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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…
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.…
Recycle pumpkin season with a smash at Illinois Extension composting events

URBANA, Ill. — Like the changing of the leaves, fall can seem fleeting. Enjoy seasonal vibes — until the porch pumpkins start to decay. When that happens, where do the pumpkins go?

“Many do not realize that a thrown-away pumpkin does not break down and disappear on its own without leaving…
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Don't forget safety as you head to parks and camps
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Camping remains one of the best ways to get away from daily routines while practicing social distancing. Portable generators offer some comforts of home, whether your camping adventure includes tents or recreational vehicles. ...
Lawn rust and why your shoes are turning orange
URBANA, Ill. – The first hint of lawn rust often comes from the bottom of shoes, says Chris Enroth, University of Illinois Extension horticulture educator. Homeowners may notice some slight discoloration of the lawn, but nothing too...
The sun shining through rows of growing corn in a field.
Corn fields add to muggy, humid Midwestern temps
URBANA, Ill. – It’s not just the heat; it’s the humidity and corn sweat that makes muggy Midwestern summers feel even hotter.In agricultural states, such as Illinois, large-scale fields of corn releasing water through their leaves boost humidity levels,...
Learn what motivates public service employees
URBANA, Ill. – Understanding what motivates public service employees may influence how community leaders recruit, train, retain, and inspire staff to elevate performance, retention, and morale while reducing human resource costs. ...
For showy blooms, pruning hydrangeas is all about the timing
URBANA, Ill. - Hydrangeas are popular shrubs grown for their impressive blooms. Their foliage can also be attractive, particularly oakleaf hydrangeas. "Pruning hydrangeas can be confusing because each species should be pruned at a different time of the year," says...
Local governments have until July 17 to apply for COVID funds
Since March, communities across Illinois have been devastated by the impact of COVID-19. A May 2020 report by the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability estimates that local government revenues are down by $1.3 billion over last year. The Pritzker administration has worked over...
Stay safe in pools and hot tubs
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Water is a powerful conductor of electricity. It is especially important to be aware of electrical hazards around water. As temperatures soar this week, University of Illinois Extension provides these safety tips for pools and hot tubs. ...
Reduce your risk of diabetes with proper nutrition
URBANA, Ill. – More than one in three adults have prediabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control, and many don’t know it. People with prediabetes have higher than normal blood glucose levels, which raise the risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as type 2 diabetes. ...
Illinois Master Gardeners announce new volunteer website
URBANA, Ill. – University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners donated 189,392 hours across the state in 2019, answering questions, leading programs, and volunteering at community garden projects. These 2,719 garden enthusiasts of all ages volunteer at local Illinois Extension offices to...

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