About DeAnn Bloomberg and Katie Boruff

Youth ages 8 and older who are looking for a fun way to spend some time this summer should enroll in summer day camps presented by Rock Island County 4-H.  They are offering a variety of awesome and affordable day camps that are open to all youth.  Meet new friends and explore topics of interest as they "learn by doing" the 4-H way. These summer camps are made possible in part by a grant from the Amy Helpenstell Foundation  Half-fee tuition waivers are available for those who qualify.  Register online at  http://web.extension.illinois.edu/hmrs or call (309) 756-9978.

Here's what's coming up:

June 11-15: Traveling Science Camp, 10 am - 1 pm (8 and up) - Meets at Different Locations Daily  Science is Everywhere! Experience some of the finest science attractions in the Quad Cities! Campers will meet each day at a different location. Discover the world of Dinosaurs at the Putnam Museum and IMAX; Happy Joe's for the science of pizza making; Quad City Airport to explore aviation; Milan Police Department and the Blackhawk Fire and Protection Station and delve into the world of CSI; and Niabi Zoo for animal exploration. Campers should bring a sack lunch each day. $50 public/$45 4-H members.

June 18 – June 22: Outdoor Adventures, 9 am - Noon (8 and up) Meet at the Singingbird Lodge at Blackhawk State Park in Rock Island and experience the great outdoors. Participate in the how-to's of the camping world like hiking, setting up a camp, cooking over a campfire, outdoor games, first-aid and more. $40 public/$35 4-H member.

June 18 – June 22: Nature Discovery Camp, 1 pm - 4 pm (8 and up) Meet at the Singingbird Lodge at Blackhawk State Park in Rock Island and experience the wonders of nature. Join us for fun filled days as we learn about wildlife, rocks, plants, insects, animal tracks and more. Participate in hands-on activities, hiking and nature crafts. $40 public/$35 4-H member.

June 25-29: Future Engineers Camp, Mornings 9 am – Noon OR Afternoons 1 - 4 pm (8 and up) Calling all future engineers! You'll have a great time learning about the world of engineering by working with a variety of Lego Kits and other engineering models.. $40 public/$35 4-H members. Due to the popularity of this camp, we are offering two sessions – select either morning or afternoon.

University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programming and employment.  If you need reasonable accommodation to attend, call (309) 756-9978.

Tony Franklin, County Director of University of Illinois Extension Henry, Mercer, Rock Island and Stark Counties (Unit 7) nominated Jim King of Geneseo, IL for his many years of volunteer and community service.  The award was presented during the Henry County Human Service Council’s Hats off to Volunteers Celebration Luncheon on April 18 in Kewanee.  Jim currently serves on the Extension Council for Unit 7 and is an active member of  the Extension State Advisory Committee.  He remains a strong supporter of Extension and 4-H, starting his 4-H career in Knox County showing Dairy Cattle.  Jim is an active member of the National Dairy Association.  Additional volunteer service includes Member of the Home Economics Volunteer Council, Henry County Soil and Water Conservation, Land-use Council, State Board of Association for Soil and Water, Freedom House Shelter, World Dairy Expo Board, Bishop Hill Heritage Association, Bishop Hill Old Settlers, Henry County Planning Committee and Interstate RC & D.  In presenting the honor, Franklin said “Aside from his exemplary volunteer and community service, Jim King is one of the most pleasant people you’ll ever meet.  I take this opportunity to thank him for all he has done for University of Illinois Extension and the citizens of Henry County.”

Two University of Illinois Extension Staff Received Their 20 Year Certificates March 30, 2012

Tony Franklin, County Director for University of Illinois Extension Henry, Mercer, Rock Island and Stark Counties recognized 20 years of service provided by two employees at their Unit 7 Staff Meeting on March 30, 2012.  Betty Gavin of Kewanee, IL Program Coordinator for SNAP-Ed (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), and Taina Machalek of Rock Island, SNAP-Ed Community Worker, were each presented with a 20 year certificate and a cross pen in recognition of their hard work and service.  As part of the SNAP-Ed programming team for University of Illinois Extension, they each play a vital role in helping to improve nutrition across the state, particularly among low-income individuals by sharing tools and information on quality nutrition education.

Save the Date!!!  The Bureau County Farm Bureau Foundation and the Henry County Farm Bureau Foundation are putting the final touches on plans for our first Tractor Trek.  The Tractor Trek will be held on Saturday and Sunday, June 23 &24, 2012, rain or shine! This year’s event is a partnership to raise funds for the Ag in the Classroom Program in the two counties.  Participants will have the opportunity to share the exciting event with other antique tractor enthusiasts as they travel through the Western half of Bureau County and the Eastern half of Henry County.  Pre-registration is required by completing a registration form.
 
The day of the event we will be leaving from the Bureau County Fair Grounds in Princeton at 9:00 a.m., with a drivers meeting at 8:30 a.m.  (You must be checked in by 8:00 a.m.)  We will travel west to the Hennepin Canal, and head towards Annawan for lunch, then make our final trek towards Cambridge to the Cambridge High School. On Sunday we will make our way back to Princeton.  (Transportation back to Princeton Saturday p.m. and to Cambridge on Sunday a.m. is available if requested at registration). 
 
There is a registration fee of $75.  Refreshments, lunches, and a fun-filled experience will be provided. The deadline to register is June 8th, space is limited.  If you would like more information, you may contact Dave Doty at (815) 739-5983, the Bureau County Farm Bureau at (815) 875-6468 or the Henry County Farm Bureau at (309) 937-2411. All proceeds will benefit the Bureau County Farm Bureau Foundation and the Henry County Farm Bureau Foundation.
 

U.S. biodiesel production reached an all-time record in 2011, and the United Soybean Board (USB) and soy checkoff want to help it repeat that feat in 2012.

As part of a larger strategy to promote soy biodiesel’s benefits among diesel users, the checkoff will once again co-sponsor the National Tractor Pullers Association (NTPA) season of approximately 80 tractor pulls across the United States. The checkoff partners with the NTPA to increase biodiesel availability and use among pulling fans, many of whom work in the agricultural and trucking sectors.

“Pulling tractors perform so well on biodiesel, it’s a perfect way to show farmers biodiesel’s benefits,” says USB Communications Chair Jimmy Sneed, a soybean farmer from Hernando, Miss. “It’s important to remind farmers that using soybean oil for biodiesel is one of the components that determines the value of each bushel we grow. It makes sense for soybean farmers to use their own products and promote biodiesel.”

Under the co-sponsorship, tractors in the NTPA’s Light Pro Stock division will run on biodiesel. So these pullers will put biodiesel to the test all season long.

According to millions of miles of checkoff-funded testing, biodiesel can stand up to those tests. It offers excellent horsepower, mileage, cetane and lubricity. And, since it can be made from U.S. soybean oil, it’s the only diesel fuel that can help declare freedom from foreign oil.

Check the NTPA schedule to find out if Light Pro Stock “Powered by Biodiesel” hooks will be in your area.

The soy checkoff also established other partnerships to promote biodiesel. Later this year, the checkoff will sponsor the National Truck Driving Championships, a trucking competition that attracts tens of thousands of representatives from that industry. Additionally, the checkoff partners with Clean Cities coalitions; assorted state, county and regional fairs; and the tractor pulls at the National Farm Machinery Show to promote the use of biodiesel, Bioheat® and other soy-based products.

The soy checkoff funds most of the biodiesel research and promotion efforts through the National Biodiesel Board to help increase the use of U.S. soybean oil. Soybean oil remains the dominant feedstock for U.S. biodiesel production.

These efforts helped push production of America’s Advanced Biofuel to a record of nearly 1.1 million gallons in 2011. This exceeded the Environmental Protection Agency’s 800-million-gallon requirement and surpassed the industry’s previous record of 690 million gallons set in 2008.

The 69 farmer-directors of USB oversee the investments of the soy checkoff to maximize profit opportunities for all U.S. soybean farmers. These volunteers invest and leverage checkoff funds to increase the value of U.S. soy meal and oil, to ensure U.S. soybean farmers and their customers have the freedom and infrastructure to operate, and to meet the needs of U.S. soy’s customers. As stipulated in the federal Soybean Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act, the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service has oversight responsibilities for USB and the soy checkoff.

The Black Hawk College East Foundation recently honored professor emeritus Jon Wolf, inducting him into the Wall of Fame. Honorees have provided outstanding service and/or leadership to the foundation and/or the Black Hawk College East Campus as well as the community.

“There’s a building on the hill that stands now as a symbol – not a symbol of a man or a woman who in a moment in time either opened their wallet or who exercised political clout – but a symbol of how one man’s disciplined and tireless passion and career grew to become a shared passion among faculty and students for nearly 40 years … and counting,” said Chanda Dowell, vice president for the East Campus, referring to Wolf.
 
“It’s both a tale and a legacy grounded in passion – the very passion that has become the fabric of the East Campus culture and its reputation of excellence in equine programs and across disciplines,” she said.
 
Wolf was hired in 1974 to develop and implement a horse science program at the East Campus where he served as a faculty member for 31 years. He also created the college’s Horse Judging Team and developed it into a nationally recognized program before retiring and leaving it in the capable hands of his successors.
 
“On Sept. 20, 1974, we had three students in the horse science program,” Wolf said. Now – 38 years, thousands of students and numerous national horse judging team championships later – Wolf continues to support the college.
 
Outside the college, Wolf developed and promotes his own DVD horse judging instructional series to continue to educate interested people, serves in the Kewanee FFA Alumni Association and is an approved judge for the American Miniature Horse Association, the American Miniature Horse Registry and the Ponies of the Americas Club where he has judged nationally and internationally. He also has served as a 4-H leader and temporary ag teacher and FFA advisor at Kewanee High School.
 
In retirement, Wolf  has worked as a substitute teacher in local school districts where his skills as a grandfather carry him through a day as a kindergarten teacher or where his relational skills find him equally adept at managing a high school classroom. Wolf is the executive secretary of the Black Hawk College Agri-Business Club Alumni and has filled in two times as college recruiter during transition periods, inspiring potential students with his quiet guidance and encouragement.
 
“I have personally relied on Jon’s passion for and knowledge about Black Hawk College. When I became the vice president of the East Campus, Jon willingly sat down with me for lunch and talked through the history of how programs were developed and the future of where programs could go, mentoring me in that which I was entrusted to lead,” Dowell said.
 
Steve Spivey, president of the BHC East Foundation, said, “I’ve known Jon since I was a student here. He is a distinguished member of the faculty who has touched the lives of so many students and so many have gone on to serve this institution and themselves well.”
 
“Jon is an incredible part of the campus community,” said Dr. Thomas Baynum, recently hired president of Black Hawk College. “When you see him working with parents and students (thinking of coming to Black Hawk College), you see him connect with them on their level.”
 
“Tonight is dedicated to 38 years of students,” Wolf said. “They are the ones who inspired me to be a better teacher and a better coach.”
 
He said he has “enjoyed every minute” of 31 years of teaching, but said working as a part-time recruiter was his favorite job.
 
“Black Hawk College East Campus is an easy sell,” he said. “We have great facilities and an outstanding faculty, which makes it easy to meet prospective students.”
 
Wolf thanked Jane, his wife, for “almost single-handedly” raising their three daughters Julie, Jamie and Jackie (all are East Campus alumna) while he was away building a nationally recognized equine program.
 
He also thanked his early fellow ag staff members Lanny Anderson, Dan Hoge and Eldon R. “Bud” Aupperle for “showing by example.”
 
“They set the bar high and showed if you want students to give something to you, you first have to give something to them,” he said. Wolf also noted he was “especially proud” of the current equine teaching and coaching staff, Donna Irvin, Aaron Callahan and Drew Cotton.
 
The honoree also praised Liz Breedlove, executive director of the Black Hawk College East Foundation, for taking support of college programs to a new level with scholarships and assistance for classroom and coaching needs.
 
Breedlove said that since last year’s Wall of Fame reception, the BHC East Foundation has continued its mission by providing the following support to the East Campus:
1)      $6,000 in mini-grants for the science, equine and art departments for instructional materials and special projects to enhance the educational experiences of existing and prospective students.
2)      81 scholarship awards totaling $83,283 to 64 students for the 2011-2012 academic year. Thanks to the generosity of our benefactors, the BHC East Foundation currently maintains 68 scholarship funds with assets over $1.34 million. Two new scholarships – the Burns Grange 1839 Agricultural Scholarship and the Barbara J. Curran Golby CNA Scholarship – were awarded. In October 2011, more than $56,000 was raised from the Boot Scootin’ Barn Dance & BBQ, creating three new endowed and three new annual scholarships for the BHC Equine Program.
3)      More than $11,000 was raised through the e4e Employee Giving Campaign which funded new landscaping at the front entrance to the college as well as scholarships.
4)      $5,800 was contributed to the East Foundation from the 2011 Dave Lapan Golf Outing to the Dave Lapan Endowed Scholarship Fund for athletic scholarships.
5)      The Agri-Business Club Alumni affiliated with the BHC East Foundation making donations to the ABCA tax deductible under the foundation’s 501(c)(3) designation. This partnership will benefit both organizations through increased revenue opportunities in support of the ABCA and the BHC Agriculture Program. The ABCA raised nearly $4,000 from its annual banquet in February to support the needs of our ag departments.
6)      In November 2011, $7,500 in proceeds from the Livestock Judging Alumni Reunion was contributed to the BHC East Foundation for the purpose of supporting the Livestock Judging Team. The 2010 proceeds paid for their entrance fees and travel expenses associated with judging contests.
7)      Numerous facility improvements were made to Prairie Pointe Apartments and a formal resident assistant program was instituted in order to continue to provide safe, convenient and affordable housing to 83 East Campus students.
8)      The BHC East Foundation continues to lease farm land to the college for the Agronomy Lab and serves as co-trustee and beneficiary of the Walnut Ridge and Colgan Farm Trusts with a combined acreage of 240 acres in Henry and Stark counties.
 
“None of these things would have been possible without those honored on the Wall of Fame,” Breedlove said. “Past recipients have been successful businessmen and women, successful members of the faculty and successful members of the community, all chosen for their lasting and significant impact on the Black Hawk College East Foundation and/or East Campus.”
 
To be considered for the Wall of Fame or Distinguished Service Award, nominees must provide exceptional service to the BHC East Foundation and/or East Campus. In addition, they also meet one or more of the following criterion:
1)  Outstanding service and/or leadership in a community served by the East Campus;
2)  Outstanding service and/or leadership by a resident of the local community who has ties to the East Campus which significantly benefits the state of Illinois or the United States; and/or
3)  Noteworthy academic achievement or scholarship associated with the East Campus of Black Hawk College.
 
Since 1992, a total of 50 deserving, successful individuals and organizations have been inducted into the Wall of Fame or received the Distinguished Service Award.

A soy checkoff study shows a European Union renewable-energy policy would ultimately cost U.S. soybean farmers money by lowering U.S. soybean prices.

The study, funded by the United Soybean Board (USB), shows the EU’s Renewable Energy Directive, which currently excludes biodiesel made from U.S. soybean oil in renewable energy quotas, could decrease U.S. soybean prices by as much as 35 cents per bushel. If left unresolved, the regulation would cost U.S. soybean farmers more than $1.1 billion per year.

The checkoff contends the policy unfairly singles out biodiesel made from U.S. soy. USB Immediate Past Chair Marc Curtis says the checkoff continues to work with the American Soybean Association (ASA) on efforts to gain inclusion for biodiesel made from U.S. soy.

“The EU is the second-largest market for U.S. soybeans, and that market is at risk due to this regulation,” says Curtis, a soybean farmer from Leland, Miss. “We can use this study to show allied organizations and the U.S. government how much of an impact this regulation would have on U.S. soybean farmers. It will also give the U.S. government facts to demonstrate to the European Commission that the regulation needs to be based on sound science.”

ASA continues to work with the U.S. government to reach an agreement with the EU to include biodiesel made from U.S. soy in the policy. Meanwhile, the U.S. government will begin sending certificates with every shipment of U.S. soy to the EU. The certificates will verify U.S. soy complies with U.S. conservation laws and regulations that satisfy the policy’s criteria.

According to the study, the EU biodiesel regulation would negatively affect the price of U.S. soybeans as well as the cost of shipping U.S. soy to other markets. U.S. soybean farmers currently enjoy a 10-cents-per-bushel advantage over farmers from Brazil and Argentina on soy shipments to Europe, the study shows. However, on shipments to China and India, that shipping advantage over South America drops to less than 3 cents per bushel.

The EU’s policy requires all transportation fuels used there to include 10 percent renewable energy. In order to qualify as a renewable fuel, it must reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 35 percent. The Europeans claim biodiesel made from U.S. soy reduces GHG emissions by only 31 percent. Soy-checkoff-funded research shows biodiesel made from U.S. soy reduces GHG emissions by between 39 percent for U.S. soybeans shipped to and crushed in Europe and 49 percent for processed U.S. soy biodiesel shipped to Europe. USB has funded efforts to provide this data to key decision makers in the EU and in other parts of the world.

Soybean oil remains the dominant feedstock for biodiesel production in the United States, and the soy checkoff funds most of the U.S. biodiesel research and promotion through the National Biodiesel Board.

The 69 farmer-directors of USB oversee the investments of the soy checkoff to maximize profit opportunities for all U.S. soybean farmers. These volunteers invest and leverage checkoff funds to increase the value of U.S. soy meal and oil, to ensure U.S. soybean farmers and their customers have the freedom and infrastructure to operate, and to meet the needs of U.S. soy’s customers. As stipulated in the federal Soybean Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act, the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service has oversight responsibilities for USB and the soy checkoff.

 

As some U.S. farmers enter the fields this spring, their center of attention likely won’t be on protein and oil. Meanwhile, that’s exactly the focus of U.S. soy customers when deciding what to buy. According to a recent soy checkoff survey, nearly 70 percent of U.S. soybean farmers feel no need to worry about protein and oil content because they have no problem – at present – selling their soybeans. 

“Most farmers see a price per bushel and see soy for the sum of its parts,” says Marc Curtis, immediate past chair for the United Soybean Board (USB) and soybean farmer from Leland, Miss. “That value actually is calculated based on the value of meal and oil, minus the processing costs, but we don’t get that sort of transparency.”

The survey also helped measure soy farmers’ receptiveness to a component value system, being fairly reimbursed based on the value of protein and oil in their harvested soybeans. Nearly 66 percent of U.S. soybean farmers responded favorably to this idea, and 35 percent believed it would impact their price positively.

“Farmers already get docked on price for lack of quality, they just aren’t seeing it easily,” adds Curtis. “We may have an opportunity to change the way the entire industry looks at soy and its components, and that includes U.S. soybean farmers.” Curtis leads a newly formed USB farmer-driven task force to identify ways to increase the value U.S. soybean farmers receive for soy’s components.

In addition to discussing protein and oil with U.S. soy farmers, the survey also researched farmers’ opinions on profitability and the soy checkoff in general. It found that 78 percent of farmers support the soy checkoff. For the first time ever, the USB survey asked, “Do you feel the checkoff program has been a good deal for soybean farmers?” Eighty-two percent of the soybean farmers surveyed said “yes.”

The 69 farmer-directors of USB oversee the investments of the soy checkoff to maximize profit opportunities for all U.S. soybean farmers. These volunteers invest and leverage checkoff funds to increase the value of U.S. soy meal and oil, to ensure U.S. soybean farmers and their customers have the freedom and infrastructure to operate, and to meet the needs of U.S. soy’s customers. As stipulated in the federal Soybean Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act, the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service has oversight responsibilities for USB and the soy checkoff.
 

Each day keeps getting a little bit longer and warmer, which means it will soon be that time of year again—planting season. Farmers will soon be back in the field sowing this year’s soybean crop.

Many farmers have complex management decisions to make each spring, but deciding which soybean variety to plant has become an increasingly difficult one. In the past few years, soybean seed treated with crop protection products have become very popular.

These brightly colored seeds can help protect seedlings from pests and diseases, but farmers need to remember the importance of keeping treated seed and harvested oilseeds or grain separate.

Our customers beyond the elevator have become increasingly sensitive to this issue, and negligence can threaten our relationship and income. For example, if a treated seed shows up in a shipment of soybeans in China, customers there will reject the entire load.

To maintain our reputation as a leading supplier of high-quality soybeans and grains, we need to properly handle and dispose of treated seed.
     
After planting this spring, farmers should carefully inspect and thoroughly clean gravity boxes, truck beds, wagons and equipment that carried treated seed.

Farmers with any unused treated seed are encouraged to contact their seed company to find out its policies for treated seed. Seed companies will offer guidelines on how to properly dispose of it, and some companies will even accept returns of treated seed.

In order to protect the integrity of U.S. soy, it’s imperative for farmers to take the steps to ensure that treated seed does not mix with harvested soybeans, other oilseeds or grains. I understand that taking these extra steps can sometimes be hard to do, but properly disposing of treated seed can go a long way to ensure we all continue to produce a safe and abundant supply of food, fiber and feed.

Have a safe planting season.

On Wednesday, May 2, the John Deere Historic Site will open its gates to the public for its 48th season. Located in Grand Detour, the site is the original Illinois homestead of John Deere and is the location where he built his first “self-scouring” steel plow. The home Deere built still stands, and the Historic Site was designated a Registered National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service, and a Historic Landmark of Agricultural Engineering by the American Society of Agricultural Engineers.
 
Tour guides provide an entertaining and educational perspective of life on the prairie in the atmosphere of a friendly 19th century village. The John Deere Historic Site is funded and managed by the John Deere Foundation and opened to the public in1964. During the off-season, sidewalks were added throughout the site making the grounds more accessible to guests.
 
In 1962, an archaeological team from the University of Illinois unearthed the exact location of the blacksmith shop where John Deere worked in the early 1800’s. The location is preserved in an exhibit hall and features artifacts found on the site. A backdrop includes a pictorial interpretation that charts Deere’s progress. Renovations were recently made to this building providing a better viewing experience for guests. Updates include new display cases, additional seating and a glass wall for better viewing. 
 
John Deere’s home is another of the site’s main attractions. He built this home in 1836 and later added sections to accommodate a growing family. The rooms are furnished in period décor and guided tours are available.
 
The heart of the John Deere Historic Site is a recreation of Deere’s original blacksmith shop.  Entering is like a time warp to early pioneer days as guests see the shop as it would have looked over a century ago. Generally, five to seven times a day, a resident blacksmith demonstrates what it takes to be a skilled iron worker. Items created by the blacksmith are sold in the site’s Gift Shop along with a variety educational books and toys, John Deere Historic Site apparel and a limited amount of John Deere licensed products.
 
A heritage garden at the site showcases perennials typically found in the region from 1804 to the present. Historical timelines are displayed throughout the garden, created to educate guests and horticultural enthusiasts on innovative and historical data of John Deere’s life from his birth to the present. Each timeline is paired with perennials that would have existed during that time period. The Heritage Garden is the result of significant research and design with mastery level gardeners from the Midwest.
 
The John Deere Historic Site will host two special events this year including aHammer-In on August 4-5 where blacksmiths from around the Midwest will gather to celebrate their trade. This event will also commemorate the 175th anniversary of Deere & Company. The site will also host the 62rd Annual Grand Detour Arts Festival on September 9.
 
Gates open daily; Wednesday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Admission is $5 for ages 12 and older. For more information, please call 815-652-4551 or visit www.johndeereattracations.com.

    USDA Rural Development Under Secretary Dallas Tonsager announced today that USDA is seeking applications for loans and grants to help rural businesses create jobs and spur economic development.
 
   “President Obama emphasized in his recent State of the Union address that we need to continue to do more to create jobs to sustain the current economic recovery,” Tonsager said.  “With the loans and grants we are making available, USDA Rural Development will work closely with cooperatives and utilities that in turn help local businesses access capital and technical assistance.
 
  “Our support leverages additional private investments and demonstrates the positive impact that public-private partnerships can have on rural communities and economies.”
 
   “Our partnership with cooperatives and utilities helps us extend our capacity to help rural Illinois businesses,” Colleen Callahan, state director for Rural Development in Illinois. “Electric cooperatives, much like Rural Development, are committed to community development in rural areas, and eight Illinois electric cooperatives that serve 63 counties are currently using Rural Development funds to support local business projects.
 
   The funding is being provided under the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant (REDLG) program. Through this program, USDA provides zero-interest loans to local utility cooperatives which they, in turn, pass through to local businesses at zero interest. The money must be used for projects that retain and create jobs, upgrade public infrastructure, improve service delivery or improve the quality of life for area residents and visitors. Grants can be used to create revolving loan programs for local businesses. The maximum amount of funding for any one project is $1,000,000 for loans and $300,000 for grants.
 
   Many Illinois organizations have used REDLG funds to support job creation directly and indirectly. Earlier this year the Coles-Moultrie Electric Cooperative in Mattoon was selected to receive a $740,000 loan and a $100,000 grant to provide financing that will be used to renovate and modernize the Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center. The funding will allow the non-profit hospital to purchase essential equipment for the new emergency department and modernize 129,000 square feet of existing space.  In addition to ensuring a new standard of care for rural residents in the region, the project is expected to retain more than 1,600 jobs and create 17 new jobs.
 
    Last year Coles-Moultrie Electric Cooperative received funding from the same program to help with the construction of CCI Redi-Mix’s new 4,800 square foot plant near Mattoon.  The plant will create 20 jobs and provide ready mix concrete for public construction businesses and housing within 30 to 45 minutes of the Mattoon plant.
 
   USDA plans to award up to $33 million in loans and $10 million in grants under this notice and has an additional $46 million in loan funding available from previous fiscal years for a total of $79 million in loan funding.  The deadline for submitting applications is the last business day of each month during FY 2012. Applications must be submitted to the Rural Development state office where the project will be located.  A list of these offices is available on the USDA Rural Development web site, http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/StateOfficeAddresses.html, or on page 12792 of the March 2 Federal Register, http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-03-02/pdf/2012-5043.pdf.
 
   Rural Development has more than 40 programs that foster growth and economic stability in rural areas by providing affordable financing and technical assistance.  Support is available for regional food systems, broadband and biofuel infrastructure, homeownership, business development and community needs.  More information on USDA Rural Development programs is available on the web at www.rurdev.usda.gov/il.

On Tuesday, April 17, Jenny Garner, University of Illinois Extension Community Development Educator welcomed the crowd to the Henry and Stark Counties Fast Pitch Awards Ceremony held at Black Hawk College’s Community Education Center in Kewanee. “Today provided our early-stage entrepreneurs with a platform to showcase their business or new venture idea to our panel of judges, who in turn, provided valuable and interactive feedback.”

Hearing innovative ideas from 21 budding entrepreneurs during the inaugural Fast Pitch Competition energized the judging panel.  “We were very impressed with all of the participants,” said Jim Albracht, Hawkeye Radio who judged the retail group. “We got to taste a hot sauce that would make a Victoria’s Secret Model look bland, listen to music played from a new high quality speaker system, hear about a unique packaging concept that markets local business in this community, among other fantastic ideas.”  Ultimately they chose that regional marketing idea drummed up by LuAnn Schieferdecker of Cambridge which netted her $5,000 in cash and business consultation from the Midwest IP Institute and $25,000 in advertising from Regional Media.  An identical prize was awarded to Doug Haffner of Wyoming, winner of the non-retail category who invented “Fantastic Creations” which develops and produces 3D sculptures.  When accepting his award Doug shared this story, “Two years ago the company I worked for downsized and I was let go.  I made a decision on my drive home to hire myself.  I think it’s the best decision I ever made.”  He encouraged everyone there to continue to pursue their business dreams.  Runner-up in the retail category was Sarah Hahn of Galva and in non-retail, Rick Feltner of Kewanee.  Both received a new iPad.  

Megan Sundeen of Geneseo won the “Got an Idea Category” for pitching the use of horses to provide therapy for returning veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder.  She won an iPad, a $400 tuition waiver to Black Hawk College’s IL SBDC certification program, advice from a professional business consultant, and $25,000 in-kind radio campaign from Regional Media.  Two students also competed and both won an iPad. First runner-up was Ryan Billingsly of Galva. Samantha Cornwall, also of Galva took first place and received a $400 tuition waiver to Black Hawk College’s IL SBDC certification program, $250 from Don Henry, d-h Consulting QCA, and a “Street Sense Marketing Bootcamp” opportunity from Regional Media.

The idea for the Fast Pitch competition came up last November when several economic development professionals and organizations serving Henry and Stark Counties gathered to discuss how they might help fledging entrepreneurs, or those engaged in taking calculated risk and new initiatives.  From there, the event grew to include businesses from the private sector, additional service providers, and of course, the participants.
 
“Our goal for the Henry-Stark Counties Fast Pitch was to identify emerging entrepreneurs, inspire students to adopt innovative endeavors, and solicit fresh ideas that could have a broad and beneficial impact on the community and economy.” said Dave Dyer City of Galva administrator.   “I believe we met our goal here today.”  Joel Youngs of Black Hawk College’s Small Business Center told the group at the Awards Ceremony that he hopes all of the participants will use the resources available to them through organizations like his to continue on the path of developing the ideas they shared into a thriving business.  Dave and Joel were on the team organizing the Fast Pitch along with Kewanee Economic Development Corporation, Henry County Economic Development Partnership, Stark County Economic Development, Henry County Tourism, and Grant Consulting – Cambridge and University of Illinois Extension. Event and prize sponsors included Regional Media, Midwest Intellectual Property Management Institute, Big River Resources, BCZ Consulting Engineers & Land Surveyors, B & B Printing, Henry County Economic Development Partnership, Community State Bank of Galva, Breedlove’s, and Patriot Renewable Fuels, LLC.
 
For more information, visit the Henry-Stark Counties Fast Pitch Competition web site:  www.henrystarkfastpitch.org.
 

Paying more for food may not be out of the question for consumers if regulations on the U.S. poultry and livestock sectors increase. In fact, consumers could pay up to $16.8 billion more annually for meat, milk and eggs if regulations are imposed on U.S. poultry and livestock farmers that raise input costs by 25 percent.

The Consumer and Food Safety Costs of Offshoring Animal Agriculture, a recent soy-checkoff-funded study, evaluated current U.S. supply and demand for poultry and livestock products and the impact of regulations on retail price. The study indicates that potential regulations could raise consumer costs. For example, requiring cage-free housing for laying hens would increase the cost of eggs from $1.68 to $2.10 per dozen, a total cost of $2.66 billion per year to U.S. consumers.

“This could have a big impact on everyone – it’s not just that dozen eggs you and I buy at the grocery store,” explains Vanessa Kummer, a soybean farmer from Colfax, N.D., and chair of the United Soybean Board (USB). “As Americans, we have abundant, nutritious and affordable food choices that rely heavily on protein from animals, and, as farmers, we continue to work hard on improvements because we share consumers’ concerns for our country’s land and resources, and the quality of America’s food.”

The report cites increased regulations that could drive up costs of production meat, milk and eggs by anywhere from 10 percent to 25 percent. It shows that a 25 percent increase in costs to animal agriculture would reduce U.S. exports by $1.1 billion and cause nearly 9,000 Americans to lose their jobs.

“U.S. agriculture leads the world as a global producer and exporter of animal products, and we need that to continue,” adds Kummer. “The poultry and livestock sectors not only support the U.S. export market, but also make our economy stronger here at home by creating jobs and tax revenue.”

The most recent statistics compiled by the soy checkoff show the poultry and livestock sectors support 1.8 million jobs and generate more than $283 billion for the U.S. economy.

USB is made up of 69 farmer-directors who oversee the investments of the soybean checkoff on behalf of all U.S. soybean farmers. Checkoff funds are invested in the areas of animal utilization, human utilization, industrial utilization, industry relations, market access and supply. As stipulated in the Soybean Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service has oversight responsibilities for USB and the soybean checkoff.
 

University of Illinois Extension County Director, Tony Franklin, announces Cassy Casas, resident of Moline, as the part time 4-H Military Program Coordinator for Henry, Mercer, Rock Island, and Stark Counties.  Casas has a BA in Spanish and a BS in Family and Consumer Sciences from Western Illinois University.  She has worked in the education field for the past decade doing Spanish programming at Black Hawk College and through the public school system.
 
“I look forward to providing military families with programming and engaging the community in positive support opportunities!”   Her duties include coordinating, marketing and implementing positive youth development programs for active duty military families.  These include the monthly Operation Family Time Out program in conjunction with the YMCAs, year-round programs at the Arsenal, and the Military Kids Summer Camp at Camp Abe Lincoln.  The 4-H youth development program is the educational outreach initiative of University of Illinois Extension, College of Agricultural Consumer and Environmental Sciences.University of Illinois Extension County Director, Tony Franklin, announces Cassy Casas, resident of Moline, as the part time 4-H Military Program Coordinator for Henry, Mercer, Rock Island, and Stark Counties.  Casas has a BA in Spanish and a BS in Family and Consumer Sciences from Western Illinois University.  She has worked in the education field for the past decade doing Spanish programming at Black Hawk College and through the public school system.
 
“I look forward to providing military families with programming and engaging the community in positive support opportunities!”   Her duties include coordinating, marketing and implementing positive youth development programs for active duty military families.  These include the monthly Operation Family Time Out program in conjunction with the YMCAs, year-round programs at the Arsenal, and the Military Kids Summer Camp at Camp Abe Lincoln.  The 4-H youth development program is the educational outreach initiative of University of Illinois Extension, College of Agricultural Consumer and Environmental Sciences.

USDA Rural Development is launching a pilot program that can help Illinois homeowners with existing home loans with the agency refinance their mortgages to reduce their monthly payments.  The Single Family Housing Guaranteed Rural Refinance Pilot Program will operate in Illinois and 18 other states.  These states are among the hardest hit by the downturn in the housing market.

“This program can help as many as 15,000 homeowners in Illinois,” Rural Development State Director Colleen Callahan said.  

“Homeowners who have Rural Development direct or guaranteed loans can now refinance their loans at a better rate,” she said.  “We can help them save money on their mortgage payments at a time when they may need it most.”

The pilot program makes it easier for eligible homeowners to refinance their loans. They do not have to provide a new credit reports, property inspections or home appraisals.

Some stipulations apply.  To be eligible under this pilot, borrowers must have made their mortgage payments on time for 12 consecutive months prior to their loan application. Interest rates must be at least one percent below the borrowers’ current interest rate for a new 30 year loan term.  Borrowers cannot get cash back from the transaction or include repair costs in the refinancing.

The pilot program is USDA's most recent effort to help rural homeowners. In the last several years, the agency has modified its policy for guaranteed loans to help homeowners who are delinquent on their mortgages.  It also has instituted a way to provide guaranteed lenders up to 12 months of mortgage payments on behalf of borrowers who have fallen behind on their payments due to job loss or other hardships.

After two years, the performance of the pilot program will be reviewed to evaluate whether to continue it, terminate it or make it permanent. In addition to Illinois, the other states involved in the pilot are Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina and Tennessee.
Interested borrowers can contact Rural Development at 217-403-6216 or a mortgage lender of their choice to apply for the Rural Refinance Pilot.

Rural Development has more than 40 programs that foster growth and economic stability in rural areas by providing affordable financing and technical assistance.  Support is available for regional food systems, broadband and biofuel infrastructure, housing, business development and community needs. 

More information on USDA Rural Development programs is available on the web at www.rurdev.usda.gov/il. 

USDA Under Secretary Kevin Concannon announced first quarter results for fiscal year 2012 in the effort to identify and eliminate fraudulent retailers from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

From October 1 through December 31, 2011, USDA staff took final actions to:

Sanction, through fines or temporary disqualifications, more than 225 stores found violating program rules; and

Permanently disqualify over 350 stores for trafficking in SNAP benefits (i.e. exchanging SNAP benefits for cash).

These enforcement actions are part of the Obama Administration's ongoing Campaign to Cut Waste and root out fraud and abuse in federal programs, including SNAP. While fraud is a relatively limited problem in SNAP – the violating stores represent less than ½ of one percent of more than 230,000 food stores authorized to redeem benefits – no level of fraud is tolerated. USDA's Food and Nutrition Service conducts ongoing surveillance and investigation, to find bad actors and remove them from the program. In fiscal year 2011, FNS reviewed over 15,000 stores, and permanently disqualified over 1,200 for program violations.

"I'm pleased to report today to American taxpayers the first quarter results of our anti-fraud efforts in 2012," said Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services Kevin Concannon. "Americans expect and deserve a government that ensures their hard-earned tax dollars are managed with accountability and integrity. We are committed to ensuring these dollars are spent as intended - helping millions of people in need through tough economic times until they can get back on their feet."

USDA is building upon strategies recently announced to further strengthen anti-fraud efforts in the retailer application process. To help reduce the number of disqualified stores that return to the program by falsifying information in their applications, USDA is announcing new measures to strengthen the program:

Increasing documentation required for high-risk stores applying to redeem SNAP benefits to better verify their identity and assure their business integrity. High-risk stores are those located at the site of a previous disqualification.
Verifying high-risk stores to confirm application information. High-risk stores are those located at the site of a previous disqualification. Store owners found to have falsified information with the intent to hide ownership or past violations will be charged, disqualified and may be liable for a $10,000 fine or imprisonment for as long as 5 years or both.
Continuing to notify state departments and federal agency partners about violators to better protect our public programs. This includes information on program recipients with suspicious transactions at stores known to be trafficking for further investigation by States.
In addition, USDA will soon publish a proposed rule strengthening sanctions and penalties for retailers who commit fraud in SNAP. USDA's new Fighting SNAP Fraud website (www.fns.usda.gov/fightingsnapfraud) will also help raise awareness of the issues and provide a direct portal to report suspicious activities.

"Fraud is not a static concept – we know that where there is a will to commit malfeasance, bad actors will try to find a way," said Concannon. "That's why USDA is constantly striving to stay ahead of the curve. The comparison I frequently make is in the area of cyber security. The need for continuously updating information security measures is frequently noted in the private sector, because hackers and other bad actors are always looking for ways to exploit systems."

"However, it is important not to demonize SNAP participants and retailers when referencing fraud because the vast majority of people participating in the program, both retailers and SNAP participants, abide by the rules. Our goal is to eliminate fraud and we will continue to crack down on individuals who violate the program and misuse taxpayer dollars," Concannon noted.

Concannon announced new anti-fraud activities in December. Today's announcement continues the USDA's commitment to promote integrity in SNAP, in order to assure the public's confidence in this critical nutrition assistance program that serves over 46 million low-income and working Americans.

USDA's Food and Nutrition Service administers 15 nutrition assistance programs that in addition to SNAP include the National School Lunch Programs, Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, and the Summer Food Service Program. Taken together, these programs serve as America's nutrition safety net.

Program fraud complaints of any kind may be filed with the USDA Office of Inspector General; contact information is found at: http://www.usda.gov/oig/hotline.htm. Fraud may also be reported to the appropriate States. Phone numbers are available at http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/contact_info/fraud.pdf.

University of Illinois Extension Local Government Information & Education Network and the Illinois Association of County Board Members and Commissioners (IACBMC) will offer a local government program, “Siting and Permitting Wind Farms in Illinois, Lessons Learned from Local Officials” on Thursday, April 19 at 3:00 p.m.  The program will feature Dr. David Loomis from Illinois State University Center for Renewable Energy, William Shay, attorney and member of the Illinois Wind Energy Working Group, and Rick Bowen from Ford County Board.
 
The state of Illinois has established incentives for renewable energy and as well as a renewable portfolio standard (25 percent by 2025) with a 75 percent requirement for wind energy. Although no statewide requirements exist, Illinois has developed county and municipal codes that establish jurisdiction over wind farm development and regulation. It is very important that stakeholders and decision makers are aware of the impacts of wind energy for their communities.  Drawing from both personal and professional experiences the panel will provide an overview of current practices and opportunities for wind energy development in Illinois.
 
The event is from 3:00-5:00 and will be broadcast over a statewide audio-teleconference system through Illinois county Extension offices.  Locally, the audio-teleconference will be held at University of Illinois Extension, 321 West 2nd Avenue, Milan, IL 61264.  Those registered in the Certified County Officials (CCO) Program may be eligible to receive two credit hours for attending.

Join the Rock Island County Master Gardeners on a Shopping Trip to Wisconsin, Saturday, June 2, 6:00 am - 10:00 pm.

Mark your calendar and plan to join the Rock Island County Master Gardeners as they venture to Wisconsin for a day trip to shop and explore greenhouses, nurseries and garden centers. Stops include: Klehm's Song Sparrow Farm and Nursery, Avalon; the Flower Factory in Stoughton; and K&W Greenery, Janesville, WI.

Register now so you can be assured a spot to enjoy this day trip where you'll get the chance to shop for unique plant varieties at these one-of-a-kind venues. This motorcoach trip is open to the public.  Departure is 6:15 am PROMPTLY from South park Mall Lot.  (Details will be provided to all registered participants).  There will be plenty of room in the luggage compartment and overhead storage to bring purchases home.  The cost is $50 per person for the deluxe motorcoach transportation.  Meals will be at your own cost.  Register online at web.extension.illinois.edu/hmrs or call (309) 756-9978.  Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Klehm's Song Sparrow Farm and Nursery features many unique plant varieties. Roy and his wife Sarah have introduced many new plant varieties over the years including woody introductions, herbaceous plants, many of which are daylilies, peonies and hosta. Roy has worked with breeders to introduce some of the best shade trees, crabapples, magnolias and lilacs in the industry.

The Flower Factory features one of the Midwest's largest selection of perennials, hostas and ornamental grasses. You can also explore their beautiful gardens, which features unique rock and train gardens!

K & W has a large selection of annuals and vegetables, plus an amazing array of tropical plants, and a gift shop featuring collectibles, stylish home décor, art, candles, partyware, greeting cards and beautifully created silk arrangements.

Young riders have a chance to win one of 6 new bikes at the Youth Safety Day and Bicycle Rodeo Saturday, April 14, 9 am – noon, University of Illinois Extension, Milan, IL.
 
The Milan Community is offering the 5th annual Youth Safety Day from 9 am – Noon on Saturday, April 14.  It will take place at University of Illinois Extension, 321 West 2nd Ave., Milan, IL and the adjacent Blackhawk Fire Station.  It’s an opportunity for children to learn a variety of safety skills, get a free bicycle helmet, and enter a drawing to win one of six new bicycles.
 
The Quad Cities Bicycle Club will be hosting a free bicycle safety rodeo where youth can learn how to navigate safely on busy streets.  The Milan Optimist Club will be giving away free bicycle helmets.  All youth are able to enter a drawing to win one of six brand new bicycles of various sizes.  University of Illinois Extension Military Kids 4-H is having a new Teddy Bear Collection Drive that day to collect new teddy bears that will be given to children of deploying military parents.  For every new bear, the child donating will get an extra entry into the bicycle drawing.
 
The Milan Masons Eureka Lodge #69 will be offering free Illinois CHIP ID Cards so families can update their children’s records, photo IDs and fingerprints in case of an emergency.  The American Red Cross will be teaching about poison safety.  Blackhawk Fire Department will have their firehouse open to teach about fire safety and prevention.  Rock Island County 4-H will have an obstacle course for kid’s to test their fitness levels.  Milan Citizen’s Corps will be on hand to provide information on home emergency preparedness.  Milan Hy-Vee is donating free hot dogs and juice for all participants.
 
This free event is open to the public.  Additional support for the program is provided by B&B Hardware, Just Kids Daycare, Milan Lions Club, Milan Police Department, Milan American Legion, and the Milan Women’s Club.  For more information about the event, visit the University of Illinois Extension web site at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/hmrs.  If you have questions, call University of Illinois Extension at (309) 756-9978.

The John Deere Foundation has donated $500,000 to Augustana College in honor of former Deere CEO and 1948 Augustana alumnus Robert A. Hanson. The funds will support renovations to Old Main, the college’s signature academic building, and two classrooms within Old Main will be named for Hanson.  

“Since Augustana’s earliest days in this community, the leadership of John Deere has been an inspiration to the college, its students and alumni,” said President of the College Steven Bahls. “Throughout important chapters of the 20th century, Bob Hanson provided what our faculty might consider ‘textbook’ leadership for one of America’s greatest corporations. So it is both inspiring and humbling that the John Deere Foundation would honor Bob with this remarkable gift of support.”

The gift will support Old Main’s interior renovations, scheduled to begin in May, and advances the strategic imperative to “enhance the college campus”—one of the eight imperatives of the college’s strategic plan, Authentically Augustana: Affirm, Assure and Assess. This phase of renovations follows an exterior phase and includes modernizing classrooms with advanced technology, adding computer kiosks, updating faculty offices and seminar rooms, and creating a forum space to better facilitate learning.

“At the John Deere Foundation, we believe that education is a key to individual and community viability,” said President of the John Deere Foundation Mara Sovey. “We partner with colleges and universities around the world to equip students to be tomorrow’s leaders. We are delighted to make this grant in honor of Bob Hanson, a past leader of Deere & Company.

 “We believe it is important for Augustana College to attract and educate young people to be significant contributors to the Quad-Cities community and beyond,” said Sovey.

Hanson grew up in East Moline and graduated with an economics major from Augustana. He entered school in the fall of 1942, but took three years off to serve in the U.S. Marines during World War II. He completed his degree in 1948. Hanson began his career with John Deere in 1950, and was elected senior vice president of Deere’s Overseas Division in 1973. Just five years later, Hanson became president of Deere & Company and then, in 1982, he was named chairman and chief executive officer, becoming the company’s first chief executive who did not have a family connection to the founder John Deere. Hanson is credited with leading the company through one of the toughest eras in history for the U.S. agricultural economy in the 1980s while expanding and diversifying Deere & Company before retiring in 1990.

Hanson has contributed to Augustana throughout his life, serving on the Board of Trustees and as an honorary chair in the college’s Authentically Augustana capital campaign. In 2010, Hanson, along with his wife Patricia, made the largest single donation in the college’s history, providing $8 million to name the college’s science building—the Robert A. and Patricia K. Hanson Hall of Science.

 “Just as Mr. Hanson was equipped for leadership by his Augustana education, the John Deere Foundation’s grant will help Augustana inspire new generations of students to assume their place as leaders in our world through this gift,” said Lynn Jackson, vice president of advancement at Augustana.

 “Grants such as this by the John Deere Foundation serve at the forefront of the development of leaders and visionaries, both in the Quad Cities and around the world,” Jackson said. “This leadership gift to Augustana, Robert Hanson’s alma mater, shows the importance the John Deere Foundation places on education and supports Augustana’s mission to educate students for rewarding lives of leadership and service in our diverse and changing world.”
   

University of Illinois Extension Spring Series of Home Horticulture programs continue on Mondays from 7 – 9 pm through April 23

As homeowners begin to prepare plans for their spring and summer gardens, University of Illinois Extension is offering a series of workshops now through April 23 to provide knowledge and inspiration.  They take place on Monday evenings from 7 – 9 pm at University of Illinois Extension, 321 West 2nd Ave., Milan, IL.  Pre-register online at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/hmrs or call (309) 756-9978.  The cost is $5 per session. ($3 for Illinois Master Gardeners.).  Here’s what’s coming up: 

April 9th – Common Tree Mistakes & Tree Q& A. Certified arborist Brian Jay with Davey Tree Expert Company has seen a lot in his 37 years in the tree business. He'll advise you what to do and what not to do to keep your trees in tiptop shape and answer any tree-related questions you may have.

April 16th – Grow it! Cook it! Bake it! Learn how to take the bounty from your garden and turn it into home-cooked meals. Cathy Lafrenz, of Miss Effie's fame, shares some of her favorite homegrown recipes including spinach bisque soup, herb bread and a dessert using a home canned product.

April 23rd – What's New In The Greenhouse? Gwen Coobs of Allen's Grove Greenhouse will share the latest and greatest information on new plants varieties available for 2012. She'll bring a few of her favorites from years past as well and talk about how to best utilize each plant in your container, garden or yard. Plants will be available for sale.