Registration deadline for motorists is here

Passenger car owners who have license plates expiring in February can purchase renewal stickers at www.cyberdriveillinois.com, by using the “Touch Tone Renewal” system or by visiting the nearest Driver Services facility. B-truck owners also can purchase new-design plates at the same Web site.

New-design plates were issued for all passenger vehicles in the state, and new plates were issued to B-truck and vehicles in other categories. Anyone driving a vehicle on or after March 1 with an expired 2003 sticker will be subject to a $75 fine.

Chamber of commerce supports referendum

The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce voted to issue a resolution in support of the referendum at its last meeting held on Feb. 19. The $39.8 million resolution will appear on the April 1 ballot.

State treasurer announces scholarship program

Judy Baar Topinka, Illinois State treasurer, is now accepting applications for the second annual Excellence in Agriculture Scholarship Program.

The scholarship pertains to senior high school students who plan to enroll in agriculture-related studies. This agriculture-education initiative offers five scholarships of $2,500. Scholarship funds may be used toward the recipient’s tuition, books and room and board.

For eligibility, applicants must be a resident in Illinois and have a GPA of at least 2.5 during their senior year of high school. They also must be accepted for enrollment at an accredited college, university or community college by May 15.

Applicants also must submit a 250-word essay identifying the reason(s) why they want to pursue a career in agriculture, two reference letters that demonstrate the applicant’s character, a list of potential or extra-curricular activities that demonstrate a significant contribution to society and a list of goals and future plans.

Applications may be obtained by calling the Illinois State Treasurer’s office at (217) 557-6436. Completed applications must be postmarked before or on April 15. They must be mailed to Agriculture Programs Division, 1 West Old State Capitol Plaza, Suite 814, Springfield, Ill. 62701.

Breakfast to benefit youth activities in community

Knights of Columbus Council No. 717 DeKalb and Girl Scout Troop 651 will host a Youth Breakfast on Sunday, March 9.

The proceeds from the breakfast will go to youth activities in the community.

The cost for the breakfast will be accepted as a donation: $4 for adults and $2 for children. The breakfast will take place at 8 to 11 a.m. March 9 at Knights of Columbus Hall, 1336 E. Lincoln Highway.

Illinois school districts receive grants

Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White announced last week that 1.9 million students will benefit from grants awarded to 772 Illinois school districts under the Secretary of State’s Public School Library Program.

About 1.4 million will be awarded statewide based upon a statutory pro-rated formula. DeKalb will receive $3,932.55.