Peoria, Illinois – June 3, 2014 – The Peoria County Farm Bureau Marketing Committee is hosting a Market Outlook meeting on Tuesday, June 17, at the Farm Bureau Park south of Kickapoo.  Raber Packing of Peoria will serve a ribeye sandwich meal at 6:30 p.m.

Two speakers will present information:  Herb Meyer, the Senior Appraiser at 1st Farm Credit Services in Edwards and Chuck Doubet, the Grain Department Manager for AgLand FS.

Herb has been an active real estate appraiser specializing in agricultural properties since 1991.  He is a State Certified General Appraiser in Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri.  Herb’s territory with 1st Farm Credit Services is Fulton, Peoria, Knox, Stark, and Marshall Counties.  He also serves 1st Farm Credit Services as their Swine Facility Specialty Appraiser.

Herb holds a Masters of Business Administration degree from Bradley University and has a Bachelor of Science degree in agricultural business from Northeast Missouri State University.

Prior to attending college, Herb was a full time farmer in Nodaway, MO raising corn, soybeans, wheat, hogs, and cattle.

The second speaker, Chuck Doubet, graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in Business Administration.  Chuck was a merchandiser for two years with Illinois Grain Corporation and a hedging advisor for three years with Mid-Co Commodities.  Chuck served as the General Manager for Elmwood Elevator Company for 19 years and the Grain Department Manager for Heartland FS and AgLand FS for 17 years.  He has also been an instructor in grain marketing for Carl Sandburg Junior College in Galesburg.

The cost to attend the Market Outlook is $5 for Farm Bureau members.  Tickets can be purchased at the Farm Bureau Building, 1716 N. University St., Peoria, IL.  For more information call the Farm Bureau at 309-686-7070.

Peoria, Illinois – June 3, 2014 –  Janet Hart will present a program titled “The Changing World of Honeybees” on Wednesday, June 25, at the Peoria County Farm Bureau.  The program will begin at 6:30 p.m.   The Farm Bureau building is located at the Interstate 74 exit ramp (#91) and University Street in Peoria.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, about one-third of the human diet comes from insect-pollinated plants, and the honeybee is responsible for 80 percent of that pollination.  Food products that bees assist with pollination include soybeans, apples, alfalfa, blueberries, pears, cherries, cranberries, oranges, almonds, melons, and many more.  Many of these require commercial beekeepers which move bees from one place to another in order to pollinate different crops during their bloom time.

Beekeepers must stay abreast of viruses, parasites, neonicotinoids, and factors that cause Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD).  CCD became known in 2006 when a beekeeper discovered 80% of his 3,000 beehives were suddenly without bees.  Despite the challenges, there were 2500 registered beekeepers in Illinois in 2013.

Janet and her husband, Danny, have been beekeeping near Kickapoo for almost twenty years.  They have been very active in the Heart of Illinois Beekeepers, holding several offices.  Janet is the past Central Director for the Illinois State Beekeepers and in 2005 was awarded their Beekeeper of the Year award.  Beekeeping has become very challenging in today’s world and to keep abreast of the changing information, Janet attended this year’s American Beekeeping Federation Conference in Baton Rouge, LA.

Janet will also bring a demo hive to the program.  Hart’s Honeybees have supplied a demo hive at the North Branch of the Peoria Public Library the last few years.

The presentation is open to the public and anyone with an interest in honeybees is welcome to attend.  No reservations are necessary and light refreshments will be served.  Questions can be directed to the Peoria County Farm Bureau at 309-686-7070.

Washington, Ill.— On Friday, June 6, Bethany Community Church, along with the American Red Cross, is welcoming back the Chicago Bears to Washington. The Bears plan to arrive in Washington between 9:30-10:00 a.m. They will stop at the town square for a flag raising ceremony, which starts at 10 a.m. and after that making their way to Bethany Community Church.

The Bears will be in town to assist with debris cleanup throughout the city. They will be focusing primarily on raking debris from homeowner properties, but will also walk the streets picking up debris.

All members participating from the Bears’ organization will undergo volunteer orientation when they arrive in Washington provided by Bethany Community Church. From there, they will head out into the field to help with the debris cleanup. The American Red Cross will also be there providing refreshments to all the volunteers.

“As volunteerism has decreased, the need for debris clean up continues. We are very grateful that the Chicago Bears organization would take time out to help our community. Our hope is that this event will highlight that the need for volunteers is still great,” said Ben Davidson, Executive Pastor at Bethany Community Church and Co-Chairman of the Volunteer Management Committee.

Bethany Community Church continues to coordinate teams to perform debris removal, light demolition and other clean up assistance for residents.

For more information on volunteering and available dates or to begin planning, please emailvolunteer@bethanycommunitychurch.org or call the volunteer hotline at (309) 573-2670.

Peoria, IL 6/3/14 — After having their passports confiscated, launching missile attacks in enemy territory and being judged by a war tribunal—all in one afternoon—local students from Bradley University started to look at war and conflict in a completely different way. Through a partnership with the American Red Cross Central Illinois Chapter, the students participated in the International
Humanitarian Law (IHL) Action Campaign and showed off what they learned through creating a simulation about child soldiers.

Now, their efforts are sending them to Washington, D.C.

This year’s IHL Action Campaign focused on child soldiers and international justice, and local students joined their counterparts across the country in creating projects that showcase how those around the world can maintain human dignity in times of conflict—a tall task for the average young adult. Bradley University was selected as one of the best campaigns, and as a result will compete nationally on June 5-8 at the National IHL Youth Leadership Summit in Washington, DC.

“For these students, putting themselves into the shoes of prisoners of war, military leaders and refugees really makes them think twice about how people should be treated during conflict,” said Anne Fox, CEO, American Red Cross Central Illinois Region.

Jeanie Bukowski, Associate Professor, Bradley University Institute of International Studies added, “I cannot begin to express just how proud I am of the Bradley Team. These young leaders went above and beyond even our highest expectations all year, in their passionate and knowledgeable campaign to raise awareness of child soldiers and IHL. They have indeed given a voice to the voiceless, and
Bradley’s campus owes them a debt of gratitude.”

Casmeer Reyes, Eileen Prescott, Victoria Berkow, and Grecia Ocampo, students at Bradley University, were selected, trained and supported by the Central Illinois Chapter as IHL Action Campaign Team Leaders. They spent the past academic year educating their peers about IHL rules, principles and values. They were also the lead in planning the group’s campaign. They facilitated hands-on, interactive sessions that had the teens playing the roles of captor and captive, leader and civilian and ultimately being “tried” for their actions at a tribunal. After discussing their experiences, these determined learners put their creativity to the test and, in the process, educated others on what they had learned through their campaigns.

The promotion of human dignity during times of armed conflict—including protections for civilians, wounded and sick combatants and prisoners of war—is at the cornerstone of IHL and at the heart of the Red Cross mission. The campaign engages youth on exactly this issue, teaching that “even wars have limits.” This is the first year Bradley University has participated in this program.

To learn more about the Red Cross youth programs, or how you can get involved, contact Monica Grugett at monica.grugett@redcross.org or visit redcross.org/rulesofwar.

About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters;
supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

Outstanding guest artists including “world-artists,” favorite composers, innovative programming and increased focus on community outreach mark the 2014-2015 Peoria Symphony Orchestra (PSO) concert season.

Music Director George Stelluto said he is “most excited by the upcoming 2014-2015 season as it represents everything the PSO should be – an inspiring musical feast that is both gourmet and comfort food for the ears!”

The PSO will kick off the season with a free riverfront concert Sunday, September 7, 2014. Pack a picnic, your blanket and bring your family to enjoy the Peoria Symphony Orchestra for a free concert in Riverfront Festival Park beginning at 5:00 pm.

Continuing with exceptional concert programming the PSO‘s season presents the great orchestral works of Beethoven, Brahms, and Sibelius, and will explore the musical destinations of Italy and Vienna. The music of Dvorak, Vaughan Williams, Vivaldi and Mozart will sparkle in the hands of soloists ranging from spectacular World-Artist violinist Sarah Chang, the orchestra’s own principal players, to presenting the Canadian classical quartet Quartetto Gelato on Valentine’s Day.

Based on the overwhelming response from last season another Sunday matinee will feature music from Hollywood classics, new and old, with the wildly popular concert Matinee at the Movies. This afternoon concert is a perfect choice for families and will again be hosted by WMBD 1470/100.3 Dan Diorio and Greg Batton. The PSO will continue its unique Musical Discovery series designed for children ages 4 – 10. The series features instrument demonstrations and a hands-on petting zoo. It is held in the WTVP studio and the audience is part of a show which taped for future broadcast. The PSO will hold several events at its new facility in the WTVP building to showcase the 2014-2015 season and give patrons and newcomers an opportunity to get to know the music and artists for next season.

Building on 116 seasons of growth the PSO will present the Peoria premiere of Mahler’s monumental Symphony # 7. An artistic watershed moment for the PSO musicians this concert is suitable for only accomplished orchestras who have reached an exceptional skill level. The soloist for this special concert IS the entire Peoria Symphony Orchestra. This historic event will close the 2014-2015 concert season.

“Our programming is exciting and innovative,” said Maestro Stelluto. “It is a season that appeals to both the connoisseur and the newcomer. The PSO had over 200 new subscribers last year. With this season we are inviting many more community members to join our family.”

The PSO regularly provides educational programming to area schools including Quest Charter Academy, Bradley University and District 150 schools, and performances and programs with the Central Illinois Youth Symphony as part of its community outreach efforts. Special outreach activities will bring musicians into area nursing home and senior living facilities as a way to bring music to those who may not be able to attend concerts.

Several PSO performances will be broadcast on WTVP as part of a new partnership with the public television station. Broadcasts of the PSO concerts will continue on WCBU Radio extending the reach of the PSO beyond the stage and into Central Illinois.

Founded in 1897 the PSO was named 2013 Professional Orchestra of the Year by the Illinois Council of Orchestras and was awarded the prestigious ASCAP Award at the League of American Orchestra’s National Convention and recently received the All American City Award presented by the Peoria Chamber of Commerce.

The PSO is recognized as the 14th oldest symphony in the U.S. and has been under the direction of Music Director George Stelluto since 2010. Comprised of musicians from throughout Illinois, the orchestra’s mission is to be a leading cultural force with an influence that reaches beyond the region as a national model of community innovation, music education and collaboration.

Season tickets are on sale now. Visit the PSO box office, 101 State Street in Peoria, or call 309-671-1096. Season tickets offer discounts over single ticket pricing and are available in several ranges. Season tickets may be purchased as an Eight-Concert Package or a “Compose Your Own” option of selecting any four concerts from the season. First- time subscribers may take advantage of the opportunity to buy the season at a 50% discount. According to Executive Director Susan Hoffman, “We are offering a great opportunity to people who have not been subscribers or have not subscribed in the last five years.

They can purchase the eight concert season ticket for a 50% discount. This offers them tickets at about $20 per concert which is a wonderful opportunity for people who want to attend all the concerts at a very affordable price.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Viki Burnett, Marketing Manager: vburnett@peoriasymphony.org – ph 309-671-1096

Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/peoriasymphony

Twitter: @PeoSymphOrch

Mailing Address: 101 State Street, Peoria IL 61602

Peoria, IL (June 3, 2014)—Members of the Peoria Area Chamber’s Young Professionals Organization of Greater Peoria (YPGP) will have the opportunity to speak with Congressman Aaron Schock (IL-18) on Thursday, June 5 at Bradley University. Discussions will focus on current issues in Washington and Congressman Schock will offer insight on opportunities for young professionals to get involved in their community and government.

YPGP hosts a social/networking event the first Thursday of each month for members; socials are held at different locations to support Chamber-member companies across Greater Peoria. The social on June 5 will be hosted by Bradley University’s Braves of the Last Decade (BOLD) at the new Hayden-Clark Alumni Center (816 N Tobias Lane-third floor in the Peplow Pavilion). Parking is available in the Main Street Parking Deck. Congressman Schock graduated from Bradley in 2002, making Bradley an ideal location for the Congressman to speak with area young professionals.

                 Doors open                                                                                        5:00 pm

                YPGP Announcements                                                                  6:00 pm

                Introduction of Congressman Schock,

                Bradley University President Joanne Glasser                       6:15 pm

                Congressman Schock/Q & A                                                        6:15 pm

As a program of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, YPGP seeks to offer opportunities which attract and retain young professionals in the Greater Peoria Area. The Young Professionals Organization of Greater Peoria (YPGP) is a group made up of 20 and 30-somethings that have a mutual interest in social and business networking, community involvement, and professional development.

For more information, visit www.peoriachamber.org or call Rachel O’Connell at (309) 495-5974.

Nextdoor was created to ensure private communication within a neighborhood. All members must verify their addresses, and all information shared on the site is accessible only to verified members of that neighborhood. Nextdoor does not share information with any third parties.

Residents interested in signing up can visit www.nextdoor.com to create an account. Many neighborhoods across the City have already been mapped. If a neighborhood has not yet been created, interested parties can suggest boundaries for new neighborhoods. Any questions can be directed to Kate Green in the City Manager’s Office at (309) 494-8555 orkgreen@peoriagov.org, or to Nextdoor at support@nextdoor.com.

WHEN: Wednesday, June 11 from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm (Lunch is included) – Registration opens at 9:30 am

WHERE: Illinois Central College, East Peoria Campus, AIT Building
Contact Kimberly Weeks at 309-242-3960 or kimberlyweeks227@gmail.com for more information.

In addition to serving as faculty at the Center on Philanthropy and the Indiana University Maurer School of Law, Phil Purcell currently serves as Vice-President for Planned Giving and Endowment Stewardship at the Ball State University Foundation where he recently assisted with the successful completion of a $200 million campaign. He is a veteran speaker, having presented before the Council
for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) and the American Council on Gift Annuities, as well as on behalf of charities, bar associations and many fundraising chapters throughout the country. Phil has consulted on behalf of all types of charitable organizations, including the Lilly Endowment’s GIFT program serving community foundations throughout Indiana.

In this session you will learn:
 Key legal issues in fundraising (state registration, gift receipts, etc.)
 Non-cash gift best practices (stock, real estate, etc.)
 Fundraising for charitable endowments (marketing, legal issues, stewardship)
 Nonprofit governance issues – role of the board, conflicts of interest, lobbying, etc.

$65 for AFP Members and any board member of member organizations, $105 for non-members.

About AFP – AFP, an association of professionals throughout the world, advances philanthropy by enabling people and
organizations to practice ethical and effective fundraising. The core activities through which AFP fulfills this mission include education, training, mentoring, research, credentialing and advocacy.

As one of AFP’s 230 chapters worldwide, the Central Illinois Chapter members encompass a broad spectrum of professional experience and backgrounds and represent the areas of health, human services, education, religion, and the arts. Our chapter is committed to professional education, the advancement of philanthropy and the fundraising profession, and ethical fundraising practices in Central Illinois. We are dedicated to providing quality learning opportunities for fundraising professionals of all experience levels.

Local Government Information and Education Network

Illinois is in fiscal crisis, with no easy solutions.  Many tools will be needed to fix the problem.

The Illinois Budget Policy Toolbox is a collection of essays that assess policy options that help to frame the issues surrounding Illinois’s precarious budget situation.  Using the best academic scholarship, the University of Illinois’ leading policy experts provide a nonpartisan overview of the state’s fiscal situation and evaluate the pros and cons of a variety of revenue and spending options.  Please join us in the first of a three part series on Illinois’s budget situation.

Registration is required at  Illinois Budget Policy Toolbox June 10 – Tools to Address Revenue. You will be provided log-on information so that you may participate in the program from your home or your office via the Internet.

Each session will be recorded and posted at http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lgien/online.cfm so that if you miss a session you will still be able to listen at a later time.

The quarterly business and economic indicator Summary Index for the Peoria-Pekin Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA; Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, Stark and Marshall counties) rose for a second consecutive quarter, with a 0.5% increase since the fourth quarter of 2013, reaching 96.7 in the first quarter of 2014.

The Center for Business and Economic Research (CBER) reviews over 30 diverse business indicators in its quarterly assessments. The CBER computes its quarterly Summary Index of key local business and economic indicators for the Peoria-Pekin MSA to reflect business activity in the MSA on a seasonally adjusted basis, with an index score of 100 corresponding to the local business conditions found locally in the first quarter of 2000, following the national economic expansion of the previous decade. The present national economic expansion began after the national recession of December 2007- June 2009.  Impact of the national recession was evident locally in the Summary Index that reached its cyclical low of 93.2 in the fourth quarter of 2009.

The CBER is housed in the Foster College of Business of Bradley University and has compiled a local business and economic data base since 1991. The Peoria Journal Star funds maintenance of this business indicator database.  Data reported are adjusted for normal seasonal variation, other than sales figures of Peoria-Pekin MSA retail sales and Peoria-Pekin MSA number homes sold.