Hey, seniors: Turn words into money
Heads up, high school seniors: here's your chance to turn 500 words into 500 bucks to put toward college.
The Illinois Municipal Utilities Association is now accepting essays for its 2008 college scholarship contest.
Seniors have until March 7 to submit applications and essays of up to 500 words on one of four utility-related topics. Three finalists announced later that month will receive $500 scholarships.
"Since its inception in 2000, this has been a very successful program for IMUA and its members," the association's general manager and chief executive officer, Ronald D. Earl, stated in an announcement.
"In addition to low rates and exceptional customer service, this is another example of how municipally-owned utility systems provide value to their communities," Earl said.
Locally, applicants must receive electric service from the city of St. Charles to be eligible for a scholarship.
Accepted essay topics, as provided by IMUA, are:
• Electricity -- "More communities nationwide are beginning to consider the concept of 'municipalization,' the idea of developing, owning and operating their own electric utility system. How could creation of a public power system benefit a municipality and its residents?"
• Natural gas -- "Rising natural gas prices continue to be a major concern for customers, pipeline companies and distributors alike. What can be done to help minimize these price increases, and what steps can consumers take to help offset the impact?"
• Water -- "In some areas of the country, water is rapidly becoming a scarce resource. What can be done to help ensure an adequate, stable water supply for all customers?"
• Telecommunications -- "Last fall, the governor signed into law Senate Bill 766, which created the High Speed Internet Services and Technology Act. For the first time under Illinois law, this act unambiguously provides the authority for all municipalities in the state to provide broadband services to their cities. How would such a law benefit a community's residents, and why?"
Founded in 1948, the Springfield-based association is a trade group representing nearly 75 Illinois municipalities that operate electric, natural gas, telecommunications, water and wastewater treatment systems.
Call (217) 241-3027 for complete contest guidelines.
Have a ball: The St. Charles North High School Soccer Boosters will raise money for a soccer stadium Feb. 14 during a Valentine's Day dinner and wine-tasting event.
The evening fundraiser will be in the Rainbow Room at Hotel Baker, 100 W. Main St. Tables of four, six and 10 to 12 can be accommodated. There will be a cash bar.
To order tickets, or for further details, call (630) 802-7275 or (630) 377-7476.
Winter play: Speaking of North, tickets are now on sale for the high school's annual winter play, set for Feb. 7 to 9 in the auditorium.
Theater students will present "Moon Over Buffalo" by Ken Ludwig at 7:30 p.m. each night; tickets are $7 for adults, $5 for students, and free for seniors and children.
For more information, call (630) 587-7103.