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Building a strong and connected community

Illinois Extension building a strong and connected community

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As we move forward in 2024, let our hands continue to sow the seeds of knowledge and our hearts beat in unison, fostering a sense of belonging and connectedness. Together, we'll continue to shape a future where individuals and families in Carroll, Lee, and Whiteside Counties thrive.

Announcements and Highlights

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Summer Youth Programs

Learn, do and have fun this summer! Youth program topics include forensic science, nature exploration, sewing, gardening, cooking, dance and animal care workshops. Check back for new classes as the summer progresses.

Find a Session

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Gardeners Corner

Get advice and inspiration to make your garden, landscape or houseplants shine in any season. Subscribe to Gardeners Corner, a quarterly newsletter from the Illinois Extension team of horticulture experts.

Subscribe

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Illinois Extension at the Dixon City Market

Join Illinois Extension staff at the Dixon City Market each Wednesday evening this summer to learn something new, explore useful resources, or do a kid’s activity.

Learn More

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2024 4-H Shows

Come see the amazing work of 4-H youth at the Carroll, Lee and Whiteside 4-H Shows! The public is welcome. See animals and creative displays in many subject areas, including art, horticulture, foods, science and much more!

4-H Show Info

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Whiteside 4-H Federation Pork Chop BBQ

Join us for a fresh-grilled BBQ meal and help support the work 4-H Federation does in our communities. Order your meals today (payment by credit card) with the link below. Pre-sales continue through July 7.

Order Meals

Wits Fitness Brain Health

Enjoy fun, interactive activities crafted to stimulate the brain and enhance cognitive function and memory for adults of all ages. Classes are held at locations throughout Carroll, Lee and Whiteside Counties.

Dates & Locations

Events
News Releases
kids dancing in a gym
Get Up and Dance! Exploring creative outlets for movement
DIXON, Ill. - Looking for a fun, approachable way to incorporate movement into daily life? Get Up and Dance! Youth ages 8-14 will learn basic dance skills through games and activities that will help increase physical activity, promote a healthy lifestyle, and decrease potential...
blue and orange background, with photo of a pressure canner lid and dial
Learn how to pressure can green beans
If you find yourself with a bumper crop of green beans, consider preserving them and enjoying them throughout the coming year. Green beans can be dehydrated, frozen, pickled, or canned for long-term storage. If you are planning on canning your green beans, they, like most...
Person outside in the hot sun gardening while wiping forehead of sweat.
Recognizing heat-related warning signs for gardeners and landscapers
URBANA, Ill. — Landscaping and gardening are great physical exercises, and studies show they are good for emotional well-being. But those working outside must remain aware of the dangers associated with heat stress on their bodies. “When I was working as a landscaper, we had to sod a...

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