Health

June 9, 2003

URBANA—The “hits” just keep on coming for University of Illinois Extension’s Urban Programs Resource Network web site. In May, the site containing a variety of pages on topics ranging from school curriculums to lawn and garden care to financial management received more than 2.9 million hits.

“A ‘hit’ represents a single page viewed on our website,” explained Jane Scherer, U of I Extension urban programs specialist. “Usage in May 2003 was 61 percent higher than in May 2002 and represents our greatest usage in any month to date.”

June 5, 2003

Urbana - In Russia, scientists have found anthrax bacteria that are close to 100 years old still lurking in the soil. In its spore state, anthrax bacteria are tough, resilient creatures. This is why they have also become one of the most feared biological weapons today, said Benito Mariñas, University of Illinois professor of civil and environmental engineering.

June 5, 2003

Before you pack up your fun-in-the-sun supplies and hit Indiana’s Lake Michigan beaches this summer, you might want to hit the Internet first. A new Web site can tell you whether any of these beaches are closed due to E.coli contamination.

“Last year, Indiana beaches were closed nearly 20 times over the course of the summer,” said Leslie Dorworth, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant aquatic ecology specialist.

May 29, 2003

Energy use and costs are greatest in the hot, summer months when air conditioning use peaks. The Illinois Electric Council suggests taking measures now so your home can better weather the summer sun, heat and humidity.

“There are a number of measures, small and large, that can make a big difference in comfort and electric bills, “ says Molly Hall, Illinois Electric Council Executive Director. “Most steps can pay for themselves relatively quickly. For example, weather stripping and caulking are inexpensive ways to boost efficiency and cut energy costs.”

May 12, 2003

Busy grooms- and brides-to-be probably think they've considered every possible detail to make their wedding day perfect. There's one thing they may have overlooked.

"Weddings are often uncomfortable occasions for gay and lesbian friends and family. They know their relationships will never be celebrated in the same way, and it hurts," said Ramona Oswald, an expert in family studies at the University of Illinois.