News Releases

Stephenson County Sparks Adventure During National 4-H Week
Freeport, ILL [September 28, 2021]—It’s time to show your green clover pride as National 4-H Week is celebrated October 3-9, 2021. This year, University of Illinois Extension – Stephenson County 4-H has set some big plans to highlight the program, it’s youth, and...
Winnebago County Sparks Adventure During National 4-H Week
Rockford, ILL [September 29, 2021]—It’s time to show your green clover pride as National 4-H Week is celebrated October 3-9, 2021. This year, University of Illinois Extension – Winnebago County 4-H has set some big plans to highlight the program, it’s youth, and...
Radon, Still an Indoor Issue
When was the last time you tested your home for radon?  What changes might have increased your exposure risks over the last few years?  Join University of Illinois Extension Energy and Environmental Stewardship Educator Jay Solomon to learn more about the dangers and management of...
Local Youth Compete in Master Showmanship Contest
It was a nail-biting showdown in the shavings-filled swine ring at the Stephenson County Fair on Saturday, July 31 as ten 4-H youth battled for the title of Stephenson County Master Showman. This highly competitive contest is organized by the Stephenson County...
Stephenson County 4-H Announces Top Award Winners
Youth in Stephenson County exhibited 4-H projects throughout the summer starting in late June all the way through August 1. University of Illinois Extension 4-H Program Coordinator Brenda Heimann informs, “Youth had the opportunity to have their projects judged in-person this...
Healthy Behaviors for a Healthy Immune System
We want to do all we can to protect ourselves and our loved ones from getting sick. While no one food or healthy lifestyle behavior can prevent illness, you can help boost your immunity with a healthy balance of nutrient-rich foods, adequate sleep, physical activity, and managed stress. ...
Forage Council Sets Hay Auction Dates
The Northwestern Illinois Forage and Grassland Council has announced dates for their upcoming hay and straw auctions to be held in Orangeville, Illinois. The Council has sponsored these auctions for over 25 years.   The first auction will be Saturday, October 9 starting at...
Valerie Brudi inducted into Illinois 4-H Hall of Fame
Elizabeth, ILL [September 8, 2021]—Valerie Brudi, a club leader in Jo Daviess County, was recently named to the Illinois 4-H Hall of Fame for her leadership and mentoring role as a volunteer. The Hall of Fame honors volunteers and former staff members for their dedication to the University of...
Neva Ramos Inducted into Illinois 4-H Hall of Fame
Rockford, ILL [September 8, 2021]—Neva Ramos, club leader of the Machesney Pilots 4-H club in Winnebago County, was recently named to the Illinois 4-H Hall of Fame for her leadership and mentoring role as a volunteer. The Hall of Fame honors volunteers and former staff members for their...
Kristi Krahmer inducted into Illinois 4-H Hall of Fame
Freeport, ILL [September 7, 2021]—Kristi Krahmer, co-club leader of the Lena Lucky Clovers 4-H, was recently named to the Illinois 4-H Hall of Fame for her leadership and mentoring role as a volunteer. The Hall of Fame honors volunteers and former staff members for their dedication to the...
Donate Your Extra Garden Produce; Help Your Community Eat Fresh
ROCKFORD, ILL [August 6, 2021]—The garden harvest season has begun, and along with that, so has the “Plant A Row for the Hungry” initiative. Local gardeners can donate excess fruits and vegetables at drop-off sites throughout Winnebago County. University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners...
Falling into the Autumn Vegetable Garden
Join Grant McCarty, Local Foods and Small Farms Educator on Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at 12 p.m. for this virtual program. You must pre-register by September 21 to receive the Zoom link to join the program. The program is being offered free of charge but donations to help offset the cost of...
You've Got Your Bounty From the Garden; Now What Do You Do With It?
Freeport, ILL [August 6, 2021]—All of your passion, sweat and hard work has paid off this summer. Your garden is overflowing, and now it’s time to harvest! If you are like most gardeners, you have more produce than you can eat before it spoils. You may even be asking yourself, ‘What can I do...
Youth Learn the Importance of Fiber-rich Foods during Whole Grains Month
University of Illinois Extension has put together fun, interactive educational kits designed to inspire the inner chef to celebrate National Whole Grains Month this September. Whole grains are an important part of a healthy and well-balanced diet. They provide fiber and many key...
Harvesting a Rainbow of Tomatoes
Loving seeing those beautiful red, yellow, and green colors? Well, you’re in luck – we are fast approaching tomato season! Whether you enjoy fried green tomatoes or waiting for them to turn that beautiful deep red color if you love tomatoes, check out the University of Illinois Extension’s...
Geothermal systems bring smaller footprint to scalable, renewable energy
URBANA, Ill. – As Illinois advances towards its goal of converting all energy systems to 100% renewable energy by 2050, it recognizes that other energy sources besides solar and wind are necessary to reach the state’s future demands. Geothermal energy could be the key to replacing...
Extension holding USDA training for local school nutritional professionals
According to the School Nutrition Association, the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) is the country's second-largest food and nutrition assistance program. During the 2019 school year, the NSLP served 4.8 billion lunches to children nationwide. With the vast number of students receiving...
Winnebago County 4-H Bass Fishing SPIN Club was a great success!
Area youth participated in University of Illinois Extension’s 4-H Bass Fishing Club during the week of June 7-11, 2021 at the ICF Torstenson Property in Pecatonica, Illinois.  The club was co-led by 4-H Youth Leadership Team member Myles Nelson and adult 4-H volunteer Tony Grotto. ...