DECEMBER 2020 & JANUARY 2021
EXTENSION CONNECTIONS Connections UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION
JANUARY 2024
Newsletter
Rock Island County 321 W 2nd Ave. Milan, IL (309) 756-9978
We hope you enjoy your copy of this free monthly resource which highlights upcoming programs and topics for better To stay up to date onand all ofEnvironmental Sciences The College ofliving. Agricultural, Consumer Henry/Stark Counties our programs, visit our web page: extension.illinois.edu/hmrs and follow us 358 Front St. Galva, IL on Facebook @uiextensionhmrs Mercer County Henry/Stark Counties Rock 932-3447 Island County (309) 910 13th St. Viola, IL 3 5 8 Fr o n t St . G a l va , I L ( 3 09 ) 93 2 - 3 44 7
309-513-3100 Happy THolidays! u e s , W e d , Th ur . 8 a m - 4 p m Tu es , W e d, Th ur . 8 a m - 4 p m
Staff will be on break December 24- January 3. Visitresume our website: Normal work schedules onextension.illinois.edu/hmrs Monday January 4, 2021
321 W 2 nd Ave. Mil an, IL (309)County 756 -9978 Mercer M on -F r i. 8 a m - 4 p m
910 13th St. Viola, IL (309) 871-5032
Mastering Wellness Year-Round Kristin Bogdonas, Illinois Extension Nutrition and Wellness Educator As we usher in the new year, it's an opportune moment to craft effective strategies for maintaining a healthy lifestyle throughout 2024. Let's delve into the six strategies that can help you transform resolutions into enduring habits Set Realistic Goals Embarking on a journey toward a healthier lifestyle begins with the establishment of realistic and achievable goals. Shifting away from vague resolutions, it's crucial to break down objectives into Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART) goals. For instance, rather than a generic "exercise more," consider setting a goal like "walk for 30 minutes every day." This precision not only clarifies your path but also paves the way for success. Build a Support System The impact of a supportive network cannot be overstated. Sharing your health and wellness goals with friends, family, or engaging with a community sharing similar objectives can make a significant difference. Beyond mere encouragement, a support system creates accountability, significantly increasing the likelihood of adhering to healthy habits. Create a Consistent Routine Consistency emerges as a vital element in maintaining healthy habits. Establishing a daily or weekly routine that seamlessly integrates your wellness goals is key. Whether it involves meal planning, workout sessions, or mindfulness practices, a consistent schedule simplifies the process of incorporating healthy habits into your daily life. Celebrate Small Wins Every journey towards better health comprises numerous small victories. It's essential to celebrate these successes, irrespective of their scale. Acknowledging and rewarding yourself for achieving milestones along the way serves as a powerful motivator. Remember, the cultivation of healthy habits is a journey, and every step forward is a triumph worth celebrating.
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Adapt to Challenges Life's unpredictability guarantees that challenges will arise. Rather than viewing setbacks as failures, consider them opportunities for learning and adaptation. Identifying potential obstacles and devising strategies to overcome them is essential. A flexible approach will empower you to navigate the inevitable ups and downs of your wellness journey. Mindful Self-Care Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's crucial not to neglect self-care. Allocating time to recharge your mind and body is essential. Whether through meditation, pursuing a beloved hobby, or simply taking a break, moments of self-care contribute significantly to overall well-being. In conclusion, prioritize progress over perfection. Set realistic goals, cultivate a strong support system, establish a consistent routine, celebrate small wins, adapt to challenges, and embrace mindful self-care. By incorporating these strategies, you can ensure that your wellness journey is not just a fleeting resolution but a sustained, positive transformation.
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Horticulture & Natural Resources Jan. 11, 1 PM: New Invaders: Spotted Lanternfly | Everyday Environment Webinar Series Register at go.illinois.edu/EverydayEnvironment. Help keep invasives out of Illinois. Spotted lanternfly is the newest “unwanted” invasive pest in Illinois. Learn how to identify and report this invasive insect as well as how to manage it and prevent further spread. Tricia Bethke from The Morton Arboretum will explore why monitoring for spotted lanternflies in winter is important and how you can help report invasives with early detection and rapid response.
In a Stressful Season, Seek Nature Amidst the chaos of the season, let's turn our attention to the therapeutic benefits of nature – a universal remedy for all seasons. The evolving body of research underscores the yearround advantages of embracing the great outdoors. Time spent in nature proves to be a potent stressreliever, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Exposure to natural sunlight contributes to the production of vitamin D, fostering improved bone health, immune function, elevated mood, and resilience against heart conditions and stroke. Nature's influence extends beyond physical health. It can diminish symptoms of anxiety and depression while enhancing cognitive functions such as creativity, concentration, and problem-solving skills. Outdoor activities can also offer valuable opportunities for strengthening social bonds. Connecting with nature in the company of others positively impacts mental health and well-being. As temperatures drop the temptation to hibernate sets in. But take note- research suggests that even just 5 minutes outdoors can yield notable health benefits. For substantial improvements, studies recommend a minimum of two hours per week immersed in nature. The consistent message remains: prioritize time in nature, especially during stressful seasons. So grab a friend, bundle up and head outside! Adapted from a Good Growing article by Illinois Extension horticulture educator Emily Swihart
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Stretch your roots this winter with Four Seasons Gardening webinars Seasons come and go, but home gardening never stops. Explore how to keep your green thumb this winter with Four Seasons Gardening webinars. Here’s what’s planned: Native Seed Starting for Spring Planting | Jan. 23 Native plants are adapted to grow and survive in all types of Illinois weather, knowing how they grow will help you learn how to start native seeds for your own garden. Winter sowing is a technique used to save money and easily grow your own plants. Learn techniques to grow even some of the trickiest plants with limited space and no specialized equipment. Insects to Know: Spotted Lanternfly and Periodical Cicadas | Feb. 12 In 2023, the first spotted lanternfly in Illinois was identified in Cook County. In spring 2024, a large brood of periodical cicadas is set to emerge in Northern Illinois, making it a big year for insects. Learn about the biology of these insects and what their arrival means for gardeners and farmers. Rain Garden Essentials: Design, Build, Plant | March 5 Discover the power of rain gardens, which act as nature's filter by slowing stormwater runoff, reducing soil erosion, and relieving strain on stormwater systems. Gain insights into the principles of rain garden construction and design, ensuring that your garden not only enhances the beauty of your space, but also contributes to the health of the environment. Illinios Extension educators and specialists Jamie Viebach, Kacie Athey, Chris Enroth, and Andrew Holsinger will lead the series.
Find more information and sign up for sessions at go.illinois.edu/FourSeasons
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Workshops | Webinars | Events Bald Eagle Days | QCCA Expo Center Jan 5 - Jan 7, 2024 | Rock Island, IL
Come see us at Bald Eagle Days 2024! This annual event offers fun for all ages with lots of educational opportunities for the kids. Illinois Extension Master Gardeners will be there with a booth. This year’s event features: Incredible Bats, Birds of Prey, Big Run Wolf Ranch and Cold Blooded Parties! There are also Audubon Bus Tours on Saturday and Sunday to see the eagles in their natural habitat. Admission to Bald Eagle Days: Adults $6 Kids 6-15 $1 Kids under 6 Free For more information go to www..qccaexpocenter.com
Digital Pressure Canning Class Wed Jan 17, 10:30 am - Noon Wyoming Public Library The new digital pressure canner is designed to simplify your canning experience. With precise controls and digital features, this modern appliance ensures accuracy and ease, making home canning more accessible and efficient than ever.
4-H Career Club Online Series Register by Jan 12 | Starts Jan 24
Wouldn’t it be motivating to develop skills and knowledge in career exploration now as a teen? You can with 4-H Build Your Future Career Club! Explore and connect with educators to learn about careers, goal setting, applications, interviewing, social media footprint, and a road trip to the U of I campus. Students in 6th – 12th grades can partake in this virtual club on the second and fourth Tuesdays Jan 23 to April 9, 6:30 - 7:30 pm. Enrollment includes the Build Your Future career journal. $20 for new 4-Hers; no fee for current members. Register by Fri, January 12
at go.illinois.edu/careerclub. Questions? Contact Jennifer Petersen, 4-H Educator at 217-300-7348.
Join Kristin Bogdonas, IL Extension nutrition and wellness educator as she demonstrates a digital pressure canner and makes a recipe. As a bonus, participants will receive a jar of delicious chili, ready for pickup the next day. The cost is $10 person. Class size is limited, Register at go.illinois.edu/DigitalCanner or call (309) 756-9978.
Tips for Making Your Small Business a Success Jan 24: Noon - 1 pm | Free Personal and professional finances often get mixed in the journey to becoming an entrepreneur. Learn about best practices to manage your finances while building your small business. Register at go.uillinois.edu/getsavvywebinars
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4-H Road Trip to University of Illinois, Urbana Sat. March 9, Illini Union Attention Illinois 8th-12th graders and parents Join us for an exciting day of exploration and inspiration! Road Trip: College and Career Day on March 9 is a fun filled day conference for youth planning to be college bound. Explore workshop topics related to College and Career Readiness and State 4-H opportunities. The fee is $35 (covers lunch, supplies, and activities). Register by Feb 9 at go.illinois.edu/4HRoadTrip
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SATURDAY FEBRUARY 10 8 AM - 2:30 PM VIBRANT ARENA MOLINE, IL
UNIVERSTIY OF ILLINOIS EXTENSION’S 25TH ANNUAL
LESSONS IN GARDENING SYMPOSIUM
ATTENTION GARDEN ENTHUSIASTS! JOIN US FEB 10 TO: Connect with experts and grow in your gardening knowledge! Get inspired for your 2024 growing season.
Network with fellow gardeners during lunch and sessions. Shop unique items from garden vendors.
Get inspired and cultivate your knowledge at Nursery School: Lesson in Gardening, the Quad Cities’ premiere gardening symposium! For over two decades, gardening enthusiasts from across the region have gathered to celebrate a shared passion for horticulture. This year marks a special milestone as we proudly present the 25th Annual Nursery School. Join us for an enriching experience to connect, learn, and grow.
Event Highlights:
Connect with Renowned Horticulture Experts
Immerse yourself in a day of knowledge-sharing with experts. Gain insights, ideas, and inspiration to transform your gardens.
Keynote: "This isn't your Grandparents Garden Weather"
Explore the effects of our changing weather and its profound impact on our gardens with a captivating presentation from Illinois Extension State Master Naturalist and Climate Change Garden Vendors! Specialist, Duane Friend.
Tailored Learning Experience
Get practical knowledge you can use! Customize your day by choosing 3 more sessions from a diverse selection of offerings, ensuring there's something for every interest.
Are you a vendor with garden-related items or services? Join us at Nursery School to connect with gardeners! Sign up at go.illinois.edu/NSvendor
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Workshops, Lunch, Shopping and More! Start off with morning coffee and rolls, shop the garden vendors, learn from experts, enjoy a taco bar buffet (included), visit with fellow gardening enthusiasts.
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Nursery School Sessions Opening Keynote Session 8:45-9:45am
Session I: 10 - 11am
Select one from the following:
AAA Winners: The Secret Ingredient to Gardening Success
Ornamentals
Duane Friend
This isn’t your Grandparents Gardening Weather.
SCHEDULE: Doors openopen at 8AM. Enjoy complimentary coffee SCHEDULE: Doors at 8AM. Enjoy complimentary andcoffee rolls, visit is at 8:45, followed and vendors. rolls, visitKeynote vendors.Session Keynote Session is at 8:45, followed by two morning session. Lunch is 12:15 by two morning session. Lunch is 12:15 - 1:15 with Taco bar 1:15 with Taco bar (included) and time to visit vendors (included) and time to visit vendors before your last before your last session at 1:30. The event ends at 2:30. session at 1:30. The event ends at 2:30.
Diane Blazak, Executive Director, of All-American Selections and the National Garden Bureau
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Nicole Flowers-Kimmerle, Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator
Join Nicole to learn concepts and techniques for starting seed indoors and outdoors. Starting your own seedlings gives you the opportunity to select unique varieties and have healthy plants ready to go into your garden at the right time.
Hunters of the night: Owls of Iowa & Illinois
Nature
Duane Friend has an extensive background in meteorology and climatology and over 30 years of invaluable experience. He previously served as an Illinois Extension Natural Resources Management Educator and held positions as Executive Director for the Farm Services Agency, and as a resource conservationist. His professional honors include gold and bronze awards from the Association of Natural Resource Extension Professionals.
Seedling Success: Mastering Indoor and Outdoor Seed Starting
Edibles
We all know the weather affects our gardens and landscape. Are changes in the weather affecting how we plant and grow? Duane Friend, Illinois Extension State Master Naturalist and Climate Change Specialist, will talk about trends in weather over the last few decades. He will share practical guidance on ways you might adjust gardening and landscape activities to make the most of these changes. His expertise in this dynamic field makes his keynote a must-attend for anyone seeking cutting-edge knowledge on weather's effects on our gardens.
For over 90 years, All-America Selections (AAS) has been the trusted source for gardeners who want to ensure the success of their gardens. The AAS seal is a promise of superior quality, performance, and beauty. But what does it take for a plant to earn the AAS seal? In this session you’ll go behind the scenes of the AAS Training process to learn how AAS Winners are selected, from the initial submission to the final judging. You’ll also get to preview some of the 2024 AAS winners!
James Wiebler, Naturalist and Research Coordinator at Nahant Marsh
Discover the unique adaptations that make owls such fascinating creatures, gaining insights into their behaviors and habitats. James will guide you through the identification of the eight owl species found in Iowa and Illinois.
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Nursery School Sessions Session II: 11:15 - 12:15 pm
Session III: 1:30 - 2:30 pm
Beneath the Canopy: Exploring Spring Ephemeral Flowers
Hornbaker GardensNew Plants & Inspirations for the Spring Season!
Select one from the following:
Ornamentals
Emily Swihart, Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator
Select one from the following:
Molly Blogg, Manager, CEO, CoOwner of Hornbaker Gardens Inc.
After a Midwestern winter, early blooming flowers are a welcome sign of spring for people and pollinators alike. Ephemerals are a group of flowering plants that emerge in the early spring while the woodland remains dormant. But their beauty is fleeting, retreating into the background of the forest as the canopy fills out. Join Emily on a virtual tour of the forest floor and gain inspiration to venture out on your ow walk through the woods this spring.
Edibles
Organic Vegetable Gardening
Embark on a horticultural adventure with Molly as your guide, as she not only traces the historical narrative of Hornbaker Garden Center, Arboretum, and Botanic Garden but also unveils a captivating glimpse into the future of your own garden. She will share insights on incorporating new plant varieties into your garden, transforming your outdoor space into a vibrant tapestry of color and texture.
Ken Johnson, Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator
Chris Enroth, Illinois Extension Horticulture Educator, and Chef Elly Voss, NEST Cafe (Nourish Everyone Sustainably Together)
Discover the principles and benefits of organic gardening as you delve into the art of cultivating a thriving vegetable garden. Learn about what organic gardening is and how you can implement organic practices in your own vegetable garden
Duane Friend, Illinois Extension State Master Naturalist and Climate Change Specialist
Explore user-friendly resources designed to enhance decision-making throughout your growing season. Learn about a variety of cutting-edge tools that offer valuable insights into local weather patterns, climate trends, and potential risks for your backyard oasis.
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Culinary herbs are favorite of many gardeners. The leaves and flowers of herbs can give fragrance and flavor to our food. Chris will give a lesson on growing herbs and then Chef Elly will share some of her recipes using culinary herbs.
Nature
Climate & Weather Tools for Gardening
You can’t go wrong with culinary herbs in your garden/kitchen!
Enrich Your Yard with Native Plants Amy Loving, Director of Education at Nahant Marsh
Yards are a great place to incorporate native plants-but where to start? This presentation will identify yard ecosystem types,native plants that are best suited for those habitats, and the wildlife that benefits from them. Additionally, you will also hear of a variety of resources to start plugging natives into
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Nursery School 2024 Registration Get inspired and cultivate your knowledge at Nursery School, the Quad Cities’ premiere gardening symposium! Produced by University of Illinois Extension and Master Gardeners from Henry, Mercer, Rock Island, and Stark counties, the event offers something for everyone, from the novice to the most experienced gardener. Horticulture experts share tips, pointers, ideas and information you can put to work!
REGISTER EARLY & SAVE!
Registration fees are $60 through Jan 5, and $70 from Jan 6 - Feb 5, 2024 You must register by Feb 5 to attend Nursery School, taking place on Sat. Feb 10, 2024. Your registration includes morning coffee and rolls, keynote presentation, 3 additional sessions, taco lunch buffet, and access to the Nursery School vendor area. To register: use the link below, scan the QR code, or call our office at (309) 756-9978.
Register by Feb 5, 2024 at
go.illinois.edu/NurserySchool2024
Connect with experts and grow in your gardening knowledge!
Network with fellow gardeners over lunch and between sessions.
Morning coffee and rolls and a taco bar lunch are included.
Shop unique items from a variety of garden vendors.
University of Illinois Extension
The College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences Visit our website: extension.illinois.edu/hmrs Henry/Stark Counties 3 5 8 F r o n t St . G al v a, IL ( 3 0 9) 9 3 2 -3 4 47
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Mercer County
910 13th St. Viola, IL 309-513-3100
Rock Island County
321 W 2n d Ave. Mi lan, I L (309) 756-997 8
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University of Illinois Extension and Black Hawk State Historic Site present...
Winter Wellness 2024
Sat, February 17, 10 am - 1 pm Watch Tower Lodge Black Hawk Park, 1800 46th Ave.
Rock Island, IL
Join us for the perfect winter day escape into health and wellness at our 3rd annual Winter Wellness Event in collaboration with Black Hawk State Historic Site. This year we’ll focus on the Blue Zones Wisdom. Discover lessons from regions where people live longer and experience higher well-being. Here’s what’s planned: Mediterranean Bowl: Sample ingredients from Blue Zone diets as you build your own flavorful bowl. Warm up with a selection of hot tea and cocoa. Crafts & Community: Social Connections are key to longevity! Engage in hands-on crafts amidst a sense of community. Enjoy soothing tunes of classical guitar music by local artist Jeffrey Davies. Interactive Stations: Learn to reduce food waste and create eco-friendly cleaning products. Dive into heart-healthy practices and nutrition with Blue Zones lessons. Grab a free 2024 Eat.Move.Save recipe calendar from SNAP-Ed. Win a Mediterranean Bowl Kit: Complete an activity sheet for a chance to take home a meal kit.
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Kids' Activities: Kids who will enjoy activities by 4-H, AOK Childhood Network, and an indoor obstacle course. Capture memories at the selfie station. Explore History: Visit the Hauberg Museum to learn about Sauk and Meskwaki (Fox) Indians.
Don't miss this fun-filled day of wellness for all ages! Get all the details at go.illinois.edu/WinterWellness
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