Deployments bring changes, challenges, opportunities
URBANA, Ill. – Military families still experience deployments, though not by the massive numbers they experienced between 2009-2013. Many of these families deal with the effects of injuries or post-traumatic stress disorder.
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As boomer populations retire, communities can foster age-friendly opportunities
URBANA, Ill. – By 2030, AARP estimates one in five people will be 65 or older, with that number growing to 77 million by 2034. Local government and community leaders hoping to attract this large population can...
Heirloom flowers provide fragrance, beauty, pollinator support
URBANA, Ill. Spring brings thoughts of beautiful, colorful, fragrant blooms that brighten landscapes after a long winter.
But while many anticipate the arrival of the first flowers, pollinators, too, are on the lookout. Heirloom flowers provide them...
Flamm Orchards To Host Twilight Meeting On Strawberry Production
SIMPSON, Ill. – The Flamm family of Flamm Orchards are teaming up with University of Illinois Extension to host the first of four twilight meetings at their farm on Monday, May 17, 2021 starting at 6 p.m. University of Illinois Extension Educators, Bronwyn Aly, Nathan Johanning, and Katie...
Opportunity Zones bring tax breaks to investors, develop underserved communities
URBANA, Ill. – Economically-distressed census tracts, designated as Opportunity Zones under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, provide an incentivized avenue for taxpayers to contribute to long-term economic growth in underserved areas.
The state of Illinois designated 327 tracts, the...
Keep yourself, loved ones safe from invisible electrical dangers
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Every year, 1,000 people die, and 30,000 people are injured in electrical accidents. While electricity typically transmits without incident, there are times when the electrical path becomes disrupted. When this happens, the current can flow through anything or anyone in its...
Foundation awards $45,000 in 4-H youth scholarships
URBANA, Ill. – The career achievements of Illinois 4-H members were celebrated at a virtual ceremony April 10 where $45,000 in scholarships were awarded by the Illinois 4-H Foundation...
4-H youth honored for spirit of service, dedication
URBANA, Ill. – The career achievements of Illinois 4-H members were celebrated at a virtual ceremony April 10. Their awards are sponsored by the Illinois 4-H Foundation.
The...
Award honors outstanding youth leadership in ag industry
URBANA, Ill. – The 4-H Sustaining the Future Award was created to recognize 4-H members who have exemplified outstanding leadership in the agricultural industry. The leadership achievements of Illinois 4-H members were...
Farmers Markets and COVID-19 Guidelines for 2021
The 2021 farmers’ market season has already officially begun in some parts of the state. There are still plenty of cool-season vegetables available on the vendor tables, as well as freshly cut spring flowers and lots of herb and vegetable seedlings. Many of our local farmers have had the help of...
2021 Southern Illinois Summer Twilight Series
2021 Southern Illinois Summer Twilight Series
SIMPSON, Ill. - Do you grow and sell fresh products locally? Are you considering diversifying your farming operation? Would you like to get to know your local farmer? Join University of Illinois Extension educators as they...
State 4-H Hippology contest fosters passion for all things equine
URBANA, Ill. -- In 4-H, learning about horses means much more than learning to ride. Young people with a passion for horses participated in recent state educational contests related to the equine industry. 4-H’s educational programs enhance members’ knowledge of horse health, breed...
Illinois Extension Celebrates Volunteerism in Our Communities – April is National Volunteer Month
Did you know that April was first designated as National Volunteer Month in 1991? Thirty years later, this month continues to remind us of the important role volunteers play in all aspects of our lives. With April upon us, let us all take a moment to thank the many volunteers in our community,...