Our New Year's determination and resolutions to eat better, lose weight, and exercise more have gone by the wayside, said a University of Illinois Extension horticulture educator.

"Being cooped up indoors doesn't help either," added Martha Smith. "We look out the window at our sleeping gardens, planning for the coming season as we munch on carb after sugary carb."

But there is hope. There is an activity that can provide exercise and cardio training and improve our flexibility. It builds muscle and helps prevent osteoporosis. It also helps relieve stress and provides our families with nutritious fresh food. All of this without leaving home and fighting for the stairmaster at a crowded gym.

The Southeastern Illinois Beekeepers Association, in conjunction with The Illinois State Beekeepers Association, would like to invite area beekeepers and enthusiasts to get together and discuss beekeeping.

Uniting with others will provide an excellent opportunity to share stories, knowledge, and a few laughs while talking about issues currently affecting honeybees and honey production.  A meeting will be held at the Wabash County Extension Office of Mt. Carmel, on Saturday, March 23.  The meeting time is 2:00pm.

Agriculture producers in 27 southern Illinois counties have been approved for emergency Conservation Reserve Program  haying and grazing due to the extreme drought. In addition, small businesses, agricultural cooperatives and private non-profit organizations in four of his counties are eligible for federal economic injury disaster loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration.

The CRP haying authorization from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will become effective August 2, after the wildlife nesting and brood rearing season in Illinois, and will end August 31. Emergency grazing is to be allowed between August 2 and September 30.

“Those who raise crops and livestock have been devastated by this incredible heat wave and lack of rain,” said Congressman John Shimkus. “These emergency measures may help them avoid selling at a loss.”

Before haying or grazing, CRP participants must request approval at their county Farm Service Agency office, where more details are available.