeville High School and participates in the flute choir, is a member of Delta Pi (Education Honor Society) and Sigma Tau Delta (English Honor Society).
New Hours For Heartland
Heartland Pet Welfare, located at 2720 Wacker Road in Savanna, will be open to the public in September every Tuesday and Thursday evening. The Shelter will be open from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. beginning Thursday, September 2. Other times are available by calling to make an appointment at or . There are many cats and kittens available for adoption.
GOP Women Hosting “First Ladies Luncheon”
Carroll County GOP women are having a special luncheon of delicious food, an entertaining program, candidates and guaranteed fun for all. The event will be held Saturday, September 11th at Naaman Diehl Auditorium in Mt. Carroll starting at 12:30 p.m. Tickets are $10.00.
Plan to greet the candidate’s wives and candidates in attendance. RSVP by Sunday, September 5th please! The ladies look forward to seeing everyone, women and men, at this special event as they pay tribute to those who lost family members, friends or were survivors of the worst tragedy of our beloved USA on September 11, 2001.
Nancy Freeman is president of the GOP women. Co-chairwomen are Arlene Bickelhaupt and Venita L. McConnel, 1-. Call either lady if you have any questions.
Eastland Student To Perform At National FFA Convention
When the lights are dimmed and a hush descends upon an audience of more than 54,000 at the nation’s largest annual student convention this October 20 through October 23, 2010 at Conseco Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, IN, Matt Keppen will share the spotlight in a musical performance that will inspire the crowd and provide memories to last a lifetime.
Matt Keppen of the Eastland FFA Chapter has been selected to play alto saxophone in the National FFA Band. The student submitted an audition tape and was one of 85 FFA members selected to help bring full instrumental balance to the band. The band will perform several times at the 83rd National FFA Convention, adding excitement and motivation to the sessions through their music.
National FFA Band members are chosen from a pool of more than 200 applicants. The young musicians arrive in Indianapolis three days before convention begins to rehearse.
News From The Carroll County Clerk
Carroll County Clerk, Brian Woessner, wishes to remind disabled and elderly voters of the many aids and provisions for assistance in voting at the upcoming election. Woessner said that his office welcomes inquiries by anyone who feels they may wish to take advantage of these aids at the November 2, 2010 General Election.
Woessner reminds all Carroll County citizens who are not registered voters, that “ You may register online at www.elections.state.il.us and mail the form into our office. Also, there are many Deputy Voter Registrars throughout the County. Contact our office at or email at for one near you.”
The voter registration deadline is October 5, 2010. Woessner stated all voters may vote by absentee ballot. No reason is necessary to vote absentee. They need merely contact his office to request an application. After filing the application with his office, the ballot will be mailed to the voter at home, or wherever he or she may be at the time, along with complete instructions for voting and returning the voted ballot.
Voters may apply for an absentee ballot forty days prior to each election. The last day to apply is five days before each election. Early voting is also available at the Courthouse in Mt. Carroll at 301 N. Main Street, beginning on October 12 through October 28,2010. Also (if requested in advance), the Judges of Election are permitted to deliver a ballot to any voter who cannot get into the polling place. These judges may deliver the ballot to the voter at the point at which he or she is unable to continue toward the polling place as long as this point is within 50 feet of the polling place entrance. Any voter who desires to have the ballot delivered must have first filed an application with the County Clerk’s office prior to Election Day. He also stated that all polling places in the County are handicapped accessible. In addition, all polling places are equipped with the voting device for the handicapped.
Woessner urges everyone to take advantage of the right to vote at this very important Election, and to feel free to request assistance from the Election Judges on election day. They are specifically trained to give assistance and welcome the opportunity to be of help. For further information on elections, voter registration, and the available assistance to elderly and disabled voters, contact the Carroll County Clerk’s office. Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and the phone number is .
Outdoor Movie near Windmill Area
The River is Life will be shown in Fulton on Wednesday, September 8, near the windmill area from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.. The event is free but movie goers are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and snacks.
The River is Life Tour, a first in independent filmmaking history, will be movie makers Ryan Jeanes’ and Phillip Hullquist’s second trip down the entire length of the Mississippi River. The creative pair is “taking their show on the road” showing their epic documentary The River is Life – a fun-filled feature of their real-life adventure down the Mighty Mississippi – to audiences north and south along America’s Great River.
Jeanes and Hullquist departed in two inflatable Sea Eagle kayaks from Lake Itasca, Minnesota (the source of the Mississippi) in June of 2009 and filmed their exploits – staying in people’s homes, camping along the riverbanks, and contending with wind-swollen lakes, barge traffic, and massive boat wakes – for the entertainment of adventure lovers and seekers everywhere.
Their ninety-minute film is full of surprises. “A lot of people were amazed at how many people we met,” Jeanes says. “We couldn’t go a week without someone calling us over for a beer or for dinner or (with luck) a warm bed.”
“You’ll meet quite a funny cast of characters in this movie,” Hullquist adds, “from an over-size Kentuckian sporting his duck call to a racy Minnesota woman threatening to kill us in our sleep. Boats and barges weren’t the only things we had to defend against,” he laughs.
Jeanes and Hullquist plan to bring the same sense of fun and adventure they relished on the river to their 42-stop movie tour, where they will present their film in many of the same cities and towns they stayed in almost a year ago. ”The shows will also be outdoors!” Jeanes explains. “This is a first for independent movies. We want to give people a real-life Mississippi experience, so we’ve arranged to show the movie in parks all along the banks of the Mississippi! It’s going to be a festival-like atmosphere where, if we do our jobs right, the whole family will have the time of their lives!”
The River is Life Movie Tour begins August 4th and will end in New Orleans on Halloween night. To find out more information please visit theriverislife.com.
Training on Domestic Violence Intervention and Investigation
Sign up now for a FREE National Training on Domestic Violence Intervention and Investigation. On Monday, September 20, 2010, The CHOICES Program is co-hosting this training for law enforcement, prosecutors, advocates, DCFS, probation, 911/dispatch/communications personnel, correctional officers, schools, mental health professionals, and other involved in the criminal justice and human services field. The Training Presenter is nationally known Detective Mark Wynn. He will cover topics such as: Victim and Officer Safety, Threat Assessment, Improving Coordinated Response, Avoiding Officer/System Manipulation, Stalking, Responding to Children at the Scene, and Liability.
The all-day training will begin with registration at 8:30 am at the Carroll County Farm Bureau, 811 S Clay Street, Mt Carroll and includes continental breakfast, lunch and all materials! Law Enforcement will receive credits from the Illinois Training and Standards Board. Sponsors of this project are CHOICES Domestic Violence Program, Scott Brinkmeier, Carroll County State’s Attorney, Mobil Training Unit 1, Office for Victims of Crime, Community Foundation of Great River Bend, and Carroll County Farm Bureau. To register by September 15, email or call during regular business hours or .
Leadership Cafe Series For Non-Profits
University of Illinois Extension-Stephenson County, the Northern Illinois Center for Nonprofit Excellence (NICNE), and the Freeport Chamber of Commerce Not for Profit Council are pleased to announce the continuation of their Leadership Cafe series for non profit leaders and board members. For the second year, the organizations will work collaboratively to plan and facilitate lunch meetings which will feature a speaker on a topic relevant to non profits.
The first Leadership Café will be held on Tuesday, September 14, 2010 at the Freeport Public Library from noon to 1:00 pm. The featured speaker will be Holly Hanson, Business Consultant & Coach who will present “Using Business Planning to Impact Growth and Address Change.” Hanson will illustrate how the real value of creating a business plan lies in the process of researching and carefully thinking about your business in a systematic way. The cost of the program is $10, which includes lunch. Registration is requested by September 13 and may be completed by calling the University of Illinois Extension-Stephenson County at .
The Leadership Café program is supported by scholarship funds from the Freeport Community Foundation, who in 2007 pledged funds to cover half the cost of NICNE program for non profits in Stephenson County. This scholarship may be used for Leadership Cafes which will all be held in Freeport, other local programs, as well as for those attending NICNE programs in Rockford. For more information about the scholarship program, please contact Margaret Larson, U of I Extension County Director at .
The Center for Nonprofit Excellence, part of Rockford College, opened in 2004 with a mission to serve nonprofit agencies in Northern Illinois. Its mission: “to build capacity among nonprofits organizations to reach the highest levels of service and management excellence by providing information, education, consultation and resource supports.” In partnership with Extension and the Chamber, the Center is able to more effectively serve the Stephenson County population.
Disaster Recovery Center To Open In Freeport
A temporary federal/state Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open Thursday, Aug. 26, in Freeport for Illinois residents to meet face-to-face with disaster recovery specialists, state and federal officials said today.
A mobile DRC, operated jointly by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week, until further notice, at the following location:
Stephenson County Highway Administration Building
295 W. Lamm Road (near County Road 12/South Walnut Avenue)
Freeport, IL 61032
Seven counties (Carroll, Cook, DuPage, Jo Daviess, Ogle, Stephenson and Winnebago) were designated a disaster area by President Obama. Before visiting a DRC, residents of those counties who had flood damage between July 22 and Aug. 7 are encouraged to apply for disaster assistance. Call 800-621-FEMA (3362), (TTY) seven days a week, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT, or apply online at www.disasterassistance.gov/. Help in other languages is available.
DRC services include help with applying for disaster assistance and finding out about other disaster programs available from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), state and local agencies, and voluntary organizations. Residents must apply with FEMA even if they already provided damage information to local officials, other agencies or organizations.
SBA low-interest disaster loans may be available for homeowners, renters, businesses and private non-profit organizations of all sizes to repair or replace real estate, contents and/or personal property damaged in the severe storms and flooding. SBA customer service representatives will be present to answer questions and accept completed loan applications. Information and assistance from SBA is also available at 1-, (TTY) 1- or online at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance.
BBB Warns Against Five Scams Targeting Senior Citizens
Fraud targeting senior citizens by scammers is an ongoing concern. The Better Business Bureau encourages families to keep the lines of communication open with their elders regarding finances and to recognize some common cons aimed at senior citizens.
According to a June 2010 survey by Investor Protection Trust, more than 7.3 million senior citizens—roughly 20 percent of Americans aged 65 or older-- have “been taken advantage of financially in terms of an inappropriate investment, unreasonably high fees for financial services, or outright fraud.”
“Having a serious conversation with your elderly parents and relatives about how they are managing their money is not easy, but it is extremely important in order to help protect them from criminals,” said Dennis Horton, director of the Rockford Regional Office of the Better Business Bureau serving Chicago and Northern Illinois. “It’s extremely important to keep the lines of communication open so that you can identify suspicious spending habits, as well as educate your elder family members on recognizing the red flags of common scams.”
The BBB warns against the following scams where seniors often fall victim:
Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams –Typically, the victim receives a letter in the mail stating they have won a lottery or sweepstakes; it might even claim to be from Publisher’s Clearing House or Reader’s Digest. The letter instructs the victim to deposit an enclosed check and then wire a portion back to the company to cover taxes or administration fees. While the funds will initially show up in the bank account, the money will be removed when the bank determines the check is fake. The victim loses whatever he wired back to the scammers—often amounting to thousands of dollars.
BBB Advice: Never wire money to someone you don’t know. You should never have to send money to receive any winnings from a lottery or sweepstakes. Be suspect of winning from something you never bought a ticket for or entered.
Medicare Scams – Navigating the Medicare system isn’t easy and some scammers will look for any opportunity to take advantage of the confusion. Commonly, a scammer will claim to be with Medicare and ask for personal information such as Medicare, Medicaid, social security, credit card or bank account numbers. The victim might be given any number of excuses to provide this information including that an error needs to be fixed, that he or she is part of a survey or eligible to receive free products or can sign up for a new prescription drug plan.
BBB Advice: Remind your elderly family members that Medicare will never call to ask for sensitive personal financial information. If you suspect fraud contact your local police or the Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.
Bereavement Scams – Scammers will often try to take advantage of the increased vulnerability of senior citizens who have recently lost a loved one, such as a spouse; one common method is by scouring the obituaries and call looking to claim on the deceased person’s debts.
BBB Advice: Offer help to elderly family members if they have recently lost a loved one and are inexperienced in managing finances and personal affairs. If you are uncertain about owing a debt when collectors call, ask for written confirmation.
Deceptive Professionals – While many scams targeting senior citizens might not have a face, some scammers will be invited in the front door including technicians, contractors, chimney sweeps, air duct cleaners and other services. Some professionals will lie about the extent of the problem or claim safety issues and then inflate prices for unsuspecting senior customers.
BBB Advice: Find professionals you can trust by checking out chicago.bbb.org/ Always research a company with the BBB before you hand over any money and report any deceptive services to your BBB, local law enforcement and Illinois’ Attorney General’s office.
Investment and Work at Home Opportunities - Promises of easy money often target older adults because they may be looking to supplement their income. The pitch might come in the form of an investment opportunity that promises big returns, or as a way to make money at home for an upfront cost. Regardless of the specifics, the victim is offered what sounds like a great opportunity but the extra income never materializes.
BBB Advice: Always research any work at home opportunity with the BBB prior to agreeing or sending money. Beware of investment or money-making offers that seem too good to be true or use high pressure sales tactics to get you to sign up immediately. Ask a trusted family member or friend to review anything that requires an advance fee be paid.
For more advice on avoiding scams and fraud visit: www.bbb.org
Get Onboard: Historical Society Trip to Springfield Courtesy of theCity1.com
Morrison Historical Society has opened the charter bus doors to the general public, to attend the organization’s second road trip, Thursday, October 21, 2010. Up to 33 day-trippers will depart the Ebenezer Reformed Church parking lot, 309 E. Park Street, Morrison, IL, at 7:00 a.m. for a fun-filled visit to “Lincoln Land,” Springfield, IL.
Enjoy a breakfast stop before arrival at the world-class, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. It opened in April 2005. We have scheduled several hours to enjoy this premier museum. You may wish to walk to the nearby home of the 16th President, although there is no guarantee that an admission would be possible.
The itinerary also includes a stop at a gift shop and a drive-by tour of President Lincoln’s home,
Lincoln’s tomb, three memorials, the Governor’s Mansion, and both State Capitols.
The return trip will begin at 3:30 p.m., with supper at Culver’s Frozen Custard, in Peoria, IL, scheduled for about 5:30. Travelers should return to Morrison near 8:00.
The cost is $45 per person for transportation and admissions; meal costs are on-your-own. Most importantly, payment must be received by Wednesday, September 1, in order to confirm the bus reservation. Contact Mary Ellen Brackemyer to reserve a seat at (days) or (evenings.) Make checks payable to Morrison Historical Society.
NCICG Announces Economic Development Committee Meeting
The North Central Illinois Council of Governments (NCICG) announces the Economic Development District Committee will be meeting Thursday, September 2, 2010 at Illinois Valley Community College in Oglesby at 6:00 PM in Room C-325.
Beverly Malooley, Executive Director of the Small Business Development Center, will present information regarding District Round Tables conducted over the last several months.
Discussion during the meeting will include updates on activities occurring in the Economic Development District including Foreign Trade Zone, Broadband, Entrepreneurship and the annual update of the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy.
Reservations are required. Call Christine at or email .
CRP General Signup Deadline Fast Approaching
United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director Scherrie V. Giamanco reminds producers and landowners that the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) general signup deadline is rapidly approaching. Producers can offer land for CRP general signup through August 27, 2010. Accepted contracts could start as soon as October 1, 2010.
“Certain practices are available on a continuous basis, however, it has been 5 years since the last competitive general CRP signup took place,” said Giamanco. “CRP helps protect groundwater by reducing water runoff, sedimentation, and is a major contributor to increasing wildlife habitat.”
To be eligible for CRP, the producer must have owned or operated the land for at least 12 months prior to the close of the CRP signup, August 27, 2010. Land must be cropland which has been planted or considered planted to an agricultural commodity four of the six crop years from 2002- 2007, and which is physically and legally capable of being planted in a normal manner to an agricultural commodity. Alfalfa and other multiyear grasses and legumes grown in a rotation not to exceed 12 years may be eligible for this year.
In return for planting long-term resource conserving covers, FSA provides CRP participants annual rental payments, maintenance payments, cost-share and technical assistance.
Don’t miss this opportunity! Contact your local USDA Service Center for more information or visit www.fsa.usda.gov/crp.
Rt. 30 Design Comments to IDOT Requested
Illinois Department of Transportation is currently gathering comments on the six proposed alignments for the U.S. Route 30 Environmental Impact Statement and Phase I Design Report. A pdf of the Summer 2010 IDOT newsletter, which contains a comment form, and a link if you would rather complete the form online, are available on The Prairie Advocate website at www.pacc-news.com.
The link to the alignment map is available, as well as a web link to the U.S. Route 30 Geographic Information System (GIS) portal. The U.S. Route 30 GIS portal provides details of additional project characteristics, such as environmental criteria and property information. Instructions on viewing the portal are also included.
Corinne Bender of the Morrison Chamber of Commerce, said “Please be sure to provide your comments to IDOT by September 9, 2010. Your input is vital to the successful completion of this project study.”
The U.S. Rt. 30 Project Study team met with the Morrison Business Advisory Group in April, and with the Community Advisory Group at 6 meetings to address resident and business owners concerns. Their concerns are that the proposed bypass will not only affect private property (homes and farm land), but could also impact the sustainability and viability of Morrison businesses, particularly in the downtown area. As a result of these meetings, the Project Study Team has presented the final six proposed alignments for review by the public.
Carroll County Teachers’ Wish Lists Can Be Granted
U.S. Cellular is helping local teachers gear up for the fall by funding classroom supplies and projects through its Calling All Teachers campaign. All teachers have to do is tell the company what they need.
Now through Sept. 15, U.S. Cellular encourages teachers to visit www.DonorsChoose.org and register as a “U.S. Cellular Teacher.” Teachers can then post their classroom needs until Sept. 15. U.S. Cellular will fund $1 million in selected projects during September and October in the areas where the company does business.
During last year’s Calling All Teachers campaign, the company funded every project request in its footprint that was posted to DonorsChoose. Across Illinois, U.S. Cellular funded 415 classroom projects valued at $235,000. The projects benefited more than 51,000 students.
Illinois ranks 49th in state education funding, forcing many teachers to supplement shortfalls by purchasing basic supplies like crayons, textbooks and calculators with personal resources. A 2010 national survey said K-8th grade teachers spend hundreds of dollars of their own money every year to help teach their students. The study also said 70 percent of teachers believe their schools are financially unable to provide necessary teaching tools.
For more information about Calling All Teachers, please visit www.uscellular.com/callingallteachers.
Beware: Scams May Follow Storms
Fraud abounds everywhere, and natural disasters are no exception.
Residents in the disaster area may be approached by scam artists offering “help.” If there is any doubt, do not give out information, and report people claiming to be government workers to local authorities. To safeguard against disaster-related fraud, officials recommend the following precautions:
Ask for official, laminated, photo ID. A FEMA shirt or U.S. Small Business Administration jacket is not absolute proof of identity.
Safeguard personal information. Do not give personal information such as Social Security and bank account numbers unless you initiate the call. FEMA inspectors never require this information. Applicants wanting direct deposit for grant assistance are asked for bank account information after they call or go online to apply; on follow-up calls, a FEMA representative may ask only for the last four digits of an applicant’s Social Security number to verify identity.
Beware of people going door-to-door. People going door-to-door to damaged homes, or phoning homeowners claiming to be building contractors could be scam artists, especially if they solicit financial information.
FEMA Community Relations staff distribute flyers that mention personal information such as Social Security and bank account numbers. However, they will not solicit this personal information from applicants; they are merely telling what information applicants should have on hand to apply for help.
Federal workers do not solicit or accept money. FEMA and SBA staff never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. FEMA inspectors verify damage, but do not hire or endorse specific contractors to fix homes or recommend repairs.
Suspicious activity should be reported to local authorities or to the FEMA application Helpline at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) TTY -. The same number can be used to apply for FEMA assistance, or go online to www.disasterassistance.gov.
An Evening with Mary Todd Lincoln at Mt. Carroll Public Library
The Friends of the Mount Carroll Public Library will present An Evening with Mary Todd Lincoln, A Life Filled with Triumphs and Tragedies, on Saturday, October 2, 2010 at 7:00 pm at Timber Lake Playhouse, 8215 Black Oak Road, Mount Carroll.
Actress Laura Keyes will provide a memorable performance as she focuses on the life and losses of Mary Todd Lincoln. The setting will be April 14th, 1865 and Civil War reenactors will also be present to add to the ambience of the evening.
Wine, hors d’oeuvres and desserts will be served and a silent auction with items donated by generous community individuals and merchants will also be offered.
Tickets are $25.00 and are available at the Mount Carroll Township Public Library, from members of Friends, at the dabluz boutique, and at the following Mount Carroll banks: THE National Bank, Savanna-Thomson State Bank and the Mount Carroll Banking Center. Tickets are also available by calling 1-, ext. 4. All proceeds from this event will benefit the renovation of the Mount Carroll Township Public Library.
‘Music & Magic’ to Benefit Savanna Historical Society, Adrianne’s Angels
On October 2nd and 3rd, Alan St. George, show producer and co-founder of The Alan and Adrianne St. George Center for the Arts, will be hosting “Music & Magic In Savanna,” an event which will benefit local non profit organizations. Believing in “turning good fun into good deeds,” St. George will again donate proceeds from the event to non-profit organizations in the community. This year, The Savanna Historical Society and Adrianne’s Angels Pet Rescue have been chosen as recipients from the benefit.
This is the sixth time that St. George will be bringing outstanding professional entertainment to Savanna for families to enjoy. The October show will be an all new show with great new acts and performers. If you like to laugh, be amazed or enjoy music, you will enjoy this show. It promises live performances of talented singers, dancers, comedians and world famous illusions. This is a family-friendly show that has something for everyone to enjoy. The show is approximately 2 hours long with an intermission.
Comedian and magician Tom Burgoon of Kansas City has audiences falling out of their seats with laughter, from Vegas to Washington, DC., where he was asked to perform for President George W. Bush at the Inaugural Ball - twice! Tom delivers a hilarious comedy magical event.
The Magic & Illusions of Ryne Strom of St. Charles, IL will amaze & amuse with mind-boggling magic, hilarious comedy, audience participation, and world famous illusions for the entire family.
“Swing to St, Loius” is a sister act tribute to America’s Greatest Generation with Big Band harmonies and tap dancing by Emily and Lacy Miller of St. Louis, MO, performing tight harmonies and snappy rhythms, bringing the greatest era of music into the next generation.
Jessica Peterson, who played the Czarina in previous productions at the theatre, will be returning to perform a classic illusion and a surprise mystery that will leave the audience astounded. How did she do that?
Previous benefits have included the Magyk Tzar and Company, The Mark Twain Show, The Life of Mario Lanza and illusionists Joel Ward and Jonathan Neal.
Participating charitable organizations will use the donated proceeds for work in local communities.
On October 2nd, the St. George Center for the Arts doors at 800 Chicago Avenue will open at 7:00 p.m. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. On October 3rd, a matinee show will begin at 2:30, with doors opening at 2:00.
Preferred seats are $22, general admission seats $17, and seats for children under 18 are $12 in the general seating section. FREE Popcorn and beverages will be served at intermission. All children must be accompanied by an adult. The theater is not handicapped accessible.
Tickets are available by calling Facemakers at ; online at MagicInSavanna.com or from Jean Ferris at .
Bids Being Solicited for Commercial Fishing at Lost Mound Unit
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is soliciting bids for commercial fishing rights on the Lost Mound Unit of Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge in Carroll and JoDaviess Counties, Illinois.
The highest bidder will receive a Special Use Permit that allows exclusive commercial fishing rights on portions of the Lost Mound Unit in Pool 13 for two years beginning October 1, 2010 and extending until September 30, 2012. There are several special regulations for commercial fishing at Lost Mound including a seasonal closure from January 15 to May 15 to protect over- wintering areas and spawning habitat for walleye and other sport fish.
Bids will be accepted from September 1 to September 17 and can be hand-delivered or mailed to: District Manager, 7071 Riverview Road, Thomson, IL 61285.
Sealed bids must be received by 4:00 PM on September 17. Interested bidders can pick up a complete list of the commercial fishing guidelines at the Refuge Headquarters during normal business hours, Monday to Friday 8:00AM to 4:00 PM. The Refuge Headquarters will be closed Monday, September 6, in observance of Labor Day.
The Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is the most visited Refuge in the United States. The Refuge extends 261 miles along the Upper Mississippi River from Wabasha, Minn. to Rock Island, Ill., protecting and preserving habitat for migratory birds, fish, and a variety of other wildlife. This 240,000 acre Refuge was established in 1924.
Get Hooked on Fishing
Kids Fishing Day, Sept. 11th
Local area youth, ages 5-12, are encouraged to pre-register now for Kids Fishing Day at the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. A youth fishing clinic will be held at Frog Pond on September 11, 2010 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Children 6 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the day.
The Service will provide poles (for those that do not have their own), bait, lessons and some good ‘ol fishing fun. Following an exciting day of fishing will be a “shore lunch”, hot dog cookout.
Contact the District Office at (815) 273-2732, to register your child or volunteer to help. Registration ends September 10 at 4 pm. Please bring your own fishing pole if you have one.
The Office is located at 7071 Riverview Rd., Thomson Illinois. Participants will meet at the Frog Pond parking lot, which is located 1.5 miles south of Savanna on Rt. 84. Look for the banners along the road. Listen to WCCI FM 100.3 for cancellation notice.
Trail of Terror is Coming Soon
The award winning Trail of Terror swings into action throughout Northwest Illinois during September and October with special events and haunted happenings. Fall festivals, haunted houses, cemetery walks, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, winery tours and more are what you’ll find on the 10 county Trail of Terror which is a full listing of fall activities covering Boone, Carroll, DeKalb, Jo Daviess, Lee, McHenry, Ogle, Stephenson, Winnebago and Whiteside counties.
The Trail is a self-guided tour through Northwest Illinois with stops at such places as the Lena Haunted Barn, Savanna’s Haunted Forest Festival, Terror on the Railroad in Union, The Old Haunted Mill in Orangeville, The Train of Terror in Freeport and the Haunted Haven in Rock Falls. O’Connell’s Haunted Barn & Cemetery in Amboy will thrill you, and the Egyptian Theater 6 level Haunted House in DeKalb features Amenti, the Egyptian goddess guarding the world of the dead.
For those wanting a less scary venue and a chance to get out in the crisp fall air the Trail of Terror takes you to Oakdale in October in Freeport, Mt. Carroll’s Historic Cemetery Tour, The Science and Engineering STEMfest at NIU in DeKalb, The Savanna Historical Society’s Civil War Ghosts & Legends and the Stephenson County Fall Barn Tour
Fall festivals are abundant throughout the ten counties and include Fulton’s Fall Festival, The Spooktacular Festival at Lockwood Park in Rockford, Oregon’s Autumn on Parade & Fall Wine Festival and Sycamore’s Pumpkin Festival all featuring small town events at their best!
Pumpkin patches, orchards, corn mazes, winery tours and farmers markets brimming with fall produce are also a popular stop on the Trail and feature such activities as petting zoos, hayrides, campfires and, of course, pumpkin picking.
Lodging accommodations are also included in the Trail of Terror information and many feature special rates during the fall season with no extra charge for little ghosts and goblins!
With all these attractions and events you won’t want to miss the opportunity to visit Northwest Illinois and take a trip on the Trail of Terror. Some sites have admittance fees that range between $2.00 and $10.00. Please note, some haunted happenings are scarier than others and we recommend calling first before taking small children.
To receive a brochure or get more information on the Trail of Terror, contact Blackhawk Waterways CVB at or the Freeport/Stephenson County CVB at . You can also check out the Trail online at www.trail-of-terror.com.
Lanark Tastefully Simple Consultant Cooks Up Success
Fink earns promotion
Deanna Fink, Lanark resident and independent consultant with Tastefully Simple, Inc., is now a Team Leader with the national direct seller of delicious, easy-to-prepare foods.
Fink earned the promotion through sales achievements and by adding new consultants to the team. The promotion entitles Fink to a variety of benefits, such as commissions, bonuses, allowances and more.
“These types of promotions encourage our consultants to develop their businesses and take control of their incomes,” said Tastefully Simple Inc. founder and CEO Jill Blashack Strahan. Consultants also are rewarded for their hard work through many extra incentives throughout the year, she adds.
For more information about Tastefully Simple products, taste-testing parties or starting your own Tastefully Simple business, contact Deanna Fink at .
Camp FEMA: Behind the Barbed Wire, The Extended Interviews
Debbie Lewis
Are you one of the tens of thousands who have seen the controversial hit Camp FEMA? Would you like to hear more from the enlightening guests, some of whom have made the national “Who’s Who of the Patriots” list? Now is your chance. Camp FEMA: Behind the Barbed Wire is being released by Producer/Director team Gary Franchi and William Lewis.
While doing documentary-style films, there are always so many more interviews that do not fit the time constraint of a feature film. Yet, these other discussions are still vital to the message. Franchi and Lewis have created a disc of the other essential information, holding nothing back. Get “the rest of the story” from guests Alex Jones, John Stadtmiller, Sam Ozaki, Jeffrey Grupp, Catherine Bleish, James Lane and Chuck Baldwin.
The interactive menu lets you choose which piece of information you’d like to hear, or you can choose to play a set of interviews from one guest.
Hear Alex Jones talk about the types of camps, control grids, HR645 and Presidential Decision Directive (PDD 51). Jeffrey Grupp enlightens the audience about places that could be quickly turned into camps and the effects of fluoride. And there is much more. There are sixty-plus different clips with topics ranging from the focus on states rights to the MIAC Center to the old FBI Brochure to thought training to what could qualify as a FEMA camp. Former US internment survivor, who happened to also be a US Citizen at the time, Sam Ozaki, even warns that it could all happen again, and this time, it could happen to you.
Make sure you stay informed. To get your copy of Camp FEMA: Behind The Barbed Wire, be sure to visit http://CampFEMA.com.
Brick St. Saturday in Mt. Carroll
Come for a Fun-filled Day!
The Mt. Carroll Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring Brick Street Saturday, Sept. 4th in downtown Mt. Carroll. Besides Sidewalk Vendors and Specials all day, there will be a Farmer’s Market from 7 to noon, Mt. Carroll Public Library Book Sale from 8 to 2, Carnival games and Inflatable Rides from 10 to 5, Car, Truck & Tractor Show from 11 to 3, Live DJ from 11 to 3, Ice Cream Eating Contest at 2, Car Show Trophy Ceremony & Parade at 3, and Duck Pluck at 3:30.
Enjoy a taste of Mt. Carroll at the local eating establishments and sample foods offered by the local community groups. For more information about Brick Street Saturday, contact Lou Schau at or Randy Remrey at .
There is no entry fee for the Car, Truck & Tractor Show. There will be Dash Plaques given to the first 100 entries, People’s Choice Trophy in each category and a Trophy Ceremony & Parade at 3 pm. For more information and registration, contact Pat Bausman (), Tom Charles (), Konrad Sack () Ed Leipus () or Len Anderson (). Show off your wheels! Visit the city website at www.mtcarrollil.org for more details on Brick Street Saturday and other upcoming events.
IL Attorney General Cracks Down on Child Porn
Announces Arrest of Carbondale Child Porn Trafficker
Attorney General Lisa Madigan announced today a new initiative of her office to crackdown on the trafficking of child pornography. As a result of the first wave of investigations under the initiative, Madigan said a Carbondale man was arrested on multiple counts of possessing child pornography.
William Wilson, 21, of Carbondale was arrested and charged with four counts of possession of child pornography, a Class 3 felony, punishable by two to five years in the Illinois Department of Corrections.
“Child pornography is an escalating epidemic – here in Illinois and across the nation. My office is committed to protecting children from this scourge. Today, I want to put child pornographers in Illinois on notice that we will track you down and punish you to the full extent of the law,” said Attorney General Madigan.
Madigan commended the Carbondale Police Department and Jackson County State’s Attorney Mike Wepsic’s office who assisted in the arrest of Wilson on Thursday – the first arrest under this new push.
Investigators from the Attorney General’s office can track pornographers using Internet protocol – IP – addresses, which are unique identifiers for individual computers.
This new push to track down child pornographers is in direct relation to the enormity of the problem. In the past 30 days, more than 8,000 Illinois IP addresses were seen trading child pornography images and videos.
“Unfortunately, child pornographers are in every community in Illinois – from Chicago to Carbondale, Danville to Quincy,” said Madigan. “Through this new initiative, we are working with local law enforcement to target child pornographers in Illinois. Let me be crystal clear – we know who you are. If you are dealing in child pornography, you need to ask yourself, ‘Is today the day I will be arrested -- the day I will be handcuffed and taken from my home and charged with felony offenses?’”
Madigan stressed that pornography is not a victimless crime. A majority of those depicted in child pornography images have yet to reach the age of puberty, and many are literally infants and toddlers.
“Aside from the initial horror of these crimes, each time these videos or images are viewed, these innocent children are victimized yet again,” said Madigan.
A total of 24,494 sex offenders are registered in Illinois. More than 81 percent of those are child sex offenders.
CGH Reflections Ball: Celebrating 100 Years
During cardiac arrest or stroke, blood flow to the brain is reduced and brain death can occur in four to six minutes. But inducing hypothermia can protect the brain and other parts of the body and help save a patient’s life. CGH Medical Center, Sterling, will soon be able to use this advanced technique with a sophisticated, noninvasive cooling system called the Arctic Sun.
This year, as CGH reflects upon “100 Years of Caring,” the Reflections Ball and Auction will be held on Saturday, September 18, 2010 at the Brandywine Inn in Dixon, IL, to raise funds to purchase this device, while also providing community members, employees and physicians a chance to celebrate and recognize the life-saving work of CGH Medical Center.
“We are so grateful to the CGH Auxiliary and the CGH Reflections Ball Committee for providing this vital tool that will aid brain healing and enhance our patients’ recovery,” said Ed Andersen, CGH President and CEO.
The Arctic Sun system pushes temperature-controlled fluid through pads that hug the patient’s body. This simulates the experience of being immersed in cool water. It lowers the body’s temperature and reduces the damage that can occur when blood starts to flow again. In addition, the system monitors the patient’s temperature and accurately brings it to a set target prescribed by a doctor. Cooling takes 60 to 90 minutes, while conventional techniques can take six to eight hours. “Studies show that by reducing the body’s temperature below normal and following this with a slow rewarming phase, we can prevent brain damage and save lives,” said Ed Andersen, CGH President and CEO. In addition to helping heart and stroke patients, the Arctic Sun can help patients with liver failure, prevent hypothermia during complex surgical procedures and reduce fevers in intensive care patients.
The Reflections Ball and Auction will begin at 5:30 with cocktails, a silent auction, music by the Rock River Valley String Quartet and professional photos. At 7 p.m., the silent auction ends and will be followed at 7:15 by a 100 Year Anniversary sparkling wine toast, dinner and dessert auction. The live auction for some amazing items will begin at 8:15. “There will be many exciting items to be auctioned,” said Corrine Sandefer, CGH Auxiliary Auction Chairperson. Some of these items include: a $1,000 Air Tran Gift Certificate, various overnight stays from Jumer’s Casino and Castle to a week in Punta Gorda, FL., a Weber gas grill, two family admissions to Beaver Springs in Wisconsin Dells, a happy hour party for 100 at the Howl at the Moon Bar in Chicago, tickets to a Bears Game, his and her bikes, and much more! To end the evening, a dance will be held with entertainment by Radio Star Band.
For a full list of auction items, event details, or to register online, visit www.cghauction.com or contact Corrine Sandefer, CGH Auxiliary Auction Chairperson, at (815) 622-0027.
Jo-Carroll Energy Members Eligible for Rebates on Energy Efficiency Upgrades
Jo-Carroll Energy members may be eligible for rebates of up to $1,500 when they make certain energy efficiency improvements to their homes.
Under the HomE Program members can apply for rebates on geothermal heat pumps, air-source heat pumps, central air conditioning, natural gas or LP furnaces, heat pump water heaters and insulation. All heating and cooling system upgrades must meet federal Energy Star standards to be eligible.
The HomE program is funded by a federal grant through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act administered by the Association of Illinois Electric Cooperatives. Jo-Carroll Energy, along with 25 other Illinois distribution cooperatives in Illinois, is distributing the funds to members in the form of rebates for energy efficiency upgrades. Grants are available on a first-come-first-served basis and are available for a limited time. Current projections indicate funding will be dissolved by mid-September.
The HomE Program is open to residential Jo-Carroll Energy cooperative members. The home receiving the upgrade must be served with electricity or natural gas by the cooperative, and it must be the member’s primary residence.
The first step in receiving a rebate is to arrange for an energy assessment that must be performed before the new equipment is installed. Call Jo-Carroll Energy at to schedule an energy assessment. The assessments are performed for a fee of $25 that is added to a member’s electric or natural gas bill. An assessment takes approximately one hour, and an adult member of the home must be present.
Jo-Carroll Energy’s energy expert will gather information about the home’s construction, age, insulation, heating and air conditioning systems, lighting, windows and appliances. A written report with recommendations to improve the home’s energy efficiency is provided.
Based on the recommendations, the member could be eligible for a one-time rebate up to $1,500 for improvements. A proposal form detailing the planned improvement and an estimate must be submitted to Jo-Carroll Energy. A signed copy will be returned, indicating that rebate funds are set aside. The project must be completed within 60 days.
Eligible projects and their rebates include:
• Geothermal heat pump $1,500
• Air-source heat pump $1,000
• Central air conditioning $350
• Natural gas or LP furnace $350
• Heat pump water heater $250
• Insulation 30% of project costs up to $500
Rebates can be applied for only one piece of heating or cooling equipment. All heating-cooling system upgrades must meet federal Energy Star standards to be eligible:
• Geothermal closed loop 14.1 EER or 3.3 COP
• Geothermal open loop 16.2 EER or 3.6 COP
• Air-source heat pump 16 SEER
• Central air conditioning 16 SEER
• Natural gas or LP furnace 95% Efficiency
• Heat pump water heater 2.0 Energy Factor
Rebates on Energy Star appliances and energy-efficient heating and cooling units are also available through Jo-Carroll Energy’s 2010 Rebate Program. Some energy-efficiency improvements may be eligible for tax credits (see your tax advisor for further information).
More information on the HomE Program and rebates offered by Jo-Carroll Energy can be found on the cooperative’s website at www.jocarroll.com or call to request a brochure.
Take A Journey to Art
In an effort to help make art a visible and vital part of everyone?s life we invite the public to Freeport, Illinois for the 2nd Prairieland Art Tour. This event is free and open to the public. Watercolors, acrylic paintings, oil paintings, print making, ceramics,, pastels, jewelry, art glass, mixed media and more will be shown during a two day self-guided tour of local artist?s studios. The event will be held on September 25 & 26, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Brochures with maps are available at the following locations: the Freeport Art Museum, 121 N. Harlem, The Freeport/Stephenson County Visitor?s Center, 4596 Rt. 20 East. and Famous Fossil Winery, 395 W. Cedarville Road. Brochures can also be picked up at any artist location the days of the event.
The tour will feature the following local artists: J. Eric Anderson, Linda Hauk Auman, Jay Castro, Ellen Bartels, Northwest Design Glass Studio, Carolyn Mastroianni, Elle Wells, Heidi Thorp, Duane Smith, Judi Snyder, Phyllis Wendt, Amanda Spielman, Roger Goodspeed, and Diane Tepper. These artists will be demonstrating their craft and explaining their processes at locations ranging from homes, studios and a local winery.
This will be a rare opportunity for the public to get behind the scenes, watch the creative process unfold, preview and buy new work, and meet one-on-one with the artists as they share their skills and stories. For more information contact Elle Wells at
Paint the Town 2010 in Morrison
Make your Mark on your PTT Registration Form
It’s time to make your mark on your registration form for Paint the Town 2010. The forms have been delivered to Morrison schools and many local businesses, including Sullivan’s Foods and all of the banks, plus the Morrison City Hall. Paint the Town will take place in Morrison’s central business district on Saturday, Sept. 18.
There are a few changes on this year’s registration form. The most important of these is the deadline which is now noon on the day before the event, Friday, Sept. 17. Forms must be at the city building before that time to be considered pre-registered.
Completed forms can be delivered in person to the Morrison City Hall. That is the only place registration forms will be collected, not at the schools, another change from previous years. Forms may be mailed to the City of Morrison, 200 West Main Street, Morrison, IL 61270 or mailed to the Children’s Art Preservation Association, PO Box 45, Morrison, IL 61270.
You can register online, a boon for out-of-town participants. Go to the Paint the Town website: paintthetownmorrison.com and follow the links to fill out the form(s) and pay through Paypal. There is an additional $1 fee for online registrations.
Pre-registration is still just $10 per participant and/or square. For that $10 each registrant will get their own five square foot section of Main Street to paint and an event bag. In that bag are five bottles of paint (primary colors of red, yellow and blue, black and white), brushes and mixing cups, chalk and this year’s event t-shirt. Many PTT sponsors provide items for the bags as well; one of the favorites is always the cookie from Subway.
Registration on the day of the event is $15 and can be made only after the bag pick-up tent opens at noon. Shirts are not guaranteed for late registration.
As always, every effort will be made to accommodate requests for square placement. However, square assignment is on a first-come, first serve basis. The earlier registration forms are received, the greater the chance you will get the square you want. If participants wish to paint beside their BFF, the registrations must be turned in together, either in the same envelope if mailed or clipped together at the city building.
Michaelangelo sponsors for Paint the Town 2010 are: Exelon, City of Morrison and the Sterling Gazette. Rembrandt level sponsors include: Fitzgerald Pharmacy, Wells Fargo Bank, Hardee’s and CGH.
Paint the Town is a family oriented art festival that takes place in and around Morrison’s downtown. For more information, visit the website or call .
EPC Homecoming 2010
This year’s EPC High School Homecoming will take place the week of September 19-25. Once again, Eastland and Pearl City will be combining their Homecoming events. The theme this year is “EPC Time Machine…Kickin’ It Thru the Eras”. The “Eras” will be represented by different time periods throughout history for example the senior classes are using the “Prehistoric” Era and the sophomores are using the “Future” era. Each class will use these time periods for their floats, locker decorations, and skits.
The activities during the week will consist of dress-up days and class competitions during activity hour. Individual awards as well as class awards will be given for the best dressed. Each class will also decorate the lockers in their sections of the hallway, prepare a skit, and build floats related to the theme. The homecoming parade will take place on Thursday, September 23 and will begin at 5:30. Because of the construction at the high school, the parade line up will begin at 4:00 and will take place on Pearl Street instead of in the parking lot. Please enter the street from the east end—the corner of East Lanark Ave. and Pearl Street. There will be someone there to check you in and assign a number for placement in the parade line-up. (In the letter previously sent out to businesses, it mistakenly said to line up on Prairie Street. That is incorrect—it should be Pearl Street!) We are trying to have a record number of entries in the parade, so if you are part of a group or organization that would like to participate, give the school a call at . Following the parade will be a public pep assembly in the Pearl City gym beginning at 7:00. Events of the rally include skits, cheers, music, team presentations, and other festivities. The pep rally will conclude with the newly crowned king and queen from each school, leading the crowd out to the bonfire.
On Friday, the fresh-soph football game will begin at 5:30 against the Dakota Indians at Pearl City with the varsity game to follow. Homecoming week will end with the dance at the Eastland gym on Saturday night from 8:00-11:00. The Student Councils of Pearl City and Eastland have been working hard to make this year’s Homecoming one to remember. If you have any questions, you may call Eastland High School at 493-6341 or Pearl City High School at 443-2715.
Milledgeville UMC - Praise and Picnic at Stover Park
All are welcome to join us in our opening Sunday School class on September 12 at 9:00 AM in Stover Park.Youth and children will learn about Jesus through music, crafts and Bible stories. A contemporary outdoor praise service will be held at 10:15 AM in the park with a picnic lunch to follow the praise service. Tableware, food, and beverage to be provided. In the event of rain, all activities will be held at 4th & Holcomb. Call MUMC at if you have questions.
Milledgeville United Methodist Church will host a Hamette Dinner on September 18, 2010. Serving times are from 4:30 pm through 7:00 pm.Menu includes hamettes, scalloped potatoes, cole slaw, green beans rolls, drink and dessert. Carry outs are availalbe as well as local Milledgeville deliveries. Call the church at to purchase tickets or schedule a local delivery. The church is located at 4th and Holcomb in Milledgeville, IL.
Northwestern Illinois Recycling Event
Recycle your unwanted electronic equipment, large appliances, batteries, and latex paint September 25th in Galena, 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. The location is the Galena Primary School parking lot. Enter on Irvine Street, which is the street just north of McDonalds and Piggly Wiggly. Following is a list of typical items which may be recycled that day:
Electronics (no fees): Monitors, televisions, VCR/DVD/CD players, electronic accessories such as cables, DVDs, CDs, cell phones, CPUs, keyboards, printers, video game players, radios/ stereos, and much more.
Large Appliances ($10.00 each): Stoves, refrigerators, washers, dryers, dishwashers, dehumidifiers, humidifiers, microwaves, water heaters, air conditioners, and freezers.
Batteries (no fees): All rechargeable batteries, alkaline/flashlight batteries, and automobile batteries.
Latex Paint for recycling, not disposal has the following fees: $1.50/quart, $2.50/gallon container, $8.00/5 gallon container.
For questions regarding recycling, please contact Maggie Friedenbach, Recycling & Conservation Programs Coordinator, , . This special collection is sponsored by Green Fair Alliance, Jo-Carroll Solid Waste Agency, and University of Illinois Extension. The collection coincides with Green Fair 2010, which will be held at the Galena Convention Center that day. For details on the Green Fair, please see the website, www.nwil-greenfair.com. For Jo Daviess County visitor information, contact or galena.org.
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Green Fair Fare Dinner Correction
The website for Green Fair Fare Dinner reservations on September 11th is corrected to read: http://jdc.extension.uiuc.edu. Reservations through September 1st are $30.00 and increase to $40.00 after that date. Local and organic foods are featured and the speaker is Greg Welsh of Organic Valley Farms. To receive a brochure in the mail or by email, call .
