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Extension C C onnections onnections Fall/Winter 2016 Volume 3 Issue 2 Your Connection to University of Illinois Extension Unit 18 Your Connection to University of Illinois Extension Unit 18 (Serving Christian, Jersey, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties) T h i s I s s u e C o m i n g T o Y o u I n 3 - D ! p. 14 p. 14 p. 14 4-H Programs Ignite Imaginations & Bring Innovative Concepts To Life IN THIS ISSUE Dudley Smith Farm Research Study P.6 Oak Wilt: What is it & what can we do? P.8 Healthier Convenience Store Snack Tips. P.10 Youth Creative Cooking Challenges P.17

Volume 3 Issue 2 Connections - University Of Illinoisweb.extension.illinois.edu/cjmm/downloads/67390.pdf · Volume 3 Issue 2 Your Connection to ... Government at 5th Annual Board

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Extension CConnectionsonnections

Fall/Winter 2016

Volume 3 Issue 2

Your Connection to University of Illinois Extension Unit 18Your Connection to University of Illinois Extension Unit 18

(Serving Christian, Jersey, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties)

This Issue Coming To You In 3-D! p. 14p. 14p. 14 4-H Programs Ignite Imaginations

& Bring Innovative Concepts To Life

IN THIS ISSUE

Dudley Smith Farm Research Study P.6

Oak Wilt: What is it & what can we do? P.8

Healthier Convenience Store Snack Tips. P.10

Youth Creative Cooking Challenges P.17

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 2

___________________________________________________________________

Greetings,

Winter is upon us. We at Extension are excited about

all the new faces joining our Unit 18 team. Katie Paulek

is providing assistance in Christian County with

Nutrition and Wellness; Charlotte Schuricht moved counties and is now

leading the Christian County Agriculture Literacy Program; Valerie Belusko

has assumed the responsibilities of Community and Economic Development

Program Coordinator for Montgomery County; Crystal Carpani is the new

SNAP-Ed Community Worker for Montgomery County; and Beth Groves is

leading the Montgomery County Agriculture Literacy Program. We are

currently looking to fill the SNAP-Ed Community Worker for Macoupin and

Jersey Counties. Programming has not changed, we just have new staff

providing the outreach, and are working on new programing to be

delivered in the near future.

Yes, it seems early, but we are already making plans for the summer of

2017. Starting in the spring we will launch our local foods initiative. In all

four counties we hope to get participants willing to learn more about local

foods, and make it a part of their daily routine. Lastly, starting in January of

2017, we will be hosting a public meeting in each of the four counties we

serve to formally gain information on programming needs. It has been

three years since we offered these public meetings, and we are excited to

start the process again.

Best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season.

Sincerely,

Amanda Cole

County Extension Director

IN THIS ISSUE:

Director’s Notes…….……….……...…...…….…..... P.2

Unit 18 News ….………………..…...………...….….. P.3-4

DEPARTMENTS:

Community & Economic Development …. P.5 Future Leaders Learn About County Government at 5th Annual Board Shadowing

Energy & Environmental Stewardship …. P.6-7 Three Year Research Study Announced At Dudley Smith Farm

Cover Crops & Livestock Systems Field Day

Horticulture ……………………...……..….……….... P.8-9 Oak Wilt Disease Management & Prevention

Nutrition & Wellness …….…...….…......….... P.10-11 Healthier Convenience Store Snack Options Youth Pickle Canning Workshop Held

4-H & Youth Development….…..……....…. P.12-15 Christian County Ag Safety Day Macoupin County Photography Workshop Geocaching Workshop Held In Jersey Montgomery County Family Science Night Summer Youth Impact Report

Agricultural Literacy..………………….....….....… P.16 Macoupin County Summer Ag Institute Nutrients for Life Educator Workshop

INEP………………………….………………….....….....… P.17 SNAP-ED Host Youth Cooking Challenges

Meet The Staff ………….………………….....….....… P.18 Charlotte Schuricht & Beth Groves

Office Information ……...…….…...………...…..…. P.19

Directory ……………….….…....….…………....….….. P.19

DIRECTOR’S NOTES

Right: (L to R) Norah Curtin and Cole Paulek pass a hula hoop in the hula hoop circle relay at the Christian County 4-H Olympics.

University of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences * United States Department of Agriculture * Local Extension Councils Cooperating. University of Illinois Extension provides equal opportunities in programs and employment. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in this program, please contact our office. Universidad de Illinois ofrece igualdad de oportunidades en programas y empleo. Si usted necesita un ajuste razonable para participar en este programa, por favor póngase en contacto con nuestra oficina.

COVER: Young participants of the Maker Girl 3-D printing workshop, held at the Macoupin County Extension office, were captivated watching their designs be printed.

Left: HCE members who attended the Fall Retreat held at the Montgomery County Extension office created a “Thanksgiving Tree” that listed what they were thankful for.

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 3

Macoupin County 4-H Member, Ethan Jones, Competes In National Shooting Sports Championships

Clay targets burst in the air as shotgun shooters at the National 4-H Shooting Sports Championships finished up the final day of competition. One hundred and nine participants representing 32 states competed.

The National Championships, in Grand Island, Nebraska was a three day event, with participants shooting 100

rounds at each of the three shooting events.

Members of the Illinois National 4-H Shotgun team included: Ethan Jones, Macoupin County; Naythan Jones, Rock Island County; Walter Barnickel, Lee County; and Jarrett Rohlfs, Logan County. Coach for the State Shotgun Team was Bill Peterson from Rock Island County. The National team was selected from the Illinois 4-H Shooting Sports state competition the previous fall. The team members were then afforded the opportunity to

practice the three shooting events leading up to the National contest. The national competitors range in age from 14 to 18.

The Illinois team finished 14th overall with Georgia, Texas and Nebraska taking the top three team spots. In the trap event, Naythan Jones finished in third place individually, and in sporting clays, Walter Barnickel finished in fifth place individually out of the 109 competitors. Bill Peterson, coach of the shotgun team, was making his second commitment and said, “It’s amazing to see 700 young adults acting in such a safe and well-mannered way. “We should all be very proud of our state participants and encourage others to consider competing for a National position for the 2017 Nationals to be held June 25-30,” Peterson said.

UNIT 18 - IN THE NEWS

(Ethan Jones, Macoupin County 4-H member, is seated in the first row, to the extreme left.)

Montgomery County 4-H Members Excel at State

Livestock Judging Contest Five members from Montgomery County 4-H participated in the state 4-H Livestock Judging Contest. Members who participated were Dominic Ruppert, Cody Knodle, Ethan Knodle, Ty Knodle, and Wyatt Dooley. In the Junior Livestock Judging Contest, Ty Knodle placed first overall individually, winning the junior division. Some of Ty’s highlights include placing 2nd in cattle, 5th in

swine and 13th in sheep and goats. Participants of the Junior Livestock Judging Contest had to sort eight placing classes, and answer three sets of questions. In the senior division, participants

had to sort eight placing classes, answer three sets of questions, and give three sets of oral reasons. Both Cody Knodle and Dominic Ruppert were in the top 30 participants in the senior division.

Livestock judging is more than just selecting what animal looks best. In livestock judging, youth must rank four animals from best to worst based on their physical traits, such as bone structure and mobility; their performance data, such as

growth rate or calving ease; and their potential profitability. Their ranking is compared to the official placing to determine part of their score.

In addition, youth must remember specific characteristics of each animal presented & respond to random questions about each

animal, such as which was the bolder-ribbed, stouter-made heifer. 4-H members not only have to know the right answer; they have to remember it long after the class leaves the ring. Older members must provide reasons for their selections orally to a panel of judges & defend their placings.

“Livestock judging teaches decision making & public speaking,” said Dan Jennings, U of I Extension Animal Science Educator. “It forces youth to quickly recall facts, make a choice based on what they know & see, and defend that choice to industry leaders.”

Above: Ty Knodle placed first overall individually, winning the junior division. Center: Dominic Ruppert watches the competition. Left: Ty Knodle prepares prior to competing.

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 4

Jodi Heberling Receives Statewide

Excellence Award Jodi Heberling, INEP Community Worker with University of Illinois Extension in Christian County, recently received the Individual Excellence in Outstanding Programming Award at the Illinois Nutrition Education Programs Annual Conference in Champaign, IL. The award recognizes team members who demonstrate overall excellence in programming for reaching targeted audiences and in program delivery.

This award was presented to Heberling for outstanding work done over the course of three years organizing and implementing summer cooking camps in all of the income eligible school districts in Christian County. In order to accomplish this task, Heberling reached out to communities and made contacts that helped secure locations and volunteers. Extension, INEP and 4-H have teamed up to offer the Illinois Junior Chief cooking camps for kids during the summer. This year over 125 Christian County youth attended the camps, which teach basic cooking skills and food safety, allowing the youth to have hands on experiences in the kitchen.

Heberling, better known as “Miss Jodi” to school age children, works in association with SNAP-Ed (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education) and has been a Community Worker with Illinois Nutrition Education Programs since 2013. She works throughout Christian County educating residents of all ages on how to make better nutritional choices and live healthier lives. Heberling works primarily in Christian County schools, and with a variety of community organizations, to educate limited-resource families about good nutrition and the importance of physical activity. She offers a variety of

programing including The Organ Wise Guys, which focuses on kindergartners through second-graders. She teaches children how to be healthy from the inside out. She also delivers adult programs including nutrition programs for PREP Parents Class and TANF classes for DHS. Last year, Heberling reached 9,600 individuals in Christian County.

For more information about these programs, contact Jodi Heberling at the Christian County Extension office at 217-287-7246 or via email [email protected].

Photo: Jodie Heberling, University of Illinois Community Worker, accepts the Individual Excellence in Outstanding Programming Award from Jennifer McCaffrey, Assistant Dean Family Consumer Science, at the Illinois Nutrition Education Programs fall meeting in Champaign, IL.

UNIT 18 - IN THE NEWS (Cont.)

Caleb Grover Selected for 4-H Summer Academies

Planning Committee Christian County 4-H member, Caleb Grover, was selected to serve on the 2017 Illini Summer Academies 4-H planning committee.

Grover is the son of Greg and Lisa Grover of Stonington, IL. Caleb will join five other teens from across the state that will help plan all the social-oriented activities and help program coordinators plan other important aspects of the Illini Summer Academies program. The Team Illini teens will attend a weekend retreat to get to know each another, explore campus, and brainstorm ideas. They will also participate in teleconferences over the next year to finalize all details. Committee members arrive at the Illini Summer Academies a day earlier than the other delegates to help organize materials and get things ready.

As part of the planning team, members get first opportunity to register for Academies of their choice and receive a $225 credit towards their Academy. The

State 4-H Office also reimburses members for mileage to/from the weekend retreat and pays for the hotel and meals.

Each summer University of Illinois Extension 4-H brings more than 300 teens from across

Illinois to the Champaign campus for one week to work in 15 different academy fields of study with elite university professors and graduate students. During the day, teens do what college students do, such as conduct experiments in one of the campus’ hundreds of labs. Some academies will tour industry job sites to see research in action. During the evening, teens will explore campus, stay in college dorms, and enjoy the campus recreation areas.

“This conference shows youth what is possible through higher education in their field of interest,” said Alvarez Dixon, U of I Extension 4-H Youth Development Specialist for college and careers. “Illinois

4-H shares their passion to learn, explore, and dream without limits.”

4-H members from Christian County who attended the 2016 conference were Lauren Bafford, Animal Science; David Bruns Digital Fabrication & Informatics; and Caleb Grover for Chemistry.

Participating campus departments included aerospace engineering, ag business, ag mechanization, animal science, anthropology, astrobiology, chemistry, computer science, creative writing, digital fabrication, electrical & computer engineering, entomology, human development and family studies, molecular & cellular biology, plant science, and veterinary medicine.

The conference is financially supported by the Illinois 4-H Foundation, which provides scholarships to delegates and covers other expenses. Illinois Farm Bureau, Farm Credit Illinois, and DuPont/Pioneer also provide support.

For more info about 4-H, contact Alicia Gullidge, Christian County 4-H Program Coordinator, at 217-287-7246, or email [email protected], or online at: http://web.extension.illinois.edu/cjmm/christian4h/.

COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 5

University of Illinois Extension teamed up with the Macoupin County Board on July 12 to provide an evening of hands-on, close-up learning about local government. Youth had the opportunity to meet Board Chairman, Mark Dragovich, and other county board members to discuss their role and responsibilities within government. This year marked the fifth anniversary of the program.

The program started with a community service project, in which Board Chairman, Mark Dragovich, and other county officials present joined with the youth working in two landscape areas around the County Jail and the historic jail. Work included mulching, weeding, and planting. Plantings included Route 66 Coreopsis flowers. All plants were donated by the Macoupin County Master Gardner program. Andrew Holsinger, Extension Horticulture Extension Specialist and Jeanette Baker, Wanda Dixon, and Paula Robinson, Master Gardeners, assisted

the volunteers and answered horticulture related questions throughout the evening. After completing the community service project, the youth and officials moved to the County Board meeting room where they had a working dinner. Participants were able to ask questions and learned more about county government, and to discuss issues affecting the community. Participants also attended the July county board meeting at the Macoupin County Government Building.

Amanda Cole, County Extension Director said, “The youth that participated were able to give back to the community, and also learn about county government and how it impacts their daily lives. We hope to continue offering this program for many more years to come.” The Board Shadowing event was coordinated by U of I Extension, and was free to any youth who had completed grades 7th thru 11th.

Future Leaders Learn About County Government at 5th

Annual Board Shadowing

First Row (L to R): Lizzy Conrady, Extension Summer Help; Lisa Peterson, Extension Educator; Tyler Quarton; Reagan Kulenkamp; Rayme Lewis; Shielda Lewis; Madison McMillin, Kayleigh Pence; Hunter Woods; Jeanette Baker and Paula Robinson, Master Gardeners. Second Row (L to R): Macoupin County Sheriff Shawn Kahl; Andrew Holsinger, Extension Educator; Chris Casey, Extension Educator; David Thomas; Board Chairman Mark Dragovich; Austin Pence; Hyler Pence; Tony Wiggins; Robert Quarton; Wanda Dixon, Master Gardener.

Rayme Lewis and Reagan Kulenkamp work the soil during the community service portion of the Macoupin County Board Shadowing program.

Local Government Webinar Videos Available Online

Extension Local Government Education Network webinars are free, and allow participants to learn from the comfort of their home or office. The programs are presented live so participants can ask questions, and are also recorded and shared on the Extension’s YouTube.

Topics Included:

* Best Practices in eGovernment * Technology Planning * Using Data & Analytics In Government * Strategic Priorities for Local Governments Dealing with the Current Fiscal Climate * Making Essential Services More Efficient * Open Meetings Act

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/lge/online.cfm

Valerie Belusko

Community & Economic Development Program Coordinator, Montgomery County [email protected]

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 6

University of Illinois Extension held a Nutrient Loss & Soil Health Field Day at the Dudley Smith Farm, near Pana, IL, on August 19. University of Illinois – College of ACES and the Nutrient Research and Education Council (NREC) are supporting a nutrient loss and water quality research project taking place at the Dudley Smith Farm site. The College of ACES / Office of Research, through the Dudley Smith Initiatives, announced a 3-year study titled: “Balancing water quality and nutrient management goals for the sustainable intensification of corn systems”. This project will help answer questions on the effects of combining water quality practices on corn production and tile drainage nutrient losses in Illinois.

Dr. Neal Merchen, University of Illinois College of ACES Office of Research, welcomed attendees and said, “The Dudley Smith Farm has created very unique opportunities over the years to do research that is targeted toward principles established in association with the Dudley Smith Initiative. One of these principles is to do research that is innovative and develops and applies new agricultural technology. The second principle stresses a strong sense of environmental stewardship, management, and respect for the land

and water resources that are so important to agriculture in Illinois.” He went on to add that, “The third principle is to maintain a relationship with and strengthen the health of the rural community.”

Dr. Merchen also introduced the research project soon to be launched at the Dudley Smith Farm by saying, “We are establishing a unique field tile drainage system here. I am not aware of anything quite like it in the Midwest, except for a couple of sites in Iowa.” He went on to add that, “The data collected will allow researchers to look at the quality of water flowing off these research fields and to do it on an individual plot basis. So we can look at different treatments relative to fertilizer applications, cover crop utilization, and other agronomic practices.”

Gary Letterly, Extension Environmental Stewardship Educator, said, “The Dudley Smith Farm has served as a research and demonstration site for over a decade. During this time, the value of the farm to stakeholders in the community has been in its ability to host relevant research issues with critical topics that affect lives, livelihoods and the quality of living in the Midwest.”

GARY LETTERLY

Extension Educator, Energy & Environmental Stewardship [email protected]

Upcoming Events:

December 8-Blue Mound -Data Intensive Farming Program / Land Lab Tile Project

December 9-Taylorville -PSEP Review Sessions - Farm Bureau Building (10:00- noon)

December 16-Taylorville - Private Applicators Test Only - Extension Office (10:00- noon)

January 20- Hillsboro- PSEP Review Session - Farm Bureau Building (10:00- noon)

January 23 - Taylorville -Beef Cow-Calf / Dudley Smith -Extension Office (10:00- 1:00)

January 27- Hillsboro- Private Applicators Test Only - Extension Office 10:00-noon

Jan- Feb- Statewide- Certified Livestock Managers Training –CLMT

February 14- Litchfield - Agronomy Day in Litchfield - (LLCC site) 8:30- 12:30

February 28 - Carlinville - Soil & Water Management Webinar- Extension Office (8:30?)

ENERGY & ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

Plat Books Available In Christian

& Macoupin Counties!

Want to purchase a Christian or Macoupin County Plat Book? They’re available from the Christian County & Macoupin County 4-H Foundations. For a Christian County Plat Book stop by our office

in Taylorville or call 217-287-7246, and for a Macoupin County Plat Book stop by our Macoupin County office or call 217-854-9604 for more information.

BUY YOURS TODAY!

Photo Right: Dr. Nick Goeser, Director of Soil Health and Sustainability, National Corn Growers Association, hands a chunk of soil to a program participant at the Dudley Smith Nutrient Loss and Soil Health Field Day.

3 Year Research Study Announced

at the Dudley Smith Farm

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 7

Letterly added that, “This new research project will deal with combinations of field practices related to balancing water quality and nutrient management goals for the sustainable intensification of corn systems”. The project research team includes: Dr. Cameron Pittelkow, Dr. Laura Christianson, Dr. Rabin Bhattarai, and Gary Letterly, Extension Environmental Stewardship Educator.

Dr. Laura Christianson, Assistant Professor of Water Quality at the U of I College of ACES said, “One of the reasons we are conducting this research project on the Dudley Smith Farm is the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy. Research has shown that nitrogen & phosphorous getting into the Mississippi River results in a dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico.” She goes on to add that, “It can sometimes be hard to relate to something that is happening 1,000 miles away, however if there is nitrogen & phosphorous getting into the Mississippi River, it means we also have it in our water here in Illinois. It’s a local concern, as well as a regional & national issue.”

Dr. Cameron Pittelkow, U of I ACES Department of Crop Sciences, gave an overview and highlighted the goals of the research project. Pittelkow said, “The project will attempt to answer the question ‘What’s the best way to meet our Illinois Strategy goals?’” He added that in order to do this, “We will employ various nutrient loss strategies at the same site and then measure the results. The unique thing about this project is that we are equally emphasizing the agronomy, the management, and paying attention to our crop nutrient uptake, our soil nutrient availability, as well as what is coming out of the title system.” Pittelkow emphasized that, “It takes a lot of cooperation between different fields of study to make a project like this work.”

Key discussions were led by project researchers during the morning program. Soil Health Partnership (SHP) and their cooperators and staff from across the Midwest co-sponsored the field day. SHP staff provided a regional briefing and answered program related questions throughout the morning. Jim Isermann, Illinois Field Manager for Soil Health Partnership, said, “One important question we are going to have, as we come up with nutrient loss reduction strategies, is how can we implement them in the real world. That’s one of the big goals with the Soil Health Partnership.” He goes on

to add that, “In order for producers to adopt various strategies they are going to have to see the data behind it and know that in the long run it pays.”

Speakers and topics for the program included:

Welcome and Introductions - Gary Letterly U of I – ACES, Office of Research – Dr. Neal Merchen Project Overview and Goals – Dr. Cameron Pittelkow Bioreactors and Other Edge-of-Field Concepts – Dr. Laura Christianson Water Quality Modeling – Dr. Rabin Bhattarai Soil Health Partnership in Illinois – Jim Isermann & Dr. Nick Goeser, Director of Soil Health and Sustainability, National Corn Growers Association

Attendees were also introduced to Fred & Danny Curtin, Farm Operators of the Dudley Smith Farm.

The event was hosted by U of I Extension, Unit 18 and coordinated by Gary Letterly, Extension Educator, Energy and Environmental Stewardship. The program was supported by the U of I Dudley Smith Initiatives, ACES office of Research, U of I Extension, Illinois Nutrient Research and Education Council, and the Soil Health Partnership. Lunch was provided and the program was free of charge. CCA CEU credits were available. (Soil & Water Management CEUs: 2.0)

Anyone interested in more information about the Nutrient Loss & Soil Health Field Day may call the Christian County Extension office at 217-287-7246 or contact Gary Letterly, by emailing [email protected].

ENERGY & ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

Research Team: (Left to Right) Gary Letterly, Extension Environmental Stewardship Educator; Dr. Rabin Bhattarai, U of I College of ACES/ABA; Dr. Cameron Pittelkow, U of I ACES Department of Crop Sciences; & Dr. Laura Christianson, Assistant Professor of Water Quality U of I College of ACES.

Cover Crops & Livestock Systems Field Day Held in Jersey County Over 50 producers from across Illinois gathered at the Cover Crops and Integrating Livestock Systems – Challenges and Solutions Field Day held August 2 at the Schetter Farm south of Brighton, IL. Cover crop adoption and use in traditional row crop farming systems lags across Illinois in comparison with other regions of the Midwest. Cover crops are often touted as a tool to reduce nutrient losses and improve soil health and water quality. Essentially, cover crop systems research is needed to support, qualify, and quantify the benefits to water quality, improvements to soil health and tile drainage nutrient losses in Illinois. Livestock grazing, as part of a farm operation, may be one of the keys to advancing adoption of cover crops across the state. Proper manure management can enhance success and provide environmentally safe end-use of valuable nutrient-rich manure.

The program offered discussions on cover crops and livestock integration led by project researchers, practitioners, and educators. The field day also shared some of the mutually beneficial advantages of using cover crops along with livestock. An ongoing cover crop demonstration plot was on display during a walking tour. Cover Crop Champions (National Wildlife Federation -supported) provided information during the evening. CCA CEU credits were available for participants. The event was hosted by the Schetter Family and U of I Extension, Unit 18. Other sponsors included Jersey County Farm Bureau, and National Wildlife Federation.

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 8

Master Gardeners Hosted Oak Wilt Disease Management & Prevention

Program In Taylorville Christian County Master Gardeners hosted a program on the management and prevention of oak wilt disease October 18, at the Christian County Extension office in Taylorville, IL. Participants learned how oak wilt disease progresses rapidly, and kills some trees within one to two months of onset of symptoms. It is the deadliest of all pathogens, affecting oaks in the 20 states surrounding Illinois, and infection centers have been found in recently throughout our area. Guy Sternberg, past president of the International Oak Society and director of Starhill Forest Arboretum (starhillforest.com) in Petersburg, Illinois, was the program speaker and has dealt with this problem twice at the Arboretum (the largest botanical collection of oaks in North America), and explained how to recognize, prevent and defeat it.

The program was free to the public. More information about this important topic can be obtained by contacting Andrew Holsinger, Horticulture Educator for University of Illinois Extension, at 217-287-7246 or email [email protected].

How is Oak Wilt Spread? Oak wilt is spread via root grafts, animals such as squirrels, tools and insects. Avoid pruning oaks during the growing season when sap beetles that can carry the fungus are present. Root grafts can form when two or more oaks of related species are growing close to each other. If one of the trees becomes infected with oak wilt, the disease can spread from one tree to another through root grafts. Oak wilt is the primary suspect when clusters of red and black oaks start dying.

Keep in mind oaks can suffer from environmental issues as well as a foliar fungal disease called anthracnose, but it is mainly a leaf disease causing brown edges on leaves in the lower branches. Conversely oak wilt appears first in the upper branches.

Interested in

Attending Upcoming

Horticulture Events?

See a complete calendar of events at: http://go.illinois.edu/events

HORTICULTURE

ANDREW HOLSINGER

Extension Educator, Horticulture [email protected]

For more information on Oak Wilt and how to properly sample for the disease go to:

http://web.aces.uiuc.edu/vista/pdf_pubs/618.pdf or contact your local

Extension office. The only way to make a positive diagnosis is by sending a sample to a lab such as the U of I Plant Clinic for testing.

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/plantclinic/ Oak wilt is a disease you want to diagnose as early as possible to prevent further spread!

Signs of Oak Wilt Disease:

1. Leaves may first turn a dull green, bronze, or tan starting at the margins

2. Appears first in the upper branches

3. Symptoms start in late spring/early summer

4. Scorching of the leaves is next, often in sections rather than uniformly throughout the tree.

5. Scorched foliage has a half leaf symptom, with scorching starting at the tip of the leaf and moving toward the base

6. Brown/black streaks develop in the current-season sapwood of wilting branches. (Appears as longitudinal streaks once the outer branch layer is removed.) Guy Sternberg, director of Starhill Forest Arboretum in Petersburg, IL, speaks about Oak

Wilt prevention and management to attendees of a workshop devoted to the topic sponsored by the Christian County Master Gardeners.

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 9

HORTICULTURE

What is Oak Wilt?

Oak wilt is a serious disease for oaks and has also been found in Chinese chestnuts. Much like Dutch elm disease & chestnut blight, oak wilt is a fungus. It kills oaks by clogging the water conducting vessels.

The oak wilt fungus mainly attacks oaks in the red oak group, which include oaks with pointed tipped leaves such as pin, shingle, red and black oaks. Oaks in the red oak group are very susceptible to the fungus and often die quickly in just one season.

Oaks in the white oak group which have round tipped leaves such as swamp white, bur and white oaks are more resistant, but can be infected with the fungus. In the white oak group the disease is often localized in one area of the tree; therefore, the tree may live with the disease for many years.

Once a red oak is infected with the fungus, the tree usually starts to die from the top down in late spring and early summer. Leaves may first turn a dull green, bronze, or tan starting at the margins. Immature leaves may also droop and roll lengthwise. Mature leaves usually remain stiff during the different stages of the disease, and for some time after the tree dies.

Typically scorching of the leaves is noticed next, often in sections of the tree rather than uniformly throughout the tree. The scorched foliage has a half leaf symptom, with scorching starting at the tip of the leaf and moving toward the base of the leaf. Symptoms progress downward and inward until all the foliage is affected. Defoliation may occur any time after the symptoms appear.

Another diagnostic characteristic of oak wilt is a brown or black streaking which develops in the current-season sapwood of wilting branches. The discoloration appears as longitudinal streaks once the outer branch layer is removed. In cross-section, a brown ring or broken circle of dark-colored tissue may be seen. Discoloration in the center of the stem is not associated with oak wilt. Source: Sandra Mason, University of Illinois Extension Educator, Horticulture

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 10

With the weather cooling down and the holidays creeping up, millions of Americans will be back on the road traveling to see family and friends. Finding healthy meal and snacking options while traveling can be tough. Previously I've blogged about packing healthy snacks similar to packing a suitcase, but sometimes there just is not enough time or space to pack a cooler full of healthy options. Whether it's traveling for holidays, or for work, stopping at the gas station to fuel up the car can lead to impulsively buying munchies filled with empty calories. Is there a way to eat healthier at gas stations while satisfying the need to snack? Check out options and tips below for navigating the gas station without overloading on excess fat, sugar, and salt.

Craving Something Sweet: * Go for the whole fruit-bananas, apples, oranges, or see if the gas station has any pre-packaged cut fruit or fruit cups.

* Want that candy bar? Don't deny yourself, just watch portion sizes. Consider buying the regular size bar over the king-size, or splitting the bar with the co-pilot. Quick Salt Fix:

* Look for chip options in portion sized bags. Read the nutrition facts labels, as many packages contain more than one serving. Remember various snacks have 2-3 servings per bag, while the label only tells what is in one serving. * Choose "baked" options in the chip section. Baked chips have less fat, less calories, and won't make hands as oily-meaning less of a mess in the car. * Go for the unsalted almonds, peanuts, walnuts, pecans, sunflower seeds and other nuts & seeds. Nuts and seeds are great sustainable foods when traveling, because they contain protein and fiber-two types of nutrients that will keep you full longer for long road trips. * Grab some popcorn. Popcorn is a whole grain and an easy snack to munch on while on the road.

NUTRITION & WELLNESS

LISA PETERSON

Extension Educator, Nutrition & Wellness [email protected]

Gas Station Snack Tip: Check out the Coolers

Coolers near the back of convenience stores or around the perimeter often contain more than just beverages. Rather than grabbing chips or snacks with "cheese flavoring" go for the real deal and pick up low fat string cheese.

Greek yogurt is also a great snack option for traveling. Greek yogurt typically contains lower amounts of added sugar and higher amounts of protein-helping stay full longer. Can't find a spoon? Wander over near the hot food options, there are often plastic utensils there.

Interested in

Attending Upcoming

Nutrition & Wellness

Events?

See a complete calendar of events at: http://go.illinois.edu/events

Get Up-to-Date

Information on Health

& Nutrition On-line:

Visit the Mission: Nutrition blog by Lisa Peterson, Nutrition & Wellness Educator for Unit 18, as she shares healthy recipes, useful

tips & information. You can even sign up to get automatic email notices whenever she posts something new!

http://go.illinois.edu/missionnutrition

Gas Station Grabs: Finding Healthier

Options at Convenience Stores

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 11

NUTRITION & WELLNESS

Pickle Canning Workshop Held For Jersey County Youth

Lisa Peterson, Nutrition and Wellness Educator for University of Illinois Extension, taught a Dill Pickle Making Workshop for youth grades 4th—12th at the Barr

Housing Community Room in Jerseyville, IL. The hands-on workshop taught how to make Dill Pickles using cucumbers, making a brine, and safely preserving it through water bath canning. Each participant took home a jar of pickles, got to taste test, and receive additional canning recipes.

Breakfast, Energy, Power & Meal Replacement Bars:

Read the ingredient labels and look for bars with fewer ingredients. Ingredients are listed by weight with the first being the most present in the bar. An easy rule of thumb when looking for a snack bar, look at the label, and for the entire bar aim for:

150-200 calories with no more than 300 calories

Greater than 5 grams fiber

5-10 grams protein and no more than 20 grams. Too much protein can be hard on the kidneys.

Less than 5 grams fat with zero trans fat

Less than 15 grams sugar

Vitamins and minerals do not go above 100% recommended daily value.

Beverages of Choice:

Water, unsweetened tea, skim milk, and 100% juices are ideal options to quench thirst without overloading on empty calories.

Looking for healthy snacks in the gas station doesn't have to be an additional stress on your travels. Instead of impulsively going for the candy bar and pop, give yourself a few minutes to wander around the gas station and look at all the options. Best of luck traveling this upcoming holiday season and safe and healthy travels!

For more nutrition and wellness tips and information, be sure to sign up for the “Mission Nutrition” blog at: http://go.illinois.edu/missionnutrition.

University of Illinois Extension 4-H hosted nearly 320 5th graders at the Christian County Ag Safety Day. The event took place on Thursday, September 29, and was held at the Christian County Fairgrounds in Taylorville. Students from Central A&M, South Fork (Kincaid), Taylorville Jr. High, St. Mary’s, Vision Way and Edinburg participated in the program.

Students rotated to 8 different stations throughout the day, each covering a different safety related topic. Those presentations included: Electricity Safety – presented by Shelby County Electric, Roger Jones; Fire Safety – presented by Taylorville Fire Department, Captain Bob Dunn; Tractor/PTO/Auger – presented by Christian County Seeds, Darrick Fleming; Gun Safety – Taylorville Police Department, Gary Jones; Mower Safety - presented by University of Illinois Extension, Gary Letterly; Water Safety – presented by Christian County YMCA, Melissa Brookens; Chemical Safety – presented by Christian County FS Jerry Sutton; and Grain Bin & PTO Safety – presented by Farm Service Agency, Dustin Cruit & Monstanto – Stonington, Megan Lutz.

Alicia Gullidge, 4-H and Youth Development Coordinator for the University of Illinois Extension, had this to say about the event, “If a kid leaves today knowing that they need to stay away from the PTO shaft or tells a parent to keep distance from the farm equipment when driving; if a kid knows not to wear flip flops out by a mower; if a kid can tell the difference between chemicals and how they can be harmful; if a kid knows to stop at a corn corner in the summer, that is a success story. Our goal is to try to educate kids about farm safety so that accidents can be avoided.”

Darrick Fleming from Christian County Seeds, who presented a program on auger safety said, “The most important message I have to give these children is to always, always no matter your age, respect the equipment. I am over 40 years old and just last spring had an accident with an auger. I really believed that at my age I understood safety; however you can never be too cautious. You can never be a certain age and think it doesn't apply to you, so my message today is always respect the equipment.”

The event was coordinated by Alicia Gullidge, Christian County 4-H Program Coordinator and Gary Letterly, Extension Energy & Environmental Stewardship Educator. Extension thanks Sloan’s for providing a mower and tractor used during the demonstrations & Central A&M FFA for volunteering.

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 12

ELISHA HUGHES Montgomery County 4-H Program Coordinator [email protected]

KATE HARDING Macoupin County 4-H Program Coordinator [email protected]

JUDY BENZ Jersey County 4-H Program Coordinator [email protected]

PEGGY HAMPTON Extension Educator, 4-H & Youth Development [email protected]

4-H Youth Development Staff:

ALICIA GULLIDGE

Christian County 4-H Program Coordinator [email protected]

4-H & YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

Above Left: A participant at the Christian County Safety Day tries to pull free a weight submersed in grain. Above Right: Students learn how easy a person can get trapped in a grain bin using a scale model.

Darrick Fleming, of Christian County Seeds, answers questions about PTO, Auger & Wagon Safety.

Christian County Youth

Learn About Ag Safety

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 13

4-H & YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

Jersey County 4-H Geocaching Workshop

October 29 was a beautiful morning for Jersey County youth to learn how Global Positioning systems (GPS) work. Geocaching is an outdoor recreational activity, in which participants use a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver or mobile device and other navigational techniques to hide and seek containers, called "geocaches" or "caches". Participants hiked on trails and tried to locate all the hidden caches. The program was held at Pere Marquette Hiking Trails in Grafton, IL. Parents were encouraged to stay and participate.

The US Army Corp. of Engineers presented and supplied the GPS equipment for students to use. Extension wishes to thank Andrea Gregory, of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Alton, for sharing her knowledge.

Macoupin County 4-H Offers

Outdoor Photography Workshop Youth from Macoupin County took part in a 4-H Outdoor Photography Workshop held at Beaver Dam State Park on October 15. 4-H volunteer, Karen King, led this hands-on learning workshop where she shared her passion of photography with participants. Basic principles of photography were discussed, and King offered pointers and suggestions for better picture taking. She encouraged the participants to be creative and look for different points of view when taking pictures. Members completed a nature photography scavenger hunt, where they ventured out into nature to capture the beauty of the great outdoors.

Photo by: Allie Helling Photo by: Saralynn Joiner Photo by: Addison Eldred

Over 100 attend 4-H Family Science

Night In Montgomery County This year’s theme was “Drone Discovery”, and many of the learning stations were related to the theme. Participants visited various hands-on learning stations. Attendees learned about the principles of flight, and made a glider out of a foam plate, as well as a copter. 6th Grade science teacher, Joshua Hughes, from Litchfield Middle School, demonstrated how to make a “MakerBot”. Youth used the “MakerBot” to create a colorful piece of art.

At the 3D printing station, run by 4-H members Gabe Dudek and Alex Miller, youth, as well as parents, could make their own 3D design and see a 3D printed drone. There were two computer programming stations available. Volunteers Merle Imler and Dr. Barb Mulch taught older students to program a drone flight path over Montgomery County. 4-H member Emma Hughes worked with younger students to help them program a computer for the first time. Local drone hobbyists, John Galer and Dave Imler, demonstrated how to operate a drone and did flight demonstrations. The drone flight demonstrations proved to be a crowd favorite, and always had a large crowd to watch.

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 14

4-H & YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 15

4-H & YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

Beth Groves Montgomery County Program Coordinator Agricultural Literacy [email protected]

Connie Niemann Macoupin County Program Coordinator Agricultural Literacy [email protected]

Charlotte Schuricht Christian County Program Coordinator Agricultural Literacy [email protected]

Agricultural Education

Educators Participate in Summer Agricultural

Institute In Macoupin County Seven educators from Macoupin County participated in the Summer Agricultural Institute 2 conducted by the Macoupin County Agricultural Literacy Program June 1-2. During the two-day institute, educators toured several sites & tried hands-on activities as they learned more about the agriculture industry.

Traveling workshops included Auburn Veterinary Clinic, Burnet Farms in the Raymond area, Mud Prairie Farm in Modesto, Meisenheimer’s sheep and cattle farm in Palmyra, Plainview Vineyard & Winery in Plainview, and Richland Ranch in Auburn. Christine Goldstein, Soil Conservationist at the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Macoupin County taught educators about soil health through hands-on activities. Educators were able to earn 15 professional development hours for the course. This institute was designed for educators who had attended previous 4-5 day institutes.

The following educators attended the institute: Kay Lynn Caldieraro and Patty Lenzen – Staunton Elementary; Rita Craig and Dawn Gockel – Wolf Ridge Elementary; Lou Ann Ibberson and Becky Winslow – North Mac Elementary; and Jo Ellen Zuber – St. Michael’s School.

This program and all the resources are made possible by local sponsors. We appreciate the support of these sponsors and our traveling workshop sites that helped make this institute a success.

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 16

Nutrients for Life Workshop for Educators Held In Montgomery County University of Illinois Extension Agriculture Literacy Program offered the Nutrients for Life Workshop for Elementary & Middle School educators in August at the Montgomery County Extension office in Hillsboro, IL. The workshop was free, and counts for two professional development hours.

The program was presented by Haley Siergiej, Nutrients for Life Foundation, Illinois Regional Representative. Teachers went home with curriculum, posters, and other science based resources from the Nourishing the Planet in the 21st Century curriculum. The curriculum provides STEM activities and lessons to show how the challenge to feed our world's growing population can be solved through science.

Above: During the Summer Agricultural Institute, educators learned more about the agriculture industry through traveling workshops such as the Meisenheimer’s sheep and cattle farm. Pictured from left to right: Nora Meisenheimer, Nellie Meisenheimer, Jamie Bowman, Betsy Meisenheimer, Jo Ellen Zuber, Lou Ann Ibberson, Kay Lynn Caldieraro, Rita Craig, Becky Winslow, and Patty Lenzen. Not pictured: Connie Niemann - Macoupin County Agricultural Literacy Program.

Photo Right: Plainview Vineyard and Winery owner Jackie Becker helped educators learn all that goes into growing grapes and making wine during the Summer Agricultural Institute tour.

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 17

INEP (Illinois Nutrition Education Programs) SNAP-ED

Extension Hosts “Chopped” Style

Cooking Challenges for Area Youth The Christian, Macoupin, and Montgomery County Extension offices hosted cooking challenges for over 60 area youth this summer. The challenge was inspired by the T.V. show “Chopped”. Youth were separated into teams and had to create their own original dish using two key mystery ingredients, which were tortillas and cream cheese. A variety of additional ingredients, such as fruits, vegetables, and sliced meats were also available for the teams to incorporate into their original recipe. Teams had 45 minutes to develop a recipe and prepare their dish.

Participants were judged on if they incorporated USDA’s MyPlate into their recipe, taste, appearance, creativity, and how well they could explain their dish to the judges. All youth who participated this summer in the Jr. Chef cooking camps throughout the Unit were invited to participate. Each youth left with a recipe box and recipes, as well as an Extension backpack with pencils, a rubber spatula, and 4-H literature inside. Each member of the winning team also received an Extension cutting board and a Junior Chef apron.

The “Illinois Junior Chef” cooking camps were sponsored by University of Illinois Extension Unit 18 in cooperation with SNAP ED, and 4-H. The free camps were open to children between the ages of 8-12 years. The camps offered kids the opportunity to make their own nutritious meals and get excited about healthy

foods like whole grains, low fat dairy and also how to add more fruits and vegetables to their meals. Participants not only learned how to prepare delicious and nutritious meals, but also hand washing and sanitation practices, as well as food and kitchen safety. The program was made possible through a partnership with University of Illinois Extension, SNAP ED, and 4-H.

Glitter Chefs were the winning team in Montgomery County. Members included: Ava Reif, Hilary Antonacci, Anna Jones, and Kasandra Reif, from team “Glitter Chefs”, are the Montgomery County Cooking Challenge winners.

The “Burrito Torpedoes” were the winning cook off team in Macoupin County. Members include: (Backrow, left to right) Landon Foley, Josiah Schuette (Front row, left to right) Ethan Schuette, and Devon Iler.

Team “Mystic” was the winner of the Christian County Cooking Challenge held in Taylorville. Members included: Cameron Sherman, Brandon Schulz , Maxx Grieme, and Bradley Mahan.

Jodi Heberling,

Christian County Community Worker SNAP-ED [email protected]

Waylon Whipple and Jessica Whipple select ingredients during the Jr. Chef Cooking Challenge in Taylorville.

Crystal Carpani,

Montgomery County

Community Worker

SNAP-ED

[email protected]

Beth Groves Is New Montgomery County Agricultural Literacy Program Coordinator Amanda Cole, Unit 18 County Extension Director, is pleased to introduce Beth Groves as the Montgomery County Agricultural Literacy Program Coordinator. Groves has worked for the University of Illinois Extension for eight years. Previously she was a SNAP-Ed Community Worker, and also taught the popular summer 4-H Science Camps throughout the Unit. Groves has already started visiting elementary schools throughout Montgomery County to provide educational opportunities for students in agricultural related topics. Groves says, “I’ve always enjoyed working with kids and look forward to teaching youth the value and importance of agriculture. I also look forward to working with teachers and providing materials they can use in the classroom”. Groves earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from the University of Illinois, and has

lived and worked on her family’s farm near Atwater for 25 years.

Agriculture in the Classroom visits are 30 minute hands-on lessons and activities about a specific agricultural topic. The program is available to Pre-Kindergarten through 5th grade classrooms. Agricultural Literacy Program Coordinator, Beth Groves will teach lessons in the classroom and provide materials. Assistance from the classroom teacher during the activity may be needed. Each quarter of the school year, a different age appropriate classroom topic will be taught. Upcoming topics are announced in the Ag in the Classroom newsletter that elementary teachers throughout the county receive.

Groves is currently providing programs for Pre-K – Kindergarten on Pumpkins, 1st

-2nd grade on Corn, and 3rd-5th grades on Watersheds. Later this school year, she will be teaching about Snow, “Who Grew My Soup?”, Soil, Garden in a Glove, Pod to Plate, and

Biotechnology. Groves will also continue the annual chick hatching program for area classrooms. Resource kits and Ag Mags are also available for area educators who are interested in teaching supplemental programs in their classrooms.

Teachers who would like to schedule a lesson for their classroom are asked to email Beth at [email protected]. Materials for the programs are

designed for one class at a time and will be conducted in the teacher’s classroom.

The Montgomery County Agricultural Literacy Program is made possible through funding by University of Illinois Extension, Montgomery County Farm Bureau, M&M Service Company, Montgomery County Soil and Water CD, Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom, and Central IL Livestock Association. Anyone interested in contacting Groves may reach her at the Montgomery County Extension office by calling 217-532-3941, or emailing [email protected] .

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 18

Charlotte Schuricht Named Christian County Agriculture Literacy Program Coordinator Amanda Cole, Unit 18 County Extension Director, is pleased to introduce Charlotte Schuricht as the Christian County Agricultural Literacy Program Coordinator. Schuricht was previously the Agricultural Literacy Program Coordinator in Montgomery County, and comes to Christian County with seven years of experience educating youth and adults about where our food and fibers come from and the importance of agriculture. She has already started visiting elementary schools throughout Christian County to provide educational opportunities for students in agricultural related topics. Schuricht says, “I understand and value the importance of agriculture well, having been raised on a

corn, soybean, alfalfa and pumpkin farm in east central Illinois”.

Schuricht earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Community Health with an emphasis in Health Planning and Administration from the University of Illinois. She is

currently seeking a Master’s Degree in Agriculture Education at the University of Illinois. Schuricht adds, “I look forward to sharing my 20 years of experience coordinating programs and educating adults & children regarding health and agriculture with the teachers, administrators and students of Christian County”. Charlotte and her husband are the parents of four children.

Ag in the Classroom visits are 30 minute hands-on lessons and activities about a specific agricultural topic. The program is available to Kindergarten - 4th grade

classrooms. The Ag Literacy Program Coordinator will teach the lesson in the classroom and provide materials. Each quarter of the school year, age appropriate classroom topics will be announced in the Ag in the Classroom newsletter. The topics for the first quarter were “Pizza from the Farm” for Kindergarten and 1st grades, and “Football & Agriculture” 2nd – 4th grades.

Classroom visits are scheduled for Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays between 8:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Teachers who would like to schedule a lesson for their classroom are asked to contact Charlotte Schuricht.

The Christian County Agriculture Literacy Program is made possible through funding by University of Illinois Extension, Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation, Christian County Farm Bureau, Christian County Farm Bureau Foundation, and United Way of Christian County. Anyone interested in contacting Schuricht may reach her at the Christian County Extension office by calling 217-287-7246, or at [email protected] .

Meet The Staff

OFFICE INFORMATION

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION CONNECTIONS . Fall/Winter 2016 19

Amanda Cole County Extension Director

Andrew Holsinger Extension Educator, Horticulture

Gary Letterly Extension Educator, Energy & Environmental Stewardship

Valerie Belusko Montgomery County Program Coordinator, Community & Economic Development

Terri Miller Publicity & Promotions Specialist

Peggy Hampton Extension Educator, 4-H Youth Development

Alicia Gullidge Christian County Program Coordinator, 4-H & Youth Development

Judy Benz Jersey County Program Coordinator, 4-H & Youth Development

Kate Harding Macoupin County Program Coordinator, 4-H & Youth Development

Elisha Hughes Montgomery County Program Coordinator, 4-H & Youth Development

Katie Paulek

Extra Help Nutrition & Wellness Christian County

Lisa Peterson Extension Educator, Nutrition & Wellness

Jodi Heberling Christian County Community Worker, SNAP-ED

Crystal Carpani Montgomery County Community Worker, SNAP-ED

Beth Groves Montgomery County Program Coordinator, Agricultural Literacy

Connie Niemann

Macoupin County Program Coordinator, Agricultural Literacy

Charlotte Schuricht Christian County Program Coordinator, Agriculture Literacy

Penny Grundy Office Support Specialist

Shelly Curtin Office Support Assistant Christian County

Donna Renken Office Support Assistant Jersey County

Carol Strohbeck Office Support Assistant Macoupin County

Dara Jagodzinski Office Support Assistant Montgomery County

See a complete calendar of

local events at: http://go.illinois.edu/events

https://www.facebook.com/groups/

unit18cjmm/

STAFF DIRECTORY

Montgomery County (Main Office) #1 Industrial Park Drive Hillsboro, IL 62049 Phone: 217-532-3941 FAX: 217-532-3944 Email: [email protected] Hours: Monday - Friday 8am-12pm; 1pm-4:30pm

Christian County 1120 N. Webster Street Taylorville, IL 62568 Phone: 217-287-7246 FAX: 217-287-7248 Hours: Monday - Friday 8am-11:30am; 12:30pm -4:30pm

Jersey County 201 W. Exchange Street, Suite A Jerseyville, IL 62052 Phone: 618-498-2913 FAX: 618-498-5913 Hours: Tuesday & Wednesday 8am-12pm; 1pm-4:30pm & Thursday 8am-12pm

Macoupin County #60 Carlinville Plaza Carlinville, IL 62626 Phone: 217-854-9604 FAX: 217-854-7804 Hours: Monday - Thursday 8am to 12pm; 1pm to 4:30pm

www.facebook.com/unit18cjmm

1120 N. Webster St.

Taylorville, IL 62568

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US POSTAGE PAID

TAYLORVILLE, IL

PERMIT NO. 322

Photo taken by Saralynn Joiner at the Macoupin County 4-H Outdoor Photography Workshop.