Happy New Year to All!

Here's hoping that 2011 was a good year and that 2012 will be even better.

Thought I would share a little humor about "getting older."

TODAY IS THE OLDEST YOU'VE EVER BEEN, YET THE YOUNGEST YOU'LL EVER BE, SO ENJOY THIS DAY WHILE IT LASTS.

 

 

Observations on Growing Older 

 

~Your kids are becoming you...and you don't like them...but your grandchildren are perfect! 

~Going out is good.. Coming home is better!

~When people say you look "Great"... they add "for your age!" 

~When you needed the discount, you paid full price. Now you get discounts on everything... movies, hotels, flights, but you're too tired to use them. 

~You forget names.... but it's OK because other people forgot they even knew you!!! 

~The 5 pounds you wanted to lose is now 15 and you have a better chance of losing your keys than the 15 pounds. 

~You realize you're never going to be really good at anything.... especially golf. 

~Your spouse is counting on you to remember things you don't remember. 

~The things you used to care to do, you no longer care to do, but you really do care that you don't care to do them anymore. 

~Your spouse sleeps better on a lounge chair with the TV blaring than he or she does in bed.  It's called their "pre-sleep". 

~Remember when your mother said, "Wear clean underwear in case you GET in an accident"? Now you bring clean underwear in case you HAVE an accident! 

~You used to say, "I hope my kids GET married... Now, "I hope they STAY married!" 

~You miss the days when everything worked with just an "ON" and "OFF" switch.. 

~When GOOGLE, ipod, email, modem.... were unheard of, and a mouse was something that made you climb on a table 

~You tend to use more 4 letter words .... "what?"..."when?".... ??? 

~Now that you can afford expensive jewelry, it's not safe to wear it anywhere. 

~Your husband/wife has a night out with the guys or gals but is home by 9:00 P.M. Next week it will be 8:30 P.M. 

~You read 100 pages into a book before you realize you've read it. 

~Notice everything they sell in stores is "sleeveless"?!!! 
~What used to be freckles are now liver spots. 

~Everybody whispers.

 

~Now that your spouse has retired ... you'd give anything if he/she would find a job!

~You have 3 sizes of clothes in your closet ... 2 of which you will never wear. 

~~~~But old is good in some things: old songs, old movies, And best of all, OLD FRIENDS!! 

Pass this on to other "Old Friends!" and let them laugh in AGREEMENT!!! 

It's Not What You Gather, But What You Scatter That Tells What Kind Of Life You Have Lived

Diabetic Recipes Available From Extension

The last issue of For Your Information mentioned that Extension has revised the recipes on their diabetes website. Here is the article. Thought this might be of interest to those who have diabetes themselves or must help others deal with it.

REVISED RECIPES FOR DIABETES WEBSITE (FYI 11-09)
A newly revised version of Recipes for Diabetes website has been launched. Today 25.8 million children and adults in the U.S. -- or 8.3% of the population -- have diabetes. Because of the high incidence of this disease, U of I Extension offers this website with a variety of recipes with nutritional analysis for people with diabetes.

More than 80 photographs have been added that show what each dish looks like.

Please share this site with diabetes counselors, people with diabetes and their caregivers. The site was developed by Karen Chapman-Novakofski (Extension Specialist, Foods and Nutrition.

You can visit the site at http://urbanext.illinois.edu/diabetesrecipes/ 

Here is the URL to view FYI number 9 if you wish:  http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/fyi/


 

Carol's Kitchen

Southern Region IEAFCS met at the beautifully decorated home of Carol Schlitt for their December meeting. Here are a couple of photos of her newly remodeled kitchen.

The first photo shows Kathy Harrison in the foreground. Congratulations Carol, you did a fantastic job. It is definitely "state of the art."

Condolences to a Couple of Our Members

We are sorry to hear that Catherine Mauck recently lost her sister, and Pat Hildebrand lost her brother. Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time.

Southern Region IEAFCS Meets with Carol Schlitt

Carol Schlitt graciously hosted the Southern Region group at her home in early December. Those in attendance were Ruby Lingle, Joy Richey, Lois Smith, Rusti Grogan, Joyce Pyatt, Janet Burnett, Martha Speir, Kathy Harrison, Milly Kaiser, Martha Winter, and Carol.

 Her home was beautifully decorated, and we got to see the brand new completely remodeled kitchen. Some photos of that will follow in a future note. After some delicious treats and a little business, everyone enjoyed lunch and a tour at Eckerts Orchard. It is certainly a great example of a successful and expanding family business!

If other regions have photos of their meetings, please send to me and I will post them also.

Worth a Smile

Here are quotes from famous people that should make you chuckle.

Sometimes, when I look at my children, I say to myself, 'Lillian, you should have remained a virgin..'
 - Lillian Carter (mother of Jimmy Carter)

 I had a rose named after me, and I was very flattered. But I was not pleased to read the description in the catalog. 'No good in a bed, but fine against a wall.'- Eleanor Roosevelt

 Last week, I stated this woman was the ugliest woman I had ever seen. I
 have since been visited by her sister, and now wish to withdraw that
 statement..
 - Mark Twain

 The secret of a good sermon is to have a good beginning and a good ending;
 and to have the two as close together as possible
  - George Burns

 Santa Claus has the right idea. Visit people only once a year.
 - Victor Borge

 Be careful about reading health books. You may die of a misprint.
 - Mark Twain

 By all means, marry. If you get a good wife, you'll become happy; if you
 get a bad one, you'll become a philosopher.
 - Socrates

 I was married by a judge. I should have asked for a jury.
  - Groucho Marx

 My wife has a slight impediment in her speech. Every now and then she
 stops to breathe.
 - Jimmy Durante

 I have never hated a man enough to give his diamonds back.
  - Zsa Zsa Gabor

 Only Irish coffee provides in a single glass all four essential food
 groups: alcohol, caffeine, sugar and fat.
 - Alex Levine

 My luck is so bad that if I bought a cemetery, people would stop dying.
  - Rodney Dangerfield

 Money can't buy you happiness .... But it does bring you a more pleasant
 form of misery.
 - Spike Milligan

 Until I was thirteen, I thought my name was SHUT UP .
  - Joe Namath

 I don't feel old. I don't feel anything until noon. Then it's time for my
 nap.
 - Bob Hope

 I never drink water because of the disgusting things that fish do in it..
  - W. C. Fields

 We could certainly slow the aging process down if it had to work its way
 through Congress.
 - Will Rogers

 Don't worry about avoiding temptation. As you grow older, it will avoid
 you.
 - Winston Churchill

 Maybe it's true that life begins at fifty .. But everything else starts to
 wear out, fall out, or spread out..
 - Phyllis Diller

 By the time a man is wise enough to watch his step, he's too old to go
 anywhere.
 - Billy Crystal

 And the cardiologist's diet: - If it tastes good spit it out.

IEAFCS Future Discussed

A group of active and retired IEAFCS members met recently to talk about ways the organization might function in the future with fewer members. There are several ideas which need further discussion.

Those who attended the meeting in Champaign were Carol Schlitt, Ginger Boas, Margaret Cover, Cheri Burcham, Lynette Mensah, and Joy Richey.

Anyone who would like to share thoughts on future operations is encouraged to contact Carol Schlitt or any other member of the group.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving--wherever and however you are celebrating it.

Received an e-mail note that this is also National Friendship Week. So here are some thoughts from the life member committee to all our IEAFCS friends.

They're written by Andy Rooney, a man who has the gift of saying so much with so few words. Enjoy.......

I've learned.... That the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.

I've learned.... That when you're in love, it shows.

I've learned.... That just one person saying to me, "You've made my day!" makes my day.

I've learned.... That having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.

I've learned.... That being kind is more important than being right.

I've learned.... That you should never say no to a gift from a child.

I've learned.... That I can always pray for someone when I don't have the strength to help him in some other way.

I've learned... That no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.

I've learned.... That sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand.

I've learned.... That simple walks with my father around the block on summer nights when I was a child did wonders for me as an adult.

I've learned.... That life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.

I've learned.... That we should be glad God doesn't give us everything we ask for.

I've learned.... That money doesn't buy class.

I've learned.... That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.
I've learned.... That under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.

I've learned... That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.

I 've learned.... That when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.

I've learned.... That love, not time, heals all wounds.

I've learned.... That the easiest way for me to grow as a person is to surround myself with people smarter than I am.

I've learned.... That everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.

I've learned.... That no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.

I've learned... That life is tough, but I'm tougher.

I've learned.... That opportunities are never lost; someone will take the ones you miss.

I've learned... That when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.

I've learned.... That I wish I could have told my Mom that I love her one more time before she passed away.

I've learned.... That one should keep his words both soft and tender, because tomorrow he may have to eat them.

I've learned..... That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.

I've learned..... That when your newly born grandchild holds your little finger in his little fist, that you're hooked for life.

I've learned.... That everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.

I've learned.... That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done.

Southern Region to Meet in Freeburg Area

Southern Region IEAFCS will hold their December meeting at the home of Carol Schlitt near Freeburg on Thursday December 8th.

The group will meet at 10:00 a.m. for morning snacks and a business meeting. Lunch will be at Eckert's Country Store and Restaurant, which is nearby.

There will be a $10.00 gift exchange for those who wish to participate. RSVP to carolschlitt@charter.net before noon on December 5th. 

Looking forward to an enjoyable day. Hope everyone can attend.

Updates from FYI

Shotgun deer season is this weekend, and bow season has been in for a while. There is lots of activity gearing up for this. It seems at times that we can see more deer in the fields around our house than the hunters do.

The 7th issue of For Your Information for 2011 was issued recently. Thought you might be interested in a list of new Extension employees.

Bobbie Lewis-Sibley - County Director, Livingston/McLean/Woodford Unit
Lisa Wait - County Director, Bond/Clinton/ Jefferson/Marion/Washington Unit
Dana Woods - Educator, SNAP-Ed Northern Region
Trinity Allison, - Educator, SNAP-Ed Southern Region
Julie Munoz-Najar - Educator, EFNEP, Champaign/Vermilion Unit
Andrew Holsinger – Educator, Horticulture, Christian/Macoupin/Montgomery/Jersey Unit
Chris Konieczka – Educator, Local Foods/Small Farms, Livingston/McLean/Woodford Unit
Laurie George – Educator, Local Foods/Small Farms, Bond/Clinton/Jefferson/Marion/Washington Unit

 There were also a couple of condolences. Here is information on those.

Nye Fulton Bouslog. Condolences are extended to the friends and family of Nye Fulton Bouslog, 91, of Macomb, Illinois who passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 29, 2011, at OSF Saint Francis Hospital in Peoria. His death followed a short illness.

Nye served as the farm advisor for the U of I Extension Service. He later worked for the Union National Bank of Macomb, rising to the position of executive vice president. It was during his tenure he earned distinction as a business man, agricultural leader and a community volunteer.

Following his banking career, he worked for the U of I and was active in the Macomb real estate market, having ended his real estate career at the age of 90.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Macomb Rotary Club Park Project on West Jackson Street in Macomb or to St. Paul's Catholic Church. Dodsworth-Piper-Wallen Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements. Please sign the guestbook or leave condolences at http://www.dodsworthfh.com
  
Margaret L. Esposito, 88, of Normal died at 7:30 p.m. Friday (Oct. 14, 2011) at her residence in Normal. She was the Extension adviser home economics for the McLean County Extension Service from 1962 until her retirement in 1992.

She authored the book "Places of Pride," which was a pictorial history of the founding of Extension in McLean County.Words of sympathy can be sent to her daughter, Linda Lambrecht, at 805 Apple Street, Normal. IL 61761, and to her son Stephen Esposito, at 811 Division Street. Normal, IL 61761.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials may be made to Poulton-Mitchell Scholarship Fund at Heartland Community College, Normal; The Salvation Army, Bloomington; the Community Cancer Center, Normal; and the Humane Society of Central Illinois.

The full obituary may be viewed at: http://www.pantagraph.com/news/local/obituaries/article_ba75995e-f86b-11e0-9e0c-001cc4c002e0.html

Time to Fall Back

The last day of Daylight Savings Time--unfortunately. Well, now maybe we'll get more work done inside the house.

A reminder--I have received notice to renew my net ID for campus e-mail. I'm sure those of you who still use campus e-mail are all on a different schedule for renewing the net ID. But don't forget to renew when you get the notice or you will lose the e-mail access.

M & M's melt in your mouth, not in your hand. That was the answer to Seniors Memory Test question number 20. Hope you enjoyed these memories over the past several weeks. If anyone would like a list of all 20 questions and answers, let me know. Send a note to ieafcslife@gmail.com.

Have a Great Halloween

Hope your day is filled with treats rather than tricks. Have a good one!

Pretty intricate carving job on this pumpkin don't you think? I can't claim any credit, but the designer did a lot of work.

The answer to the senior's memory test quiz #19 is Smile: You're on Candid Camera.

And the last question is:

20. What do M&M's do?

    A. Make your tummy happy
    B. Melt in your mouth, not in your pocket
    C. Make you fat
    D. Melt your heart
    E. Make you popular
    F. Melt in your mouth, not in your hand
    G. Come in colors

It Was a Really Big Cheeseburger!

Here are a couple of other photos from the IEAFCS KY/W.VA. trip. This cheeseburger was on the menu at the Marshall University Hall of Fame.

And some members of the group gave it a try. I'm sure it was delicious!

Thanks to Martha Speir for the photos.

To get back to our memory test for seniors--the answer to question 18 was: I'm strong to the finish because--I eats me spinach.

Here's the next one:

19. When it's least expected, you're elected, you're the star today...

    A. Smile, you're on Candid Camera
    B.. Smile, you're on Star Search
    C. Smile, you won the lottery
    D. Smile, we're watching you
    E. Smile, the world sees you
    F. Smile, you're a hit
    G. Smile, you're on TV

It Was a Good Time!

Here is the group of IEAFCS Life Members and friends who were on the recent Kentucky/West Virginia trip. Looks like everyone was having a good time.

Thanks again to Carol Schlitt for all her efforts in planning and leading this latest expedition. There will be more. Watch this blog for details on a possible spring outing.

Southern Illinois Extension Retirees Event

 University of Illinois Extension retirees met at Giant City Lodge near Makanda this past week. A delicious friend chicken lunch and much good fellowship were enjoyed by all.

Extension retirees pictured are Bob Walker, Rusti Grogan, Curt Eisenmeier, Joy Richey, Larry Casey, Les Rogers, Charlie Willman, Harold Hunzicker, and Glenn Sons. Ed Billingsley also attended.

Spouses and friends who were present included Stella Pryor, Sharon Eisenmeier, Jane Casey, and Donna Sons.

Thanks to Bob Walker for all his efforts in organizing this event.

Some Photos from KY/West VA Trip

 They tell me there was every type of hot dog imaginable, and that they were delicious!

Fall colors were just beginning to peak.

Quite a bridge and wonderful scenery!

We are still waiting on a group photo.

There Will Be a COLA for 2012!

Here's some good news from NARFE.

Federal Retirement Annuities to Increase through Cost of Living Adjustment

Federal retirees will receive a cost of living adjustment (COLA) to their civil service annuities beginning in January 2012.  Retirees in the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) will receive a 3.6 percent increase to their annuities, while retirees in the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) will receive a 2.6 percent increase to their annuities.

To trigger a COLA for 2012, the average CPI-W for the months of July, August, and September of 2011 needed to rise above the 2008 average for those same months, the last measurement to trigger a COLA (for 2009).  It did, by 3.6 percent.  While CSRS retirees receive the full amount of the CPI-W increase as a COLA, current law reduces the FERS COLA by 1 percentage point for increases above 3 percent.

Because the CPI-W showed declining prices from 2008 to 2009, and while it showed prices increasing between 2009 and 2010, it did not show prices increasing back to 2008 levels, there has not been a COLA for the last two years.  But finally, we have some good news for 2012!

Under current law, COLAs for federal retirement annuities, as well as for military retiree annuities and social security payments, are determined in reference to the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), which is calculated by economists and statisticians with the Bureau of Labor Statistics.  The CPI-W is the current index used for measuring increases in the prices of consumer goods throughout the economy.  It includes prices on all consumer goods, including food and beverages, housing, clothing, transportation, medical care, recreation, education and communication, and more.  

      

The new CPI-W figure for September 2011 was 223.688.  The average CPI-W for the third-quarter of 2011 was 223.233.  This is the new reference figure for determining the 2013 COLA.

NARFE continues to support strong COLAs based on fair assessments of increases in consumer prices to protect the value of federal annuities from inflation.

Best regards,

NARFE Legislative Staff

Condolences to the family of Margaret Esposito

NORMAL — Margaret L. Esposito, 88, of Normal died at 7:30 p.m. Friday (Oct. 14, 2011) at her residence in Normal.

Her funeral Mass will be at 11:30 a.m. Thursday at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Bloomington. Monsignor Doug Hennessy and Father Carl Lopresti will officiate. Burial will be in Park Hill Cemetery, Bloomington. 

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Beck Memorial Home, Bloomington, with a prayer service at 8 p.m. and one hour prior to the service at the church on Thursday.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials may be made to Poulton-Mitchell Scholarship Fund at Heartland Community College, Normal; The Salvation Army, Bloomington; the Community Cancer Center, Normal; and the Humane Society of Central Illinois.

Margaret was born July 5, 1923, in Bloomington, the daughter of Charles A. and Gladys L. Mitchell Poulton. She married Santine Esposito on Oct. 17, 1942, in Fort Worth, Texas. He died in May 1960.

She is survived by one daughter, Linda K. Lambrecht, Normal; one son, Stephen A. (Judith) Esposito, Normal; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and Kate Barr, a special family friend and helper.

She was preceded in death by parents and her two brothers, Winston and Raymond Poulton.

Margaret received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Illinois State University, Normal. She was the Extension Adviser Home Economics for the McLean County Extension Service from 1962 until her retirement in 1992. She authored the book “Places of Pride,” which was a pictorial history of the founding of Extension in McLean County.

Margaret was a founding board of trustees member from 1991-2003 at Heartland Community College, Normal. She was a longtime Salvation Army board member. In 1990, she received the Women of Distinction Award in McLean County. She hosted the McLean County Home Extension Program on WJBC Radio for many years.

Margaret was an avid supporter and contributor to the history of McLean County through her association with such organizations as McLean County Historical Society and the David Davis Mansion. She was a member and officeholder of multiple professional associations and honorary societies. Margaret was a member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Bloomington.

Bus Trip Begins Tomorrow

Eighteen IEAFCS Life Members and Friends will be enjoying lots of fall scenery and special places to visit in the next four days. The group will tour a glass factory, candy company, heritage farm, take a scenic train trip, and eat at several special restaurants in Kentucky and West Virginia. It will be a fun trip, and there will be photos to share later.

Here is another quiz question for our memory test.

I'm strong to the finish...

    A. Cause I eats my broccoli
    B. Cause I eats me spinach
    C. Cause I lift weights
    D. Cause I'm the hero
    E. And don't you forget it
    F. Cause Olive Oyl loves me
    G. To outlast Bruto

Extension Retirees to Gather at Giant City

U of I Extension Retirees, spouses, and friends are invited to meet for a fried chicken lunch on Friday, October 21st at 11:00 a.m. Giant City State Park Lodge near Makanda is known for its fried chicken.

The meal will be served family style and will cost $15.90. This includes drink, tax, and gratuity. If you want dessert, it will be extra.

Please let Bob Walker know by October 15th if you plan to attend. His e-mail is rwalker@wabash.net. Telephone number is 618-854-2442. Bob has asked that you be prepared to make a short report on an item or activity that you believe will be of interest to the group. He will also accept a short report to be read to the group if you are unable to be present. His address is Route #2, Box 128B, Cisne, IL 62823.

Don't miss an enjoyable day and the beautiful fall colors at Giant City!

Possible Good News from NARFE!

Here is some preliminary information on a possible cost of living increase for Federal Retirees this year. I believe the final figures will be available in a couple of weeks.
 
Federal retirees could receive COLA boost for first time since 2008

By Kellie Lunney klunney@govexec.com September 30, 2011

 

Federal retirees likely will receive a cost-of-living adjustment in December for the first time since 2008 -- a fact largely lost in the current debate over proposals targeting federal pay and benefits.

The COLA for federal retirees and Social Security and Supplemental Security Income recipients could be nearly 4 percent as of Dec. 1, based on the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The Consumer Price Index, a measure of the average change over time in the prices urban consumers pay for goods and services, rose 3.8 percent between August 2010 and August 2011, largely due to an increase in gasoline and food prices. COLAs are determined based on the CPI-W, a formula that takes into account increases in the CPI for urban wage earners and clerical workers.

The government publishes the annual cost-of-living adjustments typically in late October, based on the percentage increase (if any) in the average CPI-W for the third quarter of the current year over the average for the third quarter of the last year in which a COLA became effective. There hasn't been a COLA increase since 2008, when it rose 5.8 percent. This year's increase, if there is one, will take effect on Dec. 1, and will be reflected in retirees' first annuity payments in January 2012.

The increase will take effect automatically, unless Congress opts to block it through legislation. Observers don't think that will happen. "It's unlikely that Congress will block the COLA in December for federal and postal retirees and others who are eligible," said Bruce Moyer, chairman of the Federal-Postal Coalition, a group of federal employee and retiree organizations. "Despite the budget climate, election year politics will likely prevent that from happening."

Some lawmakers favor switching to what's known as the "chained CPI" formula to determine COLAs for federal retirees and Social Security beneficiaries. It is viewed as a more accurate measure of how people substitute one item for another in the face of a price increase. The result would be lower COLAs over time. Many federal employee groups, including the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association, are concerned the joint congressional committee on deficit reduction will include such a recommendation in its legislative package.

"While we are pleased that Social Security beneficiaries and federal civilian and military retirees will finally receive needed inflation protection after a two-year absence, we know that the outlays required to offer COLAs paints a target on the backs of older Americans living on fixed incomes," said Daniel Adcock, NARFE's legislative director. "We fear that some lawmakers will use the payment of a reasonable COLA next year as an excuse to cut our future inflation protection."

President Obama in late September released a deficit reduction plan that proposes raising federal employees' pension contribution level beginning in 2013. Civilian employees already are working under a two-year pay freeze, and Office of Management and Budget Director Jack Lew has not ruled out the possibility that the government workforce will be called upon to sacrifice further in the name of fiscal belt-tightening.

Stay up-to-date with federal news alerts and analysis - sign up for GovExec's email newsletters.

I wonder, wonder, who?    

It's been several days since we answered question #17 on our senior citizens memory test. 
The answer is "Who wrote the book of love." 


Three more questions to go. We'll get back to those soon.

 

 

More Condolences

Here are some notes from For Your Information about Extension staff members who have lost family members. Our condolences to all.


DEBI DELANEY:

Condolences are extended to Debi Delaney (Program Administrative Assistant-Campus) on the recent passing of her father, Anthony Wayne Roy, on August 29, 2011. Expressions of sympathy may be mailed to Debi at: 409 S. Washington Street, Sidney, IL 61877.


PENNIE CRINION:

Condolences are extended to Pennie Crinion on the loss of her mother, Ruby Jeanette Gebhart on September 9, 2011. Visitations were held at McClure Funeral Home, Taylorville, IL. The funeral was held at the Stonington United Methodist Church. Memorials may be made to the Stonington United Methodist Church, 304 N. Elm Stonington, IL 62567.

Condolences to the family of Carolyn Swope

Obituary for Ms. Jo "Carolyn" Swope

Jo “Carolyn” Swope, 75, of Danville, Illinois, passed away at 10:10 a.m. Tuesday, September 20th, 2011 at her home.
Carolyn was born on October 30th, 1935, in Clark County, near Martinsville, Illinois, the daughter of Ralph and Alice (Ratts) Swope. 

She is survived by two nieces- Linda (Chip) Bowles of Louisville, Kentucky and Janet D. Swope of Bloomington, Illinois; nephew- Roger (Paulette) Swope of Poplar Grove, Illinois; three great-nephews-Ryan Swope of Poplar Grove, Illinois, attending University of Dubuque(sophomore), Dubuque, Iowa, Randy Swope of Poplar Grove, Illinois, attending Quincy University (freshmen), Quincy, Illinois and Charles Bowles of Louisville, Kentucky, attending Saint Louis University (sophomore), St. Louis, Missouri; and four cousins- Wayne (Rosemary) Ratts of St. Louis, Missouri, Stanley (Dianna) Ratts of Mattoon, Illinois, Linda Trump of Chalfont, Pennsylvania and Fred Thornburgh of Indianapolis, Indiana. She was preceded in death by her parents, brother- Richard Swope and a cousin- Willard Thornburgh. 

Carolyn graduated from Martinsville High School. She graduated from the University of Illinois, in 1958, with her B.S. Degree in Home Economics. She later earned her Masters of Extension Education from the University of Illinois in 1971. She worked for the University of Illinois Cooperative Extension Service from 1958-1992, in Jasper County, Dewitt County, Douglas County and Vermilion County. In addition to teaching a wide variety of subjects, such as Financial Management, Food Science, Nutrition, Clothing Construction and Care, to help individuals and families; she also served as County Extension Fiscal Officer for many years and assisted the 4-H Program. She received a National Distinguished Service Award in 1971.

Carolyn also was a member of Epsilon Sigma Phi  (where she served as Chief), American Home Economics Association (where she was a Certified Home Economist),  Business and Professionals Women’s Club, and served as a member and President of the Illinois  Association of  Extension Home Economists from 1976-1977. She was a member of the East Park Church of Christ, where she helped with Thursday School, Teddy Bear Program, Ladies Committee, Communion Preparation and assisted with Shults Lewis Children’s Home fund raising. Carolyn enjoyed sewing, quilting, crocheting and traveling. 

A Celebration of the Life of Jo “Carolyn” Swope will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 23rd, 2011 at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center, a Life Celebration Home, with Pastor Dennis Floyd officiating. Visitation will be from 9-11 am Friday at the funeral home. Burial will be at 3:00 p.m. Friday at Ridgelawn Cemetery in Martinsville, Illinois. Memorials may be made to the East Park Church of Christ. Please join Carolyn’s family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of her life through her tribute wall at: www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.

 

Southern Illinois Extension Retiree Fish Fry

It was a chilly day, but southern Illinois Extension Retirees who gathered at Rend Lake recently enjoyed plenty of good food and fellowship.

Those who attended were Wilbon Anthony, Dave Fischer, Melinda States, Bob Walker, Harold Hunzicker, David Gragg, Martha Speir, Dennis Epplin, Carol Schlitt, Martha Winter, Joyce Pyatt, Rusti Grogan, Tom Saxe, Janet Burnett, Ruby Lingle, Mike Plumer, Joy Richey, and Annette Campbell. 

Spouses who were present included Paul Pyatt, Diane Anthony, Susan Saxe, Dorothy Gragg, and Rick Lingle.

Thanks to Mike Plumer for frying the fish and chips, and Martha Winter, Joy Richey, and Annette Campbell for assistance in organizing the event.

Everyone is reminded that the date for the luncheon at Giant City is October 21st. More details will be sent later.
 

Southern Illinois Wine Tour Hosted by ACES Alumni Association

Register by September 28, 2011 

  

The College of ACES Alumni Association invites you to join us for an ACES in Places event. Please join us in Southern Illinois on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail for a winery tour to Blue Sky Vineyards, Alto Vineyards and StarView Vineyards.

A bus will be available for the first 45 alumni and guests to travel together. We will conclude at StarView Winery with a dinner and program. Dean Robert Hauser will provide an update on the College of ACES.

Hosted by the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences Alumni Association and District 8 Director Ken Hayse.
 

When: Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Where:

1:00 p.m. StarView Vineyards
Meet Bus and Register
5100 Wing Hill Rd. Cobden, IL 62920

2:00 p.m. Blue Sky Vineyard
Winetasting & Tour
3150 South Rocky Comfort Rd, Makanda, IL 62958

4:00 p.m. Alto Vineyards
Winetasting
Highway 127, Alto Pass, IL 62905

5:30 p.m. StarView Vineyards
Winetasting
Dinner & Program
5100 Wing Hill Rd. Cobden, IL 62920

Cost: is $40 per person.

If you are unable to join us all day, please feel free to join us at StarView Vineyards for wine tasting and dinner followed by the program.

For questions or assistance, contact the University of Illinois ACES Alumni Association at 217-333-7744.
 

Register Online

Condolences to the family of Jean Pickett

Jean Neese Pickett

ROCHESTER - Jean Neese Pickett of Rochester, Illinois passed away at 2:00 P.M. on Sunday, September 11, 2011, at Capitol Care Center in Springfield, IL.
Jean was born on January 12, 1928; the daughter of Robert and Lucille Neese. She married William O. Pickett on June 11, 1950 in Shelbyville, Illinois. She was a member of the Rochester United Methodist Church.

Jean graduated from Shelbyville High School in 1949 and attended the University of Illinois, Champaign, Illinois graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics. She resided at the 4-H House during that time. In 1976 she received her Masters Degree at the University of Illinois in Extension Education. That same year she went to Paris, France to attend the Paris Fashion Academy through Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, Illinois.

She was employed for 30 years with the Illinois Cooperative Extension Services with the last 17 years as Christian County Home Economics Advisor.

She belonged to Ruth Circle, enjoyed playing pinochle with the Motor Boat Club Group and book reviews with the Fort Nightly Book Club, in addition to making quilts and sewing for/with family and friends. She was a clothing judge for several years for the 4-H shows at the Illinois State Fair.
After her retirement she was a great friend of the American Sewing Guild.

She was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by husband, Bill; daughter, Ann (Raymond) Schlicht of Chaseburg, Wisconsin; son, Steve (Sally) Pickett of O'Fallon, Illinois; sister, Joyce (Leroy) Leib of Shelbyville, IL; brother, David (Becky) Neese of Davenport, Iowa; four grandchildren, and four great grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation will be from 10:30 A.M until time of funeral service at 11:30 A. M. on Saturday, September 17, at the Wilson Park Funeral Home in Rochester, Illinois with the Rev. Jack Swank, officiating. Burial will follow at Rochester Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Rochester United Methodist Church, P 0 Box 467, Rochester, IL 62563
Please visit our online website at www.wilsonparkfuneralhome.com

Published in The State Journal-Register from September 13 to September 14, 2011

Never Forget--9/11

What a weekend of memories and tributes! Our thoughts are with those who were directly affected.  Let's all work to help our country remain strong.

Hope you are keeping your memory strong by following our memory test quiz. The Beatles were, of course, John, Paul, George, & Ringo.

Here is the next question:
 
17. I wonder, wonder, who..


    A. Who ate the leftovers?
    B. Who did the laundry?
    C. Was it you?
    D. Who wrote the book of love?
    E. Who I am?
    F. Passed the test?
    G. Knocked on the door?
 

Southern Illinois Extension Retiree Fish Fry

Southern Illinois Extension Retirees are meeting for a fish fry at noon on Thursday, Sept. 15th at Rend Lake. The group will gather at the North Marcum Branch Shelter No. 7. It is south and a little bit west of the Golf Course complex.

Fish and chips will be provided. Everyone is to bring a side dish, beverage, and a little money to cover the cost of the fish and shelter rental. Please send an e-mail to paints75@gmail.com to indicate your plans to attend by Sept. 7th.

Before Robin Williams, Peter Pan was played by Mary Martin. Here is the next memory test question.

6. Name the Beatles...

    A. John, Steve, George, Ringo
    B. John, Paul, George, Roscoe
    C. John, Paul, Stacey, Ringo
    D. Jay, Paul, George, Ringo
    E. Lewis, Peter, George, Ringo
    F. Jason, Betty, Skipper, Hazel
    G. John, Paul, George, Ringo

How to Avoid an Inheritance Battle

Here is a link to an article recommended by NARFE.

We've all read about huge family fortunes squandered in legal battles between siblings after the patriarch or matriarch dies. While most of us wouldn't make national headlines regarding our estate-planning matters, the pain and destruction of inheritance feuds can be minimized, if not totally avoided. Interestingly, most of these fights aren't about money. More


The answer to the last trivia question is On Blueberry Hill.  Now try this one: It's a little harder.

5. Before Robin Williams, Peter Pan was played by...
    A.. Clark Gable
    B. Mary Martin
    C. Doris Day
    D. Errol Flynn
    E. Sally Fields
    F. Jim Carey
    G. Jay Leno

A Little Dab'll Do Ya.....

This was, of course, part of the Brylcream ad.

Here is the next memory test question:

4. I found my thrill...

    A. In Blueberry muffins
    B. With my man, Bill
    C. Down at the mill
    D. Over the windowsill
    E. With thyme and dill
    F. Too late to enjoy
    G. On Blueberry Hill

Great weather today in our part of the country! Our thoughts go out to all those who are having difficulties on the East Coast.

More Memory Test Questions

Joe Namath was, of course, the quarterback who appeared on television wearing women's stockings.

IEAFCS Board Meeting set for this week has to be re-scheduled. The JCEP meeting will be October 21st in the Macon County Extension Office in Decatur. More details later.

Here is the next memory test question:

3. Brylcream.
    A. Smear it on
    B. You'll smell great
    C. Tame that cowlick
    D. Grease ball heaven
    E. It's a dream
    F. We're your team
    G. A little dab'll do ya

President 2012

Martha Speir forwarded this--hope you enjoy it! We will get back to the memory test next time.

PRESIDENT IN 2012
Here we are, already discussing the future President of the United States , beginning with the Year 2012.

For those of you who would like THE VERY BEST choice for President, we have a solution: It is probably time we have a woman as President. One choice is a very special lady who has just about every answer to assist in helping us to solve our problems.

PLEASE give this a thought when you have a moment:  MAXINE FOR PRESIDENT!

Very eloquently put.............don't you think?

Maxine on "Driver Safety" "I can't use the cell phone in the car. I have to keep my hands free for making gestures.".......

Maxine on "Lawn Care" "The key to a nice-looking lawn is a good mower. I recommend one who is muscular and shirtless."

Maxine on "The Perfect Man" "All I'm looking for is a guy who'll do what I want, when I want, for as long as I want, and then go away. Or wait nearby, like a Dust Buster, charged up and ready when needed.."

Maxine on "Technology Revolution" "My idea of rebooting is kicking somebody in the butt twice."

Maxine on "Aging" "Take every birthday with a grain of salt. This works much better if the salt accompanies a Margarita."

"I'm telling you .... she's the perfect candidate." Here are some additional quotes.

"The only two things we do with greater frequency in middle age are urinate and attend funerals ."

"The trouble with bucket seats is that not everybody has the same size bucket."

"To err is human; to forgive, highly unlikely."

"Do you realize that in about forty years, we'll have millions of old ladies running around with tattoos and pierced navels?" (Now that's scary!)

"Money can't buy happiness--but somehow it's more comfortable to cry in a Porsche than a Kia."

"After a certain age, if you don't wake up aching somewhere...you may be dead."

"Under no circumstances should you take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night." 

Grandparents Bailing Out Their Grandchildren

Two in three grandparents gave money to their grandchildren in the past five years. Most gave less than $5,000. But the median amount given was $3,000; the average, $8,661. So we’re talking about more than a juiced birthday card. Much of the giving was for education (26%) and major life events (21%).

Read more: http://moneyland.time.com/2011/08/09/too-old-to-fail-grandma-rescues-the-grandchildren/#ixzz1VLhSTtpJ

This is an enlightening article. More signs that times are tough.

Answer to question # 11: Bob Dylan once advised us, "Don't trust anyone over 30."

Here is the next memory quiz question.

12. NFL quarterback who appeared in a television commercial wearing women's stockings...

    A. Troy Aikman
    B. Kenny Stabler
    C. Joe Namath
    D. Roger Stauback
    E. Joe Montana
    F. Steve Young
    G. John Elway

Central Illinois Retiree Celebration

The Extension Retirement get-together for central Illinois is set for Springfield on August 25th. It is at 11:00 a.m. at the Golden Corral--1028 Le June St. That is on 6th Street and Business 55. Phone number is 217-585-6830. Contact Larry Casey for information at casey.larry.jane@gmail.com.

Answer to the last memory quiz question was Oh My! This is one I certainly do not remember.

Here is the next question:

1. Bob Dylan advised us never to trust anyone..

    A. Over 40
    B. Wearing a uniform
    C. Carrying a briefcase
    D. Over 30
    E. You don't know
    F. Who says, 'Trust me'
    G. Who eats tofu