Visiting an art museum or art related exhibition for the first time can be exciting, overwhelming, and maybe even a little intimidating.  To set yourself up for success, especially when involving youth in the experience we’ve gathered some tips and tricks to make the most of your visit. ...

As we gear up for another exciting year in 4-H, we want to make sure everyone knows what 4-H is all about. Whether you're a curious parent, a young adventurer, or a teen looking for new challenges, Illinois 4-H has something for everyone. So, let's dive into some of the most common questions we get...

The Jasper County soil wasn’t the same color soil as I was used to back at our garden in central Illinois, but it was the homeplace of my beautiful mother and I loved it there. Farming was everyday work with no guarantees, but life was pure, simple, and literally rooted.Grandpa Harris wore bib...

The final school bell rings and sixth grade is over! Colton bolts for the door and into the warm, bright sunshine of summer. He feels a sense of freedom and knows in the very distant future he’s headed to Junior High, but now there are now camps, baseball, a vacation, and a 4-H fair first. His...

Oak Leaf.   Why would the Leaf parents of such a big, strong baby boy name him Oak? That’s seems like a lot of responsibility for a youngster to handle throughout his long life ahead. But Oak was full of potential. Oak knew the future held many uncertainties and challenges, but he...

The positive attitude of the energetic 4-H teens dressed in a neatly pressed green button-down shirts was infectious. There they stood in the State Capital in Springfield, Illinois in the commons area of a State Senator’s office and began a conversation with the receptionist. Within seconds all...