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Events and News

Penning Your Past

Have you thought about writing your own life story? Your memories, traditions, experiences, and lessons are part of a story worth preserving and sharing with future generations for years ahead.

Join Extension to preserve your story at Golconda Public Library on November 7.

Harrisburg Library District Hosts Penning you Past

Why Write Your Stories?
• Deepen Connections: Help family and friends know you better.
• Preserve a Legacy: Give future generations more than names and dates.
• Honor Everyday Life: Ordinary moments often become the details loved and remembered most.

Preserve your personal history on Nov. 14 at the Harrisburg District Library at 10:30

Dixon Springs Agricultural Center

The Dixon Springs Agricultural Center was established in 1934 near Simpson in Pope County. It is the largest experiment station of its kind east of the Mississippi River. DSAC links the laboratories and classrooms of University of Illinois and the USDA with the farms in Southern Illinois. Researchers at DSAC coordinate their programs to meet the needs of area farmers.

Learn more about ongoing Ag research in Southern Illinois on the Dixon Spring Ag Center webpage.

Dixon Springs Agricultural Center

Events

IL 4-H Building Brick Build Challenge - November

November 1, 2026 - November 30, 2026

Beyond the Stigma: Conversations and Care in the Opioid Crisis

November 4, 2026

Open Meetings Act

November 5, 2026

Trash Blast - Iron Furnace

November 6, 2026

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Johnson

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Alexander

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News Releases

A sign welcoming guests to independent grocer summit.

October 15, 2026

Independent Grocer Summit helps local businesses maximize profitability
CARTERVILLE, Ill. — With the rise of big-box stores and rising operational costs, small-town businesses are becoming scarcer. Yet independent grocers play a vital role in local economies, especially within rural communities or food deserts. The second annual Independent Grocer Summit...

October 14, 2026

Hunters Feeding Illinois returns for the 2026-27 hunting season
URBANA, Ill. – A popular program returns for its fifth season to help feed neighbors in need. Hunters Feeding Illinois connects hunters, meat processors, and food pantries to bring lean protein to local residents and families, providing a unique pathway to address and improve food insecurity....

three 4-H members aiming air rifles at targets

October 13, 2026

Illinois 4-H'ers excel in 2026 state shooting sports competitions
URBANA, Ill. — A total of 167 Illinois 4-H youth recently showcased their marksmanship skills in statewide competitions across the shooting sports disciplines of rifle, archery, pistol, and shotgun. These events serve as culminating experiences where participants can measure the progress they...

Cans stacked decoratively at the food drive booth.

October 8, 2026

Youth-led initiative creates local action, statewide change
Springfield, Ill. – Illinois 4-H youth across the state came together to make a difference in their communities through the annual Illinois 4-H Can Make a Difference Food Drive, held Aug. 14-...

A person working to repot plants while looking up something on a tablet.

October 7, 2026

Repot that plant while tuning in to Extension’s Gardening in the Air virtual gardening sessions
URBANA, Ill. — Repotting that houseplant has been on your to-do list, so add in some background gardening talk to set the tone for a fall Saturday. Join Extension on Oct. 24 for the Gardening in the Air virtual symposium. Tune in to the presentations from indoors, outdoors, or while...

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