Music with a mission: that summarizes the purpose of RCFBand, a 35-piece community concert band with a Christian ministry located in Rockford, Ill. This band has been making a joyful noise since 1985, presenting free concerts appropriate for the occasion and season.

RCFBand is growing and has opportunities for clarinet, flute, bassoon, bass clarinet, oboe, baritone sax, French horn, trombone, baritone and tympani. They are also looking for people to manage the affairs of the band.

There are no auditions or membership fees. Rehearsals will be Sept. 7 and 21, Oct. 5 and 19, Nov. 2 and 16, Dec. 7 and 14. RCFBand rehearses from 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at First Evangelical Covenant Church, 316 Wood Road in Rockford, Ill.

The free concerts will be held on the same dates as the rehearsals listed above. For more information, go to www.rcfband.org or http://pages.prodigy.net/cfb1732.

LENA, Ill.—Lena’s Historical Society is one of six small towns in Illinois to be chosen to host an exhibit titled “New Harmonies, Celebrating Roots of American Music.” Roots is a music that emerged from the names of music like blues, country, western, folk and gospel.

This exhibit will be on display at the Lena Area Historical Museum, 427 W. Grove St., Lena, Ill., Sept. 4-Oct. 17. Admission for the exhibition is $3 for adults and $1 for students. Extended hours will be offered, and private tours may be arranged by calling (815) 233-2545 or (815) 369-4135.

Events planned while the exhibits are on display at the museum include the following:

Chautauqua: Sunday, Sept. 12—2 p.m., to be held in the Historical Society’s barn. A rousing concert featuring gospel and folk music will be offered, plus a “special” appearance by William Jennings Bryan. Fee: $5 for adults, $2 for children, younger than 5 get in free. Refreshments will be offered.

Guitar Camp: Saturday, Sept. 18, to be held at the museum. This is a workshop for grades 2-6 with a recital concert to follow. Friends and family are invited to come at 6 p.m. for the recital and enjoy ice cream sundaes. Pre-registration required: $5. Registration forms available at Engel’s Jewelry & Gifts, phone (815) 369-2212.

Barn Dance: Saturday, Oct. 2 at 7 p.m. at the Lena Historical Society’s Barn. Enjoy an old-fashioned barn dance with caller. Watch, learn and dance. $5 per person. Refreshments will be offered.

Oktoberfest: Saturday, Oct. 16 at 7 p.m., to be held at the Lena Community Center, 497 Lions Drive. The Greg Anderson Band, well-known for polka and other popular music, will perform. Get your dancing shoes on and be prepared for a fun night. Brats, beer and other specialties will be for sale.

Admission is $5 in advance and $7 at the door. Advance tickets will be available at Engel’s Jewelry & Gifts and Country Windmill in Lena.

For more information, call (815) 233-2545 or (815) 369-4135 or e-mail price@aeroinc.net.

This exhibit is sponsored by the Smithsonian Institute and the Illinois Humanities Council.

Experts are in town looking for rare military items and all types of guns! If you have a shotgun or handgun, even an old Civil War rifle or just a bayonet, bring it to the show from Aug. 30 through Sept. 3 at the Holiday Inn, 7550 E. State St., Rockford. You can have real experts evaluate and even find a collector to purchase your items. Bring in any and all types of military items such as hats, uniforms, belt buckles, cannon balls, etc. Collectors are in search of these items, and all guns and military items are in high demand.

Recent finds include a Confederate uniform for $3,500, Confederate flag that hung from a general’s tent for $2,000, Confederate money hidden in the walls of a residence that was uncovered during a remodel, and even a German SS Belt Buckle Gun used by a high-ranking officer during WW II that was purchased for $6,000! A local gentleman even brought in four shotguns and walked out with more than $16,000!

This is the first time in history collectors have hosted a show for any specific category. Military items and guns have been collectibles for decades; however, the National Gun Collectors Association has received an influx of phone calls, specific and personal requests for these rare items. This is a free event, and you can speak with real-life collectors and experts to find out how much your stuff is worth in today’s market.

This is an easy way to put some extra money in your pocket as you will be paid on the spot. Thousands of dollars are expected to be distributed to Rockford as collectors, gun enthusiasts and sport hunters pay top dollar for premium guns such as Civil War rifles, assault rifles, and good-condition brands such as Colt, Browning, Winchester, Smith & Wesson, Springfield, etc.

What kind of treasures will be revealed during this event? Let’s find out together. You or your next-door neighbor just might be the next to find a jackpot in the attic. Start digging now and be ready to have some fun and make some money. Have fun with your search. This is free event and is unlimited to the number of items you can bring in to the show. Hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m-4 p.m., Friday.

For more information, call (217) 241-3170.

FORT ATKINSON, Wis.—It’s time to let your hair down, and dance the night away!

Fireside Dinner Theatre announced it will be the first professional theater in Wisconsin to present the recent Broadway musical comedy hit, Hairspray, Sept. 2-Oct. 31. This fantastically fun musical, winner of eight 2003 Tony Awards including Best Musical, just recently ended its run on Broadway.

Audiences will be swept away to 1960s Baltimore in this international smash-hit musical, piled bouffant-high with laughter and romance—and enough deliriously tuneful songs to fill a nonstop platter party.

Every show comes with a fine dining experience, access to several boutique shops right at The Fireside, and free and convenient parking, providing a family entertainment value that is hard to beat. For information about showtimes, menus and tickets, or to reserve seats, call 800-477-9505 or visit www.firesidetheatre.com.

In Hairspray, it’s 1962—the ’50s are out and change is in the air. Baltimore’s Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, has only one passion—to dance. She wins a spot on the local TV dance program, The Corny Collins Show, and, overnight, is transformed from outsider to irrepressible teen celebrity. But can a plus-size trendsetter in dance and fashion vanquish the program’s reigning princess, win the heart of heartthrob Link Larkin, and integrate a television show without denting her ’do? Only in Hairspray! Welcome to the ’60s!

Hairspray is based on the New Line Cinema film written and directed by John Waters, who served as a creative consultant on the musical comedy. It features a book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan. Hairspray features an original score by Academy Award-nominated Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman.

Remaining shows in the Fireside Theatre 2010 season include the following: Hairspray, Sept. 2-Oct. 311, and A Fireside Christmas featuring “The Child,” Nov. 4-Dec. 23.

Since 1964, The Fireside Dinner Theatre in Fort Atkinson, Wis., has been the premiere entertainment destination in the Midwest for superb musicals featuring Broadway performers, fine dining and boutique shops in a one-of-a-kind setting. Consistently named as a top destination for travel tours across the United States, The Fireside is owned by the Klopcic family, who were awarded the distinction of “America’s Best Restaurant Family” by Jones Dairy Farm and the Culinary Institute of America in 2006. For more information about The Fireside, visit firesidetheatre.com, or call 1-800-477-9505.

“The gods help them that help themselves.”—Aesop

Here’s a Second Half story that impressed me, surprised me, taught me something new—then made me sad.

“You need to talk to the folks at Beckman Mill,” my Second Half friend Pat insisted. “You won’t believe what they’ve accomplished!” I totally trust Pat’s insights, and when she tells me someone is amazing… well, I listen!

Sheri Disrud, a delightful gal, met me at Beckman Mill Park on County H Road in Rock County, a few minutes east of Beloit, Wis., and Rockton, Ill., just over the Illinois/Wisconsin stateline. Sheri is one of the amazing folks Pat spoke about, and she gave me a tour of the park.

Here’s the gist of it: 20 years ago, a bunch of folks in their Second Half founded a nonprofit organization called Friends of Beckman Mill (FBM), affiliated with the Wisconsin Historical Society. The mill and surrounding property had been sold to Rock County as a park by the Beckman family in the late ’70s. Remember the late ’70s and early ’80s? What with unemployment and the recession, funds just weren’t available to restore the property. It was so dilapidated that the state advised everyone to “Forget it!”

Look at the timeline:

In 1977, Beckman Mill was placed on National Register of Historic Places and a year later, the mill and property were sold to Rock County. Nothing much happened until 1990, when the Friends of Beckman Mill, Inc. (FBM) was formed and committed to try fixing the place up. Only a year later in 1991, Beckman Mill was put on Wisconsin’s “10 Most Endangered Historic Properties” list. GAD!

By 1997, the volunteers of FBM had won the American Association for Local History Award and, in 1998, tours of the restored Beckman Mill began. Going from a state’s “most endangered historic property” to a fully-restored, operational mill and 50-acre park—in only seven years!—is nothing short of miraculous, especially since it was done strictly by volunteer workers.

Since forming, the group has restored several additional buildings, the dam and the mill pond. But restoring the dam had another problem. In 2001, the Department of Natural Resources declared two species of fish to be endangered, fish that would be negatively impacted by this dam:

“The concern was that once the dam was in place, certain protected species of fish could become isolated either in the pond or in the stream below the dam. To comply, a special circular slowly-flowing route was designed by Friends of Beckman Mill Coordinator Bob Fosler and was approved by the Department of Natural Resources, the U. S. Corps of Engineers and Rock County.”

I have to say, this thing is awesome… talk about American ingenuity! The fish ladder is a curved 140-foot-long series of seven pools and riffles—a pool is a deeper area where water collects, and a riffle is shallow with a gravel bed. The pools act as miniature holding ponds, while riffles slow the flow of water to allow the small endangered fish to navigate.

The grist mill is now operational, power supplied by its original 1860s water-driven Leffel turbine. If needed, the mill can be operated by its vintage two-cylinder gasoline engine.

“It is so lovely that many people hold their weddings here,” Sheri told me. “Intimate ceremonies are often held on the beautiful covered bridge, and some enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides.”

This rustic eco-friendly setting would appeal to any green-spirited couple willing to embrace Mother Nature. The park has a good-sized picnic shelter, and the Visitor’s Center has real bathrooms, a plus for those of us who like shade and running water.

“So,” you are wondering, “what is the issue that mars this paradise?”

The original Friends are beginning to slow down, as many of them were already retired when FBM was formed. The actual number of active volunteers has diminished to about a dozen, decreasing annually.

Sheri told me, “Since the park is open for tours only on Saturdays and Sundays from 1-3 p.m., May through October, it is a very easy schedule, and helpers get to choose the most convenient three to six hours to work each month.”

“Even a snowbird could manage that,” I thought.

Other volunteer opportunities include manning the Visitor Center Gift Shop and working outdoors in the Heritage Garden or Oak Savannah. And every event requires donated baked goods for desserts, or cooking and serving food to visitors. This year’s events include Progress Days and Pig Roast in May, Square Dance in June, Ice Cream Social in July, Dog Days of Summer and Corn Roast in August, Heritage Days in September, and Early Pioneer Encampment in October.

Seems like there is a volunteer opportunity for every ability and interest area in this group.

“We don’t have the manpower to recruit volunteers,” Sheri confessed, “and we could also use a few people dedicated to publicity for our special events and basic programs.” So there you have it—all that work resulting in a thing of beauty, and now almost no one to maintain it.

Calling all stateline folks of every age! Just check out Beckman Mill Park and see if it touches your heart. I know I’m signing up, and I hope some of you will, too.

Learn even more at the Beckman Mill website: beckmanmill.org.

In her second half of life, Kathleen D. Tresemer is both a journalist and an award-winning fiction writer. She lives with her husband on a small ranch in rural Shirland, Ill. Kathleen can be contacted by e-mail at kdt-insights@hotmail.com.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

By Drs. Robert & Sonia Vogl
President and Vice President
Illinois Renewable Energy Association

Howard Latin, Rutgers law professor, presented both sides of the climate change issue: that of developing nations and that of developed nations. If both sides continue to approach limiting carbon emissions from their own perspective, any attempts will continue to fail. At their root, the different positions regarding controlling carbon positions are about money and power.

Latin first laid out the arguments from the perspective of developing nations. One is that developed nations are responsible for the vast majority of the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere since they industrialized first. Since they caused the problem, they are not in a position to tell others they cannot develop and raise their standard of living. Developing nations feel they have a right to close the economic gap, even if it means releasing greenhouse gases. They also believe developed nations must cut back the release of pollutants so there is space for developing nations to continue developing.

They argue every person in the world should have an equal right to release greenhouse gases. This makes the U.S.’s 16 times more per capita than India’s untenable.

Eighty-four percent of the world’s people live in developing countries. Most of them live on one-tenth the income of those in developed countries. Many intellectuals in Great Britain believe in contraction and convergence: cutting back on the economies of developed countries until developing countries have the same per capita income, and allowing developing countries the same level of wealth, economic opportunities and release of greenhouse gases.

Many developing countries with large populations living on flood-prone land are threatened by rising sea levels and more intense storms. Some will be covered by sea water if levels rise as expected.

For these reasons, developing countries want developed countries to pay for damages inflicted on them and the cost of the adaptations they will be forced to make. International law is on their side as no country has a right to damage another country.

The developed nations have a different take on the problem of climate change and what should be done about it.

Developing countries call for a more equitable distribution of wealth between them and developed countries. Yet, they have not made a similar effort to redistribute wealth within their own countries.

Developing nations release more greenhouse gases than they have acknowledged as a result of deforestation and agricultural practices, which reduce the capacity of ecosystems to absorb greenhouse gases.

Developed nations also think developing nations should be willing to take actions to reduce their carbon emissions, even if at a level far lower than that of developed nations. If greenhouse gases were allocated on a per capita basis, countries such as China and India would benefit. Such an allocation ignores the environmental damage resulting from large human populations.

Most greenhouse gases were released before developed nations knew it was a problem. However, they still have done little to curtail their release.

Developed countries are unwilling to give up their standard of living or destroy their economies, but are willing to assist developing countries raise theirs. They are also not willing to give up their lifestyles or stop publicizing them, which sets a model for developing countries, committing the world to an energy-intensive society.

Many developed countries fear that if they are forced to limit their carbon emissions for the same products being produced in developing countries, the goods of the developed countries would be at a competitive disadvantage.

Latin’s conclusion is that developed nations develop greenhouse-free energy sources and share them with the developing world. In his view, the only solution that will work is to continue economic development in all countries based on clean energy sources.

He feels what we are doing at the energy fair is what needs to be done to avoid a tragedy for the world.

From a presentation at the Ninth Annual Illinois Renewable Energy and Sustainable Lifestyle Fair, Aug. 7, 2010, at Ogle County Fairgrounds near Oregon, Ill.

The comments in this column will be more fully elaborated on in Latin’s soon-to-be-published book, Climate Change Policy Mistakes.

Drs. Robert and Sonia Vogl are founders and officers of the Illinois Renewable Energy Association (IREA) and coordinate the annual Renewable Energy and Sustainable Lifestyle Fair. The Vogls and the IREA are members of the Environmental Hall of Fame. Dr. Robert Vogl is vice president of Freedom Field, and Dr. Sonia Vogl is a member of Freedom Field’s Executive Committee. The Vogls 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. E-mail sonia@essex1.com.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

By S.C. Zuba
Sports Columnist

Someone might want to place a call to the White Sox’s clubhouse attendant and request two lockers for Manny Ramirez—one for his belongings, and the other for his ego.

Reports indicate Manny’s time with the Dodgers has expired, and the 38-year-old slugger will now help the slumping White Sox in their quest to fend off the reigning American League Central Division champion Twins.

Now, there are two ways to look at this deal. First, you can look back to what Manny did for the Dodgers when he was traded just minutes before the trade deadline in 2008. Or, you can look at what he did to the Red Sox to force that very trade.

Let’s explore the first option. After that trade, Manny exploded at the plate, batting .396 in 187 at-bats, with 17 homers and 53 RBIs as he led the Dodgers to the National League Championship Series.

He provided a spark for that team as the Dodgers went 30-23 in the regular season with Manny. It’s impossible to say with certainty, but the numbers point to the Dodgers missing the playoffs without Manny’s services.

Los Angeles was three games back in the National League West before the acquisition of Manny, and ended up winning the division by four-and-a-half games.

It’s exactly that type of spark the White Sox need to propel themselves past the Twins.

There is, however, an old saying that is dangerously applicable to this situation: “If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.”

Those words speak volumes in the case of Manny Ramirez. At first, Manny’s antics were laughable. It was billed as simply, “Manny being Manny.” Take, for example, when he left the outfield at Fenway Park to use the bathroom before the start of an inning. The Red Sox laughed it off, but that was only the beginning.

It’s a scary thing when a players thinks he has become bigger than the game, or the team. With thinking like that, it’s only a matter of time before more serious problems arise.

Like when Manny slid to catch a line drive, and the ball went sailing past him. Instead of quickly getting up to retrieve the ball, he just lay there and faked an injury. He made it clear he was done with Boston. In time, his ego grew too big for his locker at Fenway Park, and the Red Sox decided enough was enough.

Over his career, which has spanned 18 seasons at the professional level, Manny has feuded with umpires, players and managers. He has taken the focus off the team and placed it on himself. He has thought of himself as larger than the game.

But one thing is certain: The guy can swing the bat.

Manny has been both a cancer and a life support; a savior and a destroyer; a hero and a villain—the question is, what will he be for the White Sox?

Share your thoughts with S.C. Zuba via e-mail at samuelczuba@gmail.com.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Former River District Executive Director Kim Wheeler-Johnsen (left) accepts a $10,000 sponsorship check from First Northern Credit Union's Melissa Miller, who is also an independent Realtor. File photo

By Frank Schier
Editor & Publisher

Late Tuesday afternoon, Aug. 31, Bill Morrissey of Morrissey Law Offices called to tell us Kim Wheeler-Johnsen, executive director of the River District, and her assistant, Diane Lyon, had been terminated by the Board of Directors’ President Emily Hartzog and Vice President Mike Davidson.

Wheeler-Johnsen and Davidson could not be reached to go on the record. Hartzog, after a call back to Morrissey and some strong language, went on the record.

Before addressing Hartzog’s comments, a little history needs to be explained because I have several strong biases as I write this editorial.

Once upon an ill-spent, public dime, the Rockford Central Area Commission (RCAC) was supported by a special service area (SSA) tax, or higher property tax, to make things better on both sides of the river downtown. Besides paying for an executive director and some more out-of-town consultants, many of us wondered just exactly what we were getting for our taxes. We decided, “Not much,” and took the tax down by the required number of property owners.

Much like the sparsely-supported west-side-oriented Midtown Association, RCAC faded into history.

River East, on the other hand, developed out of an older organization and has some life. Clark Galloway was its president, and it had new, younger board members like Chandler Anderson of Icon Development and Larry Morrissey, who would become the first president of the River District in 1998. Oddly, I was asked to join that board.

At this time, I had asked several folks to several meetings at Octane to discuss forming a River West to represent us as well as River East did for their businesses. Those in those first few meetings were: Dan and Michelle Minick from Fuzz and Octane Interlounge, Karen Howard from Charlotte’s Web, Joyce Serrano from Serrano’s Mexican Kitchen, Tom Giamalva from Palace Shoes, LeRoy and Lisa Jones from Hotel Lafayette, Doc Slafkosky and Jerry Kortman from J.R. Kortman and probably some other good folks who have escaped from the loose security of my memory.

Galloway suggested we just make an association for both sides of the river. Everyone agreed. Morrissey came up with the name River District, and in 1998, the organization was born. I’ve always wondered if I made a mistake by agreeing to have one instead of two separate organizations. Bigger versus quality?

As a member of the new board for the River District and chairman of the marketing committee, I was very interested in the concept of a full-time executive director, and I strongly recommended Kim Wheeler-Johnsen, who was in charge of the Clock Tower Theater’s office and marketing. In November 1999, she won the selection process, despite the competition of some other very successful people. Yes, folks, she’s worked for the River District for more than 10 years. I, and many others, were very happy, too, when Diane Lyon was hired as her assistant.

When I consider all the above and all the advertising/money and time I have donated, I must declare, I have some real biases to vent in this editorial. They are so declared. I do so for all those other founding members, all the board members since and all the existing membership. Why the hell weren’t we informed of Wheeler-Johnsen and Lyon’s dismissal? This is a supposed membership organization. Many of us would help.

Former River District Board member (2002-2006) and co-owner of MedicineMan, who just produced the successful Block 5 Festival, Sandi Kohn said when asked if the River District could operate without an executive director, “Absolutely not.

“Besides, I don’t think it was necessary to have someone who has served us for so many years given only a two-hour notice.

“I don’t know how the River District Board expects to take over the overwhelming task of running that organization. That’s why we hired an assistant for the executive director because the job was too much for just one person. Now, they laid off the whole staff? They just effectively shut down operations. Someone doesn’t understand,” concluded Kohn.

Hartzog says she understands, but the board had no choice and “the entity is still in existence.”

She said for the River District to continue to exist beyond any cash flow crisis of the next two weeks, the permanent revenue expectations must be responsible. She doesn’t see how the position can be funded in the future. If so, we need a new board president.

Hartzog stressed she and the board had “pursued every opportunity…” but cash on hand only allows for a final payroll and the payment of state and federal payroll taxes.

She said the problem was focused in the shortfall created by not receiving $20,000 from recaptured loan funds of the state’s Community Services Block Grant program. The city said the grant was not a problem when they only gave $20,000 instead of its usual yearly $40,000 to support the district, with the grant to replace those funds. Hartzog said she really didn’t know if the grant was funded or not; and from what she had heard, downstate was not so inclined for technical considerations. All she knew was that the money wasn’t there.

Hartzog said the River District will continue to exist, and “we are committed to our mission statement.” So, why fold up the operating shop and give up on your staff?

Admitting he, too, had received very late notice about Wheeler-Johnsen and Lyon’s dismissal, Mayor Larry Morrissey (I) said: “We’ve been granted this as part of a pool of funds. This is local money. We have to ask the state why  we have someone philosophizing about if this is a square peg for a round hole.”

Morrissey went on to say Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (RACVB) receives $1.5 million in city revenue and does a great job of marketing the region, but it should also consider its direct investment in Rockford and ask other communities to ante up.

“I see 99 percent for RACVB funding coming from Rockford. Loves Park has Sportscore II and Volcano Falls; I’d love to see them make a substantial contribution to RACVB. Besides the River District, we have other associations like Midtown and the Miracle Mile that deserve support.

“The River District is vital. They have 20 grand coming. The city has committed to that, and one way or another, it’s coming,” promised Morrissey, wincing at the difficulty of prying money out of the state.

The federal government was very generous to the River District this year. U.S. Rep. Don Manzullo (R-16) brought home a $100,000 earmark to the River District only to develop and recruit small businesses. By the way, did anyone call him about this cash crisis? Now who is going to run that program? Will someone’s pocket get lined here?

Wheeler-Johnsen could raise money, too. She landed an additional $10,000 sponsorship from First Northern Credit Union. Did they get a call?

If the state grant funds were expected about two weeks after the end of May, and they didn’t arrive, where was the fiduciary responsibility of the board and its officers of raising the big red flag right then? Then, came the end of June and July, and now at the end of August, a poor, poor decision is made. Time was wasted, and no alarm raised. No widespread appeal for urgent help with a survival cry was made.

The River District needs a change in leadership. Emily Hartzog should resign. Others on the board should consider the same, unless they have brought in major sponsorship this year. That’s the first job a of board member—bring your checkbook—then bring your friends’ checkbook. The $20,000 shortfall divided by the 17-member board is $1,176.47 each. Jeesh. You people know people!

Do you know your members? The website says 550 members are in the association. The $20,000 shortfall divided by 550 members is only $36.37 each. Ask for it now.

Boards and their officers just don’t give up! Why fire your vital community link of 20 years? Do you want to make life more difficult and threaten the existence and credibility of the association? Kim Wheeler-Johnsen and Diane Lyon deserve their jobs back with apologies. How the respect and trust of the River District membership will be regained is another matter. Very poor form, very poor communication.

Rockford, and the surrounding area that values the River District, we need to help the River District. Now. Call (815) 964-6221. Leave a message. If they don’t call you back, call us, (815) 964-9767.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

A little background on the Broad Foundation is in order. This information comes from Diane Ravitch, who is a former adviser to the Bush and Clinton administrations. Her book, The Death and Life of the Great American School System: How Testing and Choice Are Undermining Education, was published this year and has had an important impact on American education.

In 2002, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and the Walton (Wal-Mart) Family Foundation were by far the top donors to education. The Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation, built upon a fortune made in home building and insurance, was formed in 1999 and soon joined the previous foundations with a well-funded interest in American education. These people wield vast influence because the money-starved schools are eager to adapt their priorities seek a multi-million-dollar grant.

Their goal of helping the struggling American schools is commendable. Being successful business people, they are determined that improvement lies in privatization and competition. While they are free to try these methods, there are some cautions—the most serious being that public schools will end up being the repository for those with learning disabilities, those who are emotionally disturbed and don’t succeed in charter schools, or those who don’t have parents willing or able to seek alternatives. Are we choosing to end our tradition of democratic, strong and equal education for all?

The educational professionals working with parents and citizens at large need to keep informed and be involved in working to make our students successful. These billionaires–well meaning as they are—are having a profound impact through their use of their personal fortunes. And the very accountability they are demanding in others is completely lacking for them. They answer to no one.

So now the Broad Foundation is involved in Rockford schools, and very few of us in Rockford are even aware of this. I think we should be. Just how deeply involved is the Broad Foundation in Rockford education?

Barb Oehlke

Rockford

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

FatWallet has announced that local native Tim Storm is a finalist for Entrepreneur of 2010 (Entrepreneur magazine).  This prestigious award recognizes small business entrepreneurs for pioneering success within their industry and actively supporting their surrounding communities.  Finalist profiles are featured online and can be voted for through Sept. 10.

The contest could serve as a catalyst for economic growth and development in the local business community.

Lend your support to bringing a national winner to the community. “Storm the Vote”!  Help FatWallet generate a powerful message that global growth, leadership and progressive technology is alive and well in the Rockford region.

For more information about the contest, visit http://www.entrepreneur.com/e2010/vote/established.php.

The brain is primarily fueled by carbohydrates. Fiber-rich vegetables are a great source of complex carbs and have multiple benefits.

Raw vegetables are low on the glycemic index, have the ability to assist in stabilizing blood sugar levels and offer sustained and long-lasting energy.

Whole grains, legumes, fruits, nuts and seeds are also a source of complex carbs.

Unfortunately, our society consumes large amounts of simple, refined carbohydrates and sugars, which causes blood sugar spikes that, in turn, result in sugar crashes and low energy—which may also lead to hypoglycemeia and type 2 diabetes.

Try to reduce or eliminate white flour, white rice, white potatoes and white sugar. Do not fret at the thought of missing out on sweets, baked potatoes, chips, breads or baked goods. One can opt for dates, fresh fruit for something sweet, or organic brown rice and yams for staples.

Alternatively, try something new, something RAW. Raw foods can be easy to make and truly taste great and are good for your and/or a better alternative to the accustomed SAD (Standard American Diet). Note, do not avoid carbohydrates entirely as your body will turn to muscle tissue for fuel without the presence of carbohydrates. Remember, the more muscle you have, the more fat you burn, and many of us are always interested in burning fat.

Many are not aware that one can easily create and enjoy decadent raw desserts like chocolate mousse or tasty pizza crackers. Many are amazed one can create great-tasting comfort foods without the use of meat, dairy, pasta, refined sugar, flour, etc. Although green leafy vegetables, fresh fruit and sprouts are important, we do crave a little variety in our diet, and why not have it be good for us and taste great, too? To learn more about the benefits of raw foods, view my website, myrawenergy.com. New classes and seminars coming soon.

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. She’s passionate about sharing the living foods lifestyle with others, and teaches raw culinary arts classes in the Rockford area.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

This Week: The new moon in Virgo Sept. 8 may bring unexpected loss or news of global disruption. When the moon is influenced by Virgo, it can create a self-critical thought process. Be cautious not to project these emotions toward loved ones. Fear-based, nitpicky energy will be abundant this week. Try not to add to this frustrating element. Instead, focus on a deeper spiritual commitment.

Aries (March 21 to April 19)—Take it easy. This constant poking and prodding another for an answer may end up giving you way more than you really were ready to hear. Allow these aspects to resolve themselves, and they will end in your favor. You’re thinking about the past and how much someone had hurt you. Try to look into the present and see how many loved ones and newfound friends have arrived during the past year. You have finally found your niche in life.

Taurus (April 20 to May 20)­—Although it does appear as though you’re the only one doing all the work, part of this could be that you’re not asking others to do their fair share. Delegate you authority to competent individuals around you. You’re only human, and you can’t do it all. Make sure you’re out and about during the new moon (Sept. 8). Career opportunities are evident during that time.

Gemini (May 21 to June 20)—It has been a very difficult time with personal matters in the past. Now, the only thing you can do is reap the benefits and opportunities of the present. This “quiet time” has allowed you to heal and see the other side of the story. Take the knowledge you have learned and use it for your best good in the months to come. You have so much more to offer others as a result. Be kind and patient with your loved ones this week. They need emotional support.

Cancer (June 21 to July 22)—It would be a great time to express your feelings toward your friends and loved ones. Someone may feel a bit out of sorts or emotionally vulnerable. Make sure they know you “have their back” when it comes to an aggressive individual. At the same time, you may need to defend a personal relationship with a nosy neighbor. You don’t owe anyone an explanation. Less is more.

Leo (July 23 to Aug. 22)—This is the perfect time to clear away clutter and make room for new items that will improve the quality of your life. You have not really gone on a spending spree in a while. You need not “break the bank” doing this, but a little piece of luxury goes a long way emotionally. You may also be considering a new look. Spruce up your wardrobe, and ask your favorite hairdresser what he or she has in mind for you.

Virgo (Aug. 23 to Sept. 22)—Romance—past, present and future—is on your mind this week. You’re thinking about many situations and how you have come to this point in your life. You may be feeling a little differently about love now, looking at it without the rose-colored glasses. However, you may be surprised as to how you have learned so much from it. As you see these encounters as blessings, you will find yourself with options and choices in the near future.

Libra (Sept. 23 to Oct. 22)—Letting go of a past matter may require a bit of work or attention to it this week. The ability to recognize how it is affecting the present is very helpful in the weeks to come. You have learned your lesson, and now you can file it away for the future. The knowledge is the biggest blessing that arrived from this encounter. You’re in a different world now as a result. A home project will bring you much joy in the weeks to come.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 to Nov. 21)—Bite your tongue, and allow a loved one to make his or her own decisions about a personal matter. Only offer advice when it is asked for, and you will find he or she has the ability to figure this one out on his or her own. You will be on pins and needles until then, so try to focus on your own “pet projects” to remove the stress of this issue. You have your own responsibilities to deal with now. Make a list, and check them off one by one.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 to Dec. 21)—It is as though you have had a major epiphany over an old emotional habit or wound this week. Now, you are able to see what led you to these significant changes over the last two years. Although some of these situations seemed so right at the time, now they make no sense to you at all. With that said, you can breathe a sigh of relief and move into your next adventure—and there are plenty to choose from in the weeks to come.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 to Jan. 19)—Financial aspects are improving by the minute, and September is the month where you can take a little time to yourself to relax a bit. A vacation is long overdue. Set the time aside now to make your reservations, and turn this into a reality. A friend or loved one is also in dire need of this energy. When you return, you will be in the perfect emotional state to achieve your long-term goals.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 to Feb. 18)—This is an extremely productive time for you now. You are mixing business and pleasure with perfect balance. Accept opportunities for advancement that will be arriving in September. It is time to take a break as well. Get out of town with your favorite special someone, and enjoy some time off. When you return, there will be an exciting, somewhat hectic schedule for you to sink your teeth into. Rest up…this is going to be a very active month.

Pisces (Feb. 19 to March 20)—A shift for the better arrives in your social sector in September. Make room for new opportunities with friendships and love relationships. Moving outside of your personal comfort zone creates fabulous new connections. The stalemate is finally broken. Finances begin to pick up for you this week as well. A self-employed contract arrives shortly, providing you with a fat wallet.

For an extended astrological forecast or psychic consultation, contact Denise at (815) 398-3983.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Rockford’s 27th annual On the Waterfront (OTW) Festival brings music, movies, food and fun for all ages to downtown Rockford Thursday-Sunday, Sept. 2-5.

Festival hours

Festival hours are as follow:

Thursday, Sept. 2—Waterfront Opening Night Kick-off Concert (Dierks Bentley with opening act Annabelle Road) on the Great Lawn Stage only. Gates open at 6 p.m. Also, Carnival Kick-off from 5 to 9 p.m. at carnival area near Jefferson and Madison streets.

Friday, Sept. 3—5 p.m.-midnight

Saturday, Sept. 4—11:30 a.m.-midnight

Sunday, Sept. 5—11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.

Festival passes/admission

In advance: Festival passes will be in outlet locations throughout the stateline area in both Illinois and Wisconsin (see onthewaterfront.com for outlet locations or call OTW at (815) 964-4388). A three-day pass is $15 if purchased in advance, and a two-day pass is $12 if purchased in advance.

At the gate: Wristbands will be available for $15 for a one-day admission at the gate during the festival. Children 10 and younger are admitted free when accompanied by a paid adult. Three-day senior passes (65 and older) may be purchased at the OTW office for $10.

Great Lawn access: All patrons can gain access to the Great Lawn Stage Friday-Sunday, Sept. 3-5, with only festival admission. No additional ticket is required to sit on the lawn for any of the headlining acts other than Thursday’s (Sept. 2) kick-off concert.

Great Lawn reserved seating: The Great Lawn is the only music venue that has a reserved seating section during the festival. Seats within the reserved seating section are the closest seats to the Great Lawn performers. Reserved seats may be purchased online at onthewaterfront.com, by phone at (815) 968-0595, at the Coronado Performing Arts Center box office, 314 N. Main St., or at the gate. If you purchase a reserved seat, you will receive free festival admission for that day.

2010 OTW live music

Following is the live music schedule for OTW 2010, broken down by venue:

Coronado Performing Arts Center

(314 N. Main St.)

Thursday, Sept. 2

 Weird Al—7 p.m.

Great Lawn Stage

(Davis Park, south side, corner of Wyman and Chestnut)

Thursday, Sept. 2

→ Annabelle Road—7:15-8:30 p.m.

→ Dierks Bentley—9-10:30 p.m.

Friday, Sept. 3

→ Black Sunshine—6:30-7 p.m.

→ My Darkest Day—7:20-7:50 p.m.

→ Brett James—8:10-9 p.m.

→ Hinder—9:30-11 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 4

→ Alison Iraheta—8:30-9:15 p.m.

→ Adam Lambert—10-11 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 5

→ Bill Idol—9-10:30 p.m.

Center Stage

(corner of Mulberry and Wyman)

Friday, Sept. 3

→ Smokin’ Gunz—5-7 p.m.

→ Madison County—7:45-9:15 p.m.

→ Lee Brice—10:15-11:45 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 4

→ The Miorita Dance Group—Noon-2 p.m.

→ Los Bandits De Michigan—2:45-4:15 p.m.

→ Inner Visions Reggae—5-6:30 p.m.

→ Kinobe-Soul Beat Africa—7:15-9:15 p.m.

→ The Sandcarvers—10-11:30 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 5

→ Fresh Hot Fritters—Noon-1:30 p.m.

→ Penny Mae Dixon—2:15-3:45 p.m.

→ Double L and the Mustangs—4:30-6 p.m.

→ Corey Cox—6:45-8:15 p.m.

→ Steel Magnolia—9-10:30 p.m.

Oasis Stage

(corner of Wyman and Jefferson)

Friday, Sept. 3

→ Miles Nielsen and the Rusted Hearts—5:30-7 p.m.

→ Finding Clyde—7:45-9:15 p.m.

→ NeedToBreathe—10-11:30 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 4

→ Keith Country Day School Rock Camp—11:45-12:45 p.m.

→ RAMI Youth Jam Artists-Escape and Hope Despite—1:15-2:30 p.m.

→ Guzzardo’s Emerging Artist Contest Finals with XEN, Crankupmadonna and Darren Garvey—3:15-5:15 p.m.

→ X51—6-7:30 p.m.

→ Taddy Porter—8:15-9:30 p.m.

→ Saving Abel—10:15-11:30 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 5

→ Hot Rocks—Noon-1:30 p.m.

→ Too Deep—2:15-3:45 p.m.

→ Mr. Big Stuff—4:30-6 p.m.

→ Missing Links—6:45-8:15 p.m.

→ Gregg Rolie—9-10:30 p.m.

Verizon Left Bank Stage

(Davis Park, north side, corner of Wyman and Chestnut)

Friday, Sept. 3

→ Little Big Band—5:30-7 p.m.

→ Candye Kane—7:45-9:15 p.m.

→ Lil’ Ed and the Blues Imperials—10-11:30 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 4

→ Bright Stars Celebration—12:30-2:45 p.m.

→ Kilborn Alley Blues Band—3:15-4:45 p.m.

→ Moonlight Jazz Orchestra—5:30-7 p.m.

→ Magic Slim & the Teardrops—7:45-9:15 p.m.

→ Three Beers Til Dubuque—10-11:30 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 5

→ Rock Valley Jazz Ensemble & After Five Jazz Quartet—11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

→ Grazyna Auguscik Group—1-2:30 p.m.

→ John Primer Blues Band—3:15-4:45 p.m.

→ Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue—5:30-7:45 p.m.

→ Here Come the Mummies—8:30-10:45 p.m.

Children’s Stage

(corner of Elm and Wyman)

Saturday, Sept. 4

→ Kinobe—Noon-12:45 p.m.

→ Evolve Dance Company—1-1:45 p.m.

→ Little Miss Ann Band—2-2:30 p.m.

→ Little Nashville—3-3:45 p.m.

→ Little Miss Ann Band—4-4:45 p.m.

→ The Verve Pipe—5-5:45 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 5

→ Poochamungas—1-1:45 p.m.

→ Laura Doherty—2-2:45 p.m.

→ Dave Rudolf—3-3:45 p.m.

→ Laura Doherty—4-4:45 p.m.

→ Dave Rudolf—5-5:45 p.m.

2010 OTW Film Fest

OTW will feature the 2010 OTW Film Fest in Sullivan Theater, 118 N. Main St. The festival features short-form, independently-made films from a variety of genres, shown in four sessions. The 2010 OTW Film Fest schedule is as follows:

Session One, 5 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 4—Featuring films from the Mosaic Student Film Festival, showcasing the youngest and brightest filmmakers in the Rockford area.

Interstitial at 8 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 4—Featuring live sketch comedy by The Subterraneans.

Session Two, 9:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 4—Featuring a sneak peek and a special question-and-answer session with the makers of Rockford-made independent feature film Raymond Did It.

Saturday Afterparty (21 and older), 11:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 4—Meet-and-greet at Kryptonite, 308 W. State St.

Sunday All-Ages Meet-and-Greet, 1 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 5—Begins at 1 p.m. at Roly Poly, 308 W. State St. (Stewart Square).

Session Three, 5 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 5—A special celebration of the West High School 70th Anniversary, featuring guest speakers and the documentary So Long…Sweet 16. Also celebrate the release of the companion book, Warriors Forever.

Interstitial at 8 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 5—Featuring live sketch comedy by The Subterraneans.

Session Four, 9:30 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 5—Featuring the Best of the Fest and the OTW Film Fest Award winners.

Other 2010 OTW features

Other special features at this year’s OTW include the following:

Carnival—At Jefferson and Madison streets at the Riverview Ice House, this carnival has rides for all ages. It features thrilling rides like the Zipper, Orient Express coaster, as well as the traditional favorites like the Ferris wheel, tilt-a-whirl, merry-go-round, roller coasters, parachute drop and much more.

Adventure Alley—Once again, inflatables will be available for the kid in all of us. An interesting array including the Bungee Pull and the Giant Slide beckon your inner child to come out and play.

Midway Madness—From 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., all carnival rides and inflatable activities are just two tickets or $1.50 per ride.

ComEd Kids’ Castle—The festival’s most popular children’s attraction returns this year. Children younger than 12 can take part in more than 30 interactive and make-and-take activities. Watch Billy the Balloon Guy twist balloons into your favorite toy or animal. Play bingo with the other kids, learn to mini putt and create a masterpiece with stamp art. Don’t forget to listen to all the fascinating stories read by the Rockford Public Library team, and enjoy entertainment on the Kids’ Court Stage with performances during Kids’ Castle hours.

Kids’ Castle is in the Wyman and Elm Street parking deck and is open Saturday and Sunday from festival open until 6 p.m. Activities will be provided by several Rockford businesses and organizations. The Kids’ Castle is a smoke-free and alcohol-free environment.

Waterfront 5K—Race along the Rock River in the 17th annual Waterfront 5K. Check-in begins Saturday morning, Sept. 4, at 6:30 a.m., with the race beginning at 8 a.m. and awards at 9:30 a.m. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three male and female runners in the 5K race, as well as the top male and female “master” runners.

The USATF-certified 5K course begins by the Trolley Station, 324 N. Madison St., in downtown Rockford, adjacent to the OTW Festival grounds. The course heads north along Madison Street, joining up with a paved recreational running/bike path that follows along the banks of he Rock River. The 5K is an out-and-back race, and the terrain is flat and fast. Water will be available at the aid stations at the start/finish and along the course. Splits will be given at 1 and 2 miles. Call (815) 964-4388 with questions.

Kids’ 1/4-Mile Fun Run—Immediately following the Waterfront 5K at the Trolley Station near the Riverview Ice House is the Kids’ 1/4-Mile Fun Run. Free registration from 8:15 to 8:50 a.m. the day of the race (Saturday, Sept. 4) at the Trolley Station.

Rockford Chariots Wheelchair Basketball—Established in 1986, the Rockford Chariots Wheelchair Athletic Association works to provide programs for developing the athletic potential of individuals with lower-limb impairments. These gifted athletes compete against local celebrities and city officials in a long-standing and friendly rivalry that goes back many years. Exhibition games are at 1 and 3 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 4, and 3 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 5.

Winnovation—Winnovation, Winnebago’s High School Robotics Team, invites you to see robotics in action from noon to 4 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 4. Several of these teams won regional championships. High school students built these robots in six weeks to compete in USFIRST competitions back in March.

Hot Air Balloon Fly-Over—This event is visible from anywhere in the festival at approximately 6 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 4. See 16 brightly-colored hot air balloons soar overhead. Watch for special entries.

Urban Street Market—Shop the weekend away at this unique collection of outdoor vendors near the corner of Wyman and West State streets. The Urban Street Market is filled with colorful booths overflowing with art, jewelry, clothing, carvings and other rare finds from exotic locales from all over the world.

For more information about the festival, visit onthewaterfront.com or contact the OTW office at (815) 964-4388.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

By Art Norris
Quad Cities Waterkeeper

I have been talking about the threats to the Rock and Mississippi rivers, which are many. This week, I would like to bring your attention to concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFO’s), again, and their imminent expansion in Illinois, and Iowa, without your help.

July 22, 2010, while doing an aerial patrol in the company of a Chicago Tribune photographer, the Quad Cities Waterkeeper observed and photographed the Dittmer Grandview factory hog farm of Eldridge, Iowa, possibly discharging into Hickory Creek, a tributary of the Mississippi River. The Quad Cities Waterkeeper filed complaints with the Iowa DNR (DNR) and the U.S. EPA.

The DNR investigated the complaint and, according to their report, observed that “discharges of manure outside of the manure control system were designed to occur through a keyway,” which is located adjacent to a tile inlet directly leading to the Hickory Creek. DNR officials observed manure solids around the tile inlet, but did not see liquid manure draining into the inlet. Iowa state law requires that all manure produced in factory farm confinement enclosures be retained between periods of waste application.

The first set of water tests conducted by the DNR showed high levels of E. coli and ammonia. The DNR report suggests that the facility was designed to intentionally flush hog waste through the tile line that runs directly into a road ditch and then into the Hickory Creek.

Mr. Dittmer, the owner of the factory farm, has applied for a construction permit with the DNR to expand. The permit would expand his facility’s capacity from 9,465 to 12,487 hogs. The local county board is recommending the facility be allowed to expand based, in part, on an assumed clean environmental record and despite public outcry by local citizens.

Mr. Dittmer is board president of America’s Premium Pork, a collective of Midwest hog producers that owns a share of the Triumph hog processing plant in Missouri. He has stated that if the proposed Triumph plant in East Moline, Ill., is built, he will supply hogs to that plant instead of the Missouri location.

The Quad Cities Waterkeeper has filed an additional complaint with the U.S. EPA alerting the agency that Mr. Dittmer is proposing to discharge into a U.S. waterway without a required Clean Water Act NPDES permit.

Mr. Dittmer states that he has 25 other facilities. In light of the DNR’s investigation, the Quad Cities Waterkeeper is calling on authorities to inspect all of Mr. Dittmer’s other factory farm facilities and to fine him for proposing to discharge from the Grandview facility without a required permit.

Quad Cities Waterkeeper is working with several other like-minded organizations protesting the expansion of the Dittmer factory farm and other factory farms in Iowa and Illinois, including the Illinois Citizens for Clean Air & Water (ICCAW), Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement (CCI) and Stop Triumph Permanently (STP).

The DNR reported in 2008 that 447 Iowa lakes, streams and rivers are unfit for human use. Illinois faces very similar troubles. The expansion of more factory hog farms will only exacerbate existing water pollution problems.

QCW would like to thank The Rock River Times for letting the people know.

Please join your Quad Cities Waterkeeper in stopping any more damage to our rivers, lakes, and streams. Go to the QCW website and join up. Together we can make change.

Please visit quadcitieswaterkeeperuppermississippi.org/join.html and quadcitieswaterkeeperuppermississippi.org.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has developed a new website dedicated to helping Illinois residents co-exist with the state’s white-tailed deer population.

The site, Living with White-tailed Deer in Illinois, provides information about the state’s strategy for maintaining the population, culling deer in specific areas and public health.

The site also provides emergency information about what to do with injured and orphaned deer and how landowners can help in managing the deer population.

The site was built through a collaboration between the IDNR, University of Illinois Extension and the unversity’s Office of Sustainability.

According to the site, the site is dedicated to minimizing negative human interactions with deer, the state’s largest native mammal.

“The statewide deer management goal is to provide compatible use of this valuable resource while reducing deer-vehicle accidents and other negative aspects of deer on the landscape such as damage to agricultural crops, ornamentals, orchards and native plant life in natural areas by controlling deer through an emphasis on doe harvest during all available deer hunting seasons,” the site said.

Information about the state’s deer program can be found at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/deer/.

Outdoors news and photos can be sent directly to Jim Hagerty at jim.hagerty@rockrivertimes.com. Glossies and hard-copy press kits can be mailed or delivered to The Rock River Times’ office at 128 N. Church St., Rockford, IL 61101. Jim can be reached at (815) 964-9767.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

When Doors keyboardist Ray Manzarek mentioned a documentary about the band was in the works, there was a significant buzz among fans. Manzarek, and others, touted the project as a long-awaited juxtaposition of Oliver Stone’s The Doors.

Stone’s 1991 biopic borrowed heavily from the 1980 Jim Morrison biography, No One Here Gets Out Alive. Written by Jerry Hopkins, the epilogue was largely based on information supplied by former Doors manager Danny Sugerman, who was only 16 when Morrison died. Some believe Sugerman, who died in 2005, missed the accuracy mark when he co-wrote the book, and was equally misguided when he assisted Stone on the film.

Released in April, When You’re Strange: A Film About The Doors, sheds an alternative light on Stone’s adaptation of Morrison’s life and the band’s 54-month run.

Although it fails to blatantly out Sugerman’s account as fantasy, the documentary is a vivid chronology with never-before-seen footage of the band. Director Tom DiCillo shows Morrison, Manzarek, drummer John Densmore and guitarist Robby Krieger for what they were—an integral part of a radically-changing America.

Narrated by Johnny Depp, When You’re Strange captures the feeling of the late ’60s, when enlightenment and the youth movement was as palpable as a humid summer night. The Doors, with Jim Morrison front and center, suddenly became a new voice for a generation with seemingly nobody to turn to but itself. To some, the Doors were the new Beatles. To others, they were the American Rolling Stones.

The 96-minute documentary’s most distinguished flair is its depiction of Jim Morrison as an artist. While footage shows Morrison chronologically deteriorating, he does so as an introspective and calculated poet, who, despite having no musical training, was solely responsible for the popularity of the band’s place in history. Morrison’s charisma and literary command were the only ingredients able to turn the group’s ingenious blend of rock, blues and jazz into a concise, yet unduplicatable, recipe.

DiCillo leaves out details of Morrison’s reportedly volatile relationship with Pamela Courson, who found the singer dead in 1971. The director does capture the trendy and morbid attraction fans developed after the infamous Miami incident, where Morrison was arrested for allegedly exposing himself on stage.

By the end of 1969, concertgoers were more interested in Morrison, the seeming lunatic, than the music. Shows were often stopped after only a few songs, and a legitimate poet began to emerge. Sadly, as the film depicts, Morrison’s mark would forever be encased in mystery, and the thoroughgoing that was the 1960s.

When You’re Strange also includes an interview with Morrison’s father, Admiral George C. Morrison, USN (Ret.). Until the film, Adm. Morrison had never publicly discussed his son’s life.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Speaking of truth vs. corruption, [State Rep. Jim] Sacia [R-89th District]  wrote a letter to the Army Corps of Engineers seeking a waiver of the 401 permit from the IEPA for the mega-dairy. The IEPA is seeking a tracer test, asking for greater protection from leakage, and asking why the mega-dairy was illegally sited. The mega-dairy has not paid the fee for the permit, nor has its application been completed. Does Sacia think these issues are unimportant? Does Sacia think that he and the mega-dairy are above the law? Why hasn’t he mentioned this in his column?

Ken Turner

Warren, Ill.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

The Illinois Renewable Energy Association (IREA) will offer a variety of classes this fall. Most will focus on renewable energy; one will focus on food independence. They will be offered at the IREA headquarters, the Kickapoo Nature Center, Rock Island, and both Rock Valley and Illinois Valley community colleges.

Oregon, Ill.: To register for any of the Oregon or Rock Island classes, e-mail sonia@essex1.com. Advanced registration is essential.

Small Wind Generators for Homeowners, offered Saturday, Sept. 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., will include lecture, discussion and hands-on experiences. Class members will take down, disassemble and reassemble a wind generator that has produced power since spring 2005.

In November (date to be announced), Make a Solar Collector will involve participants in making and installing a hot air collector that can be used for a home, workshop, shed, etc.

Saturday, Oct. 9, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., for those interested in food independence, a class will concentrate on preserving food for use throughout the non-gardening part of the year: freezing, drying, canning and storing. Actual preservation techniques will be taught and tried.

All three classes will be at 1230 E. Honey Creek Road, Oregon, Ill.

Donations to IREA (a non-profit organization) for these three classes are $40 per class for IREA members and $60 for non-members, which includes membership. Advanced registration is essential.

A four-day Advanced Solar Electric class will be held at the energy-efficient Kickapoo Nature Center, 1919 N. Limekiln Road, Oregon, Ill., from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sept. 13-16. The class will help participants continue their pv systems training with advanced design and detailed installation procedures, and will prepare them for entry-level jobs in the renewable energy industry. Hands-on experiences wiring a complete pv system included. Course fee is $400.

Rock Island, Ill.: Learn how to install solar panels to make a golf cart both fuel and grid independent in this hands-on class. Skills are transferable. Work with panels, wiring, controller, combiner box, aluminum angle and bolts to mount the panels on the canopy. Limited to seven. Cost: $175. Location: Rock Island KOA Campground, 2311 78th Ave. West, Rock Island.

Rockford and Oglesby: Classes will also be offered by Rock Valley College, Rockford, and Illinois Valley College, Oglesby. Register online or by phone at (815) 921-3900 for Rock Valley or (815) 224-0490 for Illinois Valley.

Rock Valley classes include Small Wind Generators for Homeowners (Tuesday, Sept. 14, from 6 to 8:30 p.m.), Basics of Solar Electricity (Tuesday, Sept. 21, from 6 to 8:30 p.m.), Solar Hot Water Systems (Tuesday, Oct. 5, from 6 to 8:30 p.m.), and Efficient Solar Homes (Tuesday, Oct. 12, from 6 to 8:30 p.m.).

Illinois Valley classes include Small Wind Generators for Homeowners (Saturday, Sept. 11, from 9:30 a.m. to noon),Basics of Solar Electricity (Saturday, Sept. 11, from 9:30 a.m. to noon), Solar Hot Water Systems (Saturday, Sept. 11, from 9:30 a.m. to noon),and Efficient Solar Homes (Saturday, Sept. 11, from 9:30 a.m. to noon).

For more information, visit illinoisrenew.org or contact Drs. Robert and Sonia Vogl, president and vice president of the IREA, at (815) 732-7332 or sonia@essex1.com.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Hononegah running back Carlos Hendrix rushes against Belvidere North. Hendrix rushed for 49 yards and a touchdown in a 28-7 win. Photo by Matt Nestor

By Matt Nestor
Sports Columnist

Two minutes into the third quarter, there was definitely a big game feel at Hononegah High School Friday, Aug. 27.

The Belvidere North Blue Thunder had stood toe-to-toe with the Indians, matched them physically, and went into halftime only down 7-0. Then, they opened up the third quarter with a successful onside kick.

After starting on the Indians’ 44, quarterback Tony Tindle completed a 19-yard pass to Issac Garcia to move down to the 25-yard-line, and looked poised to move in for the tying score.

But the Hononegah defense, a definite question mark coming into the game, held strong, as they did all night, only giving up 3 more yards, and stopping the Blue Thunder on fourth down to keep the lead.

Hononegah scored on their next three possessions, racking up 359 rushing yards in the game, and cruised to a 28-7 victory in the season-opener.

“It’s a blow as a defense,” Hononegah senior linebacker Skylar Purifoy said about the onside kick. “The offense is ready to go out there and get another score. We’re hanging our heads down. But I talked to the guys in the huddle, told them to keep their heads up and go get us the ball.”

The stop was the key for the Indians to finish off Belvidere North. Quarterback Chase Robinson ripped off 24-yard and 18-yard runs in a five-play drive after the stop, capped by a 4-yard touchdown by sophomore Manny Silva.

Robinson led the Indians with 78 yards rushing and chipped in 45 yards passing. Silva rushed for 49 yards. Bryan Rothmaler scored two touchdowns while rushing for 47 yards, and Carlos Hendrix also added a 3-yard touchdown.

Fullback Tyler McBride also ran for 56 yards for the Indians.

Shutting down the Blue Thunder was an impressive feat for the Indians, who only returned three starters on offense. Belvidere North uses a spread offense that is often tough for an inexperienced defense.

“It’s fun, but it’s definitely tough,” Purifoy said of opening against North. “They have so many different options they can do. There is always at least three to four guys who could run the ball or throw the ball. So, you have to watch out. We studied film hard, we practiced hard, and we got prepared for every option.”

For much of the night, Purifoy and the Indians’ defense frustrated the diverse North offense. Tindle, who completed only 4 of 15 passes for 47 yards, was hurried all night, and running back Austin Smaha was met almost immediately every time he touched the ball.

Smaha was able to run for 95 yards on 16 carries to lead the Blue Thunder. But most of that was gained on a 52-yard touchdown run that accounted for North’s only score of the night.

“The second half, they came out ready to play,” Purifoy said. “We had one bad play, and we weren’t ready on that play.”

In other NIC-10 action:

→ The Boylan Titans started out slow behind two new quarterbacks. But 27 second-half points helped the Titans put away the Harlem Huskies 41-7. Chris Miller scored three touchdowns for Boylan, two on the ground and one in the air. Keith Purifoy rushed for 27 yards, had 46 yards receiving and scored the only touchdown to lead Harlem.

→ Andy Nichols racked up 125 rushing yards for Guilford to help lead the way in a 26-14 victory over East. Dontrel Chance added 115 yards and Gerry Ford ran for 75 yards helping Guilford rack up 343 rushing yards. Zach Mutton and Wes Short both scored touchdowns for East.

→ The Freeport Pretzels jumped out to a 27-7 halftime lead over the Jefferson J-Hawks, then withheld a strong Jefferson push in the fourth quarter to hang on for a 30-20 win. Freeport quarterback Alex Bennett threw for 252 yards and four touchdowns, three of which were caught by Brandon McShane. Joe Ward threw for 62 yards and a touchdown for Jefferson.

→ Belvidere put up 31 points in the first quarter and 51 in the first half on their way to a 58-14 win over Auburn. Running back Marcus Gooden ran for 69 yards and four touchdowns, while quarterback Troy Vandenbroek was a perfect 5-5 for 42 yards and two touchdowns. Terrence Bell scored both touchdowns for Auburn, one on a 79-yard return and the other from 1 yard out.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Effective with the start of the 2010-2011 school year, the Rockford Mass Transit District (RMTD) is making two changes to its student fare policy.

With the start of the new school year, RMTD operators will only accept area middle school and area high school-issued ID cards. All students attending other institutions of learning including advanced learning facilities such as Rock Valley College, Judson College or Rasmussen College or alternative education programs, must have an RMTD Student ID card to qualify for the student discounted rate of 75 cents. To obtain an RMTD Student ID card, a student must go to the downtown transfer center and verify his or her enrollment in an educational program by presenting a current class schedule or transcript. The student must also be able to verify he or she is 20 years of age or younger during the current school year. If these criteria are not met, the student can pay $2, and RMTD will issue the student an ID card signifying they qualify for the discounted student rate.

Additionally, the RMTD-issued Student ID card will now only be valid for one semester or six months. Student riders will be required to obtain a new RMTD Student ID card every January and June, as long as they are age 20 and younger and enrolled in a valid educational program. Anyone with questions about this policy should contact RMTD at (815) 961-9000.

RMTD provides more than 1.7 million rides each year. The district has a fleet of 64  fixed route and paratransit vehicles, and offers 18 hours of service Monday through Friday, 13 hours of service Saturdays, and eight hours Sundays. Rockford Mass Transit also provides service to Loves Park and Machesney Park.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Built like the proverbial beer house that it is, the former storage building for Lorden Distribution Warehouse at 715 S. Main St. is massive in construction. Even the roof is poured cement. Urban Equity Properties says the framework can be a new work of art for the South Main Street Corridor. Photo by Frank Schier

By Mark Baker
Principal, Urban Equity Properties

We have all heard the disparaging remarks about Rockford. They come from residents and outsiders alike. The perception is that the city is on life support, and no amount of resuscitation will make a difference. It is one of the reasons investors shy away from Rockford, as a bad reputation is difficult to change.

I, for one, was ecstatic to hear Larry Mayor Morrissey’s (I) vision of a revived downtown. His plan includes cultural improvements and rehabilitation of architectural structures that define the city’s heritage. We believe in Rockford, and share many aspects of the mayor’s vision. Rehabilitating abandoned and/or run-down buildings accomplishes that vision.

Our local firm, Urban Equity Properties, has already invested heavily into the city. Our office is in the former Rockford Illustration building at 317 Market St. We purchased this building as an example of our company philosophy. This structure was one of the first industrial buildings renovated in the ’80s into residential lofts.

Our successful track record includes rehabilitation of downtown structures, with an emphasis on long-term ownership and management. The properties since 2006 include multi-unit housing on North Church Street, North Main Street, Jefferson Street (old Minglewood property) and most recently North First Street (American Gentlemen’s Club). Overall, that’s an investment of close to $4 million in downtown Rockford. How many other firms have made the same investment since 2006? Not many.

The adaptive re-use of these dilapidated structures provides local employment, civic pride and cultural growth. It begins the process of bringing these areas back to life.

Mr. Morrissey met with us Christmas Eve to discuss the South Main corridor. We expressed immediate interest in the purchase of 715 S. Main St., the former Lorden Distribution warehouse.

The discussion included our plans to invest private funds of more than $1.7 million into the rehabilitation and conversion of this building into loft apartments. Plans include architectural upgrades, with historic sensitivity. The mayor indicated this city-owned building had been perceived as an eyesore for years, and although they had considered demolition, nothing was set in stone. Future discussions were promised.

It is now August. Eight months have passed. Meeting after meeting with city employees have gone nowhere.

The story changes with every meeting, and the ultimate answer we get is demolition, pure and simple. Even at the cost of up to $700,000 to the taxpayers. Demolition without a plan in place for the immediate area. Demolition to create another expensive empty lot in Rockford. Along the way, it was discovered that the city in fact does not even own the property yet, with negotiations for purchase by the city still pending. The yarn went down the path of nonexistent and verbal contracts, all the way to unsubstantiated claims of poor structural integrity.

We have contacted and met with civic leaders, aldermen and alderwomen, local business people, former politicians, county officials, the list goes on and on. Their unanimous support is encouraging, believing that this rehabilitation project would be wonderful for the area and downtown as well. They understand that private local funds being invested at this location would jump-start the revitalization of the South Main corridor. Local contractors would be employed. The mayor’s expressed vision would be on the way to fulfillment.

Yet, the answer we get from the city is still the same. Forget it. Demolition at the taxpayer’s expense. Mr. Morrissey, can you be of assistance here? Do we no longer share the same vision?

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

The University of Illinois Extension-Winnebago County Master Gardener Program officially kicks off the 2010 Plant-a-Row for the Hungry collection. PAR is a nationwide program that promotes the donation of extra garden produce to local food pantries—it is a people-helping-people effort.

Plant-a-Row encourages gardeners to plant an extra row of vegetables in their gardens and then donate their surplus to local food banks and soup kitchens. With more than 70 million gardeners in the U.S., a significant impact can be made to reduce hunger.

University of Illinois Extension-Winnebago County Master Gardeners are in their 10th year of coordinating Plant-A-Row in the Rockford area. The goal this year is to collect 18 tons of produce and distribute it to Rockford’s hungry. The Master Gardeners staff multiple drop-off sites on different days of the week to make it easy for the general public to participate.

There is a new drop-off at the Hearth and Garden Gift Shop & Coffee House, 427 N. Center St., on the square in Durand, Ill. This new drop-off location will collect donated produce on Thursdays from 1 to 3 p.m.

To share your harvest with the hungry, donate your extra garden veggies at the following collection sites and times:

University of Illinois Extension office, 4311.W. State St., Rockford

Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.to 4 p.m.

Rock River Valley Pantry, 1080 Short Elm St., Rockford

Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

July through September, you can drop off at:

OSF St. Anthony, Roxbury Road (across the street from Rockford Gastroenterology)—Tuesdays, 5 to 7 p.m.

Edgebrook Farmers’ Market

Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to noon

Hearth and Garden Gift Shop & Coffee House, 427 N. Center St., Durand

Thursdays, 1 to 3 p.m.

For more information, contact the University of Illinois Extension at (815) 986-4357 or access the Web site at www.extension.illinois.edu/winnebago.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

In a world where political correctness and people-pleasing is common, many find themselves unable to meet their own needs and without the ability to live according to their life’s mission.

Modern men are expected to be soft, yet still recognized as the aggressive sex, while a woman’s societal role has drastically changed. While equality between the sexes continues to make monstrous strides, the warrior energy in all of us has been forced to the back of the line.

A warrior, according to psychoanalysts, experiences totality of life marked by balanced spiritual and psychological grounding. A warrior’s balance can only exist when he or she recognizes a mission—one bigger than himself or herself.

Noted Jungian psychoanalyst Robert Moore cites several examples of the warrior’s vocation. In the best-selling book King, Warrior, Magician, Lover, Moore cites the warrior’s ability to be ready for battle at all costs. Warrior energy in all human beings is marked by healthy aggressiveness—movement toward a greater good.

“Aggressiveness is a stance toward life that arouses, energizes and motivates,” Moore writes. “It pushes us to take offensive and to move out of a defensive ‘holding’ position about life’s tasks and problems. The samurai advice was always to ‘leap’ into battle with the full potential of ki or ‘vital energy’ at our disposal. The Japanese warrior tradition claimed that there is only one position in which to face the battle of life: frontally. And it also proclaimed that there was only one direction: forward.”

Where, some ask, has this warrior energy gone? Moore, among others, believes the warrior element of the human psyche is suppressed in millions of people. Like other archetypes, however, warrior energy cannot be completely hidden. In many, it appears in its shadow form, or bipolar opposite.

The shadow warrior carries an immature emotional state into adulthood. This energy is marked by desperation and insecurity learned during adolescence. The shadow warrior is often responsible for violent emotions that can be obvious in direct acts of rage and passive-aggression that’s almost always fueled by selfish energy that attempts to overpower and replace the warrior’s true mission. The shadow warrior is a sadist and, at times, bears masochistic tendencies.

When overcome by the shadow warrior, we daydream but never act. We lack the ability to spring into life. Many of us fail to recognize what our mission is.

When human beings access true warrior energy, they fight the fights worth fighting—selfless battles necessary to make their world a better place.

More information about Robert Moore is at robertmoore-phd.com.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Wednesday, Sept. 1—A major energy is running through today that sheds light on the uses of energy and power. This energy has a bit of a compulsive edge to it, but with an active and properly managed approach, much may be accomplished. The early predawn may start out with minor erratic coercive attitudes, but this will pass quickly, if it’s noticed at all. Take a disciplined approach through most of the rest of the predawn. The late predawn into the early morning may have some minor aggressiveness to it, but this will be brief as well. Do watch the late morning through the early afternoon for a period of potential for some very bad moods along with relationship issues. More minor irritability occurs in the late afternoon into the early evening, but this will also pass quickly, and the rest of the evening through the late night is open to relax and enjoy.

Thursday, Sept. 2—Watch for lingering effects from yesterday through today. Another major energy to be aware of today is very good for taking relationships and aesthetics to more spiritual levels. This can also be taken as social energy and that, of course, is what many will do with it. Today’s predawn is open, and good moods should dominate the rest of the day. Take a fun, expansive and active approach through the workday, and get a lot done. Pay positive attention to relationships in the late afternoon into the early evening, and enjoy the nighttime. Do be aware of a short moon void of course time in tomorrow’s early predawn.

Friday, Sept. 3—The moon will be void of course this morning from 12:38 until 1:49 when the moon enters Cancer. At that point, the energy will shift, and general moods will tend to become more sensitive, protective and nurturing. Be aware of three major energies today. The first sheds light on relationships, which can be a good thing, but this energy needs to be handled carefully as conflict can easily arise. Be sure intentions are to make things better and not just to win battles. The second is very good for looking within and coming to greater self-understanding. Remember that Mercury is retrograde, and learn from the past. The third is related and brings thinking and communication into the mix such that issues will almost certainly be raised. Again, motives for bringing things up for discussion will be important. Also, be careful with authority today. Don’t let little annoyances turn into bigger problems, and don’t reawaken old disputes. Scattered minor irritability occurs from the mid-predawn through the mid-morning, but moods should improve from the midday into the late night. Have fun tonight, but remember the cautions.

Saturday, Sept. 4—Late Friday-night social scenes will be highly energized with no impediments for as long into today’s predawn as anyone will want to take things. A major energy running through today is a repeat in a much stronger form of the energy from Thursday. It being the weekend, it’s most likely to be used socially. Those spiritually inclined will want to make use of it as well. While the social energy will be very strong today and tonight, scattered minor irritability occurs from the late afternoon through the late night. Party people will have to be more careful than last night with their choices.

Sunday, Sept. 5—Late Saturday-night social scenes will be highly energized well into today’s predawn. Watch the early predawn for continuing minor irritability from last night, but moods will improve through the mid-predawn for those hanging on that long. Do be aware that the moon will be void of course this morning from 3:30 until 4:44 when the moon enters Leo. At that point, the energy will shift noticeably, and general moods will tend to become more intense and concerned with self. A major energy today can bring problems to communication and transportation. Watch for people to easily become opinionated, frustrated and aggressive. Be watchful for issues from the past to be brought up for review and further conflict, and be especially careful in traffic. For those not caught up in the cautionary energy, moods should be more positive than otherwise following the void of course right on through the late night. Choose well, and enjoy.

Monday, Sept. 6—Yesterday’s cautionary energy involving communication and transportation will remain with us through today. Reread and apply carefully, especially the warning to be careful in traffic. Two more major energies are coming into focus through today. The first is very good for looking within, coming to greater self-understanding and initiating positive changes. Remember, once again, that Mercury remains in retrograde. Learn from the past, and attend to old projects and details. The second peaks tomorrow morning, but is cautionary relationship and social energy, so read ahead and apply through today. Aside from major energies, moods will be mixed, and good choices will be needed in the early through mid-predawn. Watch the late-predawn through the midday for scattered minor irritability, and good choices will remain important. The rest of the afternoon through the evening improves. Take an active and friendly approach through the evening, and watch the late night for spaciness.

Tuesday, Sept. 7—The moon will be void of course this morning from 3:16 until 4:52 when it enters Virgo. At that point, the energy will shift, general moods will tend to become more discerning and concerned with detail, and the new moon period will begin. Be aware of three major energies today. The first is a carryover from the first energy mentioned yesterday. Reread and apply right on through today. The second was also mentioned yesterday, and it peaks this morning, running through today and on into tomorrow. This energy easily brings problems to relationships. Watch for erratic and bizarre behavior as well as unrealistic and unreasonable demands for change. Trouble can pop up suddenly and from unexpected people and situations. Switch to damage control mode at the first sign of this energy manifesting. You will notice energy levels rising throughout today as the third major energy, tomorrow morning’s new moon, rolls in. Be good, and make only positive new beginnings. Minor energies are mixed following the void of course through the midday. Make the right choices, and good moods are available. Take a communicative approach through the rest of the afternoon, and watch for minor aggressive attitudes in the later evening.

Guy Spiro, editor of the Monthly Aspectarian magazine and Astro-Weather (lightworks.com), has been a professional astrologer, astrology teacher and Tarot reader for 30 years. Visit http://www.guyspiro.com/Untitled-5.html for more information.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Mike Abate’s letter of Aug. 19, answering Stan Campbell’s column of Aug. 4, in which Campbell blames America in general and white America in particular for the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, demonstrates the level to which passions continue to rule this historic event.

Campbell’s simplistic condemnation of the United States conveniently ignores the fact that under the Japanese warlords, Japan became an international outlaw of the first magnitude. Peace-and-justice Stan overlooks the fact that peace-loving nations were ruthlessly invaded by Japan and given no justice whatsoever, as proven by such atrocities as the Rape of Nanking, one of the greatest crimes of the 20th century, and that other slight delinquency known as the Bataan Death March, in which some 75,000 American and Filipino POWs were tortured, starved, summarily executed by beheadings, burned alive or run over by trucks and tanks where they fell from weakness as a result of starvation. Survivors were made slave laborers in violation of the Geneva Convention. Many were victims of live vivisections and other cruel medical experiments, and many civilian populations had bubonic plague dropped on them by Japanese aircraft.

Yup. Americans got needlessly worked up over all those little mishaps, according to Stan, whose legs must be aching by now from all that genuflecting he does before the altar of left-wing ideology when it comes to the dropping of the atomic bomb!

Even the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor was a result of Waspy American evildoers embargoing raw materials destined for Japan so the Japanese could not continue making war. That troublesome fact is also conveniently removed from the Campbell Canon of Condemning America for the world’s ills, as is the fact that even after the second atomic bomb, the Japanese War Council argued to continue the war. Only the Emperor’s intervention ended the debate.

But Mr. Abate doesn’t take into account a few facts in his summation of facts justifying Truman’s decision to drop the bomb. Abate is correct in asserting that military experts projected a million-plus American casualties were Japan to be invaded from the sea. Were the American public to later learn that the government had in its possession a bomb that cost the equivalent of $22 billion in today’s money to build and would have ended the war in a single stroke, and had not used it, the political consequences would have been devastating. It’s easy in retrospect to create alternatives to history, but the realities of the times dictated a different result, and it’s all too easy for those who come after to create their own demagoguery out of it.

Tim Hughes is a former teacher in Rockford School District 205 who coached debate and taught English at Auburn High School for 20 years. At Auburn, he coached three debate teams to first-place national championships.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Kilbuck Forest Preserve is one of the oldest forest preserves in Winnebago County. Photo provided

In recognition of the United Nations designation of 2010 as the Year of Biodiversity, the Four Rivers Environmental Coalition and The Rock River Times presents this bi-weekly series to help readers discover the amazing array of plants and animals in the rivers, prairies and woodlands “in our own back yard.” FREC is an alliance of 35 member organizations “dedicated to educating and advocating for the plants, animals, natural resources and ecosystems of the Four Rivers Region.” Please visit fourriver.org.

By Jack L. Armstrong
President, Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners

One of the oldest Winnebago County forest preserves is Kilbuck Forest Preserve. The preserve consists of two parts along South Bend Road. The west portion has a road that loops around in the floodplain of Kilbuck Creek. Very large cottonwood, oak and other trees cover the area. Many fishermen have ready access to the waterway from the road. As the snow leaves and spring begins, the ground here becomes covered with spring beauties. The white-and-purple-streaked flowers light up the flats.

Across the road and covering the hill is the east portion of Kilbuck Bluffs Forest Preserve. This is the part that gives the name to the preserve. Kilbuck Creek flows rapidly along the bluff just to the south. An old stone shelterhouse rests right on the edge of the bluff. The structure contains a large fireplace and picnic tables. Just over the side you can look down on the creek. Another, newer shelterhouse is farther along the road to the east. This shelterhouse is open, airy and new, and has a close parking area. The roadway leads you in a large loop around through hardwood forest, a meadow area with a ball field, and a grove of evergreen trees planted many years ago.

However, if you are visiting this side of the forest preserve in the spring, stop at the first parking area and get out to check the flowers of the forest floor. Beds of spring beauties, bloodroots, dutchman’s breeches, and Virginia cutleaf cause you to step carefully. The sunburst of white bloodroots sparkle among the linear lines of tiny white pantaloons with their yellow tops of the dutchman’s breeches. Return a couple weeks later to a flood of blue Virginia bluebells covering the floor of the forest. A second blast of blue will follow as thousands of wild geraniums add their color to the springtime. The displays of ephemeral flowers are a visual stimulus that will be remembered with your memory or photographs.

Along with the flowers and early insects come the migrant birds. Looking over the edge of the bluff into the branches of eye-level trees brings the bird life very close. Kilbuck is a great spot to find birds during spring migration. Woodland birds from thrushes, tanagers, woodpeckers, vireos and warblers are common. Picnics are very enjoyable at Kilbuck.

To get to Kilbuck Forest Preserve, turn off Highway 251 south of New Milford onto Baxter Road to the west. Then, turn left on South Bend Road, and this leads directly to the preserve.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

A heartfelt thank you to Mike Tulley, our event chairman; the event planning committee; our “Hospice Helpers”; and to the volunteers and staff who made the day a success. To the members and staff of Forest Hills Country Club, thank you for sharing your lovely facility. Lisa, Paul, Butch, Stacy, and the entire Forest Hills team went above and beyond to make the day special.

The Rockford community has many generous hearts. Thank you to each of them for supporting our mission to help our patients and families live every moment.

Carol A. Bennett

Executive Director

Northern Illinois Hospice and Grief Center

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

iBEAN Coffee, Inc., partnering with a most noble cause—The LivLife Foundation of Roscoe, Ill. The LivLife Foundation was formed when Livia, an angelic-faced 2-year-old, was diagnosed with Sanfilippo Syndrome—a terminal disorder with no cure, no treatment and little hope.

Supporters of The LivLife Foundation will be selling bags of gourmet coffee to help fund research currently under way that could save her life and the lives of others afflicted with this merciless disorder. Their coffee sale will take on many facets: community leaders, business, friends, concerned citizens, the Roscoe Rush semi-pro football team and anyone with the heart to help a child, will all be participating.

You can support this most worthwhile cause by ordering online at http://www.ibeancoffee.com/livlifefoundation

Anyone, anywhere in the U.S. can order the premium coffees that support Livia and the battle her family and the researchers are undertaking. iBEAN has even created the iCARE Pounds package that can be sent to deployed military personnel overseas for a flat rate of $3 via APO or FPO Mail.

To find out more about this amazing little girl and her family’s fight to fund the desperately-needed medical research, visit livlife.us.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Rockford native Nathan Jalani Taylor will present new original paintings and prints to purchase and collect at an “Off the Waterfront” art exhibit Wednesday-Sunday, Sept. 1-5, at Studio Works, 323 W. Jefferson St., Rockford. The show will feature Taylor painting live.

Other live entertainment at the show will include Jazzy Soul Art, 7 p.m.-1 a.m., Sept. 1; Afro Beat, 7 p.m.-1 a.m., Sept. 2; Reggae Rhythms, 7 p.m.-1 a.m., Sept. 3; Lyricist Lounge, 1-10 p.m., Sept. 4; and Gospel Inspiration, 1-10 p.m., Sept. 5.

Taylor is a visual artist, painter, graphic designer and art director. His art graces the cover of Play with the Changes, the latest album by U.K. super-group 4hero, and is featured on the cover of Dr. Richard Iton’s book In Search of the Black Fantastic.

Taylor has shared the stage with musicians and spoken-word artists such as Janelle Monae, Kelly Price, Jon B., Messiah, Glenn Lewis and Autumn Rowe, freestyle painting at concerts, open mic events, and parties throughout the country.

Learn more about Taylor by visiting his website at nathanjalanitaylor.com.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

It was anything but a simple test for the Hononegah Indians’ defense for their first game of the season.

They faced the Belvidere North Blue Thunder, who boast as much speed as any team in the conference.

All the Indians did was hold them to 222 total yards and only 7 points en route to a win in their first game.

“We wanted to show them, since we only have three guys back on defense this year, we want to show the rest of the NIC-10 that we are here to put a stop to all the other teams,” Hononegah linebacker Skylar Purifoy said. “Our defense is here, and we’re ready to play.”

The Indians return a lot of talent on offense this year, including quarterback Chase Robinson and running back Bryan Rothmaler. For Hononegah, the only question mark coming into the season was their young defense.

After one game, they are happy with what they see.

“It’s a huge statement,” Purifoy said. “You have sophomores who are just coming up to play as juniors. Guys who have never played a varsity game, and it’s different for them, it’s faster. Then, they come out and play like that, it’s just awesome. It’s huge to win the first game. We’re on our home field. First game of the year, and we’re on our field.”

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

GENOA, Ill.—A fund-raiser for an American soldier injured while serving in Afghanistan will be from noon to 10 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 5, at Genoa Veterans Home, 311 S. Washington St., Genoa, Ill.

Sgt. Allen Thomas, of North Carolina, was injured while serving in Afghanistan during his fourth combat tour. Thomas suffered shrapnel wounds to his upper torso and was in a coma for some time. His injuries necessitate extensive rehabilitation, and the burdens of mounting expenses are taxing this father-to-be and his family.

Sgt. Thomas was a comrade of Genoa resident and 82nd Airborne Staff Sergeant Robert Musil. Musil’s father, Matthew Musil, is using his contacts as a Sons of the American Legion member to rally local citizens and veterans supporters to raise funds for Thomas.

The Musils want to ease the financial blow Sgt. Thomas’ extensive injuries have left him facing. Thomas will be in Genoa to speak with attendees and accept his gift of gratitude by the men, women and children who come out to thank him for his sacrifice and commitment to this country.

Admission is $7, and children 12 and younger are admitted free. Food tickets are $5.

The fund-raiser will include food and drinks, silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, music and entertainment. A cash bar will be open to those who are 21 and older.

All proceeds will go to benefit Thomas and his family. The Genoa Police, Fire and Rescue departments, along with the Roselle and Yorkville Patriot Guard and Legion Riders will give an escort to Thomas through downtown Genoa, ending at the Genoa Veterans Home at 12:30 p.m.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

I remember reading Looking Back by Edward Belamy in high school. It was a Catholic high school, and the book told of a utopia where people worked as they wished, health was good and free, and everyone mainly had what they needed. It seemed possible, and had come about because the people finally said workers should share in the profits of their labor when they do a good job and help the capitalist make money. I thought it was possible, in my lifetime, to see that happen.

The Fair Deal of Franklin Roosevelt allowed for workers to organize themselves into unions to defend themselves from capitalists who themselves banded together into cartels. But we have not yet reached utopia. Maybe Sweden or Finland are getting close to that type of society, which realizes the time we have on this earth is the only true thing we own, so let’s make the best of it.

If you hire someone to do work for you, you are taking that person’s time as your own. I am giving my time to Rockford Urban Ministries, and they are giving me a salary and benefits. I admit I have a great job, and one that I love, and would probably do anyway. But at the end of my life, I won’t look back and worry that I didn’t spend enough time behind my desk. Workers should be fairly compensated, and the sooner we get the rest of the world to agree, we won’t have all these problems with immigration. People will be able to travel as capital is able to, across borders without opposition.

There should be a way to keep track of all the time we spend working for a company, and calculate the share of the profits, just like an investor, and reap the rewards, just like a stockholder.

Now, I digress…

As I’ve said before, our little peace group, as well as the fair-trade store JustGoods, will be selling stuff “On the Waterfront” from Friday to Sunday, Sept. 3-5. Rockford Area Lutheran Ministries let us use their office at 115 N. Wyman St., at the corner of State and Wyman (that’s in the storefronts of the Luther Center). We will display peace buttons, mission items from around the world, and politically correct fair-traded coffee and chocolate.

People have also donated CDs, DVDs, hats and neckties. And Dori Kearney, JustGoods store manager, promises some new items as well as the favorite chocolates and organic coffees. And I’ve invited political candidates to display some of their information.

You’ll have to look for us, the storefront is tucked away, and oftentimes there is a media tent set up right in front. We’ll try to stay open until 10 p.m. each evening. Folks have come to expect a “Peace Store” on the Waterfront, and we won’t disappoint them this year.

Stanley Campbell is executive director of Rockford Urban Ministries and spokesman for Rockford Peace & Justice.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

An expert on sexuality, especially as it relates to young women, will give a free talk at Rockford College at 7 p.m., Sept. 9, in the college’s Maddox Theatre.

Amber Madison is the author of Hooking Up: A Girl’s All-Out Guide to Sex and Sexuality, a book for college and high school-aged women about sexual health, sexuality and relationships. Title of her talk is “Sexual and Relationship Health: Hooking Up and Beyond.”

Madison travels around the U.S. speaking with teens and adults about sex and relationships. In 2008, she won a sexual health communication award from Choice USA. Adams Media recently published her second book, Talking Sex With Your Kids: Keeping Them Safe, and You Sane—by Knowing What They’re Really Thinking.

She is frequently quoted in national publications and has appeared on the Today Show, MTV News, National Public Radio, and dozens of local TV and radio broadcasts.

The talk is a kick-off to the college’s Forum Series, offering free lectures, discussions and performances throughout the school year. For a complete line-up of Forum events for 2010-2011, see www.rockford.edu/?page=ForumSeries.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Spending numerous hours in the car on road trips can often be tedious. I usually bring along some of my favorite music to listen to and scan the radio around the major towns along the way.

I took one of those road trips last weekend. It just so happened this trip coincided with opening night for high school football in almost every town in the Midwest and the South. Both regions of our country where high school football is a major Friday-night tradition.

Almost every single time I would hit the scan button on the radio, one certain song seemed, to keep popping up. It’s called “The Boys of Fall” by country artist Kenny Chesney.

If you are a country music fan, you’ve probably already heard this song. Even if you don’t like country music but have an appreciation for the purity of high school sports, I recommend a listen. This song does a perfect job of capturing the essence of playing “for the love of the game.”

The Boys of Fall

by Kenny Chesney

When I feel that chill, smell that fresh cut grass

I’m back in my helmet, cleats and shoulder pads

Standing in the huddle listening to the call

Fans going crazy for the boys of fall

They didn’t let just anybody in that club

Took every ounce of heart and sweat and blood

To get to wear those game day jerseys down the hall

Kings of the school, man, we’re the boys of fall

(Chorus:) Well it’s turn and face the Stars and Stripes

It’s fighting back them butterflies

It’s call it in the air, all right yes, sir, we want the ball

And it’s knocking heads and talking trash

It’s slinging mud and dirt and grass

It’s I got your number, I got your back when your back’s against the wall

You mess with one man you got us all

The boys of fall

In little towns like mine that’s all they got

Newspaper clippings fill the coffee shops

The old men will always think they know it all

Young girls will dream about the boys of fall

(Chorus:)Well it’s turn and face the Stars and Stripes

It’s fighting back them butterflies

It’s call it in the air, all right yes, sir, we want the ball

And it’s knocking heads and talking trash

It’s slinging mud and dirt and grass

It’s I got your number, I got your back when your back’s against the wall

You mess with one man you got us all.

I’m guessing some high school football teams across the country either already, or will be playing, this song prior to taking the field on Friday nights this season. It’s a great anthem and tribute to thousands of kids that play the game for all the right reasons.

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

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

The Element’s First Fridays event from 5 to 9 p.m., Friday, Sept. 3, includes the following:

JR Kortman Gallery: 107 N. Main St.—Featured art: Michelle Dorr’s Colorful “Happy Hour!”.

EVAP (Emerging Visual Artists Project) Gallery at Kryptonite: 308 W. State St.—Juried EVAP show for September upstairs: The Green Light Show. Official opening reception is Sept. 10, but work will be on display for First Fridays.

Prairie Street Gallery: 200 Prairie St.—Theme: Founding Artists Show: Artists that came together to form the “Art Matters” Artists’ Cooperative at the Prairie Street Gallery will all be showing work in this collaborative show.

Tom Littrell Studios: 317 Market St.—The gallery will feature paintings and mixed media by Tom Littrell.

Swank Boutique & Gallery: 218 1/2 E. State St.—Features the following artists: Bill Dorn, Groovy Again/Jackie Gonzales, Roxxi Recycles/Rose Havens, Valerie Lemen, LeeLoo LeVay, Cara Martin, Michael Smuck, Meg Turley, Tom Valiulis and Susannah Wilson.

Kryptonite: 308 W. State St. The Sensations, 9 p.m. Info: (815) 965-0931 or kryptonitebar.com.

Irish Rose Saloon: 519 E. State St.

For more information, a schedule or links to these venues, visit firstfridaysrockford.com.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Volunteer Jamie Smith receives cardboard for recycling at Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful's Recycling Center in Roscoe, Ill. Photo provided

From press release

LOVES PARK, Ill.—Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful (KNIB) reminds area residents that its Recycling Center in Roscoe, Ill., will be open from 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Sept. 4.

Lori Gummow, executive director of KNIB, said: “For Keep Northern Illinois Beautiful, every day is Earth Day. With the dedication of our wonderful volunteers, we are pleased to be able to offer a recycling option to area residents year-round. We are especially thankful for those volunteers who take time out of their holiday weekends to sort recyclables in a parking lot.”

The Recycling Center accepts the following items:

→ Glass containers: Food jars and bottles only (green, brown and clear). Rinse thoroughly. Caps and lids are not accepted.

→ Plastic containers: Bottles coded No. 1 and No. 2 with “necks and shoulders.” Rinse thoroughly. Caps and lids are not accepted.

→ Six-pack rings

→ Laser printer cartridges

→ HP inkjet cartridges only

→ Metal cans: Food cans only.

→ Aluminum: Cans and scrap (foil, pie tins, etc.)

→ Corrugated cardboard

→ Phone books

→ Paper: Newspapers, sale ads, junk mail, paper bags, office paper, computer paper, chipboard and magazines.

→ Cell phones

KNIB’s Recycling Center is the only all-volunteer staffed and operated recycling center in the region. It is open year-round on Saturdays from 9 a.m. until noon, and is on the frontage road, one-half mile north of McCurry Road and Route 251 in Roscoe.

For more information about recycling options in the area or to volunteer for one of KNIB’s events, visit knib.org or call KNIB at (815) 637-1343.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Harlem Huskies Head Coach Jim Morrow thinks his team is tougher, and more importantly, has more depth than the last few teams have had the last few years. Photo by Matt Nestor

Editor’s note: The original headline for this article (“Harlem looking to reload, not rebuild”) incorrectly appeared above a different article in the Aug. 25-31, 2010, issue. The Rock River Times regrets the error, and the correct article follows.

By Matt Nestor
Sports Columnist

Gone from the Harlem Huskies is an explosive and big senior class that only lost two regular-season games the last two seasons. But you won’t find the Huskies looking in the past.

While most schools would have trouble replacing the kind of talent the Huskies lost, Harlem will be replacing that talent with potentially more explosive talent.

Keith Purifoy returns after missing most of last season as a result of injury. As a sophomore, Purifoy was one of the best offensive players in the conference, and will look to be even better as a senior.

“I try not to coach him too much,” Harlem coach Jim Morrow said. “He does his thing, and he does it better than anybody else. If he’s healthy, we’re going to be OK. He’s just a special player. I hope he gets a chance to show that this year.”

Harlem will also be missing their quarterback, Keenan Kellett, who graduated. In steps senior Brandon Rodgers. Rodgers is a big kid, with a big arm, who would have started for a lot of schools last season.

“Brandon, he’s ready. Unfortunately, he came in as a good junior behind a really good senior,” Morrow said. “But he got quality reps during his junior year, some significant playing time, and he’s had a great summer. I’m really excited to see what he can do.”

Morrow readily admits you can’t replace the talents of Kellett, Casey Beck, Matt Parks, Demetris Fambro, Tyler Cox and many of the other players that Huskies fans have become accustomed to the last few years.

But while Harlem may come up a little short in talent compared to the last few seasons, Morrow thinks this team is tougher, and more importantly, has more depth than the last few teams have had.

“I don’t think we’re quite as talented,” he said. “But we have some really great high school football players that are hard-nosed and tough, and we’re real encouraged by our chances this year.”

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Sept. 25, the Rochelle Wildlife Conservation Club, along with Pete Reiff and the Logan Hollow Fish Farm, will provide fish for pond stocking and re-stocking. Channel catfish, hybrid sunfish, fathead minnow, sterile grass-eating carp, hybrid redear, redear sunfish, largemouth bass, bluegill and black crappie, will be available in a variety of sizes. Information can be obtained by calling Rich Melton at (815) 562-6268. The deadline for ordering grass carp is Sept.13. The deadline for ordering all other fish is Sept. 20.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

The American Red Cross has several upcoming classes in September. It is a great time for residents throughout the Rock River Valley to familiarize themselves with programs and services offered by our local chapter.

Classes available in September

Adult CPR/AED: Tuesday, Sept. 21 from 5-10 p.m. (Belvidere)

First Aid: Wednesday, Sept. 15 from 6-10 p.m. (Rockford)

First Aid and Adult CPR/AED: Wednesday/Thursday, Sept. 8 & 9 from 6-10 p.m. (Rockford)

First Aid and Infant/Child CPR/AED: Saturday, Sept. 11 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (Rockford)

CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer: Saturday, Sept. 25 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (Rockford)

Babysitter’s Training: Saturday, Sept. 18 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (Belvidere)

Lay Responder First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor Course (Includes full basic course and FIT): Wednesday/Thursday, Sept. 29 & 30 from 6-10 p.m.

Pre-registration and pre-payment are required. Individuals can register online, by phone, or by visiting the office at 727 N. Church St., Rockford, IL 61103.

For more information about course offerings, call the Rock River Chapter at (815) 963-8471 or visit: rockriver.redcross.org.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

As the trial of former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich enters a new chapter, I am struck by the claim that a retrial would be a waste of taxpayer dollars and the government’s resources.

As a former U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois and as the current Inspector General for the Illinois Secretary of State, I know firsthand the importance of ferreting out corruption, unethical behavior and wrongdoing. The rule of the U.S. Attorney is to charge and prosecute federal crimes and to uphold justice.

Very simply, we can’t put a price tag on justice.

While it’s always important to be mindful of spending, the fact is the costs incurred by the U.S. Attorney’s office for any case are fixed—covering mostly the salaries of employees who investigate and prosecute cases.

What’s most important, however, is that justice is served. And, in this case, justice requires a retrial.

Some have argued that since Rod Blagojevich is now a convicted felon on a single count of lying to federal agents, the U.S. Attorney’s office should walk away from the case. I believe this would send the wrong message to the people of Illinois and to all elected officials.

The charges against Blagojevich are serious and repugnant. It is the responsibility of our state’s leaders to serve the people, not their own self-interests.

The jury voted 11-1 in favor of conviction on a majority of the counts and on at least one of the scheme counts, the attempted sale of the U.S. Senate seat.

This is not the first time a jury has been hung by one juror. Our judicial system takes this into account and allows for retrials.

We need to let the judicial system work. Conviction on the scheme counts would send a message to the public and other politicians that if government officials shake people down for contributions, even if unsuccessful, they will go to jail.

In my view, prosecutors will have to address two commonly-held misconceptions during the retrial. One is that many people believe money must actually change hands, or the deal must be completed, to be guilty of a conspiracy. This is not the law.

The other misconception is that Blagojevich’s approach to raising money is believed by many to be politics as usual in Illinois. This view also is wrong.

Most elected officials were offended by the actions of our former governor. They found his words and deeds despicable.

To change the perception of the pay-to-play culture in Illinois, government officials must be accountable, transparent and committed to fighting unethical behavior and wrongdoing. The combined efforts of strong leaders, effective prosecutors, independent inspectors general, the media, good government “watchdog” organizations and informed voters are essential.

Over the past decade, I have served as the Inspector General for the Illinois Secretary of State. I have been the fortunate recipient of a strong and continued commitment from Secretary of State Jesse White, who has provided my office with the necessary independence and resources required to root out corruption, restore integrity and change the culture of an office that had fallen under a cloud of controversy.

I look forward to watching the retrial and am confident that, in the end, justice will be served.

James B. Burns is the Inspector General for the Illinois Secretary of State’s office and  former U.S. Attorney from the Northern District of Illinois.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

The next OSF Diabetes Support Group meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., Wednesday,  Sept. 8, in the St. Francis Room at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. Titled, “Who’s in Charge—You or the Diabetes?”, the meeting is free and open to the public. Reservations are not required.

For more information, call the OSF Saint Anthony Diabetes Education Center at (815) 395-5159.

The OSF Saint Anthony Diabetes Education Center has achieved re-certification for Disease-Specific Care from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) and was awarded the Gold Seal of Approval. OSF Saint Anthony was the second health care facility in the state of Illinois to earn disease-specific JCAHO certification for diabetes.

OSF Saint Anthony is the only Rockford medical center to earn the elite Magnet designation for nursing excellence. It is the highest award for nursing available in the United States.

OSF St. Anthony Medical Center has achieved Magnet recognition for the second time, an accomplishment achieved by only 2 percent of the hospitals nationwide.

Magnet is a designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) that recognizes excellence in nursing practice and quality patient care. It is the highest award for nursing available in the United States.

The Medical Center website is www.osfsaintanthony.org.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

September will probably seem to cool off a bit after the very intense last two months. Certainly there will still be very much going on and we will need to stay vigilant and involved, but there will be some decrease in the overall pressure. Saturn will continue to move on past the last square to Pluto, further deflating conservatism. Do not be surprised by some of the desperate measures taken by both U.S. conservatives and on the global level as well. Whatever they do, however successful it may appear at first, it will blow up in their faces.

These overviews are intended primarily for a U.S. audience pertaining mainly to events in this country, but you might want to keep an eye on Iran and other theocratic or otherwise harshly authoritarian regimes through this year. It will be quite a show.

Jupiter, Uranus and Neptune, all in retrograde through the month, become tighter in their positive configuration. As Saturn motors off and Pluto begins to move out from the complex—not to get back into the act until early next year—liberality needs to step up its game and make strides through this month.

On more personal levels, September is another intense month with one or more major energies on most days. Remember that the Mercury retrograde period that started last month on the 20th remains with us through much of the month and turns direct on the 12th. See the retrograde pages at the beginning of the book for more about these periods.

Particularly, there is a cautionary period on the 12th and 13th that should be observed for a day or two on either side. Be especially mindful around the new moon, exact on the 8th, and for a couple of days on either side of it. As a result of related energies, the full moon, exact on the 23rd, will run exceptionally long.

Consider it to begin on the 19th and run all the way through the 26th. As always, there are many other major energies, both positive and cautionary, to read ahead and plan for dealing with. The most significant daytime moon void of course periods are on the 20th and the 25th.

The moon is said to be void of course between the time it makes its last major aspect in a sign and its entry into the next sign. During these times, plans that are made, ideas that are had, projects that are started and major purchases almost always fall through or go wrong. This energy can be overcome, but it takes two or three times the normal amount of effort, and most people most of the time will not put out that much. Please watch these times and verify this for yourself.

Guy Spiro, editor of the Monthly Aspectarian magazine and Astro-Weather (www.lightworks.com), has been a professional astrologer, astrology teacher and Tarot reader for 30 years. Visit http://www.guyspiro.com/Untitled-5.html for more information. Spiro’s daily overviews appear in each weekly issue of The Rock River Times.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010, issue

Did you enjoy the opening number of the Emmys as much as I did? Host Jimmy Fallon and four of the Glee kids—Emmy nominees Lea Michele and Chris Colfer plus Amber Riley and Cory Monteith—singing their own version of Bruce Springsteen’s “Born to Run” while rounding up a celebrity glee club.

Fellow nominees Tina Fey, Jon Hamm and Jane Lynch joined them along with Joel McHale, Jorge Garcia and others. A cameo by Kate Gosselin (so heavily made up in dancing regalia that I almost didn’t recognize her) fell flat, but Betty White teaching Jon Hamm some raunchy dance moves was inspired. Seeing so many stars representing several series—American Idol judge Randy Jackson even joined the backup band—gamely playing along was a lot of fun.

With tough contenders in most of the major categories, this was a year without a lot of clear frontrunners. The only real surprise for me came when The Closer’s Kyra Sedgwick beat out The Good Wife’s Julianna Margulies for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama. Don’t get me wrong. Sedgwick is great as Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson. This was her fifth Emmy nomination for the role, and her first win. But The Good Wife was a breakout hit with strong buzz and critical praise, especially for Margulies’ emotionally-layered performance. Like countless others, I was wrong about the one category I thought would be the easiest to predict. I was wrong. (Seeing Margulies present the Bob Hope Humanitarian Award to her former ER co-star George Clooney almost made up for it.)

I’m thrilled that The Big Bang Theory’s Jim Parsons won Lead Actor in a Comedy. I was also glad to see Glee represented with Lynch’s win as Supporting Actress in a Comedy and executive producer Ryan Murphy winning a directorial award. I love Modern Family, too, so the show’s big win was gratifying, as was Eric Stonestreet’s win for Supporting Actor in a Comedy—a category more than half filled with Modern Family actors. I thought that might split the vote, but it didn’t.

Edie Falco—past multiple-Emmy winner on the drama side for her memorable work on The Sopranos—proved once again to be an Emmy favorite, this time for her comic turn in Nurse Jackie.

Bryan Cranston is one of the best actors working today. The guy is equally gifted at comedy and drama. I honestly didn’t expect him to three-peat as Lead Actor in a Drama for Breaking Bad, but he did. Pat Emmy winner Terry O’Quinn kept upping his game throughout Lost’s final season, so I thought he had a good shot at taking home a second statuette, but Breaking Bad’s Aaron Paul turned in an exemplary performance definitely worthy of his Supporting Actor win. The Good Wife’s Archie Panjabi was also a standout in the Supporting Actress category.

I have to admit it, I kind of hoped Lost might win for Outstanding Drama. As frustrating as Lost could be, it was always well produced, well acted and had great dialogue. But Mad Men is still a great show, and like Cranston, it walked away with a three-peat.

There was tough competition in most categories this year, but overall, I’m pretty contented with this year’s winners. How about you?

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. Send in your suggestions to tubetalking-paula@yahoo.com.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

G.I. Jobs announced the release of its 2011 list of Military Friendly Schools, and Rock Valley College (RVC) is among them.

The list honors the top 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools that are doing the most to embrace America’s veterans as students. Criteria included efforts to recruit and retain military and veteran students, results in recruiting military and veteran students, and academic accreditations.

Schools range from state universities and private colleges to community colleges and trade schools. The common bond is their shared priority of recruiting students with military experience. RVC is one of 63 schools in Illinois to make the list of 1,220 schools nationwide. More than 7,000 schools were polled by G.I. Jobs in formulating the list.

The tens of billions of dollars in tuition money now available with the passage of the Post-9/11 GI Bill last year has intensified an already strong desire by colleges to court veterans into their classrooms.

Schools on the Military Friendly Schools list also offer additional benefits to student veterans such as on-campus veterans programs, credit for service, military spouse programs and more. In addition, RVC also offers veterans the opportunity to join a student club for veterans, access historical books, articles, artifacts and recordings on military service events in a newly-developed resource room, and a special ceremony annually takes place on campus for Veteran’s Day in November.

View the entire 2011 list of Military Friendly Schools at www.militaryfriendlyschools.com/2011list.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Following a disappointing 2009 season (3-9 overall and 2-6 in the Big Ten Conference) the Fighting Illini are looking to get back to a certain level of respectability within the conference this season. I don’t think even the most loyal Illinois fan would expect them to compete for a conference title this season.

Last year’s Big Ten Conference champion, Ohio State (11-2 overall and 7-1 in the Big 10) is the pre-season favorite to repeat and is ranked second in the nation in both the AP and USA Today polls, trailing only Alabama. Two other Big Ten schools, Iowa and Wisconsin, are also ranked in the top 15 in both pre-season polls. Fortunately for Illinois fans, neither Iowa nor Wisconsin is on the 2010 schedule for the Illini.

Illini fans will have to settle for improvement as a measure of success this year. The 2010 season kicks off this Saturday (Sept. 4) with the State Farm Arch Rivalry game against the Missouri Tigers in St. Louis, Mo.

The Illini then have three home games in a row. The first two games in Champaign are against non-conference opponents. They open up at Memorial Stadium Sept. 11 against Southern Illinois and then, the following week (Saturday, Sept. 18), the Northern Illinois Huskies will come calling.

The good news for the Illini is they have a home game to open up the Big Ten Conference schedule. The bad news is, it is against defending Big Ten champion and recent perennial powerhouse the Ohio State Buckeyes.

The other conference home games include homecoming Saturday, Oct. 23, against Indiana; an Oct. 30 match-up with the Purdue Boilermakers; and then they close out the 2010 home schedule with Minnesota Nov. 13.

One of the more interesting road games the Illini will be involved in this season is their contest against the Northwestern Wildcats. That game is slated to be played at Wrigley Field in Chicago Nov. 20.

Other road contests include conference games against Penn State in Happy Valley Oct. 9. The Illini travel to Michigan twice this season. The first trip is to East Lansing Oct. 16 to face the Michigan State Spartans. They’ll make their return trip to Michigan to face the Wolverines in Ann Arbor Nov. 6.

The regular season schedule will conclude Dec. 3 with a non-conference road game out in California against the Fresno State Bulldogs.

My best prediction for the Illini this season is 6-6. With four of those wins coming in the Big Ten. I think their best chances are against Indiana, Purdue, Minnesota and Northwestern. They should also fair well against non-conference opponents Northern and Southern Illinois. The rest of the games, we’ll just have to watch to see how improved they actually are.

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

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

It’s that time of year again. Summer is quickly slipping away. Labor Day weekend is here. It’s getting dark out earlier. High school football has started. The college and pro games are just around the corner. It’s my favorite time of year.

One of the things I thoroughly enjoy about the onset of fall is our bowling league starts up again. After taking the summer months off, it’s time to return to the lanes this week. I’ve bowled on Tuesday nights for the last several years. It’s been so many that I’ve actually lost track.

Bowling is the one sport where I’ve experienced the most success as a participant. Granted, I’ve yet to roll a perfect game, but I have achieved some of the goals I’ve set for myself in the sport. Last season, I finally rolled my first 700-plus series. That goal was one that I’ve had for many years. I hit the 731 mark during the second week of the year. I also had a 697 a few weeks later. It just proves that bowling is a sport that even as you get into your “senior years,” you can still improve.

For the last few seasons, my average has increased from year to year. My goal last year was to average 200 over the 33-week season. I came up just a few pins short, and finished with a 199.45 average. So, I will shoot for a 200 or higher average once again this year.

I’m going to set a series goal of 750 for this year. My individual high game is a 278. Besides having the yearly goal of a perfect game, I’m also going to add a 280 or higher game as another goal for this year.

Good Luck to all the league bowlers as they return to their home lanes over the next couple of weeks. Except when they bowl our team, of course.

I like the competition of our five-man teams each week, but what really motivates me are the personal goals I set each season. I’ll give it my best again this year, and if I hit that 300 game, you can pretty much bet the farm you’ll read about it in an upcoming column.

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

Occasionally, money can get a little tight from time to time, no matter whom you are or what your situation. For those of us who own pets, we want to still make sure they are not neglected and remain in good care during these times.

This poses the question: Are pricier products worth the extra dough?

As consumers, we want to make sure we always get the best bang for our buck, even when shopping for our pets. Whether it be food, toys or training supplies, which ingredients/materials are most important when trying to go with a more cost-conscious or generic brand?

“If you are referring to any general product, I would have to look at quality versus monetary value,” said Dr. M.A. Crist, clinical assistant professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences.

“For any pet owner, it is an individual decision to feed kibble, canned diets, semi-moist, all-natural or homemade food, and I recommend input from your veterinarian,” said Crist.

Numerous different ingredients are required for a puppy, kitten, dog or cat’s wholesome health, and it is important these are provided for them so they continue to grow and thrive.

“If one is unsure of what to feed, then it is best to remain with the big commercial name-brand manufacturers because most of these companies have used feeding trials to test their foods,” explains Crist.

The best foods are usually tested in actual feeding trials and not by nutritional analysis alone. Crist explains that one can look for the words “complete and balanced nutrition” on the product, which is a statement that explains the food has been tested “for all life stages” of the feline and canine.

If you are a dog owner, chances are you have figured out by now that your pup most likely prefers the deliciousness that canned food has to offer. However, dry kibble is usually the less expensive choice, as well as being easier to handle.

It can also be a good idea to try to buy in bulk and search for any possible coupons or sales that are going on.

“It is very important that a feline’s diet contains taurine because research has linked taurine deficiency in cats to fatal heart disease,” said Crist.

Crist explained that commercial name-brand companies do usually provide higher quality grade ingredients, but it is still important to read the label and make sure it reads “complete for all life stages” and has the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), which helps to govern quality control.

When looking for cheaper alternatives, when you are low on cash, or when you are simply too lazy at the moment to go and pick up some food for your pet, some people are tempted to share their food with their animals in place of pet food.

“It is important to go easy with ‘people food,’ and one has to be mindful that these cannot replace the balanced diet of the cat or dog,” said Crist.

Foods made for cats are formulated to contain the vitamins, minerals and amino acids a cat needs for good health, which is why it is important to feed them cat food. But if one is looking for an occasional delicacy for their cat, Crist recommends trying small bits of cheese or cooked tuna, chicken, fish or liver.

“Carrots are a snack that sometimes we humans enjoy that can be fed to a dog, along with broccoli, green beans, sweet potatoes, pumpkin and zucchini,” said Crist.

If you have a picky or more pampered pooch and would like to try out some homemade recipes, petdiets.com and balanceit.com are two websites that have some great ideas.

“I do have a quick recipe that I use to make quick-and-easy cookies for some of my canine patients,” Crist said. “They are fun, very easy and dogs love them!”

Dog cookie recipe

3 (2 1/2 ounces each) jars of baby food; either beef or chicken

1/4 cup to 1/2 cup wheat germ or cream of wheat

Combine all ingredients in bowl and mix well. Roll into small balls, and place on well-greased cookie sheet. Flatten slightly with a fork or flatten and cut with a small cookie cutter. Bake in preheated 350-degree oven for 15 minutes until brown. Cool on wire rack. Refrigerate to keep fresh or freeze.

“A quick kitty recipe that I have used that has been passed around is this kitty recipe. It is very ‘fishy,’ but cats like them.”

Kitty snack recipe

7 ounces mashed sardines

1/4 cup dry non-fat milk

1/2 cup wheat germ

Combine all ingredients and roll into small balls. Place on greased cookie sheet and flatten with a fork. Bake in preheated 350-degree oven for 10-15 minutes until brown. Cool on wire rack. Refrigerate to keep fresh or freeze.

Going green for your pet is another possible alternative when looking to save a few bucks.

“Catnip makes a fine low-calorie feline treat that most cats will love,” said Crist.

Both catnip and “cat grass,” which is essentially a cereal grass similar to wheat or oats, are easy to grow in a sunny window or purchased from a store either dry or fresh.

“Always be sure that the plant you are offering your furry feline is safe for them, but do not be alarmed if your cat regurgitates the kitty grass that can be bought in-stores; some will do this, and it is nothing to be alarmed by,” said Crist.

If your cat is, in fact, regurgitating the kitty grass, the catnip should suffice.

If any questions arise about the safety of a plant, refer to the ASPCA’s website for more information or follow this link http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/.

If it is believed the feline or any other animal might have eaten a dangerous plant, call your veterinarian immediately, or contact the Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.

Another good tip for dog owners might be to cut down on the number of unnecessary treats given throughout the day. Instead, try ice cubes or bones that will last longer than a treat. This will help save you money, as well as help any canines who are a little overweight.

So, if you find yourself in a period where you are pinching pennies, remember there are always alternatives and options that can help keep you and your pet healthy and happy.

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University. Stories can be viewed on the Web at http://tamunews.tamu.edu. Suggestions for future topics may be directed to editor@cvm.tamu.edu.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Washington, D.C.—As flood waters continue to wreak havoc on communities across Pakistan, the American Red Cross is increasing its support to $5 million to help families who have lost their homes and jobs and have little access to clean water and food.

David Meltzer, senior vice president of international services for the American Red Cross, said: “The need for increased support could not be more urgent, given that more than 10 million people in Pakistan are in need of humanitarian relief. Given this dire need, we are using reserve funds, in addition to donations received for Pakistan, to get more aid into Pakistan more quickly.”

The American Red Cross had previously committed $1 million in supplies and financial support to Pakistan relief, and the Aug. 24 announcement is for a $4 million increase in support for the flood-ravaged country. The aid will go to support the efforts of the global Red Cross and Red Crescent network on the ground in Pakistan. In addition to aid, two disaster experts are being deployed to Pakistan to help coordinate the relief efforts.

Tens of thousands of Pakistan Red Crescent staff and volunteers continue to work around the clock to distribute relief items, such as tents, water and food to nearly 400,000 people. Thirty-seven Red Crescent field medical teams are now working up and down the flood zone and have treated more than 48,000 people, including—with epidemic fears growing—nearly 12,000 cases of diarrhea.

Alex Mahoney, Asia disaster response manager for the American Red Cross, said: “One of our major concerns is that when people, especially children, are desperately thirsty, they will drink from contaminated water sources, which can result in water-borne diseases such as cholera.”

The Pakistani government has not confirmed any cases of cholera, but tens of thousands of people are said to be suffering from the acute diarrhea that invariably follows major floods, which instantly contaminates natural water sources.

The global Red Cross and Red Crescent network is also increasing its response, with an increased appeal to help more than 900,000 people for 18 months. Seven Red Cross Emergency Response Units for relief, logistics, water and sanitation, and health are being deployed to support the ongoing relief efforts.

The Pakistan Red Crescent Society, the equivalent of the American Red Cross in Pakistan, was formed in 1947 and similarly responds to floods, fires, droughts, earthquakes and other natural disasters in the country. It has approximately 130,000 volunteers, and provides first aid and CPR training, blood collection, ambulance services, HIV/AIDS education and prevention and operates several auxiliary medical service centers.

To help those affected by the flooding, make a donation to the American Red Cross online at www.redcross.org or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.

Help people affected by disasters, like the floods in Pakistan, as well as countless crises at home and around the world, by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Donations enables the Red Cross to prepare for and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance in response to disasters. Visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. Contributions may also be sent to  or to the American Red Cross—Rock River Chapter, 727 N. Church St., Rockford, IL 61103, or the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, D.C. 20013.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Send your “Community news and notes” to The Rock River Times, ATTN: People In Our Times, 128 N. Church St., Rockford, IL 61101; e-mail contact@rockrivertimes.com; call (815) 964-9767; or fax (815) 964-9825.

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue

Murray White, 88, Rockford, 8/20/10

Rebecca Brown, 63, Rockford, 8/20/10

Rosemary Noll, 68, Rockford, 8/20/10

Willie Frazier, 63, Loves Park, 8/20/10

Charlotte Gocken, fetus, Rockford, 8/21/10

Arnold Lind, 81, Rockford, 8/21/10

Milford Brelje, 84, Rockford, 8/21/10

Dorothy Divis, 81, Rockford, 8/21/10

Colin Anderson, 66, Rockford, 8/21/10

Carmelina Lindquist, 87, Rockford, 8/21/10

Reid Peper, 51, Rockford, 8/21/10

Gwen Bell, 81, Rockford, 8/21/10

Charles McGee, 85, Rockford, 8/21/10

Carol Martens, 85, Rockford, 8/21/10

Adeline Powell, 95, Rockford, 8/22/10

Maggie Bell, 92, Rockford, 8/22/10

Angela Papson, 72, Rockford, 8/22/10

Helen West, 79, Rockford, 8/22/10

William Houston, 67, Rockford, 8/22/10

Judith Sweet, 67, Rockford, 8/22/10

Marguerite Hazzard, 97, Rockford, 8/22/10

John Heckman, 76, Rockford, 8/22/10

Christa Schuessler, 87, Rockford, 8/23/10

Martha Palmenderi, 94, Rockford, 8/23/10

Alice Nordmark, 100, Rockford, 8/23/10

Marvin Thompson, 28, Rockford, 8/23/10

Nicholas Aguilerabernal, 64, Rockford, 8/23/10

Alma Rose, 87, Rockford, 8/24/10

Beverly Anderson, 80, Rockford, 8/24/10

Joseph Naleway, 84, Rockford, 8/24/10

Ronald Nehring, 87, Rockford, 8/24/10

Robert James, 57, Rockford, 8/25/10

Mary Wignall, 89, Rockford, 8/25/10

Robert Byrne, 44, South Beloit, 8/25/10

Norman Probell, 94, Rockford, 8/25/10

Evelyn Swanberg, 86, Rockford, 8/25/10

Margaret Hines, 79, Rockford, 8/25/10

Kenneth Larson, 79, Rockford, 8/25/10

Howard, Zollers, 48, Rockford, 8/26/10

Richard Martorana, 62, Rockford, 8/26/10

Letrice McClanahan, 39, Rockford, 8/26/10

Larry Kaiser, 62, Rockford, 8/26/10

Christopher Krenzer, 20, Rockford, 8/26/10

Betty Lawson, 74, Rockford, 8/26/10

Roxanne Lones, 39, Rockford, 8/26/10

Harold Neitzel, 71, Rockford, 8/26/10

From the Sept. 1-7, 2010 issue