Robin Wilhelms Saar, Financial Advisor, Chartered Senior Financial Planner and Director, First State Bank Shannon-Polo-Lake Carroll, has attended the Pacific Life Financial Summit at the St. Regis, Dana Point, California held April 19-22. The conference is held annually by invitation only. The Summit focus was Newest Trends on Income Distribution During Retirement and Portfolio Diversification.

Robin is a licensed Financial Advisor and also holds Life, Accident & Health, Long Term Care Insurance and Variable Annuity licenses. She offers a full spectrum of investment products and services including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, annuities, Individual Retirement Accounts, 401K Rollovers, Life Insurance, Long Term Care, College Savings Plans, and much more. Contact her in Shannon at 815-864-2111, in Polo at 815-946-2777, and in Lake Carroll at 815-864-2125.

Meier receives two awards

DEKALB - Brittany Meier of Chadwick received the PRSSA Outstanding CONTACT Communications Member Award from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Department of Communication & Journalism. This award acknowledges students who demonstrate the following: Outstanding involvement in the chapter's student-run PR firm and Brittany served as the Senior Account Executive for two benefit concert clients throughout her senior year.

Meier also received the Communication Studies - 2007 Outstanding Major Award from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Department of Communication. This award acknowledges students who demonstrate the following: Leadership within the department's organizations and in the classroom as well.

Free help for small business!

You may be eligible for Free help to Start or Expand your Small Business! Tri-County Opportunities Council (a United Way Agency) is sponsoring the Microenterprise Development Program which provides Free help for your Small Business. Learn more about this Free program that offers assistance to new and existing Small Businesses by attending a Free Information Session. An experienced trainer will provide you with help in Marketing, Financial planning, understanding Taxes and Organization. Free Sessions will be held: May 23 at Tri-County Opportunities Council, 405 Emmons Ave, Rock Falls and May 24 at LaSalle Housing Authority, 2222 N. Tonti, LaSalle. Both sessions will begin at 9:30am and last until noon. Register Now: by calling Toll Free, Tri-County 1-800-323-5434 or Vanessa Smith, Toll Free at 1-877-764-4472. Seating is limited, so call Now!

- Vanessa Smith, Tri-County Opportunities Council, Rock Falls

From the Fields

By, Jim Morrison, Extension Educator, Crop Systems Rockford Extension Center, University of Illinois, morrison@uiuc.edu

Corn is being planted later this year, black cutworm moth flights continue, and winter annual weeds have been present in several fields. These factors indicate that black cutworms could pose a problem to some corn fields in northern Illinois.

Intense captures (nine or more moths captured in one or two days) have been reported as far north as Lee County on April 23 and 25. Growers are encouraged to scout emerging fields for potential black cutworm injury. Let's review some points about this corn insect.

Black cutworms do not overwinter in Illinois; rather the moths are blown in by wind currents and on weather fronts from the south and southwest. Degree-days can be an effective tool to help determine when to start scouting for black cutworm larvae. The accumulation of degree-days begins with an intense capture of moths (nine or more cumulative moths caught in pheromone traps over two consecutive days).

Black cutworm larvae are expected to begin cutting corn with the accumulation of approximately 300 degree-days, base 50 degrees F, after an intense capture occurs. Cutting dates for your area can be predicted by using the Degree-Day Calculator at the University of Illinois IPM (www.ipm.uiuc.edu/degreedays/) and WARM (www.sws.uiuc.edu/warm/pestdata) web sites.

Early signs of cutworm feeding are pinholes in the leaves of newly emerged seedlings. This initial damage is not economic and can occur before 300 degree-days have accumulated. But, it is a precursor to stand-reducing cutting damage.

Areas of fields in which early-season weeds (winter annuals and perennials) were growing at the time moths flew in are at a higher risk than weed-free fields. If tillage or herbicides eliminate weeds one to two weeks before planting, black cutworms that had been present probably starve to death. The presence of weeds only a few days before planting increases the likelihood of cutworm damage if larvae are present in the field.

Even though corn may have been treated with a low rate of a nicotinoid seed treatment, field scouting is still warranted.

Cut, missing, or wilted corn plants are typical symptoms of black cutworm larvae damage. Feeding mainly at night, larvae will move up the row as they feed. On average, one larva may cut three or four plants in its lifetime.

A treatment guideline has been 3 to 5 percent or more of the plants cut and larvae present. One should also consider the location of the cutting (above or below the growing point), size of the cutworm, and the soil conditions (moist or dry).

Rescue treatments for black cutworms are listed in the 2007 Illinois Agricultural Pest Management Handbook. Be sure to read and follow label directions.

Further information on this pest, including scouting and management strategies, is available at this University of Illinois website:

http://www.ipm.uiuc.edu/fieldcrops/insects/black_cutworm.pdf, or contact your local Extension office.

Training for Local government officials

Local government officials will have the opportunity to gain valuable information about important issues without leaving the county, thanks to a University of Illinois Extension program.

The last Tele-Institute in the Spring 2007 Series of Local Government Education programs will be held on May 24. The focus of the program will be on Tax Increment Finance (TIF) Districts.

Norm Sims, Executive Director of the Illinois Tax Increment Association, will give an overview of working with TIFs along with do and don't TIF tips. Norm Walzer, Director Emeritus of the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs, will discuss the effectiveness of economic development incentives, including TIFs.

Each program will be offered from 3 to 5 p.m. at the University of Illinois Extension Offices in Mt. Carroll and Elizabeth.

"These programs are part of a long Extension tradition of helping county officials gain access to experts in relevant areas," said Jeri Marxman, Extension Specialist in Public Affairs and Public Policy Education.

Presenters for the programs include representatives of state agencies, Extension staff, and community leaders with experience in the economic development issues and challenges faced by local officials.

The Tele-Institute programs also provide the opportunity for county officials to earn Certified County Official credit. Each Tele-Institute qualifies for 2 hours of CCO credit.

Registration should be completed no later than May 17. Those interested in participating should call 815-244-9444 to attend in Mt. Carroll or 815-858-2273 to attend in Elizabeth.

- Jo-Carroll Extension Unit, Mt. Carroll and Elizabeth

May is American wetlands month

By, John Church, Extension Educator, Natural Resources Rockford Extension Center, University of Illinois

Over one hundred years ago, much of Illinois was covered with some type of wetland. Since then most of the natural wetlands in Illinois have been drained or otherwise destroyed.

However, there is now an increased awareness that wetlands perform very necessary functions in the environment, as well as providing an aesthetic appeal, and that there must be a balance and co-existence of wetland with other land uses. Wetlands are no longer just considered "swamps" or "wetholes".

"To continue to increase that awareness, each May, American Wetlands Month is celebrated across the country. More information about the celebration and possible activities can be found on the U. S. EPA website www.epa.gov/owow/wetlands/awm," reports John Church, University of Illinois Extension Educator, Natural Resources, Rockford.

Wetlands are some of the most complex habitats that exist. They perform crucial biological, physical, and chemical functions that provide value to a community and its environment. Whether it is a native wetland or a restored wetland, there are many values that can be gained by its function.

Some of the functions of wetlands include surface and subsurface water storage, nutrient cycling, particulate removal, maintenance of habitat, water filtration, and groundwater recharge. The destruction of wetlands can reduce the effectiveness of these functions and cause problems

in the local and wider area environmental balance. For example, the lack of wetlands to store water can increase stormwater runoff in communities causing more flooding; reducing wetland area can reduce groundwater recharge in local areas that depend on groundwater to drink; and less wetlands can mean more sediment and contaminants running off into streams or rivers.

As these issues have become more recognized, there has been an increased level of research being conducted to provide adequate field drainage and proper stormwater management, while still protecting the environment.

Individuals and communities can do their part to protect wetlands. For more information, contact University of Illinois Extension, the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service, or check the U.S. EPA website at http://www.epa.gov/owow/wetlands.

Recycle grass clippings for a healthier lawn

Sometimes called grasscycling, allowing grass clippings to dry and decompose into your soil is an easy and smart way to reduce yard waste. Grass clippings are 75 ­ 80 percent water so they naturally shrink and decompose quickly. Recycled grass clippings return nutrients to the soil and increase organic matter. A sharp mower blade and regular mowing will mean finer clippings and quicker decomposition. To prevent heavy clippings, mow only when grass is dry and mow often during the main growing season. If circumstances prevent that, long grass clippings may need to be collected. They can be used to mulch areas to depress weed growth or give protection from the sun to bare spots. Composting dry clippings is also an alternative.

Removing grass clippings by raking and bagging causes extra labor that is largely unnecessary. Since yard waste is not allowed in Illinois landfills, recycling your grass clippings eliminates the need to transfer them to a collection site.

The University of Illinois Extension states that mowing lawns too short is a common mistake and that for most lawns, a mowing height between 2 to 3 inches is best. Lawns mowed at higher heights tend to have deeper roots, less weed problems, and require less watering. Lawns should be mowed according to the rate of grass growth and not more than one-third of the grass blade should be cut. Grass height of 2 to 3 inches provides soil protection. Lawns mowed at higher heights tend to have deeper roots. As growth slows during hot weather or other stressors such as drought or shade, mowing height should be closer to 3 inches. For further information and more lawn topics, go to the website: http://www.urbanext.uiuc.edu/lawntalk.

Grasscycling is an important part of healthy lawn maintenance. A healthy, naturally maintained lawn can save money by reducing the need for lawn chemicals which in turn allows beneficial soil organisms to thrive and decompose the lawn clippings. A healthy, vigorous lawn is better able to resist pest problems on its own...

For questions about recycling, call Maggie Friedenbach, Recycling & Conservation Program Coordinator, representing the Jo-Carroll Solid Waste Agency and the Jo-Carroll Unit of University of Illinois Extension, at 815-244-9444.

- Jo-Carroll Extension Unit, Mt. Carroll and Elizabeth

Stephenson County Fair announces talent show

The Stephenson County Fair Board has announced registration for its annual talent show, which is scheduled at 1 p.m., August 25 in the entertainment and rest tent at the fairgrounds. The competition is open to residents of the counties of Stephenson, JoDaviess, Carroll and Ogle. Participants must be under 21 years of age as of August 25. Divisions for junior contestants (under 14 years of age) and senior contestants (15 through 21 years of age) exist.

Participation by all types of acts is encouraged including, but not limited to, vocalists, instrumentalists, dancers, magicians, and comedians. Competitors must be amateur.

One winner from each division will be eligible to participate in the State competition on January 9, 2008 at the annual convention of the Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs in Springfield. In addition, cash prizes for the first three places in each division will be awarded.

Entries are due no later than August 6. To receive a registration form and official rules, please contact Connie Geiter at 815-789-3122 or 815-275- 6285.

Hole in one at Buck's

Dave Langfitt of Camanche, IA got a Hole in One at Buck's Barn Golf Resort in Thomson on May 4, 2007.

He scored his ace on hole #10 using a 5 wood from 177 yards.

Witnessing this event were Wayne Krainz from Camanche, IA and Sal Mendez from Savanna.

-Buck's Barn Resort, Thomson

Help stop crime

Carroll County Crime Stoppers is requesting your help in solving the following crimes. Information leading to an arrest could earn the caller a reward of up to $1000.00 and the identity of any caller will be kept strictly confidential.

The Carroll County Sheriff's Office is investigating the theft of two steel beams measuring about 18 inches x 24 inches x 6 feet in length. The beams were taken from a farmyard at 10953 Wacker Rd. Sometime during the last two weeks unknown subjects removed the beams from the property. Estimated weight of each beam is 400-500 pounds. Loss exceeds $300.00

The Lanark Police Department is investigating a burglary to a semi tractor, which was parked on Olympic Drive behind the car wash. Sometime between 01:00 a.m. on May 5, 2007 and 06:00 a.m. May 7, 2007 unknown subjects broke into the semi-tractor and removed a stereo and a CB radio. Loss exceeds $300.00.

Persons having information about these crimes or the location of a wanted felon should contact Crime Stoppers at 815-244-STOP (815-244-7867).

Witt officer of the year

Darryn Witt, Refuge Officer on the Savanna District of Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge, has been named 2006 "Officer of the Year" for the Great Lakes-Big Rivers Region. The awards presentation was held in March at the National Conservation Training Center outside Washington, D.C. and was attended by Regional and National representatives of the Office of Law Enforcement as well as more than 100 of his fellow Refuge Officers.

Since joining the "Upper Miss" staff in 2003, Officer Witt has shown tireless enthusiasm, motivation, and dedication in his role as a protector of the wildlife resources as well as the safety of the roughly 500,000 visitors that use the Savanna District annually. Working long hours, often in the harshest weather conditions, Mr. Witt has always presented a knowledgeable and professional image that reflects positively on all members of the law enforcement community.

In nominating Officer Witt for this prestigious award, District Manager Ed Britton stated, "Darryn has proven to be a highly skilled and versatile field officer. He continually demonstrates his passion and tenacity for providing quality law enforcement and these accomplishments resulted in outstanding contributions to the Refuge in 2006."

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.

Developing emotional skills in young children

By, Beverly Haselhorst, Educational Program Coordinator, University of Illinois Extension ­ Stephenson County

Parents often wonder what is the best way to handle a young child who becomes afraid, angry, or is constantly up or down emotionally. Should they ignore jealousy between siblings? How do they provide guidance for a child who is grieving over a grandparent who has passed away? What about the quiet, shy child? Should they make them do things before they're ready? These are some important questions parents ask about emotional development.

Young children are learning to express their emotions. One of our jobs is to help them learn how to express themselves in socially acceptable ways. As preschoolers learn what we expect, gain some control over their emotions, and develop skills in communicating and thinking, they become more cooperative in their behavior. They learn from our guidance, acceptance and watching how WE handle our strong emotions and interactions with others.

University of Illinois Extension has produced a series of eight "Nibbles: Ideas for Families" fact sheets for parents of young children which answer many questions parents have about guiding your child's emotional development. Topics include: Developing Good Emotional Skills; Dealing with Anger in Young Children; Feeling Bored or Restless; Hearing Young Children's Fears; Helping Young Children with Grief and Sadness; Jealousy Between Siblings: What is Fair?; Living with Your Spirited Child; and

Understanding Shyness

University of Illinois Extension programs and materials are research based, provide equal opportunity in programs and employment, and strive to be unbiased and meet the needs of people locally.

If you are interested in receiving this free series of Nibbles fact sheets, please send your name, address, and phone number to University of Illinois Extension ­ Stephenson County, Highland Community College, Bldg. R, 2998 W. Pearl City Road, Freeport, IL 61032. You many also call 815-235-4125.

Middle school band camp offered

The Carroll County area band directors are again offering a middle school band camp for students entering 6th, 7th, and 8th grades in the fall. Students need to have at least one year of playing experience.

The camp will be held from 8:30 a.m. until noon, June 11-15 at Eastland Middle School, Shannon. The camp will include sectionals, a full concert band rehearsal, master classes and elective classes. Area band directors specializing that instrument will instruct the sectionals and master classes. The master classes will focus on improving tone production and technique on the student's instrument. The elective classes will include Jazz Band for beginners, Rhythm Band, and Chamber Music Performance, which will give students experience in solo and small ensemble playing.

The week will conclude with a free camp concert beginning at 11:30 a.m. The concert will be held in the Eastland Middle School Cafeteria and is open to the public.

The camp is open to all area middle school band students. For more information and cost, contact Lisa Eaton, Eastland Middle School, Shannon at 815-864-2300.

Galena celebrates past in the present

June brings visitors to Galena and the 39th Annual "Old Market Day-Skills From The Hills," June 9, 2007 at the Old Market House Square, 123 North Commerce Street, Galena.

This Market will be open, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June 9. It is an 'open-air' Market like when people in the early 1900's did their weekly shopping at the 'farmers market'.

Ladies in 'turn of the century' costume will offer for sale a colorful array of produce, jams and jellies, home baked products, pastries, and many other items including Rada Cutlery.

The Jo Daviess County Association For Home and Community Education whose members will also have Oil Paintings, Wall Hangings, and many other items they have made, for sale sponsor this event. Also hear some "Old Time Music" during the day. You may be able to see some "Heritage Skill Demonstrations." 4-H Youth will have a "June Is dairy Month" promotion booth. There will also be a variety of 'Country Crafts' for sale.

You won't want to miss visiting the Old Market House inside exhibits and at the Center next door, which houses "Hello Galena ­ the Cooperative Gallery of nearly 100 regional Artists," which also has the only 'public rest rooms' in downtown Galena. Include this stop, on Commerce Street, as you visit Galena the weekend of June 9. For more information, call 815-858-3392.

- Marcella Arnold

Vaccinate horses against West Nile Virus

SPRINGFIELD ­ The Illinois Department of Agriculture is reminding horse owners to vaccinate their animals before the onset of mosquito season to protect against West Nile virus (WNV).

"Many horses infected with WNV never develop the illness, but it can be very serious ­ even fatal ­ if they are not protected," Dr. Colleen O'Keefe, IDOA division manager of Food Safety and Animal Protection, said. "During the 1999-2000 outbreak, 38% of the horses that contracted WNV died or had to be euthanized. So, I recommend that horse owners make sure their animals are properly vaccinated."

If a horse has received annual WNV vaccinations, a booster shot is recommended before July 1. However, if the animal has never been vaccinated, two shots administered three to six weeks apart, both to be completed before July 1, are recommended to ensure optimum protection.

Vaccines that protect against Western, Eastern and Venezuelan equine encephalitis do not protect horses against encephalitis caused by West Nile virus. Therefore, even horses that are vaccinated for Western, Eastern and Venezuelan encephalitis should receive a WNV shot.

Wild birds such as crows, hawks and blue jays carry the virus, but mosquitoes spread it. The virus is retained in a mosquito's salivary glands after it feeds on an infected bird and then injected into the blood stream of horses and other animals when the insect moves to its next meal. Horses are incidental hosts of WNV, meaning they do not transmit it.

Symptoms of WNV in horses include listlessness, lack of muscle coordination, weak limbs, partial paralysis and death. Fever has been detected in less than one-fourth of confirmed cases. The incubation period for the disease is five to 15 days. There is no treatment for WNV. Supportive veterinary care is recommended. Suspected cases should be reported immediately to the Illinois Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Animal Health and Welfare at (217) 782-4944.

Since the availability of an approved vaccine, the number of West Nile virus cases in Illinois has dramatically declined from 1,241 in 2002 to 21 in 2006.

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