New Fulton Chamber Board Members

The newly elected Fulton Chamber Board Members, left to right: Timothy Wright, Wagner Pharmacy; Patti Housenga, Community State Bank; and Jami Smith, Clinton Herald. At the Annual Fulton Chamber of Commerce Membership Dinner held Thursday, June 17, President Greg Naftzger thanked outgoing Fulton Chamber Board Members Linda Hollis, City of Fulton, Paula Rogis, Agri-King, Inc., and Bill Wilkin, Fulton Dental Associates for their time on the Board of Directors. (Courtesy of Heather M. Bennett)

Mt. Carroll Rotary Club

Mt. Carroll Rotary Club speaker Hannah Warren with Ken Alexander, club secretary, at the June 15 meeting. She is from Rockford, Illinois and in 2002-03 became a Rotary Youth Exchange student to Thailand. In 2005-06 she became a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar to Varanasi, India, one of the oldest living cities in the world. Moved by her experiences she decided to pursue a degree in South Asian Studies. From 2006-09 she attended the University of London’s School of Oriental and Asian Studies. She focused on Women’s Studies and Sustainable Development. In 2008, she became inspired to establish Jhoole, a “social enterprise”, or nonprofit business, designed to benefit female artisans living below the poverty line. This year, with the help of Rotary District 6420 in Illinois, Jhoole has begun working with Rotarians here and in Rotary District 3040 based in India, on a project that is helping female weavers lift themselves, their families and their communities. (Courtesy of Lou Schau)

Fulton Chamber Volunteers of the Year

Fulton Volunteers of the Year, at the Agri-King Del Curley Conference Room. Heather Bennett (middle) presents a plaque to the 2010 Fulton Chamber Volunteers of the Year, Betty and Harlan Wiebenga. (Courtesy of Heather M. Bennett)

Youth to Washington

Jilli Bajema (right) from Fulton and Brandon Behlke (left) from Galena represented Jo-Carroll Energy in Washington, D.C., during the annual “Youth to Washington” Tour, June 11-18. This event, sponsored by the electric and telephone cooperatives of Illinois, began 51 years ago to introduce rural youths to our democratic form of government and cooperatives.

The students met with Rep. Donald Manzullo (center) and were among 66 rural Illinois youth leaders selected for the trip. The Illinois students joined 1,496 young leaders from across the country. In addition to the Capitol, they also visited Arlington National Cemetery, the Washington National Cathedral, several Smithsonian Museums, the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, the World War II Memorial, the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia, the National Archives, the Newseum and a number of other historical sites.

For more information on Jo-Carroll Energy, visit the cooperative’s web site at www.jocarroll.com.

New Organ Dedication Concert

The Emmanuel Reformed Church, 202 E Morris Street, Morrison, Illinois, invites the area to its Organ Dedication Concert celebrating the arrival of a 2010 Allen 79-stop, four manual digital organ which was recently installed in the church’s sanctuary, replacing a much smaller 18-rank, two manual pipe organ. This concert will be performed by Mr. Stephen Steely on Sunday, July 11, 2010 at 3:00 p.m. in the sanctuary with a reception to follow afterwards. This event is free and no offering will be taken.

This new Allen Model Q410 features the latest in digital electronics.  Using technology originally developed for our country’s space-program, computers are utilized to reproduce sounds taken from pipe organs all around the world.  With 79-stops, this is one of the largest organs in the entire region, and can make hundreds of different tones, ranging from a soft whisper to a dynamic roar.  The new organ has four manual keyboards played by the hands, and a pedal keyboard played with the feet.  This organ has full MIDI capabilities which add nearly 300 additional voices to this organ. It also features a record and playback feature which allows the organ to be recorded by the organist, then played at a later time by using a remote control. This technology gives amazing flexibility to today’s church. The recent installation was done by Foster Family Music Center of Bettendorf, Iowa.

Stephen A. Steely will present a varied program of music which demonstrates many of the special tonal qualities of this organ.  The program includes music by John Cook, G. F. Handel, J. S. Bach, and Louis Vierne, as well as several arrangements of well-known, familiar hymn-tunes.

Steely, serves as Minister of Music and Organist at First Lutheran Church in Moline;

Organist at St. Pius X Church in Rock Island; and Organist and Music Director at Temple Emanuel, Davenport.  Additionally, he is the church organ specialist for Foster Music Co., and area representative for Allen Organs.  He holds advanced degrees in music history, sacred music, and organ performance.

All are welcome. The church campus is handicapped accessible and air conditioned. For more information please contact Rich Criss, ministry coordinator at , or visit www.emmanuelreformedchurch.org .

Kids who Care about Kids

Katie Wright, 8 (left) and Kali Haas, 10 of Stockton recently spent a beautiful summer afternoon doing something for others. Katie and Kali thought of offering a lemonade stand, but realized they didn’t have the right items to do this. They didn’t give up, and decided to make muffins! The girls sat at their stand, asking people to stop and have a “free” muffin for a donation to Tyler’s Justice Center for Children. Every act of kindness is huge in the hearts of those who do it. A BIG thanks to these two girls who showed all of us the spirit and compassion of our community. Tyler’s Justice Center is a 501©3, non-profit Children’s Advocacy Center which provides services to child victims of sexual and severe physical abuse. All services are provided at no cost. The Center serves Carroll, Jo Daviess, and Stephenson Counties. Tyler’s Justice Center for Children is a recipient of the Northwest Illinois Chapter of United Way.

 

TLP Grill

The Friends of Timber Lake Playhouse held a Grill at Sullivan’s Foods in Savanna on June 19th. It was a successful day and thanks go to all who attended. (L to R) Larry Libberton, Joe Titus and Sheryl Schoenwolf. Don’t miss the next Grill on August 21, 2010 from 9:30 to 2PM. (Courtesy of Sheryl Schoenwolf.)

International Instructors and Students at The Campbell Center

Conservator and Campbell Center instructor Sue Maltby from Toronto, Ontario has made the Center’s Mount Carroll campus a teaching destination for thirteen years. This week her “The Museum Environment” course was attended by a dozen students from as far away as New Zealand.

The course teaches museum professionals how to monitor and control the “agents of deterioration” that hasten the lifespan of artifacts and works of art. Learning to measure, control, and limit the amount of light and humidity, how to avoid insect infestations, proper techniques for moving and storing works of art are a few of the topics covered in this popular four day class offered annually at The Campbell Center.

Maltby thoroughly enjoys her relationship with The Campbell Center and the town of Mount Carroll. After class is over for the day she and the students spend time visiting local shops including Ideas and Designs, daBluz Boutique, and Heritage Antique Mall before stopping for pizza at Sievert’s Steak and Things. Some students also enjoyed a “scary” visit to Raven’s Grin Haunted House. All return to their institutions and businesses with new skills and resources, and fond memories of the town of Mt. Carroll.

Pictured from left to right are Cristina Savu, Walsh University, North Canton, Ohio; Deborah Rudolph from the C.V. Starr East Asian Library, Berkeley, California; instructor Sue Maltby, and Merv Hutchinson, Auckland, New Zealand.

Also attending the course but not pictured: Joni Amthor, Nodaway County Historical Society Museum, Tarkio, Missouri; Paul Fugazzotto II, Lemon Hill Mansion, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Derya Golpinar, Lower East Side Tenement Museum, New York, New York; Shanon Smiley, Mohonk Preserve/Daniel Smiley Research Center, New Paltz, New York; Robbi Ray, Solid Light Inc., Louisville, Kentucky; Juie Risser, University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, Minnesota; Lorraine Scott, Naval Undersea Museum, Silverdale, Washington; Noah Brooks-Motl, Madison, Wisconsin; and Mark Parks, National Medal of Honor Museum of Military History, Chattanooga, Tennessee.

(Courtesy of Campbell Center)

Mt. Carroll’s Picturesque Garden Walk

The Mt. Carroll Chamber of Commerce will hold its sixth annual Garden Walk

Saturday, July 10th from 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Enjoy the architectural beauty of Mt. Carroll while strolling through picturesque gardens!

The following gardens will be included:

Pat & Diane Bausman, Tom & Pam Sorg, Russell & Cheri Piper, Nancy Gmitro’s Prairie Restoration Project, Elaine & Gerard Morhardt (in photo), and Jerry & Sandy Cornelius.

There will be many vendors selling their products on the courthouse square including Dusty Roads Greenhouse (a Mayfest favorite) and the Soil & Water Conservation District will be selling rain barrels from 9 am – noon. There will be a composting demonstration by a University of Illinois representative at 11 am & 1 pm.

Learn Great Foods will celebrate their 5th anniversary in their new location at the Kraft Building. Mary Roach will be presenting an herb container gardening demonstration at the Farmers Market at 10 am & noon.

The Friends of the Library will have a Quilt Garden display at the Mt. Carroll Public Library and quilts will be on display inside from 10 am – 2 pm. Local retailers will be offering luncheon specials and discounts on garden merchandise!

Tickets are only $5.00 and can be purchased downtown the day of the tour at the renovated Kraft Building, 320 N. Main St., which will serve as the starting point of the Garden Walk. For more information, call Diane Bausman () or Pam Sorg ().

Watch The Prairie Advocate’s July 7 issue for complete descriptions of these lovely gardens.

 

HCC to Hold Several Opportunities Fairs

Highland Community College will hold three information sessions for adult and returning students in the month of July. The Opportunities Fairs will be open house events with representatives from various college departments teaming up with Workforce Employment Solutions – Partners for Employment, Premier CDL Truck Driver Training, Columbia College of MO and more.

The fairs will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations:

Wednesday, July 7 at the HCC Student/Conference Center

Tuesday, July 13 at the Boys and Girls Club of Freeport on 511 Liberty St.

Tuesday, July 27 at the HCC Student/Conference Center

Fairgoers will be able to come at anytime during the event, browse the tables for information and speak directly with representatives to get answers to individual questions about the many training and educational opportunities and benefits available.

“We wanted to bring together a whole host of resources together in one place to be available to answer real questions from real people who are interested in furthering their skills by taking courses or completing a certificate or degree program,” said Karl Richards, enrollment outreach specialist for HCC. “We know that there are a good many questions out there and we want to make ourselves available to answer those questions.”

The HCC/Premier CDL “big rig” will be available for an up close look during the sessions held on the Highland campus. Refreshments and door prizes will be available. Call for more information, or visit www.highland.edu.

Recycle Your Old Tennis Shoes

The Carroll County 4-H Federation is recycling old athletic tennis shoes as their community service project this year. The old tennis shoes will be processed into rubber product, which is used on playgrounds, tracks, basketball courts, and tennis courts. The following type of shoes cannot be recycled, cleats, dress shoes, sandals, flip flops, shoes with metal parts, and they cannot be wet or have mud on them. So clean out your closets, check with your neighbors or friends and help recycle those worn out shoes. You can drop your shoes off at the following location from May 1, 2010 to August 9, 2010. In Mt. Carroll: State Bank of Pearl City, Jo-Carroll Extension office. In Savanna: Sullivan’s, Black Hawk Area Credit Union. In Thomson: Savanna-Thomson Bank. In Chadwick: The National Bank. In Milledgeville: Milledgeville State Bank. If you don’t make any of the drop-off spots, you can bring them to the Carroll County 4-H Fair which will be July 31 2010, and August 3-7, 2010. If you have any questions please call the Jo-Carroll Extension office at (.

Carroll County Open Horse & Pony Show

An Open Horse and Pony Show, sponsored by the Carroll County 4-H, will be held Saturday, July 10, at the Carroll Co. Fairgrounds near Milledgeville. The show will be held rain or shine. There will be a lunch stand on the grounds by the 4-H. The show will be held at the horse arena, located at the west end of the fairgrounds. Registration starts at 7:30 a.m. at the arena, with the show starting at 8:30 a.m. There are 47 classes to choose from and a trail class will run throughout the day. A negative Coggins Test is required.

Class sponsorships are available to any individual, family, business, etc. that would like to be a sponsor.

For more information, for a show flyer, or if you would like to sponsor a class, contact Charles Nash, Steve Hollewell or Carroll County University of Illinois Extension Office at or e-mail Leanne Rahn at .

Carroll County 4-H Fair Entries Due

All Carroll County 4-H Fair entries are due into the Carroll County University of Illinois Extension Office by 4:30 p.m., Thursday, July 1. If any 4-H member has not gotten their copy of the fair book yet, you need to contact your 4-H leader immediately.

The Carroll County 4-H Fair will be held July 31, (General Projects, Foods & Clothing) thru August 7th, at the Milledgeville fair grounds. For more information, contact Leanne Rahn at Carroll County University of Illinois Extension Office at or .

Carroll County Chicken Scramble

The Carroll County Fair Chicken Scramble, sponsored by the Carroll Co. 4-H, will be held on Thursday, evening August 5th, starting at 6:00 p.m. in front of the grandstand at the Milledgeville Fairgrounds. Check in time is 5:30 p.m. on the stage. The Chicken Scramble is open to all youth ages 5 – 7 years old. Entry deadline is July 19th to the Carroll County Extension Office. There is a limit of 20 participants per age class. Entries will be taken on a first come basis. Youth signed-up by the entry deadline will receive a $5.00 cash prize.

Entry forms can be found in the Carroll County 4-H Fair book, the Carroll County Fair book, from the Carroll Co. Extension Office in Mt. Carroll and on our website at http://web.extension.uiuce.edu./jdc. For more information, contact Leanne Rahn at the Carroll County University of Illinois Extension Office at 244-9444 or .

Carroll 4-H Dog Judging to be Held

Saturday, July 17, at 8:30 a.m. will be the Carroll County 4-H Dog Judging Show for all county 4-H’ers enrolled in dog care and dog obedience projects. The event will be held at the 4-H Exhibit Building at the Carroll County Fairgrounds, Milledgeville.

4-H’ers with projects to be judged, need to have their projects checked in between 8:00-8:15 a.m. Please remember to bring a water bowl for your dog.

The public is welcome to attend.

For more information, contact Leanne Rahn at the Carroll County University of Illinois Extension Office at 244-9444 or .

Carroll 4-H to Hold Set-Up Night

The Carroll County 4-H will meet on Wednesday, July 28, at 6:00 p.m., to sweep out the 4-H exhibit building, set-up the risers, and get the rest of the building and the ice cream stand ready for fair week.

This will be a clean-up and set-up night for all 4-H’ers and 4-H families to get ready for the 4-H Fair.

Please bring push brooms, hammers, rags, buckets, cleaning supplies, a ladder to hang the banners, cordless drill, etc. Everyone’s help is appreciated. Pizza and drink will be furnished by the 4-H Federation for all workers.

For more information or to sign-up to attend for a food count, contact Leanne Rahn at the Carroll County University of Illinois Extension Office at 244-9444 or e-mail at .

HCC Announces Dean’s List for Spring 2010 Semester

Highland Community College proudly announces the dean’s list for the spring 2010 semester. Students who have completed 12 credit hours or more during the semester and have a minimum of a 3.25 grade point average (GPA), based on a 4.0 scale, are included on the dean’s list. Highest Honors are awarded to students with a perfect 4.0 GPA. High Honors distinction is given to students with a 3.50 to 3.99 GPA, and Honors students earn a GPA between 3.25 and 3.49.

Highest Honors (from the Prairie Advocate’s distribution area):

Apple River: Anthony Ernst; Baileyville: Jerred Drake, George Wrasse; Elizabeth: Kristina Kelzer, Kelsey Marks, Sheila Ortmeier, Joanne Person, Celia Priegel, Karie Wilcox; Forreston: Chelsey Lizer, Melanie Mahan, Jacob Ostergard, Beth Sanders; German Valley: Kristiani Groeling; Hanover: Nicole Lenzi; Lanark: Paige Gordon, Linsay Groeling, Lawrence Hasken, Karleigh Lillge; Lena: Sarah Andrews, Thomas Daves, Wendy Farmer, Joy Gerbode, Scott Heitkam, Anna Lyvers, Nicholas Miller, Michael Paulsen, Traci Rose, Sarrah Terhune, Isaac Walters; Mt. Carroll: Angela Field, Michael Benters, Curtis Wheetley; Pearl City: Hilary Graves, Eric Hammer, Cynthia Meyer; Shannon: Trisha Pannkuk.

High Honors:

Apple River: Lance Reed; Chadwick: Tyler Isenhart; Elizabeth: Matthew Altfillisch, Jared Berlage, Leigh Bonvillain, Seth Carroll, Stacey Deneen, Amanda Hurlburt, Demitrianna Wyman; Forreston: Edward Booth, Gregory Dyson, Jason Kauffman, Peter Suttman, Samantha Swanson; German Valley: Joel Boettner, Joshua Bolen, Logan Stukenberg; Lena: Tina Brinkmeier, Anthony Dick, Dan Dick, Joseph Drake, Erin Drye, Alec Frits, Lindsey Furniss, Dale Gabel, Katie Huber, Caitlin Miller, Brent Upmann, Christy Youtzy; Mt. Carroll: Sheila Piper, Amy Wolber; Pearl City: Logan Kempel, Michael Kohl, Brock Musser, Tamara Schoonhoven; Polo: Marilyn Bachman, Henry Bocker, Megan Scholl; Savanna: Devin Houzenga, Jacob Shepard; Shannon: Joshua Becker, Haylee Endress, Rebeccah Foust, Derek Hammer, Austin Walker; Sterling: Patricia Brewton.

Honors:

Baileyville: Ignacio Castillo, Jennifer Crase; Chadwick: Melissa Schleuning; Elizabeth: Rachael Ehrler; Forreston: Peter Gungel, Margherita Maniscalco, Scott Miller, Joshua Rowe, Dawn Singley, Kelsey Vinnedge; Hanover: Stephany Pettera; Lanark: Tanner Clenney, Justin Grisham; Lena: Nicholas Holmes, William Kempel, Jessica Monroe, Christin Schroeder; Mt. Carroll: John Allen, Matthew Lundquist; Pearl City: Kyle Nieman, Dawn Whitehead; Polo: Lesley Diehl, Scott Powell; Shannon: Aaron Byers, Cindy Curtis, Heather Martz, Nicole Olson.

Online Resources for Vegetable Gardening

Americans are converting some of their yards to produce food for the table and reconnect with nature. University of Illinois Extension has several web sites to help.

“Vegetable gardening has been increasing as more and more people want to grow at least some of their own food,” said Jane Scherer, U of I Extension urban programs specialist and director of Extension’s website.

“Helpful hints and guidelines are only a mouse click away on a number of vegetable gardening-related Extension websites.”

The Illinois Vegetable Garden Guide (http://web.extension.illinois.edu/vegguide/) offers step-by-step guidelines and tips for the home gardener.

“Vegetables from the home garden are fresher, may have better nutrient values, and often cost less than those sold in stores,” Scherer said. In addition to providing wholesome, low-cost food, vegetable gardening is a hobby, one in which the whole family can take part.

“The purpose of this guide is to help you plan and maintain a garden under Illinois growing conditions so that you will have an abundant supply of high-quality vegetables at harvest and even throughout the year if you freeze, can, or store your vegetables.”

Watch Your Garden Grow (http://urbanext.illinois.edu/veggies/) is a guide to growing, storing, and preparing vegetables.

“All gardens have problems,” explained Scherer. “One year it may be insects and disease and the next year it may be a drought. This website has lots of good information about dealing with problems, planning, and utilizing the garden’s production.”

Children often love to get their hands dirty. When they are allowed to help in the garden, it can be fun and educational for them. My First Garden (http://urbanext.illinois.edu/firstgarden/) is a guide to the world of fun and clever gardening targeted toward youngsters.

“The purpose of this site is to make learning about gardens, flowers, vegetables and the principles of horticulture a really fun and creative experience,” Scherer said.

Extension also has two online features that are regularly updated to reflect changing conditions and concerns.

Gardener’s Corner is available both as a web site (http://urbanext.illinois.edu/gardenerscorner/) and a YouTube () series.

“Both are great sources for up-to-date information on gardening topics,” she said.

USDA Reports to Provide Key Information for Corn and Soybean Markets

Three USDA reports will provide important information for the corn and soybean markets, according to University of Illinois agricultural economist Darrel Good. The quarterly Hogs and Pigs Report was released on June 25, and the quarterly Grain Stocks and annual Acreage reports will be released on June 30.

“The quarterly Hogs and Pigs report will reveal the inventory of market hogs as of June 1 as well as producers’ production intentions for the last half of the year,” Good said. “Last week’s Cattle on Feed report showed a large year-over-year increase of placements into feedlots during May. The information in the hog report will provide further insight into potential feed demand for the last quarter of the 2009-10 marketing year and for the 2010-11 marketing year.”

The quarterly Grain Stocks report will reveal the level of inventories as of June 1. “For context, it is useful to estimate the magnitude of June 1 stocks based on known use during the previous quarter and on USDA projections for the year for use that is not yet known,” Good said.

For corn, Census Bureau export estimates are available for the first two months of the third quarter of the 2009-10 marketing year, and USDA estimates are available for the entire quarter. Through April, cumulative Census Bureau estimates for the marketing year exceeded USDA inspection estimates by 72 million bushels.

“If that margin persisted through April, quarterly exports would have been near 539 million bushels, 42 million more than exports of a year ago,” Good said.

For the year, USDA projects processing use of corn at 5.89 billion bushels, 18 percent larger than use of a year ago. During the first half of the year, use in that category was estimated at 2.777 billion bushels, 16 percent larger than use of a year ago.

“If the USDA projection is to be reached, use during the last half of the year needs to be 3.113 billion bushels, nearly 20 percent larger than use during the second half of the 2008-09 marketing year,” Good said. A 20 percent increase during the March-May 2010 quarter would have resulted in consumption of 1.494 billion bushels.

Feed and residual use of corn for the current marketing year is projected at 5.35 billion bushels, 2.8 percent larger than use of a year ago. Good said projection reflects a return to a typical season pattern of use following the deviation of the past two years. Use during the first half of the year totaled 3.428 billion bushels, 3.5 percent less than use of a year ago.

“If the USDA projection is to be reached, use during the last half of the year needs to be 16 percent larger than that of a year ago, implying use of 1.108 billion bushels during the March-May quarter,” he said. “Total use during the quarter should have been near 3.141 billion bushels, pointing to June 1corn stocks of 4.555 billion bushels.”

Through April 2010, cumulative Census Bureau soybean export estimates exceeded USDA export inspection estimates by 40.3 million bushels.

“If that margin persisted through May, exports for the third quarter of the 2009-10 marketing year were near 214.4 million bushels, down 30.1 million from exports of a year ago,” Good said.

Census Bureau crush estimates are also available through April, with the May estimate to be released on June 24. The National Oilseed Processors Association reported that members crushed 10.1 percent fewer soybeans in May 2010 than in May 2009.

“If Census Bureau estimates confirm that magnitude of decline, the crush for the March-May quarter totaled 424.2 million bushels, 6.7 million fewer than during the same quarter last year.”

For the year, the USDA projects seed, feed and residual use of soybeans at 133 million bushels.

“If use during the last half of the year follows a typical seasonal pattern; negative use during the fourth quarter; use during the third quarter should have been near 44.6 million bushels,” Good said. “Total use during the quarter should have been near 683.2 million bushels, pointing to June 1 stocks near 589 million bushels.”

In March, producers reported intentions to plant 88.8 million acres of corn and 78.1 million acres of soybeans in 2010. Intentions exceeded acreage in 2009 by 2.3 million acres for corn and 647,000 acres for soybeans.

Expectations for the June report are mixed.

“Corn planting intentions may have been conservative due to uncertainty about spring weather and the unusual amount of spring field work needed in some areas,” Good said. “If so, corn acreage planted may exceed intentions. However, November 2010 soybean futures rallied sharply during the last half of April, encouraging producers to maintain soybean planting intentions. Large deviations from March intentions are not expected.”

Whiteside County SWCD has Rain Barrels

In anticipation of the hearty vegetables and fragrant flowers, have you thought of a more conservational or economical way to water your plants?

The Whiteside County Soil and Water Conservation District is selling rain barrels for $63.00. Our rain barrels are 60 gallon plastic barrels that are 100% recycled. The barrels have a perforated, screen mesh top to stop contaminates from entering. They also have top overflows and bottom drains along with a plastic spigot that can thread a hose.

“We now offer black, blue, grey and terra-cotta rain barrels,” said Wendy Roman,

Whiteside County SWCD Administrative Coordinator. “We will also have flex elbows and diverters to fit your downspouts. And, if you’re not getting enough water pressure to water your flowers or garden, we also have a 12 inch pedestal riser to set your barrel on and let gravity work for you.”

Not sure if you want a rain barrel sitting in your yard sticking out like a sore thumb? “We have netting with clips to put on your barrel. Now your vined plants can grow on your barrel to camouflage it, making you look like you have the perfect green thumb!”

Do you want some benefits of having a rain barrel?

Rain barrels help:

1. Divert water from storm drain system and thus reduce pollutants and the velocity of water entering local rivers and streams;

2. Store high quality water for gardens; harvesting rainwater with rain barrels to use for watering your landscaping, the rainwater can help to improve the health of your gardens, lawns, and trees. Rain is a naturally soft water and devoid of minerals, chlorine, fluoride, and other chemicals. For this reason, plants respond very well to rainwater. After all, it’s what plants in the wild thrive on!

3. Direct overflow water away from building foundations to more desired locations;

4. Reduce water and sewer bills, as well as electrical bills from sump pump usage.

For more information on any of these products, please contact the Whiteside County SWCD at 16625 Liberty Street, Morrison, Illinois 61270, call ( ext 3, email Wendy at or visit our website at www.whitesidecountyswcd.com.

Illinois Lincoln Highway Interpretive Mural Unveiled in Fulton

Illinois Lincoln Highway Coalition announces the completion of the next of 40 new Interpretive Murals to be installed along the 179-mile Illinois Lincoln Highway National Scenic Byway and its corridor in northern Illinois. The mural is located on the former Fulton Fire Station, now known as the Robert Fulton Commons at the intersection of 10th Avenue and 4th Street. This mural features a photo of the former Fulton-Lyons Bridge and its connection as the “gateway to the west.”

As the designated byway management agency overseeing the 179 mile Byway, the Illinois Lincoln Highway Coalition (ILHC) continues to seek ways to recognize the significance of the highway and ways to make the stories come alive.

Each of the 40 communities is asked to designate representatives to work with ILHC on this project, as well as secure a building site for the mural, research stories and images linking their community to Lincoln Highway and agree to provide maintenance and preservation of the mural. The murals are valued at $10,000 each. Upon completion of this project, a print piece will be created highlighting each interpretive mural and all 16 gazebos from a recently completed project along with a map and brief description of each.

For more information on the Illinois Lincoln Highway, places to see and things to do, stories of the highway’s significance and history, or to request ILHC’s 2010 Visitor Guide, visit www.drivelincolnhighway.com

Opportunities Fairs Set at Highland Community College

FREEPORT – Highland Community College will hold three information sessions for adult and returning students in the month of July. The Opportunities Fairs will be open house events with representatives from various college departments teaming up with Workforce Employment Solutions – Partners for Employment, Premier CDL Truck Driver Training, Columbia College of MO and more.

“We wanted to bring together a whole host of resources together in one place to be available to answer real questions from real people who are interested in furthering their skills by taking courses or completing a certificate or degree program,” said Karl Richards, enrollment outreach specialist for HCC. “We know that there are a good many questions out there and we want to make ourselves available to answer those questions.”

The fairs will be held from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the following locations:

Wednesday, July 7 at the HCC Student/Conference Center

Tuesday, July 13 at the Boys and Girls Club of Freeport on 511 Liberty St.

Tuesday, July 27 at the HCC Student/Conference Center

Fairgoers will be able to come at anytime during the event, browse the tables for information and speak directly with representatives to get answers to individual questions about the many training and educational opportunities and benefits available.

The HCC/Premier CDL “big rig” will be available for an up close look during the sessions held on the Highland campus. Refreshments and door prizes will be available. Call for more information, or visit www.highland.edu.

Highland Presents 37th Summerset Theatre, GREASE

FREEPORT – “GREASE” is coming to the Ferguson Fine Arts Center stage for the 37th season of Summerset Theatre at Highland Community College. Starring an all star cast of local talent and directed by Elwyn Webb, with musical direction by Allen Redford, this show promises to be more fun than a drive-in movie. Performance dates are July 16, 17, 22, 23 and 24 at 7:30 p.m.

GREASE, by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, is the all-American musical based on high school life in the 1950’s. The show takes place at the fictional Rydell High School, where Danny Zuko leads his gang of “toughs”, the T-Birds, romance their “sassy” female counterparts, the Pink Ladies. Good girl Sandy and greaser Danny fell in love over the summer. But when they unexpectedly discover they’re now in the same high school, will they be able to rekindle their romance? GREASE takes a satirical look at the dress, manners, morals, and music of teenagers at the beginning of the rock and roll era!

Tickets will be available beginning June 28 and may be reserved by calling the Box Office at on Monday through Friday afternoons from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. or reserve your tickets online at www.highland.edu. Tickets are $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, and $6 for students.

Cast members in the Prairie Advocate distribution area include Danny Zucko - Brandon Bull of Pearl City, Jan-Lauren Sheffey, of Pearl City, and Frenchy - Bekka Faust, of Shannon

http://www.highland.edu/news_events/announcements.asp?newsid=649

Pearl City Mail Carrier Decides To Call It A Career

Post Office will celebrate with an open house

After years of working through the rain, sleet, snow and heat, Rural Carrier Peggy Mitchell, has retired after 35 years of service. On Friday, July 2nd, the Pearl City Post Office, 105 South Main Street, will hold an open house from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm to wish Mitchell well on her new career – retirement.

“We’re very happy for Peggy,” says Postmaster Debbie Graves. “Peggy has been a loyal and dedicated postal employee and she has always taken great pride in providing excellent service to her customers.”

The open house will consist of light refreshments. Local residents are encouraged to come down to the Post Office to say “good bye” to Peggy even though she plans on staying busy after retirement. “I know Peggy will not be one to sit still,” says Graves. “She will continue to create and display her many craft items at art shows.”

For more information, call Pearl City Postmaster Debbie Graves at (815) 443-2574.

‘Places of Our Past’ Writing Workshop

The Mount Carroll Library is happy to announce a special writing workshop and reading entitled “Places of Our Past,” to be presented by Patricia McNair on Sunday, July 13, 2008 in the Carnegie Library on Main Street. The event will begin at 1:00 p.m. when McNair will read from her fictional writing and memoirs. At 2:00 she will lead a writing workshop which will focus on using place as an impetus for memoir writing. Everyone is invited to hear the author read. Workshop participants will be asked to contribute $5.00 toward the cost of materials.

Patricia McNair is Summer Chair of the Fiction Writing Department of Columbia College, Chicago, where she teaches undergraduate and graduate students. During the fall of 2008, she will teach writing as a member of the Creative Writing Faculty at Bath Spa University in England. As part of her on-going efforts to support international exchange in education, she has coordinated Columbia College Chicago’s Fiction Writing Summer Sessions in Prague, and will attend and present at professional conferences in England and Sweden during 2008.

In 2007, McNair received Columbia’s Excellence in Teaching Award and was nominated for the Carnegie Foundation’s US Professor of the Year in 2008. Her work has appeared in numerous journals and magazines in the United States and she has held writer’s residencies at Interlochen Arts Academy, the Vermont Studio Center, and the Glen Arbor Arts Association. She is the recipient of other honors that include four Illinois Arts Council Awards and numerous Pushcart Prize nominations.

She and her husband, artist Philip Hartigan, purchased a home in Mount Carroll in 2002, where she has helped to coordinate readings during Brick Street Days and with her friends at the Mount Carroll Library.

To sign up for the writer’s workshop or for additional information about this special program, you may contact the Mount Carroll Library at .

Participate in ‘Illuminating the Past, Lighting the Present’

A community’s history is made up of not just the events of its past, but also the memories of its residents. ILLUMINATING THE PAST, LIGHTING THE PRESENT: A Community Memoir Project is designed to capture the memories, histories, and stories of the diverse population of Carroll County Illinois through workshops, artist books, CDs, social media, and the creation of a public art piece to be installed on the grounds of the Owen P. Miles Museum in Mount Carroll. This public art project is offered in collaboration with the Carroll County Historical Society and supported in part by a faculty development grant awarded by Columbia College Chicago.

We invite interested Carroll County residents to participate in this project by presenting a photograph that depicts themselves and someone from at least one other generation of their families. During workshops to be held throughout July and August, participants will be led in activities that will help them create brief memoirs inspired by these photographs. The memoirs will be gathered, edited and curated by Patricia Ann McNair, project writer, in collaboration with Philip Hartigan, project visual artist, and Patricia Johnson, community project director. Compelling single lines will be paired with photographs that Philip Hartigan will reproduce through printmaking. The public art piece will be a combination of print images and text, put together in the structure of light panels. The work will be unveiled on the grounds of the Owen P. Miles Museum during Mount Carroll’s October Nights celebration. A reception and reading will be held then as well. A limited number of handmade artist books will be created to present to the CCHS and local libraries, as well as other significant sponsors and community groups. Reprints of the book and CDs documenting the project will be made available for sale to help support the project and the Carroll County Historical Society.

The introductory workshop sessions will be held on Saturday, July 10, 2010 at 3 PM, and on Monday, July 12, 2010 at 6:30 PM. at the Owen P. Miles Museum, 107 West Broadway, Mount Carroll. We ask anyone interested in participating in the project to join us for one of these introductions to learn more about it. Participants will be expected to attend just one of the memoir writing workshops to be held later in the summer. People can secure a memoir workshop seat during the introductory workshops. Dates, times, and venues of the memoir writing workshops will be announced during the introductory sessions.

We realize that a number of people may be interested in being part of this community memoir project but may not be available to attend a workshop. In order for everyone to participate and track our progress, we have created a Facebook Fan Page: Carroll County Illinois Community Memoir Project.

Ahern Applauds SCOTUS Decision on Chicago Gun Ban

Dennis Ahern, Democratic candidate for 71st District state representative, released the following statement today in response to the decision by the Supreme Court to overturn the Chicago hand gun ban:

“I am very pleased with the decision by the Supreme Court today. Our rights as citizens in Illinois were reinforced today by the Supreme Court after this gun ban was put in place. The right to keep and bear arms extends to Chicago. As someone who believes very strongly in the 2nd Amendment and as a proponent of legislation that will allow for conceal carry in our state this is definitely a step in the right direction for the citizens of our state that chooses to carry arms either for protection or for recreational and sporting activities.”

Ahern is seeking to replace Mike Boland, who is retiring in January of 2011. The 71st Legislative District covers portions of Carroll, Henry, Rock Island and Whiteside County. His Republican opponent is Rich Morthland, a Rock Island County Board member.

Savanna Historical Society Beneficiary of CFGRB Grant

Savanna Historical Society (SHS) president John Pokornik announced that the Community Foundation of the Great River Bend (CFGRB) has awarded a grant for $3250 to the Society. The grant will be used toward the development of a Business Plan and is matched by funds the Society receives from donations.

The CFGRB is a community foundation that distributes funds from its endowment earnings to numerous non-profit organizations that fulfill its mission of “connecting people who care with causes that matter.”

Pat Leitzen-Fye, of Freeport-based Christopher Fye + Associates, Architects + Planners, has been contracted by SHS to develop a business plan which will be completed this summer. As Business and Marketing Manager for cf+a, she has over 15 years experience in business planning, strategic planning, marketing and business management. As a consultant to Jo Daviess County, Leitzen Fye served in a half-time role as Director of Economic Development from 2005-2009. Early in her career, she spent more than ten years in human services policy and administration, and nine years as an elected city council member in Freeport. She holds extensive knowledge of business planning, economic development, and municipal and non-profit management. She has additional training and education in Business Retention & Expansion, Economic Gardening, Downtown Redevelopment and Historic Preservation, Real Estate Sales and Development, and Highland College’s Leadership Institute.

A Business Plan will identify means for sustaining the museum in order to insure its success and long term financial soundness. SHS continues to search for grants and initiate fund raising events as work progresses with the renovation of the building at 406 Main Street.

34th Annual Great River Threshers Celebration

The Great River Threshers will be celebrating their 34th year on the Threshers grounds in Miles, Iowa on July 9-10-11. The events start on Friday with a Parade at 6:30 pm, followed by entertainment in the Main Building, with the Swing Choir at 7:30, Mississippi Valley Gymnastics at 8:15, followed by a Dance featuring 50 lb. Rooster at 9.

On Saturday the 10th, activities begin with a 5K Walk/Run at 8 am. At 10, Antique Swap Meet starts, as does the Broom Making, Shingle Making and Crafts demonstrations.

The Thresher’s Meal will be served from 11 to 1. Afterwards, there will be a War Memorabilia Presentation by JR Miller, Children’s Games, Lawn Mower Pull, Pedal Pull, and Mud Volleyball. Evening events will feature the Iowa State Fair Search Talent Show, bean bag Tourney, and a Dance.

Sunday starts with a great Pancake & Sausage Breakfast, Bake Sale, and Community Service in the Park at 8 am. There will also be Threshing, saddle Horse Show, Spelling Bee, Truck & Tractor Pull, and Vintage Clothes presentation by Cindy Cram.

Advance badges are available at local businesses. For more information, call , or .

Correction

The “gremlins” strike again. In the June 23 Prairie Advocate News, page 5 of Section 1 featured the Cover Story about the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Milledgeville Veterans Memorial. “Pastor Cregg Farmer gave two inspiring prayers,” nor Fregg farmer. Also, the caption for the photo was for Hanover Days, and should have read, “The memorial is dedicated to honor those who have served in the past, and those who continue to serve now. An artist’s rendering was on display during the ceremony.”

The Prairie Advocate regrets the error.

Stockton Bike Rodeo a Success

The rescheduled Stockton Police Department Bike Rodeo dawned with bright sunshine and no rain! Approximately thirty children attended and had Mr. Ron Wright check out the mechanics of their bikes before running through an obstacle course set up by Chief Doug Wierema and Officer LaDon Trost. Before a lunch of hot dogs, chips with soft drinks, a drawing was held.

Money from the following individuals and Area Businesses purchased 15 bicycles:

Geezers Auto Body, Stockton Auto Body, E & K Sales & Repairs, Finish Line Graphics, John Fischer, CPA, Barkau Automovtive, Bauer Group, Rausch Realty, M & M Construction, Schultz Monument Sales, Jim Sullivan Realty Inc., Briggs Insurance, Stockton Lions Club, Stockton Meats, Bob & Lu Douglas, Doug Wierema, Village of Stockton, Brewster Cheese, Wal-Mart-Freeport/Galena, and Raisbeck Painting.

Bicycle winners were: Aspen Moore, DeeDee Larson, Nickoli LaDow, Kahoe Gardner, Keagan Groezinger, Kyleigh Rausch, Katalyn Winters, Jace Philips, Evan Kazijian, Devin Maupin, Patrick Mensendike, Ellen Fox, Kaylee Luke, Thea Bedgood, and Daihlia Bedgood.

Bike/Walking Flashers were received by the other children donated by the Dollar Store. Citizen’s State Bank $50.00 Bond went to Bill Upmann. Stockton Banking Center $50.00 Bond to Gabe Ertmer. Helmets donated by Thoren Auto and Freeport Farm & Fleet were won by Drew Mensendike and Tim Davis. Logan Luke won a certificate from Woodbine Bend. Popcorn Basket from Stockton Floral to Keegan Philips and Samantha Davis won the Eden Taylor Certificate.

Pop was donated by Stockton Station, Caseys’, Cox’s, Citgo and Stockton Shell. Hot Dogs, buns and condiments from Sullivan Foods with chips from Rich Curtiss. Gift certificates, donated by L. A. Drive In and McDonalds were handed out with lunch.

“The department would like to thank the Stockton Cub Scouts for clean up, IDOT for use of road way cones, and Stockton City crew for barricades,” said Lillian Townsend of Stockton Police Department. “Also for the following helpers: Lil Townsend, Lynn Trost, Cory Logemann, Dave Logemann, Don & Diane Bradley, Donna Wierema, Tom Davis, Kelsey Tessmer, Pam Bedgood. We regret anyone we may have missed.”