My first stop was Ellen Schiller State Park in Homosassa. There are many animals to see in this small zoo for animals unable to survive on their own in nature. I gravitated to the manatees. Within the natural springs, an above and below water floating observation area allows visitors an up close and personal experience with these giants. When I arrived 30 or so manatees lazed and lounged just a few feet away from me. I could have watched for hours as they floated by, mothers teaching their pups to play, others seemingly asleep. It was a treat to see as manatees are wild creatures and come to the springs on their own schedule.

My next manatee encounter was at on the Chassahowitzka River. Manatees grazed and played in the warm waters as we floated above and watched in fascination. It was so fun to watch them rest then playfully dive around our boats. Most of the paddlers around were quiet as to not disturb the manatees. Many had deep scars along their backs from run ins with boat propellors.

At Blue Spring State Park I saw the most manatees at one time. The morning I was there, park employees counted 649 manatees in the springs! The warm waters filled with manatees from shore to shore was an unforgettable sight for me. They huddled together, escaping the colder water for the warmer temps in the natural springs. We walked hundreds of feet along the water alongside these beautiful creature.

Manatees have scarce body fat and cannot survive water temps below 68 degrees (F). When ocean temperatures drop, they swim into natural springs or ponds heated by power plants where they can stay warm. Manatees are vegetarians, and dine on seagrass. It takes a lot of food to supply their 1,000-pound body with the energy needed for daily activity.

Like all mammals, manatees breathe air and it takes mountains of effort for the colossal bodies to surface. Often, they poke just their nostrils above the of the water for a quick inhale every five minutes or so. Then they sink back down, lounging in a bed of grass. Sometimes, they will use their flippers to “walk” along the floor as they nibble.

Hindering their population is their low reproductive rate. It takes about five years before manatees are sexually mature. Gestation is 11 months and single births occur two to five years apart. Calves stick close to their moms for the first two years of life as they learn the ways of the wild.

Manatee numbers dwindled to a few hundred in the 1970s and there was concern they would soon become extinct. In 1981, a “Save the Manatee” public awareness campaign launched, founded by then Florida Governor Bob Graham and well-known entertainer Jimmy Buffett. No wake zones were established in areas manatees often visit to prevent collisions with boats. Some springs no longer allow swimming during the winter months when the animals are in the area. By 2015, the population had increased to over 6,000 and the manatees were removed from the Federal Endangered Species list in 2017.

Sadly, by recent count, less than 5,000 Florida manatees remain. During 2021 at least 1,101 of these beautiful mammals died. Even worse, 2022 is on track to be the deadliest year for them with 97 deaths in January alone.

What is causing this die off? Natural causes, illness and infant mortality are a major reasons for these deaths which may be unavoidable. Deaths that we CAN reduce are those due to human interference of one kind or another.

Boating strikes

When they are not resting just below the surface, manatees float along at 3-5 mph. They are no match for boats propellers speeding through the water. Resulting deep gashes along a manatee’s back are often deadly. Those that do survive can be easily identified by their scars.

Algae blooms

Use of fertilizer on home lawns, golf courses and agriculture fields contribute to runoff that causes algae to form in waterways. Red tides produce toxins manatees digest when they eat. These deadly toxins can poison and kill the gentle mammal.

Starvation

Florida is growing in population and homes sprawl from the Gulf to Atlantic coasts. New construction impacts existing flow of water across the state, reducing habitat and damaging existing feeding grounds.

Cold water temperatures

Manatees cannot survive sustained cool water temps. Waters around Florida get chilly in winter. Manatees take refuge in the multitude of springs which remain 72 degrees year-round. If the cold spell is prolonged, they depend on emergency feeding by humans, mostly Romain lettuce, to keep up their strength. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission oversees supplemental feeding.

Human interaction

Manatees stress out when people chase or harass them while they rest. Like all mammals, stress takes a toll on them and leads to shorter lifespan. Several of the springs are off limits for recreational use in the winter to allow manatees to exist undisturbed. Other sites restrict swimming but may allow use of kayaks, canoes or stand-up paddle boards.

What can you do to help?

• Check out the resources at Save the Manatee.
• When visiting Florida, learn manatee etiquette and how to protect the remaining population.
• Consider making a donation to help save the Florida manatee.
• Raise awareness with others by sharing stories about the plight of the manatee.

The Florida manatee is an amazing creature to observe. It would be a great loss to us all if we allow them to fade away forever like the Steller’s sea cow, a close relative of theirs which is now extinct. Visit Florida and stop by the many state parks that are winter home to manatees. Enjoy watching them eat, play and rest. A day with the manatees will warm your heart!

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Despite the hysteria, domestic animals are not their usual diet. Opportunistic, these scavengers feast on small mammals, insects, snakes and other bite sized creatures. Reduced habitat force these predators from prairie and savannah to backyards and Main Street. As our homes sprawl farther out from cities into suburbia, these wily coyotes adapt to the new realities. Gone are acres of open lands for coyotes to dig their dens, raise their pups and hunt for breakfast. 

Coyotes were rarely seen in my community when we moved to Algonquin in 1996. Over winter, these quadrupeds roam leaving single file paw prints in the snow. Year round, scat reminiscent of winter cocoa mixed with felted fur dots my property. Our half acre lot includes our house, lawn and native garden vignettes. In summer my yard looks like spinach salad doused in pureed rainbows as wildflowers burst forth greeting walkers as they pass by. Joining the eight deer who visit each morning and again at at dusk are butterflies, rabbits, raccoon, skunks, possum and a variety of birds. So far no large scale attacks on deer have occurred in my garden. 

About 10 years ago, the Village of Algonquin converted a two acre grassy detention area across from our house to native plantings. Their goal is to create a network of wildlife habitat flourishing with flora and fauna. Better for the environment, these areas cost less to maintain. No mowing, fertilizer or herbicides are needed. Once established, maintenance is on a three year cycle. Prescribed burn, manual and chemical invasive control then leave fallow. 

Since the restoration, the sky is full of bats, Red Tailed hawks and ebony jewelwing damselflies. Toads skip and garter snakes slink away from my feet. We are surprise as bold raccoons join us on the deck on balmy summer evenings. Coyote scat is everywhere. As the ecological health of our neighborhood improves, the critters thrive. Coyotes found shelter in the nearby couple of acres of restored land and happily settled in.

At night we listen as the collective “yip, yip, yip” rings out over the prairie. The howling is music to our ears. Not as pleasant are the screams of their prey as coyotes successfully hunt late at night.

In my yard and the larger village owned park, coyotes and other creatures settle in and make homes. It is time to think of coyotes not as dangerous wild animals but part of our community. Here are things you can do to learn to coexist with these new neighbors.

• Do not encourage coyotes to visit your property by leaving dog and cat food outdoors.
• Keep an eye on your pets, even with fenced in yards. 
• If a coyote approaches you, yell loudly, wave your arms wildly and throw rocks or sticks in the direction of, not at, the animal.
• Do not run away.

We can cohabitate with coyotes in our neighborhood. By understanding their habits and needs, we can adapt our behavior to minimize negative interactions with these fascinating creatures.

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Backyard beekeeping

Honeybee colonies include a queen, a few hundred drones and about 60,000 worker bees. Inside the hive, honeybees transition through a variety of jobs over their 6 week life cycle. Following are their roles by age.

• Day 1-2: Clean cells, keep brood warm
• Day 3-5: Feed older larva
• Day 6-11: feed youngest larva
• Day 12-17: produce wax, build comb, carry food, clear out dead
• Day 18-21: guard entrance to hive and honey
• Day 22-40/45 (until death): collect pollen, nectar, water, pollinate plants

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The average GITAP 2016 cyclist is 64 years old

Bicycle art along the trail in Milton, IL

 

Pontiac Mayor Bob Russell of greeted individually as we waited in line for dinner presenting each of us with a with a small gift.

Built in 1933, Ambler’s Texaco Station is not the Dwight, IL info center which welcomed us with cold water, fruit and granola bars!

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We timed our visit for the butterfly exhibit where dazzling splashes of color flitted about the room and allowed for up close examination. Caterpillars and chrysalis hung in the first room as the prepared to emerge. Adult butterflies dried their wings in preparation for their move to the main exhibit area. It was interesting to note each type of caterpillar created a unique chrysalis.

Before we entered the main exhibit, we took off our coats to prevent hitchhikers from leaving with us. We entered through a set of double doors to prevent escapees. Once inside, we were handed sponge swabs doused in Gatorade to attract the insects. Every color of the rainbow was represented in the flying collection. The butterflies perched on greenery or screens allowing visiting to get an up close and personal look at each insect.

Butterflies up close

Outside the conservatory, walk through the colorful gardens near the front entrance, along the side and rear of the building filled with seasonal plantings. A lagoon with two fountains adds to the fun. Statues are perched in various locations along the paths. Bring your lunch and take in the sights from the patio area outside or indoors.

The conservatory gift shop offers moderately priced wind chimes, note cards, jewelry and other remembrances of your trip. Toni’s Cafe of Winnebago serves soups, sandwiches and desserts.

A variety of classes from photography to yoga are available. Managed by the Rockford Park District, Nicholas Conservatory is open every day except Monday. Entrance fees are reasonable, even more so when you visit on Tropical Tuesdays when entrance fees are only $3.00.

After your visit, stroll along the Rock River. There is a paved path popular with walkers and bicyclists. We even found a unique group of statues comprised of rocks, of course, along the Rock River.

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The show starts after the tiki torch lighting which adds to the festive atmosphere. The outdoor shows feature local hula dancers ranging from novice keiki (children) to aunties (adults). I like to go to the show multiple nights to watch different halau (dance groups) perform. Each group has its own repertoire of songs, costumes and instruments.

If you are anywhere along the beach, you will know the show is about to begin when you hear the traditional blowing of the conch shell. Sometimes a torch lighter joins them as they make their way along the beach. This alerts vacationers to get their spot so as not to miss the start of the show. Bring a beach chair or pick up an inexpensive beach mat from any of the local quick marts and grab a spot near the mound.

Usually a narrator will introduce the history of Hawaiian culture and language to the group. Before the dancers begin, you will learn about each song’s message and the story it tells.

These dancers may wear traditional hula attire or more modern dress. To make the time-honored hula skirts, the dancers harvest and treat the long flat leaves of the green ti plant. Colorful tropical flowers are fashioned into beautiful, fragrant leis. A variety of nuts grown in the islands are strung together as necklaces.

Dancers share the mound with vocalists who chant and sing the traditional stories. Musicians join in with their mix of modern and traditional instruments to make each tale come alive. The large drums made of gourds or tree trunks have a full sound which carries along the beach.

Weather-permitting, you can catch these hula shows Tues., Thurs. and Sat. at 6:30-7:30 p.m. (6:00-7:00 Nov.-Jan). These hula shows are one of my favorite stops on trips to Waikiki. Check out these shows often to learn more about the people and culture of the Hawaiian island. Aloha…

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Ham radio operators from Wisconsin and surrounding states attended the one day event. Volunteer examiners (VEs) were on hand with FCC tests for those so to be new hams and hams upgrading their licenses.

The American Red Cross and other disaster preparedness agencies displayed their emergency response equipment including radios.

American Red Cross Disaster Response Vehicle

It was a full house at AES for their annual Superfest!

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The Streeets of Madagascar

Guess again. Well, since it’s so close to the Swahili coast of Africa, then it must have been an Arab entrepot. Not exactly. Madagascar was settled first and foremost by Asians, of Indonesian origin, with linguistic connections to this day, but little or nothing else—except rice, and noodles, and a certain slimness of figure. Sure, some of that comes from a Vietnamese admixture via the French, but not most, and certainly not all.

Madagascar is also one of the most expensive countries to get to, so maybe its inaccessibility is part of its desirability. It also helps if you speak a little French, since that is the language that most people will use with you, as a foreigner, as the French were the colonizers. Strangely enough, English is one of the four official languages, even though hardly anyone—except hotel clerks—can speak it.

What a view!

The capital Antananarivo is equal parts Asian, French, African, and… unique, its own style. The architecture is French, but not really, while the food is Asian, but not really, while the poverty is definitely African, even if it doesn’t really look like it. That was the biggest shock, that the country was as poor or poorer than most of Africa. Watch out for pickpockets.

But the strangest sight was the last one, catching an early morning flight, and catching a ride to the airport in total blackness, around 3 a.m., when I saw literally thousands of early morning runners, clogging the roads and jogging the highways. I guess they were beating the heat. But for my early flight, I’d have never known. I’ll get back one day.v

Hardie Karges has traveled to more than one hundred fifty countries over the course of forty years. He is the author of “Hypertravel” and the seven-part series “Backpackers and Flashpackers: Guides to World Hostels.” He expects to open his first backpackers’ hostel soon.

The post Madagascar Is My Favorite Country (that I barely know) first appeared on McHenry County | Honolulu | Beyond "Where Are You Today?" Travel Blog.

The Red Dress Run started with a couple of women jogging through downtown Algonquin. Their red outfits caught the eyes of passing motorists and let them get the word out: they’re running to save the lives of little girls at risk of sex trafficking.

Local moms Cortina Nystad and Kristen Guerrieri started The Red Run 5K in 2012. Over 500 runners and walkers participated. Registration is now open for the second Red Run 5K Run/Walk, which will be held Aug. 10 at Presidential Park in Algonquin.

“I personally volunteer with both of the local organizations we support,” said Kristen Guerrieri. “I visit Anne’s house monthly and last night was my first outreach with The Dreamcatcher Foundation!  This is pretty dark stuff.”

This year’s USATF-certified race will benefit the Dreamcatcher Foundation, a survivor-founded, survivor-led and focused organization in Chicago. Brenda Myers-Powell, Co-Founder, will be the featured speaker at the event. Additional beneficiaries include the Salvation Army PROMISE (Anne’s House), a local residential program that provides aftercare for victims and Love146, an organization that provides prevention and aftercare solutions internationally. Prizes will be awarded for the top male and female finishers and for the top three finishers in each age category.

After the race join the exclusive post-race breakfast at Port Edward Restaurant ($15 per person), with a percentage of the proceeds benefiting the Red Run.

To register, visit theredrun.org. Pre-registration is $30 for runners and $25 for walkers. Registration fees increase by $10 on race day. For more information or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, contact Kristen Guerrieri at kristen @ theredrun.org. Concerned citizens can call (888) 373-7888 or text “INFO” or “HELP” to befree (233733).

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Downtown Hotel in Dawson City. Photo Hardie Karges

Dawson City is a bit of a disappointment, actually, though the drive up is very nice. Dawson City’s selling point is authenticity (dirt roads, plank sidewalks), and that’s a tough thing to sell. The minute you advertise it, it ain’t so authentic any more. What makes Dawson genuine, though, is the fact that what made it famous is still there, gold, and people still pan for it. It’s a bit pricey, though, in summer.

Sign posts. Photo Hardie Karges

So I get the big idea to go to Skagway, Alaska, in the opposite direction from Whitehorse, though not so far. The little towns unfold in reverse order from the way up, a little cluster of people wherever a river crosses or a road divides, anywhere a need might arise—Stewart’s Crossing, Pelly’s Crossing, Carmacks and Moose Creek, roads going places where until 1955 only a stern-wheeler could go. That’s 1955, mind you, NOT 1855.

Street view. Photo Hardie Karges

But I learned before in Alaska that the northern reaches were less spectacular than the southern coast, and the same holds true here. The drive from Whitehorse to Skagway starts off splendid and becomes spectacular approaching the US-Canadian border. The lakes here are a color that I’ve only seen previously in the Caribbean, due to the reflective shallow bottom, no doubt. And the border crossing itself is about as exotic as anything I’ve seen this side of Kosovo, too. I’m sure that in the wintertime it’d only be more so.

Skagway is nice, but more of a typical tourist trap, if that’s where the line of authenticity gets drawn. Ferries and cruise ships disgorge passengers here daily, leaving dollars in coffers and lives enriched along this little strip of America connected to itself only by water. This was one of THE prime places to be in the world not much more than a hundred years ago, as gold was discovered up around Dawson City and this was on the route there. So I find a nice hostel in Skagway—everything but the WiFi—and spend the night. Again, one day is about enough, especially since the meter’s ticking on the car.

Alaska views. Photo Hardie Karges

I get up early the next day hoping to find a bear up and at ‘em looking for breakfast, and sure enough, I find one, walking down the country highway as if it’s his own. The border’s no hassle on the return, either, out here in the long lost lonesome, one of the world’s most beautiful border crossings, no doubt. But it feels good to be back in Whitehorse, almost like home by now. I even keep the car, to explore the immediate environs, splayed out for miles in every direction. You can have the tourist traps. Whitehorse has few tourists, but many subtle pleasures. It even has Indian pawn. That’s authentic. I’m a lousy tourist, but a better traveler.

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Watch for the MCG Uplift Foundation ballon sailing over the Crystal Lake area

This summer, watch for the MCG Uplift Foundation balloon as they sail over the Crystal Lake, Algonquin, Lake in the Hills, Elgin and Richmond areas. The balloon is schedule to fly sunset cruises on these dates, weather permitting.

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These organizations provide prevention, outreach and after care for those who are victims of sex trafficking and exploitation.

• The Salvation Army PROMISE (Partnership to Rescue our Minors from Sexual Exploitation.)
• Love146 a U.S. 501 non-profit international human rights organization that works to abolish child sex trafficking and exploitation through advocacy, prevention, and after care.
• The Dreamcatcher Foundation an organization fighting to end human trafficking in Chicago.

The Red Run Algonquin

The Red Dress Foundation, founded by Cortina Nystad, left, and Kristen Guerrieri, is 501(c)3 non profit organization taking a stand against child sex trafficking. This Daily Herald article tells The Red Run story.

I challenged myself to raise $1000 in much-needed funds to support this worthy cause, and with your help, we can both make a difference! Will you sponsor me by making a tax-deductible donation today? You can give online quickly and easily here:

Sponsor April in The Red Run.

Your gift will make a big difference for those who depend on the support of The Red Dress Foundation. Any amount, large or small, is greatly appreciated. If you would like to walk with me, sign up at The Red Run.

Participants are encouraged to run or walk in a red dress (or anything red) and take a stand against child slavery & exploitation!

The race will be held Saturday August 10th, 2013 in Presidential Park located at 700 Highland Avenue Algonquin, Illinois 60102.

Click to download the Red Run flyers:

Red Run 2013 Flyer BACK

Red Run 2013 flyer FRONT

The post Red Run Raises Combats Child Sex Slavery and Exploitation first appeared on McHenry County | Honolulu | Beyond "Where Are You Today?" Travel Blog.

Touring musician Roger Adler‘s music studio was not in my plans when I walked into the Lakeside Legacy Arts Park in Crystal Lake. Fortunately for me, that’s how the night went. Roger was the first tenant when he opened his studio at the Lakeside Legacy Center.

Roger Adler is a four-time Emmy nominated composer, producer and performer who makes his home in Woodstock, Illinois. I became aware of Roger and his work when he was Music Director for WTTW’s Wild Chicago television program which aired from 1989 to 2003. Show host Ben Hollis visited off the beaten path places and interviewed quirky folks from the Chicago metro area. Roger wrote the shows catchy Wild Chicago theme song and all music segments during the shows 16 years on the air.

Roger had a part in The Groundhog Day movie and plays guitar on the soundtrack. The movie was filmed in Woodstock, Illinois and Roger is a regular at the annual Woodstock Groundhog Days festivities.

April M. Williams and Roger Adler in his Lakeside Legacy Arts Park studio

During studio recording sessions for The Groundhog Day movie, Roger and Harold Ramus got to know each other. Roger gave Harold a few impromptu guitar lessons in between takes. In the movie, Roger plays the band director and guitar player. According to Roger, “During the filming of the Groundhog dinner dance scene Harold asked if me if I could put in a guitar solo there. I said sure! Harold then asked if I wanted to be part of the band playing in the movie. Of course I said yes again.” Bill Murray learned to play piano for the movie’s sub plot. Roger had fun getting to know Bill Murray, Chris Elliot and Harold Ramis.

Harold Ramis was the presenter one of the times Roger was nominated for an Emmy award . They worked together again when Harold was a guest on a Wild Chicago segment remembering his days at Second City.

During Roger’s career he has been a freelance composer for documentaries like Nova and Golden Apple Awards for teachers. In addition to playing in bands, Roger writes music for corporations, hosts Apple store presentations on music technology, pens articles for magazines like Premier Guitar and more.

Roger teaches Pro Tools classes at Electric Clown in Chicago. When he was 18 he taught classes in a Mount Prospect music store. For 17 years he gave private lessons for 70 students. That’s over 60 thousand lessons! He currently has a couple of students.

Roger performs with the Ken Arlin Orchestra including gigs at The Bellagio and President Obama’s first inauguration. Roger was the first person to create an album with Garage Band software. He titled his work “The Garage Album” by Roger Adler.

Roger Adler’s guitar collection in his Lakeside Legacy Arts Park studio

Roger showed me the Gibson Les Paul Custom that he played in the movie Groundhog Day which shows some wear. “I respect guitars” he said. “As you can see this one shows some wear. Roadies have put guitars in stands crooked and it’s fallen flat on its face a few times. So now I have this attitude about guitars that they are more like a saw in a toolbox. Like a carpenter, I reach in for the right tool. Different guitars sound all different ways.” Roger often picks up his daughters pink paisley Telecaster because of the distinct sound. Roger also plays banjo and dobro guitar.

Roger enjoys playing a broad rage of music. His influences include the Allman Brothers, Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin, Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton and stays up to date with current music. His wife Jane “keep him interested in new artists.” Roger wrote music, lyrics and plays most of the instruments for Nick Lynch‘s new album.

To learn more about Roger Adler, including the latest music, albums, songs, music videos and more updates visit his MySpace page.

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Judson Theology Professor Dr. Darrell Cosden shared stories of the challenges and rewards his family experienced on extended missionary trips to both Scotland and Russia. Cosden first became aware of Mr. Blair when Cosden arrived in Scotland with his wife and one year old son. He earned his Doctorate at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. He said, “We shape the community and they shape us. Communities have roles to fill. Society exists for the sake of those in it.” Newly elected Judson University President Dr. Gene C. Crume joked that introducing Mr. Blair was quite a cap to his first week in office.

Mr. Blair took the stage with a few introductory remarks on the differences between US and British elections. He noted the British campaign season lasts just four weeks. Voting occurs on Thursday and the next day the winner steps into their new role. It is traditional for staff members to line the hallways and shake hands with the outgoing Prime Minister as they exit the building. It is not unusual to see tears flowing during this emotional moment. The newly elected Prime Minister then walks in the front door, again shaking hands with the staff. Mr Blair admitted this was a stressful situation.

Tony Blair takes the stage at Judson University World Leaders Forum

Mr. Blair and Dr. Adams relaxed on chairs placed center stage and answered questions submitted by the audience. When asked about the recent death of Margaret Thatcher, Mr. Blair recognized her strong support of the American and UK alliance. He remarked the fall of communism has been the biggest change since Thatcher’s time in office. “It is interesting to reflect on what a bygone challenge that is now. The hardest things for us now are that the challenges are not asymmetrical and not what we usually expect. There is extremism based on religion. It is still important to remain united and for the US and UK, as free nations, to stand and stick together.”

On the situation in North Korea, Mr. Blair warned, “This is going to have the be managed to a place of stability. We need China and American to stick together. It seems so crazy and seems so out of normal. These are the hardest things to deal with and a tough choice either way. These rogue states require us to be strong and staunch.” Mr. Blair mentioned leading the UK’s military action against Sierra Leone and other countries. He stands by his beliefs that it is the responsibility of governments to stand up to extremists. “It is uncertain what will happen if they stay in power and what would happen when they are no longer in power. With a nod to the United States he said, “There are few counties who are able and capable to lead the free world.”

Mr. Blair clearly had no patience for the United Nations intervention. He said, “My old agenda was entirely domestic before Serra Leone. A group of gangsters toppled the democratic government. If we were to wait for the UN we would be waiting for a very long time. I decided to send in British troops. I am currently working with my charity to help Sierra Leoneget on their feet.” He returned to the conflict in Sierra Leone a number of times during the discussion.

Tony Blair and Dr. Nate Adams at 2013 Judson University World Leaders Forum

During the evening, Blair talked about the tough choices he had to make including involvement in foreign government and toppling extremist leaders. He noted the hardest part was not getting rid of the dictator but what comes afterward. He believes the world is a better place with Sadam Hussein out of power citing the half million Kurdish people who died during his reign. He showed distain for politicians who pander to their party. The audience gave a round of applause when Mr. Blair declared, “I believe it is an elected official’s responsibility to their country to do what you believe is right.”

Dr. Adams asked Mr. Blair to describe working with Presidents Clinton and Bush during his three terms as Prime Minister. He called Clinton his “political soul mate” and Bush a close political ally who’s countries were pushed together due to war. While there was a serious tone to the evening, the Q&A lead to several humorous stories.

Blair told of a diplomacy lesson Clinton taught him. “When we go to these big international summits, often held in far off islands, the locals like us to wear an item of local clothing. At one of these summits, I returned to my room to find four shirts laid out on the bed. The first was hideous and the rest got progressively worse. I chose the first one and wore it to the event. Bill Clinton however was wearing the worst of the four. I said to Bill, “Why are you wearing that horrible shirt?” Bill said, “When the American people see me they will say, ‘How nice of him to wear a local item.’ When they see you they will just think you have bad taste.”

There were stories of President George W. Bush, keynote speaker at the Judson 2011 World Leaders Forum. At a Camp David press conference, President Bush was asked “Do you share anything with Mr. Blair?” Bush quipped, “Yes, we share the same tooth paste.” President Bush and Mr. Blair worked closely together on foreign affairs, particularly the Afghanistan invasion. “I have a rapport with President Bush. The public is more agreeable while parties are more political. When this happens, things get less civil. Constituencies are one stripe or another. I watch for leaders who stand up to their party base and believe if elected they are there to represent all the people, not just their party.”

When asked what advice he might offer to President Obama, Mr. Blair was candid on the challenges of leadership. “The greatest problem is there is no training for this job. After a year in government, I would tell people I’m still learning. Once you win reelection, you know what’s going on. Your time is limited and there are certain key things you can and cannot do. You can’t do 100 things but maybe can do four. Now you have confidence, your time is short, and you are thinking “What can I get done to shape my country?”

He remarked about the growing chasm between the wealthy few and the masses. Mr. Blair voiced his explicit opinion noting the changes in the world in since his youth. “In my view, the key is education. For countries and society, we need to adapt throughout our life. (In my neighborhood) when I was growing up everyone was white, Christian and you had one job all your life. Now we have many jobs during our careers. There is a need for education, to adapt and adjust all through your life. In my country, despite reforms, we need to drive down to the root of our society. We have to give our children a good education.”

Tony Blair takes the stage at Judson World Leaders Forum

Of course there was a question about Blair’s relationship with Queen Elizabeth II. When asked about his rumored anti-monarchy stance and if the movie “The Queen” won him over, Mr. Blair shed insight into their partnership. He said, “The movie came out when I was Prime Minister on the day of my weekly audience with the Queen. It is held in a lovely room in Buckingham Palace. The Queen starts out the meeting by saying, ‘I hear there is a film about me and you. I want you to know I shan’t be watching it. Will you?’ I replied ‘No.’ As a loyal royal subject, I haven’t.”

Faith did not play a key role during Mr. Blair’s youth. It was not until his college years in Edinburgh that religion became an integral part of his daily life. Since then, his faith has been a strong element in his world. During the evening he mentioned his faith and travels to the Holy Lands which he called “a fascinating, wonderful place.” Highlighting Isreal, West Bank, Galilee and the Jerusalem Jesus Trail, Mr. Blair talked of relaunching the peace process and developing tourism in the area. He declared there are no security problems in Gaza. On the banks of the River Jordan there are baptismal sites and churches. While the “politics may be terrible, the weather is beautiful and people are great.”

Asked to acknowledge highlights of his three consecutive terms as Prime Minister, he referenced his two proudest moments. The first was the 1998 Good Friday peace agreement between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland signed in Belfast. He mentioned this several achievement times during the night. The second accomplishment was winning the 2012 Olympic bid. He declared, “My most insincere answer at a press conference was when I was asked, ‘Does the fact you beat out theFrench make the victory (Olympic bid) any sweeter?” I answered, ‘Absolutely not.'”

Since leaving Downing Street, Mr. Blair has been active in worldwide efforts to bring people of all cultures and religions together. He worked with the Palestinians to establish statehood and peace in the region. 2008 saw the launch of the Tony Blair Faith Foundation to “show love of Christ. We built the foundation to show people of various religions better relations between them and promote the idea of faith as a force for good. The media reports when faith causes problems. I see examples where it benefits us. It is not complicated. What is really important is to go out and show the world what faith can really do. Important to do it and with pride. The goal of the foundation is to counter extremists in all religions and to use faith as a way to unify people rather than divide through distortion to fan the flames of hatred and extremism. The Tony Blair Faith Foundation is a response to these opportunities and challenges. We educate, inform and develop understanding among the world’s major religious traditions.”

Established in 1913, Judson University isan evangelical Christian college located in Elgin, Illinois next to the Fox River and near Interstate 90. With over 1,200 students and 60 majors from Management and Leadership to Architecture. This is the university’s Golden Centennial Anniversary, commemorating 50 years since the college’s relocation to Elgin in 1963.

Judson’s World Leaders Forum began in 2011 to “ignite a flame of leadership” for attendees. The program is also a fund raiser for the Judson Student Scholarship Fund. Mikhail S. Gorbachev, 1990 Nobel Peace Prize Recipient and Former President of the Soviet Union was the 2012 keynote speaker. In addition to the community event open to the general public, a VIP private reception and networking event was held. For information contact Jessica Bunn, World Leaders Forum Coordinator.

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Wine, hors d’oeuvres and chocolates paired with dance music. Volunteers sold raffle tickets for flowers and gift baskets. Generous sponsors included Studio 2013, Intrigue Fitness, Locker’s Flowers, Anderson’s Candy Shop, Blooms and Rooms, C You at the Movies and Black Orchid Boutique.

Chaired by Mary Margaret Maule, the fabulous committee included Jill Kaman, Jennifer Dallas, Jeanne Browning, Kathy Sierminski and Cindy Kottke.

Attendees at Little Black Dress For CASA McHenry 2013

CASA’s of McHenry County‘s mission is “Giving a Voice to Abused and Neglected Children in McHenry County.”

To learn more about the 2013 Little Black Dress event and see pictures from the 2013 event, visit McHenry County CASA Little Black Dress on Facebook.

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While we enjoy movies, the backlist in our Netflix queue currently holds our attention. This year we saw “The Hobbit” and “Skyfall” in the theaters, mostly due to invitations from our adult kids. Both Dann and Raymond said Adele’s song “Skyfall” will mostly likely win the Oscar for the Best Original Sound category.

Dann and Raymond offered their personal predictions for all the Oscar categories and their reasoning for each pick. I was surprised how often they agreed on their choices. We viewed several film clips which illustrated their points.

Ray’s favorite movie this year is “Moonrise Kingdom” and Dann’s favorite is “Zero Dark Thirty.”

During their presentation, I noted their best guesses for winners. I’ll be comparing their predictions with the actual winners this weekend.

Best Picture: They both agreed on “Argo.”

Dann and Raymond are regulars at the Schaumburg and Arlington Heights Libraries. Come out to see one of their film programs and enjoy the banter between these two experts.

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Picking up the hula hoop at my first class I realized this was not the same  type of toy hoop we used in grade school. The colorful hula hoops used in these workshops are larger and heavier in weight. Linda told us these adult sized hoops are for adult size bodies. The larger and heavier hoops are easier to keep in motion.

During our one hour hula hoop class we learned to swing the hoop around our hips both clockwise and counterclockwise. We did this with both a side to side then a forward and back technique. Next we learned how to walk forward while keeping the hoop in motion. We practiced three ways to do turns while the hoop continued to spin around our waist. We even attempted a trick transferring a spinning hope from one hand to the other.

Owner Linda Costoff shows one of the Hula Hoops at Intrigue Fitness

Hula hooping is a great cardio workout and works the mid section of the body. Click on the video below to see Linda Costoff demonstrating basic and advanced hula hoop tricks.

Linda also taught our 90 minute pole dancing workshop which began with stretching exercises focusing on the core. Next we moved on to strengthening exercises including push ups and pull-ups targeting the upper body. During the session, my fellow classmates and I learned a simple mat and pole routine.

Classes sizes are small with eight poles in the studio. The room is softly lit and there are no mirrors. It is a comfortable environment where women of all levels can participate and have fun.

Students can try pole dancing workshops to learn more. These workshops are popular for private events and bachelorette parties. Classes generally run eight weeks and students advance at their own speed.

Linda began pole dancing about two years ago and at the end of class she showed us a routine she is working on. This included inversions and advanced tricks. She used both static and spinning poles for these moves.

A variety of fitness sessions are available at Intrigue Fitness. Mind body sessions include tai chi and three types of yoga classes are held during the week. Try Latin dancing infused Zumba and Hip Hop dance classes. Small group and individual personal training sessions are available.

At Intrigue Fitness, instructors remember students names and ask about injuries or restrictions. They show modifications and adapt to enable all fitness levels to participate. They even give you tips on how to wash your workout clothes.I am including the site for you https://www.odorklenz.com/product/sport-detergent-for-workout-clothes/.

Intrigue Fitness is for those who enjoy small group environments and personal service. It is not for those who are looking for expanded services big box gyms offer like child care, swimming pools, lockers and showers. There are no treadmills, elliptically or rowing machines at the studio.

Payment is per class, punch card or monthly dues. The studio is located 9115 Trinity Drive in Lake in the Hills, Illinois 60156. Phone (224) 678-9943 or email intriguefitness@yahoo.com
on the web http://www.intrigue-fitness.com

Fitness Center · Yoga & Pilates · Personal Trainer
9115 Trinity Drive, Lake in the Hills, IL.
Follow Intrigue Fitness on Facebook at  http://www.facebook.com/IntrigueFitness

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Hostels have long been around, of course, at least in Europe, but those were youth hostels. These are hostels for backpackers, and “flashpackers,” too, their more upscale urban cousins. There’s a world of difference. Now Internet is a standard feature, computers available for free or for rent, and many a flashpacker with smartphone or laptop. It’s not just Europe now, either, or just youth. It includes the whole world, and it’s a way of life. If it’s a cool place to visit, then there will probably be a hostel there by now, staffed by local people, all with at least a working knowledge of the English language. You can easily organize a trip and stay in budget hostels the whole way the whole time now. This book will help. It will also tell you the brief history and major attractions of each place, too, in addition to some basic “how-to” for newbies.

And that’s just Western Europe. Eastern Europe is the most exciting destination to open up for independent travel in decades. The food is tasty, the people are friendly, and the variety is breathtaking. At first glance Poland and the Czech Republic may seem like extensions of their Western neighbors, but they are extensions that were frozen in time for fifty years before the Iron Curtain finally fell some twenty years ago. Communism did nothing if not stop the clock; and what you find now are perfect specimens of old Europe, the one with the stunning landscapes and the picturesque city centers. Places like Russia and Romania are something else entirely, of course, and exotic Turkey is one of the most popular destinations in the world. Best of all, prices are cheaper than in the West, AND… very few require expensive time-consuming visas now. And yes; there are hostels, lots of them, the best among them now documented and catalogued for your convenience. “BACKPACKERS & FLASHPACKERS, 500 HOSTELS IN 100 CITIES IN 25 COUNTRIES OF EASTERN EUROPE” is due to be published in January 2013.

And that’s not all. Already in the works are hostel guides to Asia and Oceania, i.e. Australia, New Zealand, and the islands of the South Pacific, both with the same “500 Hostels” concept, with some important differences peculiar to the regions. And if there were surprises and revelations in the two European editions, then there are even more in the two Far East editions. The hostel concept was originally a European one, after all, and with the exception of Australia and New Zealand, there is none of that really to be had in the Asia/Pacific region. But there are hostels, I can assure you, and ‘real’ ones, too. And yes, the ‘flashpacker’ upgrade is also in effect over there, no matter how difficult the task for an easterner to fathom the minds of the young hip American or European. It’s mind-boggling. Those two books are due to be published in Spring 2013.

Did you ever wish there were a travel guide that included only the hip cool artsy fun places in a given region or country and didn’t bother so much with those cold gray cities best known for their output of coal, steel and industrial pollution? These books facilitate that. One of the happy offshoots of this series, indeed, is that now there is a quantitative standard to decide how “cool” a place is—and therefore maybe worth visiting, at least maybe more than some others, and maybe even hanging around for a while. Just count the number of hostels. As it has been up until now, you could read a 500-page guidebook, and still not necessarily have a good feel as to which places were “hip,” genial, sympa, anything but a boring, hurly-burly generic city, cold but not cool. Now you do, because hostels are nothing if not cool. C U there.

Follow Hardie Karges Backpackers and Flashpackers blog.

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Stephanie discovered her creative and artistic abilities through the inspiration of an incredible glass artist. She found several outstanding teachers to guide her into the processes of glass fusing. It was by applying what she had been taught and working with the media on her own that she has become proficient at the art of designing and creating glass jewelry. She has since become a skilled and passionate jewelry designer and glass artist. Her joy is in bringing the glass to life with the dramatic color combinations and elegant designs she creates. Much of her work is inspired by the colors of the ocean and her love of Hawaii.

For the past 10 years Stephanie has worked as a full time artist. Initially, she worked from her studio in the Phoenix Arizona area where she created and sold her fused dichroic glass and silver jewelry. In August 2008 she returned to the area where she was born in McHenry County near Chicago, Illinois. Stephanie continues to expand her art business through participating in numerous art fairs in the Midwest and most recently in Florida. Stephanie is known for creating the Satori Heart Collection and donates $1 from the sale of each heart to the Children’s Heart Foundation.

Archeological evidence indicates that glass fusing can be traced back to the Egyptians (2000BCE).  However some historians now say that the Romans who were prolific glass workers first developed the earliest fusing techniques. Modern technology has added spectacular color to this ancient art with the development of dichroic glass. Dichroic glass is created when thin layers of non-conducting metallic oxides are applied to conventional glass and processed in a high temperature vacuum furnace. Most pieces are a combination of dichroic, transparent and opaque glass.

Although much more sophisticated, the process of glass fusing remains basically the same as it did in ancient Egypt and Rome. The glass is cut and layered. The layers are then fused together in a kiln at temperatures that can exceed 1500°F. Once the glass has cooled it is removed from the kiln and shaped into the desired design using diamond grinders and saws. The piece is then returned to the kiln to be fire polished at a slightly lower temperature than the original fusing. To achieve the optimum look many pieces go through this process three to four times. Fire polishing is done to give the glass pieces an elegantly smooth and finished look.

Due to the nature of the glass, the fusing and finishing processes, each piece becomes a unique jewel reflecting its luminescent colors in the light. Finished pieces are then embellished with sterling or fine silver, semi precious stones or crystals  becoming pendants, bracelets, earrings, hair adornments, rings and more. Satori Fire Glass jewelry is designed to be worn with the most casual to formal attire.

Follow Satori Fire Glass on Facebook.

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