Regular Mid. Premium Diesel E-85

Rural Oaks Phillips 66- Rural & Prospect $2.13 $2.18 $2.23

BP- Highcrest & Alpine $2.12 $2.17 $2.22

Mobil- Highcrest & Alpine $2.13 $2.18 $2.23

Amoco- 1030 E. State St $2.13 $2.25 $2.32

Mobil- 1334 E. State St. $2.12 $2.21 $2.31

Mobil- 1320 N. Main St.

Marathon- West State & LaClede $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

Way-Low Citgo- 2914 W. State St. $2.00 $2.08 $2.16

Shell- Kilburn & School St $2.16 $2.26 $2.36

On The Way- Auburn & Horsman $2.00 $2.10 $2.20

Amoco- 3800 Auburn St. $1.95 $2.05 $2.15

Clark- 4314 Auburn St. $2.04 $2.14 $2.24 $2.10

Mobil- 4432 Auburn St. $2.06 $2.16 $2.26

Phillips 66- Cameron Ave., Durand $2.12 $2.22 $2.32 $2.22

Amoco- Center St., Durand $2.12 $2.22 $2.32 $2.24

BP 800 So. 6th St. $1.99 $2.10 $2.20

BP 2233 Charles St. $2.13 $2.23 $2.40 $2.20

Mobil 2200 Broadway $2.14 $2.24 $2.34

BP 3810 Broadway $2.13 $2.23 $2.33 $2.20

Marathon 3307 Charles St. $2.13 $2.23 $2.33

BP 2622 Charles St. $2.13 $2.23 $2.33

Marathon- 3399 S. Alpine 3399 S. Alpine $2.12 $2.22 $2.32

Stop-N-Go- 4477 Linden Rd $2.12 $2.22 $2.32

Phillips 66- Sandy Hollow & Alpine $1.92 $2.12 $2.32

Shell- 3202 S. Alpine $2.12 $2.22 $2.32

Mobi-l Harrison & Stowmarket $2.12 $2.22 $2.32

Speedway- N. 2nd & Riverside

Huck's 24 hr.- 7812 (7910?) N. Alpine & Maple

Vince's Mobil- 7940 (7912?) N. Alpine

Amoco- 8000 N. Alpine & Harlem

Road Ranger Citgo- 3780 N. Alpine

BP- 2000 Riverside

Mobil- Spring Brook & Perryville

Phillips 66- Spring Creek & Perryville

Amoco- 6950 E. Riverside

Huck's- 4200 Perryville

Phillips 66- 6480 Riverside

Mobil- 5059 Forest Hills & River Lane

BP Super Pantry- 4747 N. 2nd St. $2.08 $2.18 $2.28 $2.15

Clark- 5710 N. 2nd St. $2.08 $2.18 $2.28 $2.37

Marathon- N. 2nd & Riverside $2.12 $2.22 $2.32 $2.37

Clark- 6217 N. 2nd $2.10 $2.20 $2.30 $2.38

Amoco- Harlem & N. Alpine $2.06 $2.16 $2.26

Road Ranger Citgo- Harlem & Forest Hills $2.02 $2.12 $2.32 $2.14

Grand Prix- 7997 Forest Hills $2.02 $2.12 $2.29 $1.92

Shell Station/Food Mart- 7765 Forest Hills Rd. $2.02 $2.12 $2.22

Phillips 66- 1603 15th Ave. & 11th St. $2.14 $2.24 $2.34

BP Amoco- 1909 18th Ave. & 11th St. $2.12 $2.22 $2.32

Penny Pincher Citgo- 2837 11th St.

Marathon- 3209 Sawyer & 11th St. $2.10 $2.20 $2.30 $2.30

Citgo Road Ranger- 3302 11th St. $2.10 $2.20 $2.30

Phillips 66- 6536 11th St., New Milford $2.14 $2.24 $2.34 $2.20

Citgo- 4962 20th St. & Samuelson Rd. $2.10 $2.19 $2.28

Huck's- Alpine & Maple Ave.

Marathon- 251 & Forest Hills $2.00 $2.10 $2.20 $2.15

Mobil- McDonald's 251 $2.00 $2.10 $2.20 $2.20

Mobil - Blackhawk Blvd.,Rockton $2.10 $2.20 $2.30

Phillips 66- Blackhawk Blvd.,S. Beloit $2.02 $2.12 $2.22 $2.22

Citgo- Blackhawk Blvd.,S. Beloit $1.99 $2.09 $2.19

Wilson Auto- 3121 N. Rockton Ave. $1.97 $2.19 $2.39

Citgo- 3026 N. Rockton Ave.

Phillips 66- 3135 N. Rockton Ave.

BP 2225 W. Riverside Blvd. $2.03 $2.13 $2.23

Phillips 66- 425 Winnebago St.

Harper Gas- 1716 S. Main St.

Mobil- 3338 N. Main St.

Citgo- 3400 N. Main St.

Mobil- 360 College Ave. & Seminary St. $2.15 $2.25 $2.35

Phillips 66 2233 Kishwaukee St

Shell- 53 Airport Rd. $2.06 $2.12 $2.26 $2.27

Mobil- CherryVale $2.12 $2.22 $2.32

Marathon- 7470 Harrison & Bell $2.12 $2.22 $2.32

Citgo Road Ranger- Harrison & Bell $2.09 $2.22 $2.32

Express Lane Shell- 305 E. State $2.12 $2.22 $2.32

Citgo- N. State St. $1.94 $2.04 $2.14

Belvidere:

BP- 1857 N. State St. $1.97 $2.07 $2.17

Shell- 1024 N. State St. $1.92 $2.02 $2.12

Phillips 66- 1001 N. State St. $1.79 $1.92 $2.12

Marathon- N. State St. $1.92 $2.02 $2.12

Clark- 717 N. State St. $1.92 $2.02 $2.12

Ioco- 600 Logan St. $1.94 $2.04 $2.15

Clark- S. State St. $1.92 $2.02 $2.12

Mobil- 2500 Pearl Ave $1.95 $2.05 $2.15

Winnebago:

Citgo Road Ranger- Winnebago Rd. $2.10 $2.20 $2.30 $2.26

Mobil- Winnebago Rd. $2.10 $2.20 $2.30 $2.26

Pecatonica:

Mobil- Main St. $2.12 $2.22 $2.32

Oregon:

Casey's- Washington St.

Byron:

Casey's Gen. Store- 733 W. Blackhawk

Amoco- 127 W. Blackhawk

Mobil- W. Blackhawk

Phillips 66- W. Blackhawk

Stillman Valley:

Casey's Gen. Store- 314 W. Roosevelt

Marathon Gas Station

Citgo Road Ranger- E. State & Bell School $2.09 $2.19 $2.29 $2.30

Mobil- 7250 E. State St. $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

BP- 320 N. Mulford Rd. $2.10 $2.30

Mobil- 5810 E. State St. $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

Leaf River:

Citgo- 406 E. 3rd St.

Polo:

Casey's General Store- D
ivision Ave.

Shell- Division Ave.

Citgo- Division Ave.

Mt. Morris:

Mobile- Hitt St.

Shell- Hitt St.

Citgo Road Ranger- 7525 E. State St. $2.12 $2.22 $2.32

Phillips 66- 540 N. Lyford $1.02 $2.12 $2.22

Amoco- 3420 E. State St. $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

Citgo Road Ranger- 5330 E. State St. $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

Mobil- 8200 N. 2nd St.

Stop & Go BP- 8320 N. 2nd St.

Mobil- 9915 – Rt. 173

Road Ranger- Rt. 173, N. 2nd St.

Phillips 66- 8909 Burden Rd.

Mobil- 5207 Elevator Rd., Roscoe

Road Ranger- 11607 Main & Elevator Rd., Roscoe

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

“Together We Can… Tell Us How” is a statewide survey launched on March 1 by the University of Illinois Extension to gather local input from Illinois residents on what they need to know to make life better, healthier, safer and more profitable.

Take a moment to enter this link: http://TellUs.extension.uiuc.edu on the computer and complete the short online survey.

After the survey closes April 17, Extension staff will use the input to develop and offer education that is helpful and responsive to improve your life and community.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

SPRINGFIELD– A bill recently introduced into the Illinois House of Representatives would help reduce the current state budget deficit by requiring that Illinois sales tax be paid by out-of-state wine stores that ship wine to consumers in Illinois. House Bill 2642 would raise between $1 million and $3 million annually through payment of state sales tax and fees for the permit required to ship wine into the state.

Specialty Wine Retailers Association (SWRA), a national coalition of wine stores and wine consumers supports HB 2462 and its pro-consumer elements as well as its requirement that out-of-state wine stores pay sales tax on all wines they would ship to Illinois consumers under the bill’s wine shipping permit structure.

Illinois wine sales represented 5.5 percent of the $30 billion of U.S. wine sales in 2007. It is estimated that 1 to 3 percent of wine sales occur online, which allows for a conservative projection of more than $1,000,000 in tax revenue annually for the state and possibly upwards of $3,000,000 annually.

“SWRA and its specialty wine store members are the rare group that actually supports taxes,” said Tom Wark, executive director of SWRA. “In the case of HB 2462, SWRA supports its provisions that out-of-state wine stores be required to pay Illinois sales tax on wines they ship to consumers under the bill’s Retail Wine Shipper Permit.”

HB 2462, introduced by Rep. Julie Hamos, allows Illinois consumers to have wine shipped to them from licensed out-of-state wine stores, a right stripped from them in 2007. Currently. Illinois wine consumers may have wine shipped directly to them from Illinois wineries, Illinois wine stores and out-of-state wineries–but not out-of-state stores.

“Illinois is home to one of the most vibrant populations of wine lovers in America who are willing to seek out the wines they want when they can’t find them in their local stores,” said Wark. “By allowing shipment of wine to these consumers from out-of-state wine stores, the state not only allows a pent-up demand to be satisfied but provides for an increase in tax revenue that would not other otherwise be available to the state.”

HB 2462 is currently in the House Business and Occupational Licenses Committee.

For more information on SWRA, see http://www.specialtywineretailers.org.

For more information on consumer support for HB 2462, see http://www.illinoiswineconsumers.org.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

PECATONICA, Ill.—Pec Playhouse Theatre has announced open auditions for its summer musical, The King and I, a well-loved classic by Rodgers and Hammerstein. Auditions are Monday and Tuesday, April 20-21, at 6:30 p.m. for children and 7:15 p.m. for adults.

The story takes place in the 1860s. The King of Siam, considered by many to be a barbarian, seeks to modernize his image and summons Anna Leonowens, an attractive English schoolteacher, to teach his royal children and many wives. As Anna and her son develop a bond with their charges, she and the king clash over cultural differences. Yet, when a crisis occurs with the British, Anna finds she’s grown to respect the king, despite his infuriating ways, and is compelled to aid him in improving his reputation.

The show’s dazzling score includes many well-known favorites such as “Getting To Know You,” “Shall We Dance?,” “Hello Young Lovers” and “Whistle a Happy Tune.”

The King and I won the 1952 Tony Award for best musical, while the original Anna (Gertrude Lawrence) won for Best Actress (in a Musical) and Yul Brynner won for Best Actor. In 1957, Brynner also won the Oscar for Best Actor for his portrayal of the king in the very successful movie version.

The play will be under the creative direction of Anita Patterson. Patterson has more than 25 years experience in directing musicals, comedies and dramas. She began her theatrical career in Naperville, Ill., worked with the Sondheim Musical Company in Tampa, Fla., and various companies in southern California. She directs and teaches at Tri-County Christian School in Freeport and Faith Community Church in Davis. For more information about the auditions or the production, contact Patterson at (815) 248-2447 or by e-mail at neetzma@earthlink.net.

Roles to be cast are as follow:

Women—Anna Leonowens (age range 30s-40s, mezzo soprano); Lady Thiang (age 30-50, alto); Tuptim (age 17-27, soprano, dancing); six royal wives (age 20s-40s, singing and dancing).

Men—The King (age range 35-55, tenor); Louis Leonowens (age range 10-14, tenor or boy alto); The Kralahome (age 35-60, speaking role); Lun Tha (age 17-27, tenor); Prince Chulalongkorn (age 14-18, tenor or boy alto); Sir Edward Ramsay (age 35-50, speaking role); Phra Alack (age 35-50, speaking role); Captain Orton (age 35-50, speaking role).

Children—10 royal children (age 8-14, singing and dancing).

Those auditioning for lead roles are strongly encouraged to become familiar with the music and character for that role prior to auditioning. Perusal scripts are available at the Pecatonica Pharmacy, (815) 239-1200.

Performances are Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m., July 17-31 and Aug. 1-2. Tickets are $10. For information about tickets, call the Pec Playhouse Theatre at (815) 239-1210.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

Seamus Heaney is likely the best-selling English-language poet alive. Famous, at this point, for being famous (he received the Nobel Prize in 1995), Heaney began earning acclaim with his first book, Death of a Naturalist (1966). Critical interest and popular response came together in praise of Heaney’s work, which captured a County Derry childhood in what he called “the sucking clabber” of a rich, guttural, elemental and vivid music.

After the political poems of his third book, North (1975), Heaney grew wary of that role, finding it too confining. He had already left Belfast to spend four years writing in Glanmore, County Kerry. From that experience grew the “Glanmore Sonnets,” the heart of his fourth book, Field Work (1979). “Casualty,” one of the most powerful elegies in the book, exemplifies Heaney’s evolving identity as an Irish poet from the north who is torn between public commitments and personal freedom, and who shares his language and literary antecedents with the English and Irish alike.

The poem is set in the northern province of Ulster in 1972, the infamous year of Bloody Sunday, when the British army killed 13 civil rights protesters in the Bogside area of Londonderry. The elegy takes the form of a kind of triptych memorializing a regular patron of the pubs, a fisherman known to Heaney who becomes a casualty of the sectarian urban warfare in the north.

“Casualty” bears some formal resemblance to Yeats’s “Easter, 1916,” which memorializes the Easter Rising of 700 Volunteers, rebels who seized areas of Dublin and held out against British forces for six days.

The man whom Heaney memorializes in his poem is of a different stature than John MacBride in Yeats’s poem. Unlike MacBride, an executed leader of the Easter Rebellion who “resigned his part / In the casual comedy” of life to assume his tragic role in the uprising, Heaney’s pub-loving fisherman refuses to abide by a curfew to indulge in his nightly pint, and is killed without having assumed any significant part in the struggle. The rebels may have “hearts with one purpose alone” in Yeats’s poem, but the fisherman in Heaney’s “would drink by himself”—

And raise a weathered thumb

Towards the high shelf,

Calling another rum

And blackcurrant, without

Having to raise his voice

Neither does Heaney raise his own voice to reach the rhetorical elevation of Yeats. That he takes so much from Yeats in plying his allusive craft while maintaining a more modest level of address is one element of genius at play.

Heaney opens his elegy with deliberate portraiture: the fisherman’s raised “weathered thumb,” his low voice, discretion and “quick eye / And turned observant back.” Heaney’s eye, as quick as his subject’s, sees how even though the fisherman has his back turned, he is animated by a sensory alertness to what he cannot see. There is a pun buried in this description—the fisherman has apparently turned his back on the political struggle of the militant nationalists. Has Heaney also turned his proverbial back?

“Turning” is the dominant verb in “Casualty.” It captures the fisherman “as he turned / In that bombed offending place, / Remorse fused with terror / In his still knowable face.” And it signals Heaney’s turning to the art of elegy, with its shifts between public utterance of private feeling, to commemorate the fisherman, a fixture of the pub scene, “blown to bits / Out drinking in a curfew / Others obeyed.” The fisherman who “drank like a fish” ultimately becomes a fish, “swimming” out of cliché and “towards the lure / Of warm lit-up places.”

The final turning in part three is even more remarkable for its suave displacements. Though Heaney admits missing the fisherman’s funeral, he envisions the mourner’s “shoaling out of his lane / . . . / With the habitual / Slow consolation / Of a dawdling engine,” the sound of which seamlessly joins the funeral occasion to “that morning / I was taken in his boat, / The screw purling, turning / Indolent fathoms white.” The “indolent fathoms” of poetry are indeed slow to develop, but it’s on such waters that, in the fisherman’s company, the poet “tasted freedom.”

To get out early, haul

Steadily off the bottom,

Dispraise the catch, and smile

As you find a rhythm

Working you, slow mile by mile,

Into your proper haunt

Somewhere, well out, beyond…

The fisherman’s “proper haunt” was on the water, “well out, beyond,” as the poet’s place is in the poem, where “you find a rhythm working you,” and where, through elegy, the fisherman continues to haunt the poet.

Joshua Weiner is the author of The World’s Room and From the Book of Giants, and the editor of At the Barriers: On the Poetry of Thom Gunn. This article first appeared on www.poetryfoundation.org. Distributed by the Poetry Foundation. Read more about Seamus Heaney, and his poetry, at www.poetryfoundation.org.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

Each spring, we begin our series about writers’ offerings at The Clearing in Door County, Wisconsin. Many people in the stateline are familiar with the delights of the Door.

The Clearing is a beautiful site on the cliffs overlooking Green Bay, where the sunsets are often that particular Nordic pink I haven’t found elsewhere. The Clearing offers a week to do your own thing in the company of kindred spirits.

Purely for poets is the following unique May offering:

‘Poetry Camp: Sending Poetry Into the World,’ May 24-30

Spend a beautiful spring week at The Clearing writing new poems into the prompts and poems you bring, revising your poems and creating ways for your poetry to connect to the world. This class will consider the places and forms in which poetry appears, from journals to broadsides to anthologies; how to make poetry work for the reader: and where to find readers, from local to e-zine journals, musician and artist collaborations, etc.

Bring 10 prompts for writing—five objects, images or photos, and five of your poems that are important to you. Also, bring your notebook and pen, and three poems you would like to have critiqued in private session. Bring a one-page poem, by someone other than yourself, to read when introducing yourself (and your new poet) to the group Sunday night.

This class will be taught by Robin Chapman. For more information about her, the class, The Clearing, and registration, call toll-free at 1-877-854-3225 or access online at www.theclearing.org.

Also, if you are interested in writing using birds for inspiration, you might want to take the Writershop offered along with the Nothing but Birds show at Womanspace Center, here in Rockford, 1-3 p.m., April 18, $20. This one is not for poets only. All genres and experiments OK. Call 1-815-877-0118 for more details or to register.

Christine Swanberg is a local author and poet who has written several books of poetry and formerly wrote a column called “The Writer’s Garret” for this newspaper.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

I really feel for daytime fans. As if dealing with income taxes doesn’t make this time of year annoying enough, news recently broke that after 57 years, CBS has officially canceled TV’s longest-running soap, Guiding Light.

Because I heard the news on April Fools’ Day, I half thought it might be a joke. Sure, the legendary daytime drama was struggling for ratings, but other soaps are struggling, too. But it really is true: Guiding Light’s final episode will air in September.

Guiding Light began its run 72 years ago as a 15-minute radio serial, successfully transitioned to television as daytime drama in 1952, and eventually expanded to half-an-hour in 1967, then to a full hour in 1977. Despite its age, Guiding Light has always grown and changed with the times. Two years ago, I spoke with the show’s executive producer, Ellen Wheeler, who told me Guiding Light was the first television show—not just daytime drama—to podcast each episode in its entirety.

At that time, she said: “We want our community of people who are a part of Guiding Light to have many, many, ways and outlets to participate in the show. Whether that’s in their home, or at work on the computer, or over their phone when they’re out and about in the world, we want them to be able to be connected to Guiding Light whenever and wherever it’s convenient to them.”

Perhaps that willingness to evolve with the times could help the show find yet another life. When NBC canceled Passions, it was resurrected on DirectTV. Granted, that arrangement lasted little more than a year, but it created a new distribution channel that went on to save NBC’s primetime series, Friday Night Lights. Could a similar deal happen for Guiding Light? Or maybe the denizens of Springfield will find a new home online.

It’s not so strange to wonder if a serial that started on radio might find a profitable way to broadcast on the Internet. The show is a survivor. After all, how many (non-kiddie) shows do you know that can say they’ve been around longer than most of their viewers?

Even CBS’ cancellation of Guiding Light finally and truly does the show in, it’s still the longest-running show in broadcast history. Until mid-September, you can catch Guiding Light weekdays at 2 p.m. on CBS.

Guiding Light triva:

Guiding Light has won 69 Daytime Emmy Awards

In 1966, Guiding Light became the first soap with African-American leading characters

In 1967, it began broadcasting in color

Began audio podcasts in 2005

For it’s 70th anniversary, cast and crew implemented a monthly community service project. Among their accomplishments: building three homes for Hurricane Katrina survivors in Biloxi; rebuilding a Virginia homeless shelter; and helping build homes for homeless people in Atlanta.

Some former cast members include: Kevin Bacon, Calista Flockhart, Allison Janney, James Earl Jones, Cicely Tyson, Taye Diggs, Hayden Panettiere and Brittany Snow.

Paula Hendrickson is a regular contributor to Emmy magazine and Variety, and has been published in numerous national publications including American Bungalow, Television Week and TVGuide. E-mail her at tubetalking-paula@yahoo.com.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

Dear EarthTalk: What is the “green cities” movement?

—John Moulton, Greenwich, Conn.

Best described as a loose association of cities focused on sustainability, the emerging “green cities movement” encompasses thousands of urban areas around the world all striving to lessen their environmental impacts by reducing waste, expanding recycling, lowering emissions, increasing housing density while expanding open space, and encouraging the development of sustainable local businesses.

Perhaps the archetypal green city is Curitiba, Brazil. When architect and urban planner Jamie Lerner became mayor in 1972, he quickly closed six blocks of the city’s central business district to cars, delighting residents and business owners alike. Today, the pedestrian-free zone is three times larger and serves as the heart of the bustling metropolis. Lerner also put in place a high-tech bus system, greatly reducing traffic, energy usage and pollution; the move also encouraged density around transit hubs and, thus, preserved open space in other areas that would have likely turned into suburbia. Today, the bus system still goes strong, and three-quarters of the city’s 2.2 million residents rely on it every day.

Another green cities leader is Rekyjavik, Iceland, where hydrogen-powered buses ply the streets, and renewable energy sources—geothermal and hydropower—provide the city’s heat and electricity. London, Copenhagen, Sydney, Barcelona, Bogota and Bangkok, not to mention Sweden’s Malmo, Ecuador’s Bahía de Caráquez and Uganda’s Kampala, also score high for their green attributes and attitudes.

Green cities abound in North America, too. In 2005, Portland, Ore., became the first U.S. city to meet carbon dioxide reduction goals set forth in the landmark (if ill-fated) Kyoto Protocol, an international agreement forged to mitigate the threat of global warming. Seattle also committed to meeting Kyoto’s goals, and has persuaded 590 other U.S. cities to do the same under the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement. And Vancouver, British Columbia, draws 90 percent of its power from renewable sources while its metro area boasts some 200 parks and more than 18 miles of accessible waterfront.

San Francisco is a leader in green building, energy efficiency and alternative energy, and has been on the forefront of the battle to reduce plastic usage. Austin, Texas, is fast becoming a world leader in solar equipment production and has made great strides in preserving open space. Chicago has invested hundreds of millions of dollars revitalizing its parks and neighborhoods, and has built some of America’s most eco-friendly downtown buildings. It is also working to provide affordable, clean power to low-income families. Of course, many would argue that New York City—with its densely-packed housing, reliance on mass transit and walking, and recent green policy moves by Mayor Bloomberg—may be the greenest of all.

While there is no formal green cities organization, per se, many groups have sprung up to help urban areas achieve their sustainability goals. GreenCities Events, for one, hosts conferences around the U.S. at which local experts, policymakers and business leaders share ideas for greening their region. And International Sustainable Solutions takes urban planners, developers and elected officials on tours so they can check out some of the world’s greenest cities to glean firsthand what works and what can be applied back home.

GOT AN ENVIRONMENTAL QUESTION? Send it to: EarthTalk, c/o E/The Environmental Magazine, P.O. Box 5098, Westport, CT 06881; submit it at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/thisweek/, or e-mail: earthtalk@emagazine.com. Read past columns at: www.emagazine.com/earthtalk/archives.php.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

BELOIT, Wis.—Beloit Regional Hospice will host an open house from 5:30 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, May 5, at their offices in the historic Ironworks building in downtown Beloit, 655 Third St., Suite 200. You can get information regarding the many services provided by the hospice and Transitions team and meet staff members. A short question-and-answer presentation will also be available at 6:15 p.m.

Beloit Regional Hospice provides care for terminally-ill patients and support for their families in the counties of Boone, Green, Rock, Walworth and Winnebago. The team includes nurses, certified nursing assistants, physicians, social workers, grief support staff and volunteers, as well as administrative and clerical staff. For more information, contact Beloit Regional Hospice toll free at (877) 363-7421, or you can visit their Web site at www.beloitregionalhospice.com.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

AURORA, Ill.—The majority of people killed in teen driver crashes continue to be people other than teen drivers themselves, according to an updated analysis of 10 years of crash data by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

The analysis shows that about one-third of people killed in crashes involving drivers ages 15 to 17 are teen drivers themselves. Nearly two-thirds are passengers, occupants of other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists and other road users.

“For every teen driver killed in a crash, almost twice as many other people die, which underscores the link between teen driver safety and the safety of everyone on the road,” said AAA Chicago Regional President Brad Roeber.

Nationally, between 1998 and 2007, crashes involving 15-, 16- and 17-year-old drivers killed 28,138 people, of whom 10,388 (36.9 percent) were teen drivers themselves. The remaining 17,750 (63.1 percent) deaths included 8,829 passengers of the teen drivers, 6,858 occupants of other vehicles operated by adult drivers, and 2,063 non-motorists and others. A previous analysis in 2006 found that between 1995 and 2004, crashes involving 15-, 16- and 17-year-old drivers claimed the lives of 30,917 people, of whom 36.2 percent were teen drivers themselves, and 63.6 percent were others.

In Illinois, between 1998 and 2007, crashes involving 15-, 16- and 17-year-old drivers killed 1,078 people, of whom 379 (35 percent) were teen drivers themselves. The remaining 699 (65 percent) included 350 passengers of the 15- to 17-year-old drivers, 260 occupants of other vehicles operated by adult drivers, 89 non-motorists and others.

In Indiana, between 1998 and 2007, crashes involving 15-, 16- and 17-year-old drivers killed 783 people, of whom 319 (41 percent) were teen drivers themselves. The remaining 464 (59 percent) included 232 passengers of the 15- to 17-year-old drivers, 188 occupants of other vehicles operated by adult drivers, 44 non-motorists and others.

“Young drivers face an array of potentially-deadly challenges at the wheel,” said AAA Foundation President and CEO Peter Kissinger. “Parents and teens need to understand the serious responsibility of driving and the risks and consequences involved.”

AAA points to the drop in both teen driver deaths and the larger drop in deaths of others during the last decade as evidence that improving teen driver safety benefits all road users.

“During the last decade, as states improved their teen licensing systems and AAA has helped parents get more involved, we have seen reductions in teen driver deaths and even larger reductions in the number of other people killed,” said Roeber. “Clearly, measures put into place to save teen drivers help us all.”

AAA continues to call for comprehensive graduated driver licensing (GDL) systems that let new teen drivers gain experience under less-risky conditons. States with comprehensive GDL systems have been shown to reduce deaths among 16-year-old drivers by 38 percent. Forty-nine state GDL systems fall short of AAA guidelines.

AAA also encourages parents to play the leading role in developing their teen driver through regular dialogue, selecting a quality driving school, using a parent-teen driving agreement, extensive practice driving, and choosing a safe vehicle for their teen.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

Just how grim life in industrial and manufacturing towns will be in the wake of an all-but-dismantled U.S. auto industry continues to be unknown. With little positivity on the horizon at the corporate level, even more extreme cutbacks are expected on the home fronts of thousands who depended on comfortable auto worker salaries.

As U.S. automakers are more dependent on government relief funds pushed closer to global mergers, industry wages are predicted to dip to all-time lows to keep the companies afloat. States like Illinois, Indiana and Michigan, largely dependent on successful manufacturing industries, could be in for a sobering reality check. When industry topples, blight follows.

If just one of Detroit’s “Big Three” goes belly-up, economists say the aftermath would be devastating, resulting in the loss of about 2 million jobs, equating to more than $250 billion income. Hundreds of parts suppliers, rubber makers, car dealers and other symbiotic merchants would also be sent packing. Economists fear this outcome just may be on the horizon.

General Motors has until the end of May to restructure to qualify for further federal aid. Chrysler, reportedly in the middle of a merger with Fiat, has been ordered by Washington to solidify the deal by the end of this month. This means further plant closings could be imminent and bankruptcy more of a reality than ever before. As families pack for greener pastures, Midwestern manufacturing cities are being left behind to look like Old West ghost towns. Some states are starting see more people leave each year than are moving in. Michigan saw almost 110,000 people bail last year, census numbers show. If economists are correct, more Americans will continue to turn from a decades’-long dependency on manufacturing income, especially those provided by automotive-related industries.

Rockford-area workers of the past, no strangers to mass manufacturing exoduses, saw thousands of jobs disappear as factories moved abroad. Decades of confusion and longing to return to the good, old days are fresh on the minds of all who remembered the city in its heyday. For thousands of Chrysler employees, they’ve already begun preparing to join the ranks of those who came before them.

The next few weeks will prove crucial for millions of people who commonly represent billions of dollars, as Detroit—mainly Chrysler and GM—continues to keep the ax from striking down its cash supplies that used to feed manufacturing families throughout the Midwest.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

CHICAGO—Attorney General Lisa Madigan on Feb. 2 called on the Office of the U.S. Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) and the Office of Thrift Supervision (OTS) to encourage national banks and federal thrift servicing operations to modify large numbers of mortgage loans that are becoming unaffordable for consumers. Madigan made the call following questionable reports by the OCC and OTS that indicated 55 percent of loan modifications made by national banks and federal thrifts were re-defaulting within six months.

“We have done far too little to modify unaffordable loans, not too much,” wrote Madigan in a letter to John C. Dugan, U.S. Comptroller of the Currency, and John M. Reich, director of OTS.

The letter, which was signed by 12 other attorneys general and three state bank regulators as members of the State Foreclosure Prevention Working Group, indicated that data collected by the states conversely show a significantly lower re-default rate on modified loans. The working group has issued reports on loan modification activity by 13 major non-bank subprime servicers showing a re-default rate of 25.8 percent, compared to the 55 percent re-default rate reported for loan modifications made by national banks and federal thrifts for the same period.

Madigan and the other state authorities questioned the OCC re-default figure, and pointed out that it could discourage Congress and other policymakers from promoting affordable loan modifications as a crucial response to the nationwide foreclosure crisis.

“The problem is not modifications,” Madigan said. “The issue is the quality, effectiveness and aggressiveness of the modifications. There is a growing body of research that suggests the majority of loan modifications in the past year have not led to meaningful payment relief to homeowners. In fact, many modifications have actually increased consumers’ monthly payments.”

The re-default rate reported by the OCC and OTS is especially troubling to the states because national banks and federal thrifts service the vast majority of prime, Alt-A, and Option-ARM loans, all of which present immediate challenges in 2009.

“We want to convey our deep concern about OCC and OTS efforts to encourage and monitor loan modification efforts,” according to the states’ letter. “The data suggests that national banks and federal thrifts are relying on traditional loss mitigation techniques common for prime loans in appreciating markets, rather than applying the techniques and lessons learned by subprime servicing specialists on the need to more aggressively adjust payments and principal balances.”

Madigan said the State Foreclosure Working Group would work cooperatively with federal regulators to develop a comprehensive report on the efforts of mortgage servicers to prevent foreclosure in order to provide increased transparency, consistency and reliability in available data.

“We are concerned that either the institutions supervised by the OCC and OTS have thus far failed to offer homeowners sustainable loan modifications, in contravention of guidance issued by the federal banking agencies, or that the data collection has some other limitations not identifiable by your current report,” Madigan and the states wrote.

The state AGs and bank officials asked the two federal regulators to provide a full, transparent report of loan modifications–and whether the modifications had helpful terms for homeowners, such as lower monthly payments.

“Without more transparent and robust reporting, we are concerned that the statistics publicized by the OCC/OTS Report are misleading and likely to mislead policymakers and the public about the effectiveness of loan modification programs,” Madigan said.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

StoryImage( ‘/Images/Story//Auto-img-123981241731986.jpg’, ”, ‘Pat Callan‘);

As sweet of a deal as the forgivable $8,000 first-time home buyers’ tax credit seems to be, dire economic factors and lack of consumer awareness may be keeping the dream of homeownership at bay.

Some consumers still find themselves at the mercy of uncertainty, as reports of rising unemployment and foreclosure rates make the future seem bleak. This, officials say, continues to keep potential home buyers on the outside looking in for those reaping the benefits.

National surveys conducted by the National Association of Realtors (NAR) indicate many potential buyers are unaware of the tax credit altogether. Only 18 percent of the more than 1,000 surveyed said they plan to take advantage of the program. The NAR survey did show, however, more than 20 percent of participants, many of whom were renters, considered homeownership in their immediate future, making $8,000 an attractive carrot.

Realtors are increasing marketing efforts in the midst of the strongest buyer’s markets in decades. A video on YouTube contains a seven-minute interview with Illinois Association of Realtors President Pat Callan, who explains the tax credit, simplifying it as “free money.” Callan also notes FHA loan limit increases and other government incentives for home energy efficiency.

Rock River Valley agents are using fliers, billboards, TV commercials and seminars as Realtors begin to see the need to increase awareness.

“Now is the time to buy,” said Jackie Cozzi, director of Communication and Professional Development for the Rockford Area Association of Realtors. “This is as good as it gets. Inventories are full, and rates are low.”

Potential first-timers may be a bit in the dark about the very structure of the tax credit program. Unlike last year’s incentive, which provided funds of up to $7,500 for first-time buyers in the form of no-interest loans, 2009 money is, in fact, “free money.”

Further, buyers can file an amendment to their 2008 income taxes and receive the funds now, as long as they purchase before Dec. 1. When amendments are approved, the government will issue them a refund worth 10 percent of the home’s purchase price, up to $8,000.

This, stats show, should cause an ample pool of first-time buyers to swell even larger. Last year, 41 percent of homes sold in the United States were purchased by those buying their first homes. With more than 1,700 first-time sales predicted in the Rockford area this year, increased awareness of the tax credit can only add to that pot, especially as the market moves into spring, when agents normally see an increase in activity.

“It’s literally money-in-pocket,” Cozzi added. “It would be a disservice to let (it) go to waste.”

Rockford Realtors are also gearing up for Money Smart Week, a national campaign aimed to educate consumers on saving, obtaining credit and the availability of government programs.

Money Smart Week runs from Saturday, April 18, to Saturday, April 25. Participating area programs will be ample, Cozzi noted, including a consumer credit seminar Tuesday, April 21, at the Rockford Area Association of Realtors (RAAR) office.

More information about the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 and first-time homebuyer’s tax credits can be obtained at www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com. RAAR can be reached at (815) 395-6776 and online at www.raar.com. The interview with Pat Callan of the Illinois Association of Realtors can be seen at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VGHPf0YmrT.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

As I sit and write this, a little more than three hours have passed since Angel Cabrera outplayed Kenny Perry on the second hole of their playoff at the Masters. I’m still bummed. I was really pulling for Perry. Nothing against Cabrera, mind you, I just really wanted Perry to win.

Here’s why I became such a Perry fan this weekend. He has played in the Rockford Pro-Am the last several years. He seems to be a genuinely good guy. He had to overcome a neck injury and alter his swing to be able to play the game. Besides all of that, he and I are the same age. We also have a couple of other things in common: I heard him admit he rarely watches what he eats, and he doesn’t work out as often as he should. I bonded with this guy.

I thought for sure he had the green jacket locked up when he almost made a hole-in-one on hole No. 16. His tee shot on the par three rolled to within a foot of the cup for what amounted to a “give-me” birdie putt. That put him up by two strokes with only two holes remaining in the 288-hole tournament. I was already celebrating his victory for him.

What happened after that was purely bad golf karma. He relinquished his (what I thought at the time was insurmountable) two-stroke lead by making bogeys on holes 17 and 18. My heart immediately sank. I sensed the wheels were falling off the Perrymobile. It hurt, and it still does.

He was forced into a three-way playoff with Cabrera and Chad Campbell. The trio teed off on No. 18 for the fifth time in the tournament. Perry and Cabrera made their par putts. Campbell missed his, and was finished.

Perry and Cabrera then headed to hole No. 10 for the second playoff hole. I can’t talk about it anymore. You know by now Cabrera won.

I’ll probably be in Masters mourning all this week. Just imagine how Perry must feel.

Doug Halberstadt can be reached via e-mail at Dougster61@aol.com.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

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Opening week in Major League Baseball has come and gone for the Chicago White Sox, and there are many positives, as well as a few negatives, that can be taken from this first week.

The White Sox finished opening week with a record of 3-3, winning their series against the Minnesota Twins, but losing their series against the new-and-improved Kansas City Royals.

If you watched the White Sox in 2008, you might notice this year’s team looks almost nothing like it did last season. The Sox have new players at center field, third base, second base, shortstop and even a new fifth starter. Many of these newly-acquired players are somewhat of a question mark, and their success will ultimately determine the success of the entire team.

Second baseman Chris Getz, third baseman Josh Fields and centerfielder Dewayne Wise all started the first opening day of their careers last Monday, April 6, and that is why some critics have projected the White Sox to finish last in the A.L. Central Division.

The first week of baseball is usually a little rocky as players often take time to find their “groove,” but here are a few positives and some negatives fans may have noticed.

Positives

Starting pitching: In 35 1/3 innings pitched, the starting rotation threw 27 strikeouts, registered an ERA of 2.43 and only gave up three home runs. In four of the six games, the White Sox’s starting rotation pitched what MLB calls “quality starts” (six or more innings pitched, fewer than six hits and fewer than three earned runs).

Bullpen: With the exception of two games, the bullpen was able to come in and either hold the lead, or get quick outs.

Chris Getz: Offensively, Getz struggled a little bit, but he proved he has speed on the bases and range in the infield. Getz made a number of great plays at second base this week, and will only get better as the season progresses.

Veteran hitting: Well, the White Sox can still hit the long ball. That’s no surprise to anyone. Jim Thome, Jermaine Dye, Paul Konerko and Carlos Quentin all homered this week, and once the weather warms up and the ball starts carrying a little better at U.S. Cellular Field, many, many more will come.

Bartolo Colon: Bartolo Colon was a major issue in spring training. Many wondered whether he would even make the roster. However, Colon pitched six scoreless innings, allowing just three hits. Time will tell if he will continue to pitch that well, but it is a great start.

Negatives

Hitting with runners in scoring position: The White Sox had many opportunities to knock in runs this week, but simply did not get the timely hitting. It seems as though they are still relying on the long ball to win games, and that is something that needs to change.

Bunting: Dewayne Wise failed three times in two games to bunt the runner at first over to second, and the never-ending quest for a leadoff man continues.

Mike MacDougal: I don’t like to harp on guys too much, but MacDougal is just plain bad. I’m not quite sure how he made the team, but he needs to improve or be shipped to AAA Charlotte. In 2 1/3 innings pitched, he registered an ERA of 7.71.

Center field: Center field is an interesting dilemma because Brian Anderson is by far the best centerfielder on the team, but he simply cannot hit. Wise seems like a temporary solution, but he also has his struggles at the plate. My suggestion is to move Alexei Ramirez to center field, which is a real natural position for him. Once Ramirez is ready at center, bring up Gordon Beckham from the minors to play shortstop and leadoff. Until Beckham is ready, put Brent Lillibridge at shortstop and leadoff.

Those are some positives and negatives that can be taken from this first week of baseball. The season is still very young, and so much can change in a week, but I would say that, all in all, it was a good week for the White Sox, who finished the week second in the A.L. Central behind the Detroit Tigers.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

A Green Expo featuring products and services aimed at improving the environment will be at Rockford College from 4 to 8 p.m., April 20, in the college’s Burpee Center Regents Hall.

The event, sponsored by Rockford College’s Jane Addams Center for Civic Engagement (JACCE) and the campus Rotoract chapter, is intended to showcase vendors who use or promote “green” techniques in their business.

Among the vendors expected are The Morrissey Family Businesses, promoting the new “No Idle” initiative; Cintas, for document shredding; Amazing Foam Insulation; Computer Repair; Village at Boulder Creek; Solarcone, Inc.; Oregon Soap Shoppe; and Shelter Box USA, featuring a tent with supplies that can accommodate 10 people for six months during disasters.

The Green Expo is free and open to the public. For more information, call JACCE at (815) 394-4382. This event is one of many campus activities (see list of activities below) coinciding with Green Week at the college, April 20-24. For more information, see www.rockford.edu.

Green Week activities

Monday, April 20—7 p.m.—Presentation in Regents Hall by Steve Ettlinger—“Twinkie Deconstructed”—about the real truth behind processed foods. Interviews from 3:15 to 4:30 p.m. in the Burpee lobby. See www.twinkiedeconstructed.com for more.

Tuesday, April 21—Student Alix Sauld will visit a couple of Rockford-area schools to read to kids and have them decorate a banner in honor of Earth Day.

11 a.m.-1 p.m.—Regent Athletics Getting Excited (RAGE) to have a bags tournament on Burpee Commons

4-8 p.m.—Green Expo in Regents Hall featuring businesses who use or promote green products and services.

Wednesday, April 22—11 a.m.-1 p.m.—Canvas bag decorating under the library overhang—students will be able to decorate their own canvas bag.

6 or 7 p.m.—An Inconvenient Truth movie and discussion in Starr 207

Thursday, April 23—11 a.m.-1 p.m.—Flower planting under the library overhang using empty yogurt cups collected from students, faculty and staff.

Friday, April 24—9 a.m.—Students will plant trees around campus; they will be working on the triangle area near A-lot at this time, and will possibly be working in other areas that afternoon

All week—Students will be collecting aluminum cans and using the money from recycling them to adopt a rainforest (2,500 square feet for $10) or replant trees in areas damages by fire, insects or disease ($1 per tree). They will be asking students, faculty and staff for unique ways to go green. Names will be drawn for the green ideas, and that person will win a prize.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

It begins with enzymes, chlorophyll, eating simply and sleeping well, drinking pure water and the power of our thoughts. How does one start this journey or overcome habits?

Raw fruits and vegetables contain the living elements that give you life. Green smoothies are a great start to eating healthier because they are easy, tasty, satisfying, versatile, portable and very kid friendly. Kids are so impressionable, and planting a seed of this nature will reap rewards in the months and years to come. Children are open to trying these things in the right circumstance, but the long-term change should include the whole family.

Green smoothies are simply a fruit smoothie with greens added to them, such as celery, parsley, romaine lettuce, spinach or kale. Start with 60 percent fruit and 40 percent greens, and you won’t even notice the taste of the greens. As you continue making green smoothies, increase the amount of greens. The darker the green, the more nutritious it is.

Kale is highly nutritious; however, it may be something you will work up to or use in smaller amounts initially if you are not used to consuming a lot of greens as some may find it to be bitter.

Blending helps break down the fiber, but works as a broom in your system. Smoothies are easier on the digestive system, and leave you with more energy, versus foods you would chew. Morning time is ideal for smoothies when the body is in cleansing mode and wants to spend less time working to digest food; however, they are wonderful as snacks as well.

Many question the value of changing their diet and making healthier choices to enjoy a better quality of life and to live longer. The pleasure gained from bad habits is over-estimated, and the “rewards” from healthy living are typically underestimated. Healthful eating adds more to your life than extra years. Eating at least 50 percent raw fruits and vegetables allows you to wake up in the morning full of energy, and to experience the value of how amazing it feels to be healthy. An incredible and awesome feeling. Healthful living has its rewards in the HERE and NOW.

Be optimistic, raw foods taste great and are incredible for you! Learn more, attend a FREE “Why Raw?” talk at 10 a.m., April 25, at Vitamins N More, 1627 N. Alpine, Rockford. Pre-register by April 23. Raw Food classes are available. Contact Raw Energy at (815) 543-1207 or by e-mail to myrawenergy@yahoo.com to register or request a schedule.

Brenda Richter is a graduate of Living Light Culinary Arts Institute, where she received her certification as a Raw Culinary Arts associate chef and instructor. Brenda is passionate about sharing the living foods lifestyle with others, and now teaches raw culinary arts classes in the Rockford and the surrounding area.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

Presented by the registered dietitians of OSF St. Anthony Medical Center, a one-session class called “Eating to Lower Your Cholesterol” explores the basics of a low-saturated fat, high-fiber eating plan.

The next class will be offered from 5:30 to 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 21, at the OSF St. Anthony Center for Health, 5510 E. State St., Room 154.

The class is intended for those who are just beginning to change their eating habits, for those who need to review a low-cholesterol eating plan, or for those who need a push to get back on track.

During the class, a dietitian will evaluate the participants’ current eating pattern and make recommendations for changes that will help them meet their goals of cholesterol reduction. Participants will learn what their cholesterol readings mean, learn to calculate maximum grams of fat and saturated fat, learn what and how much to eat and receive an introduction into reading labels.

Participants receive written materials explaining the eating plan as well as some recipes to try at home.

Registration by calling (815) 395-5025 is required. Space is limited to allow for discussion and questions. The cost for the class is $20.

OSF St. Anthony Medical Center, a Level I Trauma Center, is a member of OSF HealthCare System, an affiliate corporation of The Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis. Its Web site is www.osfsaintanthony.org.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

OREGON, Ill.—Ogle County Health Department is now offering nicotine replacement patches (NRT) through “Break the Habit” program. To qualify for the patches, participants will need to contact the Illinois Tobacco Quitline at (866) QUIT-YES.

Callers who keep in contact with the Quitline can receive nicotine replacement patches to help them in their efforts to stop smoking. A two-week supply of patches will be available from the Health Department for $10/two-week box. Participants will be eligible for up to six weeks (three boxes of patches). The patches will be available in different strengths (21 mg/14 mg/7 mg) as recommended by their Quitline counselor.

The program is open to adults 18 years and older who live in Ogle County. Callers who have a public medical card will be advised to go through their doctor. If participants have private insurance, they will need to check with their provider to see if NRT is provided through their insurance. Funding is limited and may be discontinued without notice.

Quitline counselors will remind participants to call the Health Department to make arrangements to pick up their patches. Callers will need to pay $10 before they are issued any patches. Participants will be responsible for picking up their patches at a local pharmacy.

The Illinois Tobacco Quitline provides free smoking cessation counseling over the telephone. The toll-free number is (866) QUIT-YES or (866) 784-8937. The Surgeon General and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention both agree that telephone helplines can increase an individual’s success in quitting smoking by more than 50 percent.

The Illinois Tobacco Quitline staff is on hand from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Friday, to answer questions, assist in revising plans, and provide tips while offering support and encouragement in the smoking cessation process. Voice messages can be left at any time after hours and will be returned the next business day. Information can be accessed via the Internet at any time.

Professional counselors ask the callers about readiness to quit, history of tobacco use and previous quit attempts. The counselors are qualified to discuss all issues relating to lung health. Physician referrals and information about medicines and treatments are also available.

A cessation program is then customized to fit each caller’s needs. A quit-kit including self-help materials, information about nicotine replacement therapies, and requested information is mailed to the caller.

The counselors will maintain weekly communication with participants for a minimum of six weeks. Thereafter, follow-up calls are made at three months, six months and 12 months.

The Illinois Tobacco Quitline is funded by the Illinois Department of Public Health and administered through the American Lung Association of Illinois. For more information about the Quitline or receiving nicotine replacement patches, call or e-mail Carol Erickson at Ogle County Health Department, (815) 732-7330, ext. 279, or cerickson@oglecounty.org.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

One of the crown jewels of the Rock River Valley is having an open house this Saturday, April 18. The Rockford YMCA at 200 Y Blvd. will be open to the community from 1 to 4 p.m.

The open house is in conjunction with their YMCA Healthy Kids Day. The day gets started with the Healthy Kids Day Fun Run for kids in kindergarten through sixth grade. Registration for the 1-mile walk/run begins at 11:30 a.m., and continues until 12:30 p.m. with the race beginning at 1 p.m.

The advance registration fee is $5 (prior to April 16) and $8 after the 16th. Advance registration can be done online at www.rockfordymca.org. Race day registration will be in the YMCA ID Pennock Branch in the Riverview Lobby. The first 250 registrants will receive a free T-shirt. All participants will be entered into a drawing for various prizes.

After the run, everyone is invited to enjoy special activities planned for Healthy Kids Day and all of the other amenities the YMCA has to offer. Kids are encouraged to get moving by playing in a special giant, inflatable obstacle course. There will be active games in the activity center. Hop Sports will be featured in the family center. Swimming, climbing and racquetball will also be available for public participation.

If you have never been to the YMCA before, or if it has been a while since you’ve been there, this Saturday would be your perfect opportunity to check it out again. Bring the entire family, and get everyone moving at the YMCA Healthy Kids Day.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

StoryImage( ‘/Images/Story//Auto-img-12398123272608.jpg’, ‘Photo provided by Byron Forest Preserve’, ‘Jessica Camling is all smiles after her catch.‘);

I don’t fish, although it seems as though I should. I’m a middle-aged male, and a devoted river worshipper. Aren’t fish the heart of a river system? I thought I should do some self-analysis to figure out why I don’t fish. Better yet, maybe I’d find the answer I seek if I first understood what brings others to this obsession.

I have a friend, Gus. Most of Gus’ thoughts find themselves oozing out of the right side of his brain, the “artsy” lobes. His left hand, while holding a paint brush, can get the same result as a symphony conductor with a baton; only the outcome is visual music placed upon a canvas.

Gus has fished most of his life. He tells me a story of being 3 years old and remembering how he waited eagerly for his dad and big brothers to come home from a fishing adventure and dump their fishing basket at his feet. From the moment the catch of the day was released from their basket until they were reduced to filets, Gus would stare at these beautiful creatures in a hypnotic trance. He was “hooked,” from that day on.

Gus anticipated being old enough to go fishing. He loved the ritual of waiting for an early rise to go fishing with his Grandpa. Every evening before an outing was like Christmas Eve to him. He tells me these stories today with the excitement and passion of a young boy.

It comes as no surprise to me that Gus admits it is the true “visual” of the fishing experience that races his heart now, but it’s much more than that, too. It is the ritual, the tradition of his lifelong pursuit that returns him to the waters.

Like so many other things we love as adults, they seem to be linked to an exposure at an early age. Kids connect because some adult has guided their fascinations. I was fortunate my parents connected me to nature, but it certainly wasn’t through a fishing line. The following are two of my accounts of early boyhood fishing experiences. (My Dad might have told a different account of these stories, but so it goes with fishing tales.)

When I was about the age of 7, my Dad took me to the Rock River in Rockton. I was getting nibbles on my bait, immediately after putting my line into the water. Some fish was eating my worm as fast as my Dad could impale my pre-fishing trip playmates on a hook. Dad finally casually advised me to give my pole as big of a yank as I could. So, I did, with all my might. Immediately, a carp launched out of the water aimed directly at me.

The line and the fish became wrapped tightly around my leg. The carp was flopping around like, well, like a fish out of water. Every time its flesh hit mine, I’d let out a loud scream. I managed to kick over the tackle box, step on our lunch, and I drew the attention of everyone within a mile radius.

Dad eventually quit laughing long enough to free the horrified me from the terrified carp. The fish was more than happy to be tossed back into the muddy river. We went home early, ending my first fishing experience.

My next memory of fishing was when I was around 10 years old; my sister-in-law’s brother was the ranger at Four Lakes Forest Preserve. He had invited my Dad and me out to fish there. (I have three brothers; to my knowledge, they never got invited to go fishing. I wonder what was up with that?)

It was a very hot August day, and the sun was beating down on us in the middle of this small lake as we sat in a rowboat. I have no idea what we were talking about, but I do remember the fish were not as hungry as the Rock River attack carp several years earlier.

Nothing was biting. It could have been the heat or having no water, or maybe it was just out of boredom—but I got sick to my stomach. As I clung to the side of the boat, heaving whatever it was I had for breakfast overboard, the last words I heard on any fishing trip (because this one would be the last) were: “Atta boy, don’t get any in the boat!”

It was looking quite possible that I’m not a junkie on fishing today because of these negative experiences in my youth. But to be sure, I thought I would ask the advice of another friend, Jayla. I consider Jayla to be the Zen spiritual leader of all things ichthyologized, a true knower of all things wet and scaly.

Jayla tells me she was a paddler long before becoming a fisherperson. Here are her thoughts; “Fishing is a damn fine recreation. It has all that’s required of a damn fine recreation: a rich literature and history, the gear and tackle can be so well made and beautiful as to approach art, it’s done in beautiful places, it makes no rational sense and, therefore, can serve as a metaphor for all the other B.S. we do in life.” (Ah, yes…obviously words inscribed on a stone tablet brought down from a mountaintop somewhere.)

A few years back, I took a couple of teenage boys canoeing. They fished from the bow and the mid-thwart while I paddled the canoe from the stern. They were seeking the beautiful “smallies” that make their home in the clear, clean waters of the Kishwaukee River. This essay is a result of one of those boys asking me, “Why don’t you fish?”

As I watch my young friends, I realize they will never be any of those people who trash the river, clutter the banks or carelessly rip hooks from fish. They approach the art of fishing not to conquer the fish, but to be equal players in an ecosystem. They respect the natural order of things, and embrace and value the role of both fish and humans.

The great naturalist, Aldo Leopold, stated, “It is inconceivable to me that an ethical relationship can exist without love, respect and admiration for the land.” (In this case, water.) The joy of the catch, the release and every conversation with “smallie” in hand, was a great event to witness between these two boys. They spoke of fisherman Jimmy Houston and his sacrament of kissing the bass he catches before slipping them back into the water. [I admittedly have kissed a few amphibians in my time, hoping for that elusive princess, but all of this “bass kissing” stuff was news to me.] I feel there is hope for the river community because of these boys, and other boys and girls like them.

So, my search has led me to more reasons to fish than not to fish, but I think I still choose to be in the company of those who share my love for the rivers with only a paddle in my hands. At least for now.

Don Miller is education director at Severson Dells Nature Center, 8786 Montague Road, Rockford. For more about Severson Dells, visit seversondells.com.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

After an 80-game grueling regular season came to a close last Saturday night, the Rockford IceHogs are extremely happy they will be playing some more grueling hockey this week. Their quest for the 2009 American Hockey League Calder Cup begins tomorrow night (Thursday, April 16) in Milwaukee.

The ’Hogs will face the Admirals in the West Division Semifinals. Games one and two of the series will take place at the Bradley Center in Milwaukee. The two division rivals will take to the ice for game one at 7 p.m., Thursday, April 16, and game two is Saturday, April 18, at 7:30 p.m.

Games three and four will be played here in town at the Rockford MetroCentre. The dates and times for those games were unavailable at press time. If necessary, a sixth game would be played at the MetroCentre as well.

The Admirals finished the regular season in first place in the Western Conference West Division of the AHL. They had a total of 107 points (49-22-3-6). They were tied with the Manitoba Moose for most points in the AHL this season.

Rockford finished the regular season in fourth place in the Western Conference West Division. They amassed 86 total points (40-34-0-6).

The ’Hogs will have to step it up at least a notch or two during the postseason if they hope to advance in the playoffs beyond the Admirals. The two teams played a total of 10 times during the regular season. Rockford only managed to win four of those games. Milwaukee won the last game they played against one another back on April 4 here in Rockford. The ’Hogs were outscored in that game 4-1.

Tickets for games three and four of the IceHogs-Admirals West Division Semifinals series are on sale by calling (815) 968-5222, on the Web at www.metrocentre.com, in person at the MetroCentre Box Office or at ’Hogs Headquarters inside the CherryVale Mall.

Doug Halberstadt can be reached via e-mail at Dougster61@aol.com.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

StoryImage( ‘/Images/Story//Auto-img-123981188330717.jpg’, ”, ”);
StoryImage( ‘/Images/Story//Auto-img-12398119014981.jpg’, ”, ‘Last week's crossword answer.‘);

Across

1 Desert watering hole

6 Warty amphibian

10 Pitch a tent

14 American Red Cross founder Barton

15 German carmaker

16 Part of REO

17 A source of information

20 Acorn maker

21 Some boxing wins: abbr.

22 Moo ___ gai pan

23 Miscellaneous collection

25 Some instrumental pieces

29 Beginning

32 Penny

33 Play a role

34 Bamboo-eating mammal

35 Pre-euro unit of Italy

36 A single time

37 A source of information

40 A ___ apple

41 Iowa State city

42 Lying face down

43 Male Manx

44 Apple item

45 Quickly, in music

46 Partner of Palmer and Lake

48 Playthings

49 “2001” computer

50 Transgression

51 Wash. neighbor

54 A source of information

60 Word with bunny or Bowl

61 Leave out

62 Split

63 Take five

64 Pecans and filberts

65 Taste or touch

Down

1 Eight: prefix

2 Edison’s middle name

3 Disappeared under the surface

4 Wrath

5 Witnessed

6 Verboten

7 Yours and mine

8 Uproar

9 Slanted

10 Hot drink

11 ___ carte

12 Drs.

13 L.A. winter hours

18 Peel

19 Word before “ask” and “tell”

23 Humorous poet Nash

24 Perjurer

25 Belgrade residents

26 Ballroom selections

27 Emphasis

28 Sound system

29 Narcotic

30 Part of REO

31 “A stitch ___ saves…”

32 Quoted as an example

35 Bad auto purchase

36 Shrek and others

38 Elba exile

39 “Grand Ole ___”

44 “And to Think That ___ It on Mulberry Street”

45 Kind of tail or Express

47 Butler for Scarlett O’Hara

48 Leans

50 Comedy sketch

51 Unlocked

52 NFL officials

53 Art Deco designer

54 WPA and CCC launcher

55 Actess McClanahan

56 Tee preceder

57 Aussie ostrich-like bird

58 HP’s and Dells, e.g.

59 Potent pint

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

StoryImage( ‘/Images/Story//Auto-img-1239812250319.jpg’, ‘Photo provided’, ‘Tanglefoot’s “Farewell Tour” will be presented at 8 p.m., Friday, April 17, at Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 415 N. Church St., Rockford.‘);

As Shakespeare said, “Parting is such sweet sorrow.” Charlotte’s Web for the Performing Arts invites you to join them in such a bittersweet moment. Tanglefoot, the Canadian group that debuted at the Web in 2004, loved as an energetic import from the North, is on the final leg of their musical journey. This is a group whose harmonies spread joy, and, it has been rumored, spontaneous bursts of dancing.

Tanglefoot’s “Farewell Tour” will be presented at 8 p.m., Friday, April 17, at Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 415 N. Church St., Rockford. For everything there is a season, and 2009 will be the last for Tanglefoot. “It’s been 25-plus years, and we’ve had a tremendous run. This will be a very busy year, and we hope to see as many of you as possible as we make our farewell tour. We’ll see you out there!” said Al Parrish.

The group consists of Al Parrish, double bass; Rob Ritchie, piano; Steve Ritchie, acoustic guitar; Sandra Swannell, violin, viola; and Terry Young, guitar, mandolin, banjo.

One fan described them as “Stan Rogers meets Van Halen,” and Tanglefoot is indeed a potent brew of full-throttle energy, musical agility and exquisite vocal polish. They are one of Canada’s busiest acoustic/roots bands, and since 1998 have maintained a relentless touring schedule across Canada, the United States and Britain.

They’re also a noteworthy group of songwriters, “… masters of the storytelling tradition, (with) elegant, sensitive musicianship and an impressive range of talent,” according to BBC Yorkshire, while the Chester Chronicle exclaimed, “The huge impact of their adept songwriting, spectacular vocal harmonies and strong instrumental accompaniment is hard to resist.”

Violinist/violist Sandra Swinnell debuted with Tanglefot in January 2006. Guitarist Steve Ritchie has the longest tenure, having joined in 1988. Toronto bass player Al Parrish has been around since 1994. The multi-faceted Terry Young joined in 1999, playing mandolin, guitar, tenor and five-string banjo, harmonica and whistle. Most recently, former Tanglefoot piano player and songwriter Rob Ritchie has returned to the band after a five-year hiatus, during which his first book was published (Orphans of Winter, Seraphim Editions).

Their monumental a cappella song “Vimy” drew an invitation to perform at the 90th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge on April 9, 2007. Tanglefoot’s most recent UK tour included a breathtaking a cappella set at Southwell Minster, a 900-year-old Norman cathedral–an event that, while part of the Gate To Southwell Festival, became the main talking point in the town for weeks.

On the other end of the spectrum, the band also enjoys the unusual claim-to-fame of having had one of their CDs fly aboard the space shuttle. The Music In the Wood accompanied Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield into orbit aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavor in April 2001.

Coincidentally, Tanglefoot is also the only Canadian band ever to play at the NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, Va.–Canadian culture for an auditorium full of rocket scientists.

Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Advance tickets are available at Rockford Area Arts Council, 713 E. State, (815) 963-6765; both of The Postal Shoppe locations, in the Edgebrook Center, (815) 397-7301 and 2205 S. Perryville, (815) 484-0940; The Kilt & Clover, 1414 N. Main, (815) 962-5458; and JustGoods, 201 Seventh St., (815) 965-8903. Tickets can also be ordered with credit card via PayPal ($1 /ticket service charge), at www.charlotteswebconcerts.com. Print your receipt and present it at the door to redeem your tickets.

For more information, call (815) 964-2238 or visit www.charlotteswebconcerts.com.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

StoryImage( ‘/Images/Story//Auto-img-123981215526413.jpg’, ”, ”);
StoryImage( ‘/Images/Story//Auto-img-123981219631593.jpg’, ”, ‘Pictured are two untitled screen prints by Javier Jimenez, on display at Kortman Gallery.‘);

Rockford artist Javier Jimenez will show his fresh, eye-catching silk-screened works in an exhibition opening with a reception from 5 to 9 p.m., Friday, April 17, and 3 to 9 p.m., Saturday, April 18, in the Kortman Gallery. The exhibition, titled “mixed messages,” is a visual adventure into Jimenez’s fascination with dots and halftone patterns which are the common elements of screen printing. Admission is free.

Jimenez, who owns Saturated Threads, a screen printing company, takes his work into the realm of op art by taking simple images and “complicating” them through the silk screen process of overlaying multiple dots and patterns.

“The resulting images sometimes trick the eye and show some sort of movement,” says Jimenez. “This movement effect, along with my choice of colors, results in some eye-popping images.”

Jimenez uses pop culture imagery in his works that are inspired by childhood memories and current events. “The exhibition will also feature some wearable art and other functional art objects featuring Javier’s cool images,” says Kortman Gallery director Doc Slafkosky. “Even his announcement cards were all hand screen printed, each signed and numbered!”

The “mixed messages” exhibition opening coincides with the Spring ArtScene from 5-9 p.m., Friday, April 17, and from 3-9 p.m., Saturday, April 18. The show runs through May 31. The Kortman Gallery is upstairs at J.R. Kortman Center for Design, 107 N. Main St., downtown Rockford. For more information, call (815) 968-0123 or visit www.jrkortman.com.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

StoryImage( ‘/Images/Story//Auto-img-123981207731986.jpg’, ‘Photo by Frank Schier’, ‘Pictured with he East High School Key Club as the winners of Hutchcroft Environmental Youth Award, Philippe Cousteau (tall center), correspondent for Animal Planet and the grandson of famous French oceanographer Jacques-Yves Cousteau, spoke April 9 at the second annual Earth Day Awards at Giovanni’s. Honors were given by Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful to Harlem Middle School teacher Jackie Plaetzer as winner of the Outstanding Individual Friend of the Environment Award; and to Roscoe’s Forest City Gear as the winner of Outstanding Corporate Friend of the Environment Award. ‘);

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

StoryImage( ‘/Images/Story//Auto-img-123981203131582.jpg’, ‘Photo by Frank Schier’, ‘(From left) Guilford music students Nathan Whitham, Colin Stalter, Roger McGuinn, C.K.Traylor, and Assistant Principal Kaaryn Kennington discuss music and The Byrds.‘);

Note: Every once in a while in this business, I am truly touched and feel blessed by a story I get to cover. Sometimes I can see the hand and beauty of creation operating in people­—and my faith in human nature is recharged. The energy and unique spirit of each genre of music moves me and helps me along in life—hence my thankfulness being involved with Charlotte’s Web, the RAMIs and various friends in all aspects of the business over the years. Sometimes music and its appreciation even reaches out of the past. Recently, one of our former music critics, John Rosenbloom, called me, and said he wanted to have lunch at Octane to talk to me about a “big story.” That “big story” was The Byrds’ legendary Roger McGuinn was going to give a presentation for a small group of English and music students at Guilford High School…and he didn’t want any publicity until it was over. Here’s another installment on that story.

Guilford English teacher Nancy Petersen had told Rosenbloom it was very unlikely McGuinn would reply to a request to talk to her class in the realm of Rosenbloom’s Sonic Literature presentations. Rosenbloom had dealt with the music industry for many years and sent a request to the musician’s management company. McGuinn replied.

He told Rosenbloom he had just begun going to colleges to speak about his music, and he really liked the idea of coming to a high school.

He told his story of when he was going to the upscale Latin High School, and Chicago folk music legend Bob Gibson came to his class and spoke and played. Gibson inspired him to hang out at the Old Towne School of Folk Music, the Gate of Horn night club and take formal guitar lessons. That’s where he was picked up by the Chad Mitchell Trio as one of their back-up players in the Twilighters. Then, he was hired away by Bobby Darren. Then, he worked in the song factory, the Brill Building, in New York, and The Byrds were born to live as legends today.

After all that, “It’s my turn to be Bob Gibson,” he told Rosenbloom. Rosenbloom said he read a book about The Byrds, and the first paragraph was about Bob Gibson.

The Beatles revolution was already in gear, but McGuinn’s roots were in folk. By this time, he had started to incorporate different elements of music into rock. Most folk music is written in 2/4 time. Most rock music is written in 4/4 time. Jazz has 5/4 and 4/4 as well. McGuinn also loves classical music. McGuinn began to meld these time signatures and the cross reference passages and lyrics from all styles of music. The Byrds’ music became an encyclopedia of music genres.

Paul Jay Robbins, writing for the Los Angeles Free Press at the time, said, “…The Byrds have gone through The Beatles and into a totally novel and fascinating place. They successfully united an audience of average teen-agers, Bach, Bartok and Cage, aesthetics, folkniks, sophisticated middle-agers, r&r devotees, and serious hippies into one joyous commitment. The key words are “unite” and “commitment.”

Their first big hit was “Mr. Tambourine Man” by Bob Dylan. The Byrds moved folk to rock before even Dylan himself. McGuinn’s electric 12-string and the songwriting talents of Gene Clark moved The Byrds to the Top Ten in American popular music and into the fore of the ’60s counterculture.

That culture took its toll on the original band and its new members as well. Gene Clark died of drug abuse. Michael Clarke died of drug abuse. Graham Parson died of alcohol and drug abuse. Kevin Kelly died of drug abuse. Clarence White was killed by a drunk driver. Skip Battin died of complications from Alzheimer’s. David Crosby had a liver transplant and other challenges. Along with Chris Hillman, Gene Parsons, and John York, Roger McGuinn survived.

Going back to the ’60s, suppose I told you The Byrds played Rockford College, and it was the first time David Crosby wore his trademark cape. That’s true.

To be continued…

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

Shumway Market will be transformed into the Barbagallo RAKU Market Saturday, April 18. From 3 to 5 p.m., Jim and Shawn Barbagallo will demonstrate the Japanese technique of RAKU. This ceramic technique was developed in the 16th and 17th centuries. In the 20th and 21st centuries, a father-and-son team took this process from Old World traditions and Americanized it through a form of ancient alchemy. Years of chemical and ceramic testing have produced a brilliant, stable gold glaze. They turn silver to gold.

Jim and Shawn will encourage young onlookers to participate, hands on. Their passion for this art form and for the arts in our community is tremendous. We are thrilled to have Jim on our board of directors, and are thankful for his participation and insight on The Element team. As a refresher, The Element is the team working on several projects around town to cultivate a creative community, including the visit from the non-profit organization Artspace.

The Arts Council is overwhelmed with the response for this ArtScene with 41 venues. The addition of music, dance and demonstrations, such as the Barbagallo’s at RAAC, add a fresh component to this weekend-long event.

Some of the new venues include: East Wind Business Complex at 129 Phelps; The Brewhouse ; Ted Simmering and Wall Blank on Hill and Prairie; The Carriage Barn at 1332 Harlem; Crimson Ridge; Sacred Art Tattoo, 406 East State; and RAW ART 2, 622 St. Louis.

The Arts Council’s mission is to support, promote and develop the arts for everyone. ArtScene is the chance to view for free and be inspired to buy! Supporting local artists is the first step in transforming Rockford into a “cool city,” and I know you want to be part of the buzz.

Visit www.springartscene.com to map out your route.

Anne E. O’Keefe is executive director of the Rockford Area Arts Council.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

StoryImage( ‘/Images/Story//Auto-img-123981196627954.jpg’, ”, ‘George Klauba’s “Tashtego”‘);

It’s a big weekend for art. And, if you’re interested—there’s plenty to see.

Not only is this weekend the opening of Rockford Art Museum’s (RAM) new feature exhibition, Moby Dick: Heart of the Sea, it’s also ArtScene. So, in an attempt to give you a teaser of what’s in store, I’ll give you some information that will help to navigate your way through the weekend.

So, even if you haven’t read Melville’s classic Moby Dick, we’re going to give you a chance to see the story and characters act out the novel in pictures. Exhibiting artists George Klauba and Kathleen Piercefield are both natives of the Chicago area. Works by Robert McCauley, former chairman of the Rockford College Department of Art, will provide a sculptural element to the exhibition.

Upon viewing the images that will be included in this exhibition (a perk of working at RAM!), I have been drawn into learning about a novel that, previously, I had never taken much personal interest in. The images are stunning, and they are dramatic.

To all the tattoo artists in town, here’s an opportunity to see where tattooing influences fine art.

George Klauba (one of the three artists mentioned above) served in the U.S. Navy, which had a huge influence on his interest in those who lived and worked in the harsh conditions the oceans presented.

On Klauba’s Web site, georgeklauba.com, the tattoo influence is explained as such: “Recalling experiences of that almost universal rite among sailors of tattooing, he incorporated naval and tattoo imagery into woodcuts and drawings. I had come to believe that what a person wore on their skin usually gave insight to what was in their souls.”

Early on, he recognized tattoos were powerful, visual statements that told stories. Tattoos were, for him, “art for the common man, noble in its self-expressive, decorative, and symbolic impulses.”

Feeling the need to go deeper into tattooing, Klauba apprenticed with Dale Grande and Buddy “Mac” McFall—well-known names in the Chicago tattoo scene. Influenced by Cliff Raven, a young, dedicated tattoo artist with a strong sense of aesthetics, George developed his own “flash” based on Japanese and Oceanic motifs. Unlike today, few customers wanted exotic or artistic tattoos, so he began creating constructions and tattooed sculpture.

The colors, the images, the way the story of Moby Dick evolves through Klauba’s work, is engaging to say the very least. And think, that’s just one of the artists.

If you’re a RAM member, come to the gallery walk and reception for members starting at 5 p.m., Friday, April 17. If you’re not a member (yet), come to the FREE public opening and FREE gallery walk Saturday, April 18. RAM has extended hours that day, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. The guided gallery walk begins at 11 a.m.

And, while you’re out and about getting inspired by the visual arts in Rockford, Spring ArtScene is all over town! From traditional art venues to carriage barns and restaurants, check it out! It’s free to attend, and might just introduce you to some local artists you don’t already know about. Check out the Rockford Area Arts Council’s Web site, springartscene.com, for a complete list of artists and venues. Almost all of the Spring ArtScene venues are open 5-9 p.m., Friday, April 17, and Saturday, April 18, 3-9 p.m.

Map it out. See some art. There’s bound to be something, if not many things, that you’ll like. So, block off some time this weekend, April 17-18. You’ve got art to see.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

StoryImage( ‘/Images/Story//Auto-img-123981211231582.jpg’, ”, ”);
StoryImage( ‘/Images/Story//Auto-img-123981212131985.jpg’, ”, ”);

Seventh annual event features art and live entertainment at 41 local venues

The Rockford Area Arts Council will present the Seventh Annual ArtScene Spring 2009 from 5 to 9 p.m., Friday, April 17, and from 3 to 9 p.m., Saturday, April 18.

The event is coordinated by the Rockford Area Arts Council, 713 E. State St., Rockford. Call (815) 963-6765 for more information or visit www.artsforeveryone.com.

2009 ArtScene venues

Note: Numbers before venues correspond to venue location on maps (Downtown map) and (Metro map).

1. A Movable Feast, Edgebrook Center, 1641 N. Alpine Road, (815) 227-0102: “Mothers and Daughters: Art Across Generations”—An exhibit featuring works by Ruth Ann Molyneaux, Sara Fleming, Andrea Mahan and daughters.

2. The Arc of Winnebago, Boone & Ogle County, 1222 E. State St., (815) 965-3455: “Project Art”—A group show by artists with developmental disabilities nourishing the creativity through participation in a variety of media.

3. ArtHaus Gallery, 534 N. Court St., (815) 219-1279: “RAGtime”—Showcasing the Rockford Art Guild’s array of paintings, drawings, digital art, stained glass, sculpture, jewelry and more. Barbara Berney, Stella Dobbins, Dolores Dummer, Tim Hagerty, Debra Mayer, Jane Peterson, Joyce Rieken, Connie Rounds, Art Sinden, Ken Staaf, Angela Stickler, Sherry Viktora and Cam Roberts. Extended hours Saturday from 1 to 9 p.m.

4. ArtSpace West Gallery, 426 N. Main St., (815) 963-1984: “Art I, Scene III”—An eclectic mix of local artists’ works in watercolor, pastels, photography, glass, wearable art, jewelry, metal sculpture, oils and more. Barry Reithmeier, Andrew Wallace, Clark Art, H. Edward Riddle, Jackie Hickey, Kai Mulford, Kathy Maynor-Rybicki, Kevin Richards, Linda Conlee Johnson, Mary Rosendich and Ray Schultz. Portrait artist Toni Cacciatore will be on site! Bring a photo or sit for a portrait.

5. Atmosphere Nails.Hair, 129 S. Phelps Ave. (Bldg. 5, Ste. 511), (815) 509-3181: “Creations by a Hare”—Adrienne Hare exhibits a mixed variety of ink, acrylic on canvas, pencil and chalk work.

6. Bennie’s Cleaners, 126 N. First St., (815) 964-3070: “Higher Than a Kite”—Featuring sculpture, painting, photography, jewelry, baskets, poetry and more by Jeff Coen, John Verl McNamara, Carolyn Repka, Jeff Swanberg, Barbara Santucci, Norm Knott, Gordie Johnson, Una Ryan, Norah Nelson, Sue Mount, Marsha Goodheart, Wanie Reeverts, Scott Mount, Anne Johnson, Karen Gines, Sherry Pritz, Cindy Hughes, Pam Kehoe-Peterson, Cindy Linnaberry, Karla Lombardo, Barb McNamara, Wilma Stout, Chris Swanberg, Tom Littrell, Julie Ekstam, Bruce Archer, and students Jana and Leah Mueller.

7. The Brewhouse/Rockford Marina Building, 201 Hill St., (815) 979-2149: “The Element Gathering”—A variety of media including painting, sculpture, mixed media, demonstrations, lectures and spoken word, dance and performance. Featured artists include, JJ Swanson, Jennifer Hillistad, Barbara Berney, Jesus Correa, Genevieve Borich, Kelly Steward and more.

8. Burns Home Studio, 226 N. Gardiner Ave., (815) 397-9480: “Paintings! Paintings! Paintings!”—Barbara Gardner Burns features paintings in watercolor and acrylic. Plein Air & Studio.

9. The Carriage Barn, 1332 Harlem Blvd., (815) 633-1785: “The Carriage Barn Presents…”—Mary McNamara Bernsten, paintings; Patty Kim Breuhaus, paintings; Diane Rose Dailing, ceramic and paper drawings; Debra Grall, drawings and paintings; Virginia Hatwich, ceramic sculpture and pottery; Jeff Lightcap, original furniture design; Barbara McNamara, paintings; John Verl McNamara, sculpture; Sarah Bursley McNamara, photographs; Natalie Share, drawings and jewelry; Laura Soosloff, paintings; and Philip Soosloff, mixed media relief sculptures.

10. Cholke Photography & Fine Art Gallery, 2211 E. State St., (815) 226-9398: “Organic Paths”—An exhibit featuring various original art, handpulled prints, photography, and jewelry by artists Bob Cholke, Debra Capriola, Roland Poska, Sara Muender and various artists from Santa Fe, N.M.

11. Church Street Gallery, 835 N. Church St., (815) 961-8265: “Northern Viewz”—Photography, sculpture, painting, jewelry, scarves and other curiosities created by an award-winning group of snow and ice sculptors. See the world through the creativity of several locally and nationally recognized carvers. Featured artists include K. Dyer, Polly Freund, Nick Foster, Krista Gustafson, Dan Ingebrigtson, Jan Jann, Cal Kothrade, Greg Lang, Greg Moerner, Jeff Olson, Kevin Sawicki, Deb Scott and more!

12. Clabough Photography, 136 N. First St., (815) 962-4776: “Impressionist Style”—An exhibit featuring impressionistic style photographs on canvas by Tom Clabough.

13. Crimson Ridge, 735 N. Perryville Road, (815) 399-9000: “ARTrageous”—An exhibit featuring artists Lori Frantz-Koenig, jewelry; Kai Mulford, painting on recycled items; Jim Souts, papier maché; and H. Edward Riddle, metal sculpture.

14. Cru, 509 E. State St., (815) 986-2633: “UUII (Urban/Urbane 2)”—A continuation at the look of urban living using portraiture, street photography and urban landscape by Val Olafson.

15. Deborah Newton Studio, 130 N. Second St., (815) 962-1476: “Peacock Proud”—Artist Deborah Newton features lush colors in large and very large original paintings.

16. East Wind Business Complex, 129 S. Phelps Ave., (608) 314-5734 or (815) 399-7687: An exhibit featuring original oil paintings by artist Pamela M. Smith.

17. Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave., (815) 962-6129: “Sacred Seeds: Emergence”—See artists’ interpretations of where the seeds in the earth and those hidden in our hearts become open for renewal. Works in oils, watercolors, photography, fiber and mixed media. On both Friday and Saturday evening, there will be live music, fabulous food and artists’ demos. Entrance to the church is off Sixth Street and Second Avenue.

18. Inspiration Salon, 2591 N. Mulford Road, (815) 639-9251: “Inspire”—A two-person exhibit featuring watercolor on Yupo paper and mixed media by Diane Jensen, and still life photography by Corwin Holmes. Digital photos will be available.

19. Irish Rose Saloon, 519 E. State St., (815) 964-0480: “FIXTURES”—This show is an appreciation of our (Irish Rose) employees and patrons, made by employees and patrons. Featured works are a combination of painting, mixed media and sculpture by artists Jesy Grose, Randall Correia, W. Alan Williams, Kathryn Martin and more.

20. JustGoods Listening Room/Gallery, 201 Seventh St., (815) 965-8903: “Spring Fling”—An exhibit featuring works by Deborah Stromsdorfer, poured acrylic on canvas and color flower photography by Amy Holmquist. Amy has enlarged mounted photos and cards available. Join them for an evening of live music, food, wine and art!

21. Katie’s Cup of Art, 502 Seventh St., (815) 964-8280, ext. 10: “Katie’s Cup of Art”—Works by artists Joyce Rieken, realistic painter; Robbie Martin, ceramics; Juli Garton, recycled album cover totes; Stephanie Nordlin, fiber art; Peggy Hutten, recycled mixed media collage pieces; Kevin Richards, abstract painter; Ray Schulz, landscape pastels; and Dustin Waller, photography.

22. Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Garden, 2715 S. Main St., (815) 965-8146: “Nature’s Landscapes in Black & White”—Artist Jim Wallar exhibits black-and-white landscape photography from upper Midwest, Gulf Coast and desert.

23. Kortman Gallery, 107 N. Main St., (815) 968-0123: “Mixed Messages”—Rockford artist Javier Jimenez of Saturated Threads takes a step back from his commercial silk-screening to present his body of fresh, eye-catching, silk-screened works gathered from ideas old and new.

24. Kryptonite Bar, 308 W. State St., (815) 965-0931: “Krypto Spring Scene”—Eclectic collection of art by artists Luis Seijas, Dustin Hardcastle, Sean Halcom, Brad Nation, Jonathan Hillenbrand, Jami Beck, Brian Hierstein, Isaac
Velasco, Tim Atwell, Peter Mera, Jesus Correa, Jason Glidden and Jason Ssg. These artists are all over the place stylistically and in terms of media. Prepare to be splendored.

25. Midwest Stone Source, 915 23rd St., (815) 395-8677: “Formalities”—Rockford artists represented by a variety of media including photography, painting, pottery, wood sculpture and artistic light fixtures by Brad Nordlof, Roni Golan, Salem Barker, Dee Santorini, Robbie Martin, Dustin Waller, Karen Hilliard and Danielle Lavetta Burbach. The art on display is surrounded by beautiful natural stones and marble from South America that can easily function as art of nature.

26. New Dimensions Studio @ Womanspace, 3333 Maria Linden Drive, (815) 877-0118: “Nothing but Birds”—Discover birds in landscapes, seascapes, still life and portraits to welcome spring! Featured artists include Dorothy Bock, Fran Bock, Judith Hayes, Cindy Hughes, Elaine Hirschenberger, Cindy Linnabary, Barbara McNamara, Tracy Pease, Wanie Reeverts and Lenora Maier.

27. North Main Studios & Gallery, 2500 N. Main St., (815) 519-1809: New works in sculpture, painting and photography will fill the halls and new gallery space. Featured works by Jon Wenger, photography; Evan Thomas, sculpture; Bennett Petty, sculpture; Ron Clevenger, mixed media; and John Lamar, painting and sculpture. Art studios are available.

28. Northern Leaf Imaging, 4801 Boeing Drive, (815) 494-1134: “Spring Fever”—Join photographer Brad Nordlof and watercolor artist Karen Harding as they present their new and exciting works from all four seasons.

29. Perfect Frame, 6450 E. Riverside Blvd., (815) 654-8500: “Perfect Expressions ’09”—Art styles include Raku art by Robert Sunday, paintings by David Coffey and Paula Marsh, Rockford photography by Mark West, unique textile art from Brandon Pair, animation art by Hardrick Gulley and much more!

30. Poska, 2213 E. State St., (815) 316-2979: “From Albuquerque”—Pat Cohen displays pottery vessels and pendants in this unique and stimulating environment.

31. Possessions, Highcrest Center, 1642 N. Alpine Road, (815) 399-9190: “Artists Possessed”—A combination of unique art featuring Barbara Berney, digital art, jewelry; Tim Hagerty, acrylics; Diana Pratt Alexander, decorative serving ware; Joyce Rieken, painting; Tim Hawley, metal/mirror sculpture; Jennifer Hillistad, sculpture; Bob Kerwin, interesting little boxes; Sherry Viktora, jewelry, glass; Sandi Uram, mixed media; and Kay Kolls, jewelry. Entertainment by Jim Hagerty.

32. RAW ART 2, 622 St. Louis Ave. (corner of Charles and St. Louis): “Visions”—An exhibit of functional, non-functional, organic metal sculpture in Russ Blahnik’s new gallery.

33. Rockford Area Arts Council, 713 E. State St., (815) 963-6765: “All that Glitters IS GOLD”—The Japanese in the 16th and 17th century developed a ceramic technique called RAKU. Years of chemical and ceramic testing have produced a brilliant, stable gold glaze—Jim and Shawn Barbagallo successfully took silver and converted it into gold. Open Saturday only—see a live demonstration from 3 to 5 p.m.

34. Rockford Art Museum, 711 N. Main St., (815) 968-2787: “Moby Dick: Heart of the Sea”—Presents imagery related to the classic Melville novel Moby Dick. Artists transform the action of the novel and characters into paintings, prints and sculpture that explore the psychological depths of the storyline. Featured artists include George Klauba, Kathleen Piercefield and Robert McCauley. (Exhibit remains on display through July 5.) Open Saturday during ArtScene from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Free gallery walk at 11 a.m.) MEMBERS ONLY, Friday, April 17.

35. Rockford Baha’i Center, 1650 N. Alpine Road, (815) 978-6464: “It’s a New Day!”—This exhibit will include both visual and performance art reflecting the theme “It’s a New Day.” There will be a variety of artists represented.

36. Sacred Art Tattoo, 406 E. State St., (815) 708-7888: “In the Flesh”—Photography, watercolor, prisma color and tattoo-related art by artists Chris Hummel, Ryein Rawhoof, Ron Rawhoof, Sean Holcom, Amanda Peashooter, Lee DeLavergne and Jessica Lao.

37. Ted Simmering Studio, 200 Prairie St. (second floor), (815) 566-1043: “Fresh Produce”—Original new artwork by Ted Simmering, Tabatha Dougherty, Jim Julin, Stuart Roddy, Rosie Clay, Charles Jones, Megan Centonze, Steve Stender, AC Klein and Mark John Hoffman.

38. Tom Littrell Design, 317 Market St., (815) 621-4668: “A Synergy of Interior Design and Original Art”—Experience the relationship of original art and the interior design elements of fabrics, wall coverings, floor coverings and accessories.

39. Wall Blank.com Studio, 200 Prairie St., Studio 202, (815) 708-8868: “New Showing at the Old Brewery”—Four local photographers take on the century-old brewery on the river. Featured artists include Pablo Korona, Brian Milo, Cari Ann Wayman and Ryan Davis.

40. The Wax Room, 129 Phelps Ave., (Building 5, Suite 512C), (815) 914-3928: “Enhancing Nature”—Artist Rhonda Van Laeke displays digitally-enhanced photographs that can be customized to meet the colors of any home or business. With more than 10 years of photography experience, macro photography is Rhonda’s specialty.

41. Unique Yarns, Edgebrook Center, 1663 N. Alpine Road, (815) 282-5481: “KOYAANISQATSI: Life out of Balance (Hopi Indian)”—An exhibit featuring a collaboration of works by artists Sean P. Gibbons, Casey Giglio, Ellyn Ahmer and Nadja Schutt. Showcasing wearable art, knitwear, apparel design and original paintings with a focus on fiber art and experimental textile fabrication.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

Editor’s note: A Rockford native and long-time friend of The Rock River Times, Army Specialist Tom Bauschke, enlisted in the U.S. Army at the ripe old age of 41 and is currently somewhere in Afghanistan.

We mustered at the D Company area on January 17that 2000 hours (8PM). All the training and preparations and paperwork had come down to this. Goodbyes were tough for some families. Babies were crying in the arms room as we drew weapons. Some military wives, who had sent their husbands off before, seemed more resigned to the moment. My girlfriend Shelly kept herself composed as best she could.

A year seemed unfathomable. 15 months of training with the 1stBattalion, 32ndInfantry Regiment seemed to go by so quickly, especially these last few weeks. I hoped the year ahead would fly by. What dangers awaited me? Would I even be the same person? I tempered these questions by laughing with my 3rdPlatoon, D Company comrades, their wives and girlfriends. I kissed Shelly’s fingers and told her everything would be ok; that I would see her on mid-tour R&R Leave and then be back home in no time at all. At moments like this, before any great journey, it’s natural to imagine only the very best and happiest of endings. Many hours later, our flight was delayed. The dilemma for us: spend the night with loved ones and say those goodbyes all over again or simply sleep on the floor and fly out in the morning. I chose a few more precious hours with Shelly. The 2ndgoodbyes were worth every minute.

First stop: Germany on Omni Air International DC-10. Our ground speed at one point reached 768mph according to their computer display. WOW! The civilian flight attendants were fun. I had never eaten so much food on an airplane before; 3 full meals in 6 hours. No alcohol on this flight. What a strange feeling to fly on a civilian plane with all our weapons. A 2 hour refueling layover in Leipzig, Germany turned into 24 hours. We were not allowed to leave our small area at the airport. German guards were posted. There was an adjoining bunk room that reeked of 400 feet that had been in boots for 2 days. Instead I slept on benches in the main rooms as best I could, called family in Germany (which was a pleasant surprise for them) and emailed home. The duty free shop was full of very good European liquors and beer that we couldn’t buy. Alcohol possession, transfer and consumption are strictly forbidden for deployed American Army troops. Still, I enjoyed reading all the various product labels and chatting with locals at the airport; good practice for my German.

Next stop: 8 ½ hours to Kyrgyzstan? We flew over our scheduled refuel in Turkey and continued on Omni Air International eastward to Manas Air Base near Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. I had no idea where Kyrgyzstan was (also spelled Kirgizstan). I thought I was pretty good with my world geography. I can tell you where Uruguay, Chad, Lichtenstein or Mongolia was… Here was a country between Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and China to the East: truly the middle of nowhere.

We were stuck at Manas for 8 days. Bad weather or changing mission priorities became daily mantras. We’d pack up and hump all our gear to the terminal, wait in lock down for hours and then get sent right back to the hooch (tent). Transient troops (us Army types) were not allowed out of the walled off compound. Airforce personnel, on the other hand, were allowed 2 beers every 20 hours. We’d listen to them sing karaoke at the clubs all hours of the day and night. Their deployments are 3-4 months. Our deployment is for 12 months or ‘until mission complete.’

The chow hall at Manas was unbelievable. 4 hot meals a day plus the food buffet was available 24-7. We watched President and Commander in Chief Barrack Obama’s inauguration on 6 TV’s. Bins were filled with any number of candy bars. Glass case fridges were filled with juices, soft drinks, milk and desserts. A sandwich and ice cream bar was in a corner. I would call that budget lavish. Supplies came from all over. Napkins came from the Saudi Paper Converting Company. Milk came from Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. Coke products were bottled locally with illegible labels. The BX (Base Exchange store) had food and health products from all over the world.

The local people that worked on the base were an interesting mix of blond Russian and exotic Chinese, especially the women. Soldiers from Italy, France, Bulgaria, Germany, and The Czech Republic milled in the chow hall and shops. Most of the guys had crushes on different women every day. I thought of my girl of course. Except for missing home, travel is wonderful: it reminds me that there is a whole big beautiful world out there. I hoped I would see that beauty where I was going. Meanwhile, we’re packing up again, heading back to the terminal.

Next time: Making it to Afghanistan… I hope.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

Bishop Doran’s public attack of Notre Dame’s decision to invite President Obama to speak at this year’s commencement, referring to the university as promoting “obscenity” with its invitation, contradicts my experience there as a student. The university I attended promoted open-minded discussion of issues, seeking reconciliation and resolution—not the obscenely narrow-minded judgment and condemnation promoted by his eminence’s tirade.

He does not speak for me, or many others in his diocese.

Doran referred to inviting Obama as “obscenity” to Mary, “the Mother of the Church,” after whom Notre Dame is named. At both Fatima and Medjugorje, the “Mother of the Church” reportedly spoke of praying to stop war. So consequently, an earlier invitation to Condoleezza Rice and any who supported the Bush administration’s policy toward Iraq, supported fully by Secretary Rice, as she does choice, ought to also have prompted outrage. There was none. There need not be. As a university, Notre Dame ought to promote open discussion of political and moral issues.

Might President Obama’s stated commitment to ending human torture and war, and promoting community service, merit attention and invitation at a Catholic university?

Politicizing this invitation over Obama’s stand on stem cell research further reveals either an ignorance, or an excuse to advance a continued narrow focus of “pelvic Catholics” on but one area of anatomy and Church teaching. Only in-vitro excess unused cells and miscarried fetuses will be used in government-funded stem cell research, not cells from aborted fetuses. Prior, those excess cells were trashed. Is that a better use of these potentially life-giving opportunities for researching diseases of human suffering? My cousin Linda reminded me that a certain segment of the Church is always so “Catholic” they neglect being Christian.

May these pelvic Catholics open their hearts to the Democratic elected leader of the people as tolerantly as they did to the previous Republican administration that was far from consistently Christian/Catholic in some of its policies. Or, better yet, might we adhere to our founding fathers’ advice and keep Church out of politics?

Michael Cannariato is a Rockford resident.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

Resolutions

The Winnebago County Board awarded bids for assorted sliced bread, rolls and buns to Pan-O-Gold Baking Co., of Sun Prairie, Wis., for an estimated $30,000 per year.

The board awarded bids for briefs, undergarments and under-pads to Professional Medical, of New Lenox, for an estimated $60,000 annually.

The board voted to abate property taxes on new construction of a cold storage building at Greenberg Casework Co., Inc., in South Beloit. The county agreed to abate property taxes on any increased assessed valuation resulting from improvements as part of the City of South Beloit’s Enterprise Zone for two years.

The board approved a letter of intent for a Dream Team tournaments feasibility study, directing Chairman Scott Christiansen (R) to sign the letter.

The board approved the execution of a structural engineering services agreement with Hanson Professional Services, Inc., in the amount of $72,485 for Perryville Road over the south branch of the Kishwaukee River. The state has allocated $500,000 for bridge maintenance and to replace the bridge deck

An estimated $256,000 four-year maintenance and support agreement with New York-based Intrans Group was approved for the Harlem Bridge toll plaza.

Bids were awarded to Scandroli Construction Co. for stair replacement and step repair at Veterans Memorial Hall in the amount of $32,589.

Appointment, re-appointments

Todd Scott was appointed to a five-year term with the North Park Public Water District, expiring May 2014.

Jerold Ocker was re-appointed to a three-year term with the Harlem-Roscoe Fire Protection District, expiring May 2012.

Tom Yoe was re-appointed to the three-year term with the North Park Fire Protection District, expiring May 2012.

Dale James was re-appointed to a five-year term with the North Park Public Water District, expiring May 2014.

Kenneth Gibler was re-appointed to a three-year term with the Durand Sanitary District, expiring May 2012.

L. Eugene Taylor was re-appointed to a six-year term with the Harlem Cemetery Association, expiring May 2015.

Mary Anne Doherty and Timothy Gill were re-appointed to six-year terms with the Hulse Cemetery of Pecatonica, expiring May 2015.

Philip Harris was re-appointed to a three-year term with the Northwest Fire Protection District, expiring May 2012.

Neil Laage was re-appointed to a five-year term with the Otter Creek Lake Utility District, expiring May 2014.

Bernice E. Russell, Lorraine Thurmond and Flora Williams were re-appointed to three-year terms with the Washington Park Street Light District, expiring May 2012.

Guy Cunningham was re-appointed to a three-year term with the Win-Bur-Sew Fire Protection District, expiring May 2012.

Proclamations

The week of April 12-17 was proclaimed World Trade Week, April was proclaimed Great American Cleanup Month, and April 18-25 was proclaimed Money Smart Week.

Absences

Bob Kinnison (R-10) and Randy Olson (R-1) were absent.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

URBANA, Ill.—If you have money in the stock market, chances are you’re anxious about your investments. Should you act? And what exactly should you do? University of Illinois Consumer and Family Economics Educator Karen Chan says there are things you should consider before you make a decision.

Are you thinking about stopping contributions to your retirement plan because your investments are doing so badly? Ask yourself: Are your investments diversified, or is your money concentrated in your employer’s stock? Do you have an adequate emergency fund? Did you select these investments as part of an overall plan?

You’re retired, or planning to retire, and you planned to sell some investments each year to generate income. Do you have savings to cover expenses for a year or two to give your investments a chance to recover? Could you return to work or continue working to delay tapping your investments? Can you cut expenses so you need less income?

Your child is starting college, and these investments were intended to pay for college expenses. Do you have savings to cover the first year or two so you can give your investments a chance to recover? Can your child attend a less expensive school for the first year or two, or work to pay part of the costs?

The value of your investments has dropped a lot. You’re nervous and wondering if you should sell and put the money somewhere safe. What would be the downside of selling now? How will you feel if you sell and miss the rebound of stock prices? How long will it be until you need to tap these investments? Did you select these investments as part of an overall plan?

A lot of your money is invested in your employer’s stock, through your 401(k), employee stock purchase plan, or stock options and other special programs. If the stock value drops and doesn’t recover, how would that affect your financial security, your retirement, or other financial goals? What would happen if you lost your job and the stock lost much of its value at the same time?

To evaluate your options, Chan recommends using some important tools to gather information. One is a net worth statement; another is your asset allocation (how much of your savings and investments are in cash, bonds, large cap stocks, small and mid cap stocks, foreign stocks, and emerging markets).

Mutual funds may belong to any of these asset classes, she said. And the allocation of your money across these classes of investments determines the amount and type of risk you face, and how much you will earn from your investments.

“You can calculate your asset allocations using online tools such as Morningstar’s X-Ray ( www.morningstar.com), software such as Microsoft Money or Quicken, or tools provided by your mutual fund or broker. Or, you can do it with pen and paper. Add up your investments in each asset class, and divide by the total amount of your investments,” she said.

“Compare your current asset allocations with allocations suggested for your situation or risk tolerance. You might start by comparing your results from these two online tools with your current asset allocation. Go to http://www.smartmoney.com/tools/worksheets or http://www.ipers.org/calcs/AssetAllocator.html,” she added.

“You may decide your current asset allocation is too risky or too conservative for your situation. Bringing your allocation back to the desired percentages is called rebalancing. It can be accomplished by buying and selling investments, directing new money into underweighted asset classes, or selling investments in an overweighted asset class to generate income,” she said.

Your asset allocation will show you whether you’re appropriately diversified across asset classes, but check to see that you don’t have more than 5 to 10 percent of your money invested in any single company—including your employer, and that your investments are not overly concentrated in any single industry, she said.

Other things to consider:

Income taxes. You can buy and sell investments within a retirement account without tax consequences, but if you sell an investment at a profit that’s in a taxable account, you’ll need to report it on your taxes.

Missed opportunities. When stock prices begin to recover, they often increase in price very rapidly.

Transaction costs. Possible costs include commissions and broker’s fees, loads for purchasing certain mutual funds, surrender costs for taking money out of annuities before a certain number of years have passed, early withdrawal penalties for retirement accounts, and frequent-trading fees.

A single transaction versus a series of smaller ones. If you decide to buy or sell substantial amounts of any one investment, the costs may be lower if you do it all in one transaction. But spacing them out over a period of time removes the risk that you’ll buy or sell the entire amount at the exact worst time.

Now, it’s time to take action—or not. Do you want to rebalance your investments to match your asset allocation to an appropriate level of risk; dollar-cost-average out of a major holding to achieve better diversification; increase the amount of money held in “cash” so you have an adequate emergency fund; liquidate investments to generate cash you’ll need in the next year or so; or do nothing? You may decide the best course of action is to sit tight and wait for the market to recover.

If you feel overwhelmed or would like to work with a professional financial planner, visit “Choosing a Financial Professional” at http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/financialpro/.

Other recommended Web sites are “Beginner’s Guide to Asset Allocation, Diversification, and Rebalancing” at http://www.sec.gov/investor/pubs/assetallocation.htm and University of Illinois Extension’s “Plan Well, Retire Well” series at www.RetireWell.uiuc.edu.

And, finally, all kinds of useful information about facing down your financial problems, including how to talk to creditors, which bill to pay first, and how to deal with stress, can be found at http://www.ToughTimes.illinois.edu.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

In an effort to fulfill its mission to encourage positive, real change, the Year Of Innovation (YOI) Steering Committee has endorsed another new project. This new event meets the basic criteria of creativity and collaboration and focuses on one or more of the YOI categories of entrepreneurship, environment and engagement.

The “Who’s Going Green Awards” will take place from 4:30 to 7 p.m., May 21, at the Webbs Norman Center, 401 S. Main St. Commonwealth Edison, Four Rivers Environmental Coalition and Green Communities Coalition have teamed up with several other organizations to honor the achievements and promote the efforts of area businesses that take pro-environmental actions. More than 40 businesses and organizations will have displays showing their efforts to “go green.” Awards will be given to businesses with outstanding achievements. Nomination forms are available through the “Who’s Going Green Awards” Web site at www.winncogreenbiz.org.

The Year Of Innovation is a broad-based initiative that highlights a diverse range of programs with the intended outcome of transforming the region into an even greater place to live, work, learn, invest and play in the minds of current and potential residents, tourists and business investors. The YOI endorsement umbrella began with more than 25 projects and programs involving more than 60 partner companies, nonprofits and municipalities, and continues to grow.

The Steering Committee is actively soliciting more participants for 2009 and plans to extend the initiative to 2010 and beyond to carry momentum into the future. More information and a participation application are available at www.rockfordinnovates.com.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

Rockford Christian Schools is a college preparatory school system offering grades pre-school through 12th grade. Rockford Christian Schools is outstanding in its academics and spiritual training, and is the only non-denominational school in Rockford. At Rockford Christian, we stress the fundamentals of the Christian faith while training young people not only to excel in their life’s goals, but strive to provide, along with the home and local church, the foundational principles on how to live a life that will touch others in the community they serve in a positive manner. Our goal is to produce students who possess scholarship guided by a Christian world view. These Christian scholars will impact the culture by being grounded in knowledge and Christian philosophy.

One of the beautiful things about Rockford Christian is our size. Rockford Christian is host to a student body of about 1,200 students, making us large enough to offer a variety of courses in academics, including an Honors Program and Advanced Placement Courses, and extracurricular activities. With about 100 students in each grade level, we are small enough to possess a personal knowledge of students, their goals and aspirations. As a school, we are always looking for ways to interact with families and students. Parents have a great opportunity to meet and interact with faculty and be a part of the school environment. Parent organizations provide avenues for parents to become involved with the school in a variety of ways. In our elementary school, it is a joy to see parent volunteers reading to students or helping teachers with classroom projects. One of the great attributes of our school system is the family-focused atmosphere that has become part of the essence of who we are.

As a Christian school, our emphasis is quality academics in a Christ-centered atmosphere. Christian schools must, as an integral part of who they are, offer both to be true to mission. At Rockford Christian Schools, our chapels and daily Bible classes are a mainstay in our effort to integrate Biblical Week is a highlight for all areas of the school. Students help transform the school into a camp environment with the help of an outside speaker. A special chapel each day is devoted to focus on the inner man and a reflection of our spiritual underpinnings. Students enjoy the games and competition that help pull major spiritual themes together.

As stated earlier, size is a positive factor for our student body. More than 75 percent of our students participate in extracurricular activities. These offerings range from club sports in our elementary to a wide range of activities offered in our middle school and high school. Rockford Christian offers cross country, football, golf, boys’ and girls’ soccer, tennis, basketball for boys and girls, bowling, swim/dive teams, baseball, softball, track and field, and cheerleading and dance teams. Rockford Christian High School is a member of the newly-organized Northeastern Athletic Conference. Competition takes place with schools of our approximate size in the northern Illinois area.

A variety of club opportunities are offered such as chess, robotics and cultural awareness, just to name a few. Other opportunities for students include: band, choir, Praise band and vocalists, drama including a fall play and musical, juried art shows, sculpting contests, National Honor Society, student government, Chapel Committee, newspaper staff, yearbook staff, Superlative Artist Society, Earth Keepers Club, Science Olympiad, International Club and Strings Club. Students at Rockford Christian never lack for challenges and opportunities to hone their skill and grow into well-rounded individuals.

All of these things help us to fulfill our mission “to challenge young people to know Christ as Lord, apply God’s truth to all areas of life, love others sacrificially, and achieve the highest level of knowledge and skill in order to serve God and others.” In fulfilling our mission, we strive to be the best we can be as an institution while challenging our students to the same.

So, whether we are in the classroom, participating in extracurricular activity, or on the athletic field, we set a standard of achieving our best. This has resulted in year after year of students scoring two to three years ahead of their grade equivalency in standardized tests and high school students in our Honors track averaging over 28 on our ACT scores.

Rockford Christian School is a unique place where academics and spiritual training come together to offer an atmosphere where young people can grow in the unique way God created them to be. Board members, teachers, administration and parents along with the students have created an environment of excellence while maintaining the caring that only a smaller school system can give.

Rockford Christian Schools is now accepting applications for the 2009-10 school year. If you would like more information about Rockford Christian Schools or would like to schedule a tour, us please call the elementary campus at (815) 391-8006 or the high school at (815) 399-3465.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

Montessori Private Academy (MPA) has always rented and shared space throughout its 25-year history. MPA is at the right moment in reputation, enrollment and programming to finally build “a home of our own.” As a not-for-profit independent school, MPA’s parent and community board of directors have spent many hours carefully planning, budgeting and setting the stage for MPA’s future. Construction is nearly complete. Montessori Private Academy’s 12,860 square-foot, custom-designed school located on 1.7 acres at 8101 Sawyer Road, Rockford Il 61108—just east of Bell School and Newburg roads—will open June 30, 2009.

Why has MPA grown?

The authentic Montessori education “is a great fit” for families with a wide variety of interests, traditions and values.

Parents recognize that MPA’s early childhood classrooms are the best place for children who are “ready to learn.”

Students and parents recognize the benefits of MPA’s early childhood learning and are committed to continue for elementary and middle school at MPA.

The new school will maximize Montessori program!

1 Early Childhood classroom (ages 2-3 years)

3 Early Childhood classrooms (ages 3-6 years)

2 Elementary I classrooms (ages 6-9 years)

1 Elementary II classroom (ages 9-12 years)

1 Middle School classroom (ages 12 -14 years)

1 Music & Movement Room

Staff Lounge/ Conference room

Generous Multi-purpose Community room

Expanded and efficient office space

Needed storage space

Triple the current bathroom space

Full playground, outdoor patio and peace garden

8 Individual classroom gardens

More information, school tours and admissions

MPA welcomes all inquiries! For more information about programs for children age 2 through middle school and to schedule a time to visit and tour, please call Montessori Private Academy at (815) 226-0111 or montessoriprivateacademy.com. Currently, Montessori Private Academy is located just south of the intersection of Mulford and Harrison roads, Rockford. However, in mid-June, 2009, MPA will be moving to a new school being built just east of Bell School and Newburg roads—a convenient eastside location near Cherry Valley and Boone County!

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

StoryImage( ‘/Images/Story//Auto-img-123981179829519.jpg’, ‘Photo provided’, ‘Rockford Academy students use a new teaching tool.‘);

Rockford Academy Elementary School believes many children don’t reach their potential because teachers have too many students. Here, we currently average only 16 students per teacher in grades Pre-K through 8th.

For a limited time, your child can visit for a full day and experience the benefits of our high-quality instructional program. There will be no cost or obligation to participate; we’ll even provide lunch!

Rockford Academy provides the best Christian elementary school education value in our area. Besides low teacher/student ratios, we emphasize phonics-based reading in Pre-K classes and beyond. Later, our hands-on science programs and SmartBoard interactive educational resources keep learning exciting and our young scholars involved. All children use Rimmer Gymnasium for indoor sports and recreational activities year round.

If you’ve always believed your child can achieve more, “Be Our Guest” is perfect! It allows Pre-K through seventh-grade children to experience learning at its best. Call today to schedule your visit and see how affordable a private school education can be!

For additional information, call (815) 877-1489 or visit RockfordAcademy.net.

Rockford Academy does not discriminate because of race, color, national origin, sex or religion. This non-discrimination policy applies to admissions, scholarships, financial aid programs and activities.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

StoryImage( ‘/Images/Story//Auto-img-123981164326413.jpg’, ‘Photo courtesy of www.boylan.org‘, ‘At Boylan Catholic High School, the total education of the students is the heart of the mission. With Christ the unseen but ever-present teacher as its model, the school strives to nurture the gifts of faith, scholarship, social justice and respect for all life in its young people.‘);

When Boylan Catholic High School opened its doors nearly 50 years ago, it was both a dream realized for the Catholic community of Rockford as well as a continuation of a long tradition of Catholic education begun in 1910 by St. Thomas High School, the original Catholic high school of Rockford. St. Thomas, at first a coeducational high school, became a school for boys in 1929 when Bishop Muldoon High School for girls opened. In 1962, St. Thomas High School closed, while Muldoon graduated its last class in 1970. As the descendant of those schools, Boylan is proud to continue their legacy.

The school was built in response to the leadership of Bishop Loras T. Lane, who saw the need, in the mid-20th century, to serve the Catholic community with a co-educational high school. As the young high school took its place in the Rockford educational landscape, Bishop Lane urged its people to,” Seek excellence in all you do.” From the beginning, the school has offered a breadth of academic, extracurricular and athletic opportunities to meet the diverse needs of its population. These values of excellence and versatility have endured through the school’s first half-century.

Boylan is proud of its distinguished tradition of excellence, which includes a number of firsts:

the first school in northwestern Illinois to incorporate computer-aided design (CADD) in its industrial arts curriculum (1989);

the first in Rockford to initiate a Natural Helpers program (1985);

the first in the city to have a Mock Trial Team (1992)

the first to publish a magazine featuring student literary and artistic works (1986).

the first and only high school in northwestern Illinois to receive three United States Department of Education Exemplary School Awards in 1987, 1991, and 1998.

In addition, it has been twice named as a Top 50 Catholic High School in the U.S. (2006, 2007) and is the only Rockford school to be recognized by ACT for rigorous curriculum.

At Boylan Catholic High School, the total education of the students is the heart of the mission. With Christ the unseen but ever-present teacher as its model, the school strives to nurture the gifts of faith, scholarship, social justice and respect for all life in its young people. Called by the Gospel to be people of faith witnessing the love of God to all people, the school uses outreach and service as two important ways to teach this to the students. It works in partnership with the families to develop spiritually moral young people who are academically prepared for the “real” world they will soon join, but, most of all, to stimulate and guide the students to become informed, responsible and productive citizens, giving of themselves to those in need.

As Boylan Catholic High School looks ahead to the next half-century, it continues to dream and plan to meet the needs of the Rockford community as a viable, vibrant educational institution.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

Every brain is unique. Every learner is unique. Shouldn’t each child’s education be personal and unique as well? When you consider the whole child, the current educational research and 21st century skills needed for the future, what should school be like? What do you want the end result of your child’s education to be? These questions should guide us in both developing school programs and choosing schools for our children. These questions come before test scores, budget discussions and the political maneuvering that is frequently connected to school discussions. The old factory model of schooling created in the early 1900s is still the main model used in many traditional programs, but churning out good workers for industry that no longer thrives and creating people who follow well is no longer relevant. Most of the jobs our children will have in their lifetimes do not even exist today. How do we tackle this issue?

At Spectrum, we use a personalized approach to learning that has each student actively involved in making, executing and reviewing learning choices from the age of 3 through 18. At each level, and at each student’s pace, teachers guide learners through many opportunities to make choices throughout their career at Spectrum. One student recently graduating our middle school program made this observation, “The best gift Spectrum gave me is knowing myself well and a close relationship with teachers. I always knew why we were learning something, and part of my day every day was learning what I need to do as a learner to accomplish that day’s learning.” People often ask what type of student Spectrum attracts. People have asked if we are a ‘school for gifted kids’ or a ‘school for kids with learning difficulties’. The answer is yes and yes, and sometimes one student fits both descriptions. We have a wide variety of learners and ask the question ‘How are you smart?’ versus ‘How smart are you?’

Our use of Dr. Howard Gardner’s theory of Multiple Intelligences from Harvard University, along with other research-based theories on learning and the brain and a commitment to arts integration, help us remain constantly changing and reinventing ourselves as we strive to incorporate new knowledge into our programming and teaching style. A vibrant, ever-changing learning community should not look the same year after year. Our low student-teacher ratio and balance of teacher-directed learning and student choice keep our kids involved and challenged. Each child is monitored and assessed on his own J-shaped curve versus the constant competitive comparisons that shut down learning for many children and foster extrinsic instead of intrinsic motivation that grades and bell-curves promote. For students who have very high ability in an area, the ceiling.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

Background

Established in 1984, Montessori Private Academy (MPA) has grown over the past 25 years in both size and reputation. Founded by a group of dedicated parents as a single classroom preschool, the school has grown to its current population of 135 students!

Students, parents, grandparents and staff make up a committed school community that works together to educate children. MPA is an independent private school educating children ages 2 to 14. (Enrollment is under way for the Young Child Program… a new full and half-day program for children ages 24 to 36 months. The Young Child Program begins with the 2009-10 school year.)

While the Early Childhood (3, 4 & kindergarten) level remains the stronghold of Montessori education, more and more parents are choosing MPA to continue into the elementary and middle school years. This has been very exciting, as MPA is the only private Montessori program offering all grades in the Rockford area!

The Montessori philosophy

The Montessori philosophy of education, pioneered by Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator (1870-1952), defines the learning environment throughout MPA.

The mission of Montessori Private Academy is concern for the whole child. Each child grows intellectually, socially, emotionally and physically to become a productive member of the global community, not only for the child’s years in school, but also throughout life.

Montessori education is a 100-year-old method of schooling that is growing in popularity. Estimates indicate that more than 5,000 schools in the United States, including 300 public schools, use the Montessori program. Montessori curriculum is carefully structured and integrated to demonstrate the connections among the different subject areas. Montessori students learn through hands-on experience, investigation and research where a love for the natural world is instilled. Students learn to collaborate and work together in learning and on major projects. In a Montessori program, children not only learn to read, write and do mathematics, but will understand the “why” behind the learning. Many wonderful materials are brilliantly designed not only to make learning accessible but also more importantly understandable. Taking math as an example, in early stages, the Pink Tower introduces size differences in three dimensions, and helps the child differentiate among big, bigger, biggest and small, smaller, smallest. Students have a strong foundation as they work through red and blue rods, spindle boxes and the golden beads. Each exercise leads to a next level of competency and understanding.1

In Montessori, each child learns as an individual, and is personally accountable for his/her own learning. Each child is unique, and is constantly challenged and able to move to new material at his/her own pace. Montessori students gain a wider breadth of knowledge and a deeper understanding of what they have learned. They are prepared to look at problems and see challenges instead of obstacles.

Strength of the Montessori environment is that children finish every lesson that they start. Traditional letter or percentage grades are not given. Instead, progress is tracked in detailed categories for each subject and given a B for Beginning; D for Developing or S for Secured. For example, an early childhood report evaluates math and language in more than 20 categories for each subject every semester.

Briefly, the main characteristics of Montessori education are:

Respect for the child as an individual with unique educational needs, allowing the child to learn at a pace best suited for him/her.

Use of “hands-on” didactic learning materials in carefully prepared multidisciplinary environments, fostering the skills of independence and responsibility.

Process-focused assessments with detailed skills checklists and mastery benchmarks.

Multi-age groupings allowing children to act in roles as both teachers and learners.

A highly-qualified, Montessori-trained faculty who use their skills of observation and individual assessment to direct the learning process.

A school community comprised of students, faculty, staff, parents and extended family that actively support the goal of children’s individual achievements.

Supporting research

A study appearing in the September 29, 2006 issue of the journal Science magazine compared outcomes of children at a public inner-city Montessori school in Milwaukee with children who attended traditional schools. The study indicates that Montessori education leads to children with better social and academic skills. By the end of kindergarten, the Montessori children performed better on standardized tests of reading and math, engaged in more positive interaction on the playground, and showed more advanced social cognition and executive control. They also showed more concern for fairness and justice. At the end of elementary school, Montessori children wrote more creative essays with more complex sentence structure, selected more positive responses to social dilemmas, and reported feeling more of a sense of community at their school.2

Montessori Private Academy is proud of the fact that 100 percent of its students have earned placement in the program of their first choice upon leaving. Students achieve high self-esteem from being successful with their work. Academically prepared with independent working skills, MPA students have a clear vision of their abilities. Additionally, Montessori students rank high in respect for teachers and other students. They enjoy a variety of academic studies and work well independently and in groups.

Montessori Private Academy’s distinctive educational community

To complement a very well-rounded education, field trips and community service projects are integrated into Montessori Private Academy’s curriculum at appropriate levels. MPA sponsors scouting troops, and parent volunteers coach a weekly Elementary Chess Club at the school. MPA students are participants in many extracurricular activities including equestrian competitions, theater, music, gymnastics, swimming and bowling.

Central to a successful and authentic curriculum is involvement and support with the community-at-large. MPA is as vital a source for the community as the community is a resource for the school. MPA has a strong relationship with many community organizations including Rockford Road Runners, Rockford Park District, International Day of Peace Committee – Keeling-Puri Peace Plaza, Rockford College, Rock Valley College, Village of Cherry Valley, Cherry Valley Library, Rock River Valley Council of Girl Scouts and the Blackhawk Area Council of Boy Scouts. Science professors from area colleges bring special hands-on experiments into the Elementary II and Middle School classrooms while animal rehabilitators share their knowledge with Early Childhood Students.

MPA families

Montessori Private Academy has a reputation of being warm and welcoming to everyone and celebrating the rich diversity of the individuals who make up the school community. While more than half of the students live in Rockford, 44 percent come from surrounding communities including Cherry Valley, Belvidere, Loves Park, Caledonia, Poplar Grove, Rockton, Roscoe, Pecatonica, Winnebago, Byron and Oregon. Parents are very willing to drive past many other schools to attend MPA.

Tuition

Tuition for Montessori Private Academy’s 2009-10 academic year:

Young Child (24 – 36 months) $2,000 – $6,500 (tuition reflects number of days enrolled)

Early Childhood (ages 3, 4 & Kindergarten) $3,000 – $6,000 (tuition reflects number of days enrolled)

Elementary I & II (Grades 1—6) $6,100

Middle School (Grades 7 & 8) $6,500

MPA families with children in grades K – 6th have the opportunity to apply for tuition financial assistance.

More information, school tours and admissions

MPA welcomes all inquiries! For more information and to schedule a time to visit and tour, please call Montessori Private Academy at (815) 226-0111 or
www.montessoriprivateacademy.com.

Currently, Montessori Private Academy is located just south of the intersection of Mulford and Harrison roads, Rockford. However, in mid-June, 2009, MPA will be moving to a new school being built just east of Bell School and Newburg roads—a convenient eastside location near Cherry Valley and Boone County!

Works cited

1 Seldin, Tim. “What Makes Montessori Unique.” Retrieved Nov. 12, 2007, from http://kidslaf.com/Documents/unique.pdf

2 Lillard, Angeline and Else-Quest, Nicole. “The Early Years: Evaluating Montessori Education.” Science magazine, VOL. 313, 29 September 2006: 1893. Retrieved Oct. 22, 2007, from http://www.sciencemag.org/cgi/content/full/313/5795/1893

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

The renewable energy vision promulgated by its early leaders was best captured by Amory Lovins’ description of the soft path that focused on a decentralized energy system based on efficiency first followed by renewable energy. Using local and regional energy sources, efficiency was seen as a means to enhance energy security and lessen our dependence on imported oil. With our nation’s initial technological thrust, it was assumed the United States would become the world’s leading supplier of renewable energy technologies.

The initial vision produced some tangible benefits, but our national leaders never fully embraced it. Our oil dependence increased while our dominance in renewable energy and efficiency fell behind Europe’s and Asia’s.

At auto emission conferences, we listened to Lovins’ frustration trying to get U.S. manufacturers to accept his ideas of designing and building energy-efficient cars. While engineers were supportive, corporate leadership focused on short-term profits. He later began talking with Japanese manufacturers and predicted that a Japanese firm would be the first to build hybrid cars.

As conference participants, we drove some early electric cars including Honda’s and GM’s EV1. The Honda representative told us they only built it to demonstrate what a bad idea an electric car was. An engineer who allowed us to drive an EV1 claimed he only agreed to be assigned to the program for a year as he did not want to ruin his chances of advancement within the firm.

The film, Who Killed the Electric Car, focused on the demise of GM’s EV1. Oil interests were characterized as fearing the loss of trillions of dollars in profits. General Motors was portrayed as fearing short-term losses from continued production of the EV1. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) reversed its mandate requiring the production of electric vehicles when the auto industry, oil industry and Bush administration joined a suit challenging the mandate. Soon after abandoning the Zero Emissions Vehicle mandate, CARB administrator Alan Lloyd left to become director of the new fuel cell institute.

Many in the environmental field saw embracing the hydrogen car as a means to distract attention from auto manufacturers’ abandonment of electric and hybrid electric vehicles.

Dr. Paul M. Rybski, a physics professor at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, believes the emphasis on using lithium Ion (Li ion) batteries in vehicles results from Chevron’s patent control of nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries.

Rybski claims every hybrid automobile in production today uses NiMH batteries. The Union of Concerned Scientists recently pointed out that the batteries have performed extremely well. The Panasonic EV 95 NiMH battery packs used in 500 fully electric Toyota RAV4EV have demonstrated lifetimes exceeding nine years and average vehicles miles exceeding 100,000. Yet Chevron, which gained control over the NiMH battery patents in an agreement with Ovonics, has denied other firms licenses for manufacturing the battery.

Rybski points out that there are no NiMH or Li Ion batteries being manufactured in the United States. He finds it ironic that people are pushing for manufacturing plug-in hybrid and fully-electric vehicles to reduce dependence on imported oil from the Middle East while ignoring our dependence on batteries produced in Asia to power these vehicles.

He suggests that firms such as Johnson Controls and Ovonics should receive federal funds to develop battery manufacturing plants in the United States. He challenges “green” organizations to pressure Chevron to stop blocking the licensing of Ovonics-dervied NiMH technology.

With support, could the U.S. once again become a leader in automobile batteries?

Drs. Robert and Sonia Vogl are founders and officers of the Illinois Renewable Energy Association and coordinate the annual Renewable Energy and Sustainable Lifestyle Fair. They consult on energy efficiency, renewable energy and green building. They have 3.2 kW of PV and a 1 kW wind generator at their home. Forty acres of their 180-acre home farm are in ecological restorations. They are active in preserving natural areas and are retired professors from Northern Illinois University.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

News and notes from the April 13 Rockford City Council meeting

The award of bid for downtown streetscape improvements—namely, the removal of the Main Street pedestrian mall—was left off the April 13 Rockford City Council agenda after bids were returned significantly higher than anticipated.

In total, $1.95 million has been budgeted for removal of the mall to restore two-way traffic on Main Street through downtown. Other improvements, such as on-street parking, wayfinders, landscaping and turbine-generated lighting, are also parts of the plan, but some of those may have to wait until 2010.

The lowest of six bids opened April 9, $2,831,491.22, was submitted by William Charles, Ltd. (Rockford Blacktop), of Loves Park.

From the project’s inception, critics have surmised the endeavor could go over budget, referring to vaults and utilities beneath the mall’s surface as a “can of worms.”

In order to stay within budget this year, city leaders are considering only removing the mall in 2009 to reopen Main Street, and holding off on the remaining work until next year.

The entire project was originally planned to start this month and to be completed by the end of August, but officials don’t expect the project to get under way until May.

Ordinances

Aldermen approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Rock River Water Reclamation District to conduct projects simultaneously at the Kishwaukee Street bridge. The city will rehabilitate the bridge, while the reclamation district will upgrade sewers. The concurrent projects are expected to save time and money for both entities.

The council also passed an ordinance prohibiting the use of groundwater as a drinking water supply.

City turns to auction Web sites for deals

Aldermen passed a resolution authorizing the city’s fire chief to bid on a used 1997 fire truck so that the department can decommission a 1976 model from its fleet.

Aldermen passed committee reports recommending:

Stenstrom Excavation and Blacktop Group be awarded a $79,723 bid to replace three blocks of sidewalks on Applewood Lane. Stenstrom’s bid was nearly 50 percent below estimate.

TCI Construction be awarded its $142,900.80 bid for citywide inlet repairs.

Schlichting & Sons Excavating be awarded $301,186.90 for reconstruction of Reed Avenue, between 11th and Kinsey streets, and Roosevelt Road, between 10th and 11th streets.

Hanson Professional Services be awarded a $7,800 contract to plan the relocation of Harrison Avenue between 11th and 20th streets.

McMahon Associates, of Machesney Park, be awarded engineering agreements, totaling $205,000, related to the ongoing $75 million water system rehabilitation project.

The sale of vacant lots at 2623 Mulberry St. and 1209 S. Court St.

A $30,200 grant to the Regional Access Mobilization Project (RAMP) to continue building ramps onto homes for low-income residents with mobility challenges.

Sosnowski takes exception to Schier’s First Ward endorsement

Ald. Joe Sosnowski (R-1) took a moment to respond to The Rock River Times Editor and Publisher Frank Schier’s endorsement of Sosnowski’s April 7 challenger, Brian Jenkins Leggero. Sosnowski won re-election.

While comparing the two candidates, Schier wrote: “When Sosnowski migrated from DeKalb, where he had served as an alderman, this paper saw him as a potentially shining star. However, his past tenure with the Nicolosi/Buckley consortium, coupled with his Realtor status (he now works for a private school system), seemed a classic display of conflict of interests on many fronts. This is not to say all developers or Realtors are bad and don’t deserve a seat at the table, but their industry influence and contributions affect every other seat at the table.”

Sosnowski said, “I didn’t let it hurt me too much,” but noted that each alderman brings a particular set of skills and expertise to the table.

“Even though I may have been criticized a little bit about having a real estate background—and I think several others here do have a real estate background—I think that’s important that we do, all in our own right, bring our individual skills and knowledge base to this council, ’cause I think, generally as a collective group, we’re able to put together new ordinances and look at issues in a good way, and I think that helps the overall community,” Sosnowski concluded.

Schier responded: “Let me quote, the following paragraph of the endorsement he addressed: ‘Not to focus on Sosnowski, but in general, politicians jump for development, development, development even if the indigenous constituents don’t want it. Development money, money, money is God in the governmental universe, and citizens are just so much cosmic dust. That parallel universe must be folded up! Its sprawl creates speck-like consideration of taxpayers and robs them as they are forced to pay for support infrastructure and services that profit a few of the elite.’

“Last Thursday’s county board vote approving the Cannell/Puri petition for more sprawl is a tremendously terrible display of exactly what I wrote,” Schier concluded. “We must realize that our economic future does not revolve around the supposed sun of development. In fact, without smart, planned growth, we will fall prey to a stupidly short-sighted, sprawling decline; not only in our quality of life, but in petro-plastic, wasteland-like surroundings for ourselves and our children. Fear of money, or the lack of it, robs everyone of their humanity.”

Proclamations and recognition

April was proclaimed Great American Cleanup Month, the week of April 12 was proclaimed National Public Safety Telecommunications Week and the week of April 20 was proclaimed Money Smart Week.

Cyndie Powers Hall, director of tourism, culture and special events, was presented a key to the city for her 29 years of service. Hall is retiring April 17 to start her own consulting firm, Dare to Change, Inc.

Absences

Aldermen Jeff Holt (D-11), Lenny Jacobson (D-6) and Bill Timm (R-9) were absent.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

The roll call votes to make the findings of fact and to grant a new special-use permit were identical.

Yes: Doug Aurand (D-3), Ted Biondo (R-9), George Anne Duckett (D-12), Karen Elyea (D-11), Angie Goral (D-7), Pearl Hawks (D-6), Bob Hastings (D-13), Pete MacKay (R-5), Tom Owens (R-1), Mel Paris (D-8), Dianne Parvin (R-4), Dorothy Redd (D-6), David Tassoni (D-7), Fred Wescott (R-9), L.C. Wilson (D-12).

No: John Ekberg (R-10), Dave Fiduccia (R-4), Paul Gorski (D-5), Karen Hoffman (D-11), Kay Mullins (R-8), Rick Pollack (R-13), John F. Sweeney (R-14), Dave Yeske (R-2).

Abstained: Frank Gambino (R-14), Kyle Logan (R-3), Steve Schultz (R-2).

Absent: Bob Kinnison (R-10), Randy Olson (R-1).

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

After 17th Circuit Judge Eugene Doherty threw out a 2006 ordinance granting a special-use permit (SUP) to Dyn Cannell, LLC for a 112-home planned community development (PCD) near Rockton in March, a new one came before the Winnebago County Board April 9.

Before the new SUP could be issued, however, board members were required to determine that statutory criteria, or findings of fact, had been met.

Findings of fact are typically made at the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) level, but the ZBA ruled in 2006 that the project did not meet the criteria. Therefore, when the Winnebago County Board Zoning Committee and the full board subsequently approved the SUP ordinance in 2006, findings of fact remained unsatisfied, according to Doherty.

March 25, the zoning committee voted to recommend approval of an ordinance making the findings of fact so that a new SUP could be granted, despite the ZBA’s disapproval.

Conflict of interest, or dodging the vote?

Before the ordinances were on the floor for debate, Chairman Scott Christiansen (R) indicated three board members would be excused from voting.

Steve Schultz (R-2) abstained both in committee and with the full board because of his prior affiliation with Winnebago County Citizens for Controlled Growth (WCCCG), which filed a lawsuit after the SUP was granted in 2006.

Frank Gambino (R-14), a Realtor and developer, had also abstained in committee, citing previous business with First Rockford Group, developers for the Cannell PCD.

Sunil Puri, founder and president of First Rockford, is a major contributor to local and statewide political campaigns.

Dave Kurlinkus, first deputy state’s attorney of the civil division, explained a board member is only required to abstain if he or she has a direct personal or financial interest in the matter in question, which Gambino said he does not.

“I have no contracts pending—have never had, or probably will have—with the county, and I have absolutely no financial interest in this discussion we’re about to have. I’ve never been contacted about it, and I have no current financial interest or contracts with the petitioner,” Gambino asserted. “I did not have to recuse myself. I didn’t meet the standards, but I chose to.”

Because Gambino indicated he has no conflict of interest, Paul Gorski (D-5) responded, “I would ask Mr. Gambino, then, if he would not recuse himself and make available himself to vote on this issue.”

Despite not being required to abstain, Gambino’s request was granted by Christiansen, who noted it would be unfair for Gambino to vote with the full board after he’d abstained in committee.

Kyle Logan (R-3), a commercial credit analyst for AMCORE Bank, was also excused from the votes related to the PCD.

Christiansen explained, “Mr. Logan’s employer has a vested interest in the company in question, and it was a request not of him, but his employer.”

Responding to the recusal, Gorski said: “I would ask Mr. Logan then to take a look at any contract, or any other development we do under public works, economic development and contracts throughout the county. And if he feels that he has to recuse him from this one, he may as well step down, because I’m sure there’s gonna be some type of business interest through those other committees that come through here.”

The last stand, again

Ted Biondo (R-9) argued in favor of the PCD for nearly six minutes when the findings of fact ordinance came to the floor for discussion. He explained he’d pored over the ZBA minutes and spoken with the petitioner as well as those opposed, but noted, “I always base my decisions on fact and data, not threats or emotion.”

After reviewing all available information, Biondo reported, he drove around the proposed site to have a look for himself.

In an attempt to dispel the notion the area is not residential, Biondo said he counted 70-90 homes already existing nearby. Although the parcel in question is zoned for agriculture, Biondo argued the surrounding area is low-density residential.

Dave Yeske (R-2), however, questioned Biondo’s methodology.

“[Biondo] said he drove around the block. That block is one section—it’s 4 miles around that block,” he noted. “I asked him if he knew what he was looking at when he starts counting houses. That one section’s 640 acres. In that particular section, there are only 12 houses. If you divide that into the 640, you’ll find they’re at 50 acres-a-house.

“Our ordinance says one of the permitted uses is to build a house on 40 acres,” Yeske added, referring to the 2010 plan, which applies to the Cannell PCD. “That’s the density we look for in agriculture. This is an agricultural district. …Only limited residential should be permitted. The request is not consistent with an agricultural area.”

Angie Goral (D-7), a Realtor, argued some residences in the area do not meet the one-home-per-40-acres guideline.

“I think some of these houses are probably on an acre, acre-and-a-half, up to 5 acres or so,” she countered. “I don’t believe they’re 40 acres per house. It might be when you take the whole acreage and then divide it by the amount of houses, it looks that way, but it’s not.”

Lauding the proposed subdivision, Goral added: “This is a real good sample of what our future’s going to be looking like when we do the proper planning of subdivisions, and not just letting anyone build any kind of a subdivision in the middle of nowhere. This is not the middle of nowhere. As you can see, there’s already development all the way around it.”

In discussions at the committee level and before the full board, several board members, including Goral, questioned whether testimony of those opposed at the ZBA hearing was factual, despite the ZBA’s combined experience of more than 40 years. Biondo was also among them.

“Effluent, or byproduct of septic systems, is nitrates, according to that testimony by the ZBA, and therefore the housing density should be restricted, should it be less dense than the residential population is there now,” he said. “When I was at the site yesterday, it looked like fertilizer for the crops in an adjacent field, nitrogen and its nitrate products, are also gonna be flowing into groundwater pretty soon. I wonder which has the higher concentration for contamination—leach fields of residential septic systems, or nitrates applied directly to the topsoil.

“The reason this petition’s being brought before the board tonight is that the board screwed up in 2006, not the petitioner,” Biondo pointed out. “That’s the only ruling the court decreed. The court didn’t rule on the prior board’s favorable decision—only that the board needs to follow its own process with due diligence.”

Biondo concluded: “But regardless of tonight’s decision and discussion, simply ask yourself, doesn’t most of the variables brought out in the testimony before ZBA and the findings of fact regarding the petitioner’s development, such as soil conditions, runoff, septic effluent nitrates, also apply to the 70-90 existing homes in the immediate area? Also think about, would the existing residences be allowed to be built today if they were using the 2030 control plan?”

As the county’s new 2030 land-use plan nears completion, discouragement of leapfrog development has been a priority. There is ongoing debate in the zoning committee regarding whether the plan will require new residential development to connect to municipal sewer and water. The Cannell PCD is planned to be built on well and septic.

Reminding board members their decisions must be based solely on ZBA testimony, Gorski argued, “Mr. Biondo has a reputation for being quite thorough, but in this case it did him a disservice, because all the information he used to go out and make his decision on is technically inadmissible.”

Yeske, who’d mounted an hours-long battle in committee to dispute each finding of fact, moved to separate each standard to be voted on individually before the full board. In a voice vote, Yeske’s colleagues overwhelmingly rejected the motion.

Undeterred, Yeske pre
sented his counterpoints. He noted agricultural districts are meant to be low-density, because large farm equipment is often on the roads, thus requiring that traffic be minimal.

Taking a page from Gorski’s book, Fred Wescott (R-9) argued Yeske should also abstain for presenting non-ZBA evidence.

Backing Biondo, Doug Aurand (D-3) reported: “There are actually 94 properties that surround that. Most of them touch it, or very close to it. Let’s not kid ourself—this is a residential area. We are using a special permit so we can control what happens.”

Aurand, a member of the Winnebago County Farm Bureau, disagreed with the bureau’s assertion the parcel in question is prime agricultural land.

“Only about 13 percent of it is prime Ag property,” Aurand said, also disagreeing with fears of runoff. “There’s not gonna be any drainage problem here. This is some of the flattest land you’re gonna find in the county. It’s a very sandy soil, and there won’t be a problem with it.”

Encouraging support of the PCD, Aurand added: “To me, it’s a matter of fairness. The board made a mistake. If the board hadn’t made a mistake, we wouldn’t be here today. Those homes would be there. We made a mistake. Let’s do the right thing.”

Unlike most board members, John F. Sweeney (R-14) has been attending zoning meetings to become educated about the PCD. Although assuring colleagues he is not “anti-development,” Sweeney said he couldn’t go along with this particular one.

Of the six findings of fact, Sweeney took aim at one in particular: The establishment of the special use will not impede the normal or orderly development and improvement of the surrounding property for uses permitted in the district.

“There’s some sporadically scattered houses,” Sweeney acknowledged, adding, “I see a lot more open fields than I do houses. And I just think that this influx of housing at one time like this does fundamentally change the normal, orderly development and improvement of the surrounding property for uses permitted in the district.”

John Ekberg (R-10) concurred on the basis that the PCD would not be in line with the principle of contiguous development. He also pointed to another standard he feels has not been met by the proposed PCD: The special use will not be injurious to the use and enjoyment of other property in the immediate vicinity for the purposes already permitted, nor substantially diminish and impair property values within the neighborhood.

Ekberg noted the proximity of the Nygren Wetland Preserve to the south, adding that the county is trying to promote eco-tourism in the area.

“I sense that that’s not in keeping with it,” Ekberg asserted.

Referencing the same finding of fact, Yeske alleged that Marvin Keys, counsel for First Rockford Group, had acknowledged the standard was not met during the 2006 ZBA hearing.

According to the ZBA minutes, Keys stated, “County staff points out in their report that the only thing that is currently permitted in the agricultural district surrounding this property that would not be permitted if this were approved is any kind of livestock facility within a half-mile of the property.”

Yeske argued: “He admits that there will be injury to property owners for their permitted uses in that district. …We have testimony—the farmer [Clifford Wilson] that has adjacent, adjoining property has a herd of cattle.”

According to Yeske, Wilson’s family, which has three generations living on the property, has been farming the land for more than 50 years.

“This man is going to be injured. He makes it his living raising these cattle,” Yeske added. “When that subdivision goes in, you’re taking out part of his property. …There is no person that has read this testimony that can reasonably say…that this petitioner met that standard.”

Yeske concluded: “People have rights out there right now, and this whole thing comes down to: Are you taking away their rights to give this developer some rights?”

WCCCG responds

Although WCCCG members, who filled the gallery April 9, had two statements prepared—one for if the SUP was denied, and another for if it was approved—WCCCG Secretary Ann Schroeder was disappointed to present the latter.

“We, the Winnebago County Citizens for Controlled Growth, are very grateful for all the support we have received county wide in our being the voice of the people. We thank Ian Linnabary of Reno [&] Zahm for his expertise as our attorney. We thank the area media for their covering this issue in area newspapers.

“We thank those on the county board who have diligently studied the ZBA findings of fact and spent hours of their time preparing for voting regarding the Dyn Cannell special-use permit.

“The people have once again been the victims of a political vote. Many board members have failed to accept their fiduciary obligation to represent the people in an unbiased and ethical manner.

“We remain united and will stay active in the future regarding credible land use issues in Winnebago County. We will continue to be a visible presence to our local governing boards.

“We are the voice of the people. And, to be clear, we are not anti-development. We are for practical planned growth that we and future generations will not regret.”

Schroeder said she was particularly disappointed that the ZBA’s findings had been so easily discarded and that, “It certainly does not give me much reason to feel secure in knowing they [county board] determine the future of land use in Winnebago County and the ease in which they disregard their own ordinances and a court order.”

Schroeder reported WCCCG plans to meet with Linnabary to discuss any potential options the group may still have with regard to the PCD.

Landowner Chris Cannell and First Rockford Group’s director of retail development, Pankaj Mahajan, declined to comment as they exited the meeting after the votes.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

The Winnebago County government is attempting to reduce costs as a result of the economic downturn, and we have a few ideas for them to consider, especially considering the wholesale sell-out by the county board in granting the Cannell/Puri petition, which violates, invalidates and insults the efforts of all the citizens in the focus groups and the steering committee’s work on what should now be known as the 2030 Joke/Land Use Plan. Since the county board is so “igerment,” as a certain teacher used to say, abandon the 2030 plan!

The poor, dear thing has already been gutted by the proposed removal of the word “shall,” referencing the requirement of sewer for developments, and they can’t have city water, either. Water was eliminated, and sewer became optional under a motion to reconsider, which was adopted through a procedural error whereby Board member Bob Hastings was allowed to change his vote after two meetings had passed. That’s a violation of Robert’s Rules of Order. Motions to reconsider may only occur in the same meeting. Actually, “shall” stands because this vote was invalid.

Adding insult to injury, hundreds of thousands of dollars have been spent on the now 2030 Joke, which will have its Unified Development Ordinances (UDO) written in whole or in part, by the Nicolosi law firm/Buckley Companies, (Realtor/developers), who got the job as a repayment for favors granted to the chairman by that developer. No matter what the spin, the idea that Nicolosi won a legitimate bid process for the 2030 Supposed Plan/Joke is preposterous.

Even the Register Star’s Chuck Sweeney thought this was a joke as he said in an April 10, 12:41 a.m., post on the daily’s Web site: “You’ve been going through the motions of passing a ‘2030 Plan’ for land use in the county. Just forget about it. Nobody will believe you’re serious, anyway.

“The only land use plan that we’ve ever had in Winnebago County is the ‘Clout Plan,’ because whenever a clout-heavy developer wants to do something, he seems to get his way.

“Your 2030 plan is a sham,” Sweeney concluded.

Henceforth, save the money for these studies and just give the developers free rein as they will get what they want anyway.

Eliminate the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA), as they are not listened to by the county board anyway. The ZBA has been overturned so many times, they make “eggs-over-easy” around the world jealous.

Eliminate the Zoning Committee as well. The Chairman and many county board members—especially Mr. Pete MacKay (R-5)—do not believe in zoning anyway, so there’s no point in having this committee at all. The Zoning Committee’s Chairman MacKay was so far out of it that he asked if there really were findings of fact on the Cannell subdivision west of Rockton in the judge’s Memorandum of Decision, which sent the mess back to the county.

Then, at the county board meeting on the Cannell/Puri petition, the members actually refused to review all findings of fact, as properly requested by Dave Yeske (R-2). To compound the tragi-comedy and further the violation, the chairman actually allowed Ted Biondo (R-9) and Yeske, to introduce new testimony—all contrary to the court’s instructions in the Memorandum of Decision. Where were State’s Attorney Joe Bruscato’s objections and directions to the board that they were not following the judge’s order?

Continue laughing or crying, while former Winnebago County Citizens for Controlled Growth Steve Schultz , (R-2) banker Kyle Logan (R-3) and Realtor/Developer Frank Gambino (R-14) recused themselves for conflict of interest, which Chairman Scott Christainsen (R) allowed, Christiansen did not ask the other Realtors on the board to recuse themselves—Angie Goral Doyle (D-7) [Woodhouse & Moore, Inc. Realtors] and Fred Wescott (R-9) [Gambino Realty—he stressed he’s an independent contractor]. All these board members and the rest of them received many phone calls on this issue, just as they have received many phone calls and e-mails on the 2030 plan, no joke. Oddly, several of them said, “Well, we could just put a hog farm there instead; then how would they like that?” Remember that, and please read the “Editor’s note” at the end of this column.

So, since the county board members are not listening, let’s eliminate all public informational meetings, too, as the county has no real interest in what the public wants anyway. Save the costs of the pretty maps as they become out of date immediately after developers object, and the county will probably rush to agree with them and make developer-friendly changes.

Let’s get real and form a board of Realtors and developers to formally run the county and eliminate the elected officials as the public can’t compete with big developers, especially Sunil Puri, in donations for campaigns of supposed public servants. Yes, the reality is that the developers run the county anyway, so let’s eliminate the middlemen. The developers should work at county matters for free as they would be saving the costs of all those contributions to their puppets’ election campaigns.

While we’re at it, let’s just formally hold a coronation for Sunil Puri as King of Winnebago County, since representative government is such a giggle in many power circles. We could hold the ceremony at the Keeling-Puri Peace Plaza—and all would be right in the aristocracy’s little world of empty symbols of good works—actually, the happy face on bad works under way. Give a little to take a lot.

Dean G. Mohring lives on a farm near the proposed Cannell/Puri development, which has been in his family for four generations. He is also a Rockton Township Trustee.

Editor & Publisher Frank Schier is just a rabble-rousing muckraker and proud to be just one of the peasants.

Editor’s note: most of this column was Mr. Mohring’s semi-polite work, but it was so good, the insults had to be added—just returning the favor, Sunil—because that’s what the Cannell/Puri vote was—an insult—to the democratic process and our future quality of life in Sprawlville, formerly to be known as Winnebago County. Oh, almost forgot to mention, the county board meeting in which this vote took place started with an infomercial on hog farms. Carrie Pollard, of the National Pork Board, briefed county board members with a presentation called “Advancements in the Pork Industry.” Really. I’m not kidding. One good joke, (or was that a threat?), deserves another. Really bad form.

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

StoryImage( ‘/Images/Story//Auto-img-12398114121574.jpg’, ‘Photo provided’, ‘Local children in Afghanistan: A sample of the local wildlife. They may look cute enough, but watch out! “Biscuit, Biscuit” (candy). They’ll hound you until the ends of the district for candy and pens for school. This group looks better than some I’ve seen. These boys appear pretty well nourished and have haircuts; most know some English. Girls are kept very close to home, except for school (girls only schools, of course)—from “A Path with Heart, part 4,” by Army Specialist Tom Bauschke. (See related story.)‘);

from the April 15-21, 2009, issue

Regular Mid. Premium Diesel E-85

Rural Oaks Phillips 66- Rural & Prospect $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

BP- Highcrest & Alpine $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

Mobil- Highcrest & Alpine $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

Amoco- 1030 E. State St $2.06 $2.18 $2.30

Mobil- 1334 E. State St. $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

Mobil- 1320 N. Main St. $2.10 $2.20 $2.30

Marathon- West State & LaClede $2.06 $2.16 $2.26

Way-Low Citgo- 2914 W. State St. $2.04 $2.12 $2.20

Shell- Kilburn & School St $2.16 $2.26 $2.36

On The Way- Auburn & Horsman $2.00 $2.10 $2.20

Amoco- 3800 Auburn St. $2.06 $2.16 $2.26

Clark- 4314 Auburn St. $2.04 $2.14 $2.24 $2.10

Mobil- 4432 Auburn St. $2.06 $2.16 $2.26

Phillips 66- Cameron Ave., Durand $2.12 $2.22 $2.32 $2.22

Amoco- Center St., Durand $2.12 $2.22 $2.32 $2.24

BP 800 So. 6th St.

BP 2233 Charles St. $2.08

Mobil 2200 Broadway

BP 3810 Broadway

Marathon 3307 Charles St. $2.07 $1.70 $2.70

BP 2622 Charles St. $2.07

Marathon- 3399 S. Alpine 3399 S. Alpine $2.11 $2.22 $2.32

Stop-N-Go- 4477 Linden Rd $2.11 $2.22 $2.32

Phillips 66- Sandy Hollow & Alpine $1.87 $2.07 $2.17

Shell- 3202 S. Alpine $2.08 $2.18 $2.28

Mobi-l Harrison & Stowmarket $2.11 $2.22 $2.32

Speedway- N. 2nd & Riverside

Huck's 24 hr.- 7812 (7910?) N. Alpine & Maple

Vince's Mobil- 7940 (7912?) N. Alpine

Amoco- 8000 N. Alpine & Harlem

Road Ranger Citgo- 3780 N. Alpine

BP- 2000 Riverside

Mobil- Spring Brook & Perryville

Phillips 66- Spring Creek & Perryville

Amoco- 6950 E. Riverside

Huck's- 4200 Perryville

Phillips 66- 6480 Riverside

Mobil- 5059 Forest Hills & River Lane

BP Super Pantry- 4747 N. 2nd St. $2.07 $2.17 $2.27 $2.19

Clark- 5710 N. 2nd St. $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

Marathon- N. 2nd & Riverside $2.09 $2.19 $2.29 $2.29

Clark- 6217 N. 2nd $2.09 $2.19 $2.29 $2.38

Amoco- Harlem & N. Alpine $2.02 $2.12 $2.22

Road Ranger Citgo- Harlem & Forest Hills $1.99 $2.09 $2.29 $2.19

Grand Prix- 7997 Forest Hills $1.97 $2.07 $2.17 $1.87

Shell Station/Food Mart- 7765 Forest Hills Rd. $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

Phillips 66- 1603 15th Ave. & 11th St. $2.06 $2.16 $2.26

BP Amoco- 1909 18th Ave. & 11th St. $2.10 $2.20 $2.30

Penny Pincher Citgo- 2837 11th St.

Marathon- 3209 Sawyer & 11th St. $2.06 $2.16 $2.26 $2.30

Citgo Road Ranger- 3302 11th St. $2.06 $2.16 $2.26

Phillips 66- 6536 11th St., New Milford $2.09 $2.19 $2.29 $2.20

Citgo- 4962 20th St. & Samuelson Rd. $2.08 $2.17 $2.26

Huck's- Alpine & Maple Ave. $2.09

Marathon- 251 & Forest Hills $2.09

Mobil- McDonald's 251 $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

Mobil - Blackhawk Blvd.,Rockton $2.09 $2.19 $2.29 $2.05

Phillips 66- Blackhawk Blvd.,S. Beloit $2.09 $2.19

Citgo- Blackhawk Blvd.,S. Beloit

Wilson Auto- 3121 N. Rockton Ave. $2.07 $2.24 $2.47

Citgo- 3026 N. Rockton Ave.

Phillips 66- 3135 N. Rockton Ave.

BP 2225 W. Riverside Blvd. $2.06 $2.16 $2.26

Phillips 66- 425 Winnebago St. $2.10

Harper Gas- 1716 S. Main St. $2.10 $2.20 $2.30

Mobil- 3338 N. Main St. $2.06 $2.16 $2.26

Citgo- 3400 N. Main St. $2.06 $2.16 $2.26 $2.06

Mobil- 360 College Ave. & Seminary St. $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

Phillips 66 2233 Kishwaukee St

Shell- 53 Airport Rd. $2.08 $2.14 $2.28 $2.27

Mobil- CherryVale $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

Marathon- 7470 Harrison & Bell $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

Citgo Road Ranger- Harrison & Bell $2.03 $2.13 $2.23

Express Lane Shell- 305 E. State $2.04 $2.14 $2.24

Citgo- N. State St. $1.99 $2.09 $2.19

Belvidere:

BP- 1857 N. State St. $1.99 $2.09 $2.19

Shell- 1024 N. State St. $1.99 $2.09 $2.19

Phillips 66- 1001 N. State St. $1.79 $2.09 $2.19

Marathon- N. State St. $1.99 $2.09 $2.19

Clark- 717 N. State St. $1.99 $2.09 $2.19

Ioco- 600 Logan St. $1.99 $2.09 $2.19

Clark- S. State St. $1.99 $2.09 $2.19

Mobil- 2500 Pearl Ave $1.99 $2.09 $2.19

Winnebago:

Citgo Road Ranger- Winnebago Rd. $2.06 $2.16 $2.26 $2.26

Mobil- Winnebago Rd. $2.06 $2.16 $2.26 $2.26

Pecatonica:

Mobil- Main St. $2.08 $2.18 $2.28

Oregon:

Casey's- Washington St. $2.09 $2.19

Byron:

Casey's Gen. Store- 733 W. Blackhawk $2.07 $2.17

Amoco- 127 W. Blackhawk $2.07 $2.23

Mobil- W. Blackhawk $2.07

Phillips 66- W. Blackhawk $2.07

Stillman Valley:

Casey's Gen. Store- 314 W. Roosevelt $2.07 $2.13

Marathon Gas Station $2.07 $2.27

Citgo Road Ranger- E. State & Bell School $2.06 $2.16 $2.26

Mobil- 7250 E. State St. $2.07 $2.17 $2.27

BP- 320 N. Mulford Rd. $2.06 $2.11

Mobil- 5810 E. State St. $2.07 $2.17 $2.27

Leaf River:

Citgo- 406 E. 3rd St. $2.09 $2.19 $2.29 $2.12

Polo:

Ca
sey's General Store- Division Ave. $1.97 $2.07

Shell- Division Ave. $1.97 $2.29

Citgo- Division Ave. $1.97 $2.29 $2.18

Mt. Morris:

Mobile- Hitt St. $2.09

Shell- Hitt St. $2.09

Citgo Road Ranger- 7525 E. State St. $2.09 $2.19 $2.29

Phillips 66- 540 N. Lyford $1.89 $2.09 $2.19

Amoco- 3420 E. State St.

Citgo Road Ranger- 5330 E. State St.

Mobil- 8200 N. 2nd St.

Stop & Go BP- 8320 N. 2nd St.

Mobil- 9915 – Rt. 173

Road Ranger- Rt. 173, N. 2nd St.

Phillips 66- 8909 Burden Rd.

Mobil- 5207 Elevator Rd., Roscoe

Road Ranger- 11607 Main & Elevator Rd., Roscoe

from the April 8-14, 2009, issue

(Tyrannosaurus Rex Versus the Corduroy Kid, by Simon Armitage. Knopf; $25.)

Simon Armitage’s latest poetry collection, Tyrannosaurus Rex Versus the Corduroy Kid, winds down with a touch of bravado, publishing a penultimate verse that is, at first, completely unreadable. The text is printed backward, and the joke is on us. If we were really so buddy-buddy with the English language, Armitage seems to taunt, wouldn’t we recognize it even with its back to us?

After one labored reading, I held the poem, “Learning by Rote,” up to a mirror, and gleefully deciphered the story of young Armitage being ordered to write his name 10,000 times. It’s a trick, sure, but a meaningful one. Only four lines are permitted to slice forward through the backward script: three repeat the poet’s name, and one, centered, excerpts his father’s angry note to the teacher: “Enough’s enough. Now leave the boy alone.” All right, Mr. Armitage, but not until we discuss Simon’s poetry.

In addition to being a poet of much notoriety in Britain, Armitage is a novelist, playwright, musician and essayist. “I’ve always tried to think of poetry as an active ingredient in the language rather than just something that appears between the covers of thin books,” he says, and his writing, in which ease should not be mistaken for simplicity, bubbles in this volume. Active ingredients—family, country, youth and adulthood—are fused with careful metaphor—chess, the big bang, children’s television—and always the cavorting, familiar language, that arterial force behind even Armitage’s most complex poems: talking.

Modern, urban England, with its ugly institutions and focus on possession, displeases; these poems are more politicized than earlier work (“black blood” is one memorable euphemism for motor oil). “He loves his country but she committed adultery with a man called London,” he writes in “Poem on His Birthday,” a poem composed of 40 aphoristic lines, and from which the collection’s title is mined. Observing men carrying wood in “On Marsden Moor” he worries, “what if those poles were fencing posts/to hammer home, divide a plot of land/between the two of them, and those dumb stones/the first steps to a new Jerusalem?” In “A Vision,” the speaker ridicules his naive past self for imagining a superior future: “Cities like dreams, cantilevered by light.”

But poetry, having survived all the world wars, is a resourceful art. It repurposes, and Armitage finds ingredients even where they’re rationed. Take, for example, the “Palm to palm fingers interlaced” in “Hand-Washing Technique—Government Guidelines”—a poem made surprisingly intimate by that holy pilgrim’s kiss. It makes one dream of anti-bacterial Dial and shot of lukewarm water. Likewise, “Republic,” one of the collection’s best, imagines a world in which only certain colored cars drive on assigned days. It may be a police state, but it’s not ugly.

In this, there’s a distinct longing for, not the past, but a present whose survival doesn’t mandate eating its heritage. Women serving coffee in the Merrie England coffeehouse are close to fetishized; in “After the Hurricane,” the speaker and his father rest together amid their untouched greenhouse, hut, and shed: “it’s enough to drink and smoke/amongst mortar and bricks, here at the empire’s end.” One thinks of the British empire, of course, but the speaker—this is one of a few elegiac poems to a father—might be preoccupied with the fall of the Armitage Empire.

By simultaneously embodying the past and the future, children factor heavily in this collection, as they do in earlier work. Take the fantastical title. It’s a lopsided match necessarily sprung from the head of a corduroy kid, not a corduroy man whose age-fed brain might warn him that the T. rex would probably prevail. Children are envied, but worried for, too, particularly those with misspent youths. “Surtsey,” named for an Icelandic island of volcanic rock, is “where all the world’s wunderkinder are washed up,” a kind of Never Never Land for child actors. “The Kid”—or “Mr. Kid” or “Poor Kid”—appears in many poems (Armitage’s early poem “Kid” is one of his most famous), and “Evening” is an apt depiction of how it feels to grow older: gradually, barely perceptibly, until one day you think, “How did it get so late?”

If the antidote to sudden agedness is being aware, poets could charge a cosmetic surgeon’s rate for their services: an hour of poetry to make you remember who and where you are. Written once or 10,000 times, he is Simon Armitage. Where he stands, a planet lumbers on a repetitious trajectory, age-spotted but wondrous, with a population racing around on their own myriad axes, forward and backward, inward and outward, in perpetuity. It is a blur of activity that Armitage notices for its billions of unique parts, and it makes sense on these pages, even when at first it seems not to.

Jenna Krajeski is on the editorial staff of the New Yorker. This article originally appeared in the San Francisco Chronicle. Distributed by the Poetry Foundation. Read more about Simon Armitage, and his poetry, at www.poetryfoundation.org.

from the April 8-14, 2009, issue

SKOKIE, Ill.—Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center leadership has announced that former President Bill Clinton will be the featured speaker at the institution’s Public Grand Opening on Sunday, April 19, 2009, in Skokie, Ill. Former President Clinton will join Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn, foreign dignitaries, Holocaust survivors and several thousand of the general public as the new museum officially opens its doors for the first time.

Likely the last international institution of its type to be built with the active participation of Holocaust survivors, the Illinois Holocaust Museum will be the largest institution in the Midwest dedicated to preserving the memories of those lost in the Holocaust and to teaching current generations to fight hatred, indifference and genocide in today’s world.

“President Clinton’s participation in the dedication of this world-class institution truly sets the tone for what we want the museum to be,” said Richard S. Hirschhaut, the museum’s executive director. “Not only does President Clinton’s attendance underscore the urgency of our mission, but also the important role we must all play in combating intolerance and genocide throughout the world today.”

The Public Grand Opening Ceremony is free and open to the public; however, tickets are required and can be requested online at www.ilholocaustmuseum.org.

Opening day festivities will begin at noon under a grand tent outside the museum building at 9603 Woods Drive in Skokie. In addition to remarks by President Clinton, clergy and other elected leaders, the program will include a video presentation, ceremonial lighting of candles by survivors of past and contemporary genocides, musical performances by the Soul Children of Chicago and Miri Ben Ari and more. Public tours of the building will follow the dedication ceremony beginning at approximately 2 p.m., utilizing a timed-ticket entry system. Scheduled times for hourly museum tours will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, upon arrival with a valid ticket. Timed tickets not used will be good for one free afternoon admission to the museum during the month of May, Tuesday-Friday after 1 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Parking for the opening ceremony will be available at an offsite location.

“President Clinton is a hugely influential international figure whose administration brought peace to Northern Ireland and to the Balkans,” said J. B. Pritzker, the museum’s capital campaign chairman. “His participation in the grand opening of the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center is a tremendous symbol of the global significance this institution aims to have.”

In 1993, President Clinton spoke at the dedication ceremony for the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C.

Beyond the atrocities of Nazi Germany, the new museum takes a global perspective by exploring issues of genocide and human rights around the world and throughout history. Through its public programs, traveling exhibits and Voices of Conscience lecture series featuring international human rights leaders, the museum will work to raise awareness of and inspire action in response to the many atrocities that have taken place and continue to occur worldwide.

As part of the museum’s grand opening weekend, it will also host an Interfaith Leadership Breakfast Friday, April 17, where Eboo Patel, founder and executive director of the Interfaith Youth Core, will speak, and clergy from across the region will come to participate in a common prayer for humanity. To showcase its thoughtful, provocative education center, the museum will also host a symposium on Monday, April 20, themed The Ethics of Dealing with Genocide: Media and Legal Perspectives on Genocide Awareness and Prevention. The symposium will examine the role and responsibility of the media in covering genocide, as well as recent developments in atrocity crimes currently on trial. Members of the media, as well as national and international leaders who have fought and continue to fight injustice are among those confirmed to participate in the event, which will be attended by a broad cross-section of educators, thought leaders and student journalists from the greater Chicagoland area.

“This museum is a dream come true for local Holocaust survivors,” said Samuel Harris, Holocaust survivor and museum board president. “It is our legacy. It will impart our stories of survival and the lessons of the Holocaust, but more importantly, it will teach future generations the dangers of unchallenged hate to ensure that ‘Never Again’ becomes a reality.”

The Illinois Holocaust Museum &s Education Center will reach approximately 250,000 schoolchildren throughout Illinois and across the Midwest annually. Issues related to Darfur, Rwanda, Cambodia and other modern atrocities will be carefully integrated into museum exhibits, curricula and field trip experiences. Learning materials will also be made available to teachers to integrate into their own curricula. In Illinois, specifically, students are required by law to learn about the Holocaust and other genocides; the new museum will help fulfill this mandate.

Designed by award-winning architect Stanley Tigerman, the $45 million, 65,000-square-foot facility houses extraordinary artifacts, including Simon Wiesenthal’s desk and eyeglasses, an original volume of the Nuremberg Trial transcripts, Kindertransport lists and artwork made in the concentration camps. An award-winning collection of 250 letters, postcards, postal documents, leaflets and other materials documenting the Nazis’ annihilation of those they deemed “undesirable” will also be on display, along with an early 20th century German rail car of the type used by the Nazis during the Holocaust to transport millions to concentration camps and, ultimately, their deaths. And more than 2,000 testimonies of Midwest Holocaust survivors recorded by the University of Southern California Shoah Foundation Institute for Visual History and Education, founded by Steven Spielberg, are accessible in the museum’s interactive resource center.

The museum also features a Legacy of Absence Gallery that is home to a permanent collection of visual artwork by distinguished contemporary artists from around the world that reflect on historical violence. Its Room of Remembrance honors the memory of Holocaust victims and contains the inscribed names of nearly 1,300 people on walls rising 25 feet, enveloping the visitor in a sacred moment of remembrance. Its Hall of Reflection, bathed in natural light, provides a space for quiet contemplation surrounded by 18 window bays each containing an element through which candles of hope can be ceremoniously lit. And its interactive youth exhibition introduces children to the lessons of the Holocaust in an age-appropriate manner helping the younger visitor to investigate how to be a responsible citizen, take care of oneself and speak up for others.

The Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center is ideally situated in Skokie because of the village’s connection to the Holocaust. After the war, Skokie became an enclave for many survivors and was the location of an attempt by neo-Nazis to march through the community in the late 1970s. A permit was first requested by the National Socialist Party of America to march in Skokie’s Birch Park in October 1977 and ultimately led to a hearing before the U.S. Supreme Court.

The Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center is a project of the Holocaust Memorial Foundation of Illinois. Founded by Holocaust survivors nearly 30 years ago, the organization is dedicated to teaching about the Holocaust and the dangers of unchallenged hate. The organization has taught school and community groups through a small storefront museum and speakers’ bureau since 1981. To learn more, visit www.ilholocaustmuseum.org.

from the April 8-14, 2009, issue