News Releases

Older adults smiling together at a library table
Boost your brainpower with Wits Workout at the Eureka Public Library
Eureka, Ill. – In 2025, University of Illinois Extension is launching a monthly program at the Eureka Public Library aimed at supporting brain health and social connection among older adults. The Wits Workout series, developed by University of Illinois Extension specialists,...
Person holding a drawing of a smiley face
Stress Less, Smile More at the 2025 Diabetes Clinics
EUREKA, IL. – Mindfulness is a wonderful addition to your self-care routine. In this session, we'll introduce you to the concept of mindfulness and share simple techniques to help you reduce stress and find calm in your daily life. You'll have the opportunity to create your very own...
Pale coneflower
Enhance your container garden with the Rooted in Nature workshop
Native plants offer a variety of benefits for our gardens—from supporting the local ecosystem to thriving in the regional climate and providing essential food and habitat for wildlife and beneficial insects. While many gardeners have already begun incorporating these natural beauties into their...
Public Health
Jenna Smith named 2025 winner of McLean County Public Health Award
 Bloomington, IL – Jenna Smith, a Nutrition and Wellness Educator at the U of I Extension Office in Bloomington, has been named the winner of the 2025 McLean County Public Health Award. Smith was presented with the award on April 9th at an awards ceremony at McLean County Health...
Girl dissecting an owl pellet
Owls of Illinois programming continues to grow
Livingston County is home to small towns with strong community ties, as well as hidden treasures owned by the Prairie Lands Foundation. The University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalists, in partnership with the Prairie Lands Foundation, strives to help the community experience the beauty...
Understanding poverty through immersive simulation
PONTIAC, Ill. – According to data from the United States Census Bureau, 11.1% of the population in Livingston County is living in poverty. Poverty is not just a concept—it’s a daily reality for many. True understanding requires more than empathy; it demands firsthand experience....
total lunar eclipse
Marvel the total lunar eclipse with Star Lab
Bloomington, Ill. – A total lunar eclipse is a spectacular celestial event that occurs every few years. During a lunar eclipse, the sun, Earth, and moon are aligned, and the Earth prevents the sun’s light from reaching the moon. As a result, the moon takes on a reddish hue. To get excited for...
A person leaning over to use garden snips to cut off a section of the houseplant for propagation.
From one to many: A beginner's guide to plant propagation
URBANA, Ill. — Many indoor gardeners quickly discover that one houseplant is rarely enough. What begins as an admiration for a charming or unique plant often evolves into a strong desire, or even a need, to fill every corner of a home or office with lush greenery. A simple and cost-effective way...
Rainboots surrounded by flowers and gardening tools
Dig into learning at a day in the garden patch
PONTIAC, Ill. – Gardening can be a great way to connect with nature, reduce stress, and cultivate a sense of accomplishment in your own backyard. There’s something uniquely fulfilling about watching plants grow, whether it’s for the beautification of a space, growing your own food, or simply...