JUNE 2015
Unit Program report
SERV I NG B O ND- CL IN TON -J E F F ER SON -M AR ION -WA S H IN GTON C OU N TIE S
4-H/YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
“So very glad we were able to send her on this experience & so very grateful for 4-H and the education they give our youth!!” PARENT OF ILLINI SUMMER ACADEMIES PARTICIPANT
Area youth attend ISA in June Illini Summer Academies (ISA) is a 4-day overnight event that lets students experience University of Illinois college life while learning with university professors in 13 exciting academies of study --
Aerospace Engineering, Agri Business, Agricultural Mechanization, Chemistry, Computer Science, Creative Writing, Digital Manufacturing & Information, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Human Development & Family Sciences, Molecular & Cellular Biology, Natural Resources & Environmental Sciences, Plant Science, and Veterinary Medicine. This year, 280 high school youth from across the state attended ISA, held June 21-24, an increase of 85 from last year. Energy was high all week long, from the opening ceremony where one
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
ISA, continued on Page 2
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ADMINISTRATIVE/PERSONNEL
▶ GREAT GARDEN DETECTIVES START THEIR ADVENTURE
WELCOME TO EXTENSION June welcomed three new faces to the Extension offices in Bond, Clinton, Jefferson, Marion, and Washington counties.
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Judy Hug, Jane Clark, and Jeana Brandmeyer were hired during the first part of the month as Extra Help employees. During Judy Hug Jane Clark their short time with Extension, all three have proven themselves to be great additions to the team.
▶ ROYAL LAKES RENOVATIONS ON TRACK PAGE 9 Jeana Brandmeyer
Jeana has been working in the Clinton County office and will continue helping there throughout the summer. Judy and Jane will be providing coverage for Office Support staff in all five counties during absences and when additional help is needed.
our
Mission
To enable people to improve
▶ 4-H SHOW SEASON KICKS OFF
their lives & communities through learning partnerships
▶ MASTER
GARDENERS SHARE HOME GARDENS PAGE 10
that put knowledge to work
4-H/YOUTH DEVELOPMENT “I’m going to be in 4-H when I get big!” MARCOOT DAIRY DAYS YOUTH PARTICIPANT
Counties celebrate Dairy Month June is National Dairy Month, and two local counties took part in events to celebrate and educate the public on the benefits of dairy products. Bond County 4-H was once again invited to have a table at the annual Marcoot Jersey Creamery Dairy Days event. This year’s event at the Greenville dairy farm hosted 227 youth on June 6. Visitors to the event received Dairy and 4-H items and a drawing was held to win a basket of Dairy products and 4-H items. One youth participant was excited to tell staff member Lauren Robinson, “I’m going to be in 4-H when I get big!” An adult participant reminisced, “I was in 4-H when I was a kid, and it was so much fun!” Clinton County Clovers and Cloveretts 4-H club led a June is Dairy Month education day at the St. Rose community park. Over 350 visitors came to learn about dairy cows, dairy foods, and dairy education and to have a fun family day. The Clovers and Cloveretts asked for donations of nonperishable and canned food items to the help supplement the area food pantry during the summer. 4-H members worked the ice cream booth, games, face painting, registration table, soda and food stand. Helen Leonhardt, Family and Consumer Science Program Coordinator did a hands-on demonstration with homemade butter and handed out samples. Gail DeVilbiss, Agriculture and Natural Resource Coordinator conducted an educational game on milk and milk mustaches. Tonya Roberts, 4-H Program Coordinator, did a science experiment with milk and food coloring. Also adding to the fun was Ag in the Classroom and Mid-West
Marion County 4-H members recently helped out at the Farmers Market held weekly at Bryant Park in Salem. On June 18, 15 youth – along with 4-H Program Coordinator Marilyn Thompson and a 4-H volunteer – assisted customers with the carrying of their purchases and other tasks as needed. Marilyn also distributed 4-H informational materials to youth visiting the market with their families.
~ Submitted by Marilyn Thompson, Marion County 4-H Program Coordinator
Marcoot Jersey Creamery Dairy Days
ISA, continued from Page 1
Dairy Association. Dairy Farmers affiliated with the Clovers and Cloveretts supplied dairy cows, calves, cheese, a variety of flavored milk and ice cream. FFA brought pedal tractors so that the Clovers and Cloveretts could have a pedal tractor contest. Clovers and Cloveretts were elated by the community participation and we have already received emails and phone call from people that attended and would like to join 4-H in September 2015. Dairy Day in St. Rose will be an annual event for University of Illinois Extension and 4-H Club, Clovers and Cloverettes. ~ Submitted by Lauren Robinson, Bond County Extra Help, and Tonya Roberts, Clinton County 4-H Program Coordinator
Clinton County Dairy Day Page 2
FARMERS MARKET
group won $200 on the ThinkFast game show to the closing event where university professors shared their 1-minute “snapshot” of Academy activities. Eight 4-H members from the five-county area took part in this hands-on experience, thanks in large part to the John Clyde Spitler & Walter M. Johnson Scholarship Fund which awarded up to 80% of the registration fee to most of the local attendees. The mother of the Marion County attendee was happy to share her daughter’s experiences with 4-H Program Coordinator Marilyn Thompson: “Sent my daughter to Champaign for 4-H Academy this week. I think she is having a great time! They are on a fieldtrip today to a nearby park where they were using an electronic device to call birds. They got to see a hoot owl fly in close to them (he was upset with the calls!). So very glad we were able to send her on this experience & so very grateful for 4-H and the education they give our youth!!”
4-H/YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
DID YOU KNOW? 4-H project shows offer opportunities for youth to build confidence, display creativity
Cats, dogs are stars of shows The Bond County 4-H Dog Obedience School Graduation Ceremony was held on June 11, following the last of six sessions. The participants were presented with a completion certificate and a bag of goodies for them and their dogs to enjoy.
Obedience instructor Bev Leidner told the 4-H members that she was proud of how hard they had worked this year and to keep up the good work. Due to scheduling conflicts some of the participants were unable to attend the show on Saturday and were therefore allowed to do their obedience pattern for judging following the ceremony and hot dog supper provided by Bond County 4-H.
The Clinton County Public Presentation 4-H Show was held during the Leader Appreciation dinner on April 30. Although typically held in conjunction with the annual General Projects 4-H Show, this year’s presenters received their own night. A new class – “Innovation” – was also introduced. The Innovation class was added to several project areas allowing 4-H members to be more creative in their projects. Innovation covers anything that is not included under the designated project area. Clinton County’s show featured one Innovation Public Presentation. The 4-H member spoke on the Holocaust, showed a slide show, and had a panel questionnaire for the Federation members who attended the Holocaust Museum trip. In addition to the Innovation presentation, three other 4-H members prepared Formal Public Presentations. Everyone enjoyed having the public presentations separate from the General Show. It made for a nice evening, with leaders and volunteers as the audience. ~ Submitted by Tonya Roberts, Clinton County 4-H Program Coordinator
On June 13, five children exhibited in the Bond County Dog and Cat Shows. Awards were given for Best of Show, Dog Obedience, Junior Showmanship and Senior Showmanship for Dog. In Cats, awards were given for Champion and Reserve Champion Cats. Bev (Dog Obedience instructor and judge for the day) gave each participant in the Dog show a bag of items
Marion County 4-H Cat Show Winners
Bond County 4-H Dog Show Winners
for their dogs. The Cat show participants were given a backpack with small items for their cats from Bond County 4-H. The “Best of Show” winner was a 9-weekold puppy who had only attended three obedience classes. The judge commended her and her handler for making such huge bounds in obedience. Another young lady had said she wasn’t going to participate in Showmanship and ended up winning the class in her age group! Threatening weather did not dampen the 10 4-H members who participated in the Marion County 4-H Cat and Dog Show on June 25. The judge was very thorough with each member as they presented their pet. Even with severe weather closing in quickly, the event was able to be completed and members received their hard-earned awards. The show judge and Extension staff also made sure that all participants, their families, and their pets were safe and secure under shelter as they rode out the storm. ~ Submitted by Vicki Enloe, Bond County 4-H Program Coordinator, and Marilyn Thompson, Marion County 4-H Program Coordinator
CLINTON COUNTY HORSE SHOW The Clinton County Horse Show was held at CW Equestrian Center on July 21. There were eight participants competing in several classes, including Halter, Showmanship Jr. and Sr., Dressage, Equitation, Country Pleasure, English Pleasure, Horsemanship, Western Pleasure, Barrel Racing, Flags, Catalog Race, and Egg and Spoon. Everyone had a great time and enjoyed the day at the beautiful indoor arena of CW Equestrian Center, especially since it rained.
~ Submitted by Tonya Roberts, Clinton County 4-H Program Coordinator
A 4-H Horse Show participant enjoys spending a busy Father’s Day with her dad. Page 3
4-H/YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
Youth interests sparked at electricity workshops Bruce Barkau and Brad Austin of TriCounty Electric Cooperative, Inc., held two-day electricity workshops at the Marion County and Jefferson County Extension offices in June. Participants learned about AC and DC
currents, simple motors, two-way and three-way switches. They also wired their own three-way light switch. “This is so cool!” said one participant. “I want to be an electrical engineer when I grow up.” The workshops also included many aspects of electrical safety. “We offer this program and try to save lives by educating kids on electrical safety,” said Barkau. ~ Submitted by Carla Chesnek, Jefferson County 4-H Program Coordinator, and Marilyn Thompson, Marion County 4-H Program Coordinator
DID YOU KNOW? Two-day camp was not long enough for area 4-H Cloverbuds On June 16 & 17, 10 Jefferson County 4-H Youth Representatives presented the 3rd annual two-day Cloverbud Camp for youth ages 5-8 at the Jefferson County Extension Office.
4-H GENERAL PROJECTS SHOW Marion County 4-H members exhibited a wide variety of 4-H projects at the June 27th 4-H General Projects Show at the Marion County Fairgrounds. Categories on display included Clothing, Food, Visual Arts, Public Speaking, Engineering and Technology, Natural Resources, Interior Design, and more. The judges were very impressed that the youth were so enthusiastic about their project and eager to talk about what they learned while preparing for exhibition. The 63 4-H youth were not the only ones with positive experiences at the General Projects Show. One of the volunteer judges was a retired Extension Youth Educator who served in a neighboring county in her early years with Extension. While preparing to judge the Public Speaking contest, she noticed a parent who looked familiar. Long story short... the person she recognized was a former 4-H member from the county where she began her 4-H career! After being re-introduced, they were able to reconnect a long-lasting friendship during the event. Page 4
~ Submitted by Marilyn Thompson, Marion County 4-H Program Coordinator
The theme for Day 1 was Artastrophy. participants splatter-painted camp shirts, sculpted with clay, learned how to square dance, painted using pointillism, and made their own musical instruments. For a snack, participants made pudding and painted with it using fruit and animal crackers. Day 2 centered around the Wild West. Participants wore western wear, decorated their own bandana, made ponies from pool noodles, learned to play horseshoes, talked about camping, made an edible campfire, and had special farm visitors – a calf, goat, and rabbit. Participants snacked on cactus juice and s’mores trail mix before treating their parents to a square dance. One participant wasn’t ready to leave, asking, “Can it be four days next year?” ~ Submitted by Carla Chesnek, Jefferson County 4-H Program Coordinator
4-H/YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
DID YOU KNOW? Master Gardeners work with 4-H Program Coordinators to educate area youth
On June 6, seven Jefferson County 4-H Garden Club members received certificates of participation for taking part in the club under the leadership of Theresa Greene, local master gardener and 4-H volunteer. Participants learned the basics of gardening, planted/propagated seedlings, made a self-watering flower pot, and enjoyed learning about plants in a unique way. Theresa utilized many activities from the Junior Master Gardener curriculum. Carla Chesnek, 4-H Program Coordinator, attended and discussed fair exhibition options with members One parent new to the 4-H program said, “My children will be participating in the fair and we will bring some of the items they completed in the garden club.” ~ Submitted by Carla Chesnek, Jefferson County 4-H Program Coordinator
Marion, Jefferson county youth encouraged to ‘Think Green’ The First United Methodist Church of Sandoval has established a lunch program to feed needy youth from the Sandoval and Odin communities. This program is made possible through local donations, volunteer support, and food donations provided by the Central Illinois Food Bank. Youth ages 3-18, including teen parents, are provided public transportation to and from the church Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and served a hot lunch. In partnership, University of Illinois Extension 4-H was pleased to offer educational workshops as part of the lunch event. The children were provided several mini workshops from the “I Think Green” program, with a focus on insects. Children were given the opportunity to use a magnifying glass to investigate many types of arthropods. They learned how to identify insects based on five characteristics, the concepts of metamorphosis, and participated in “hands-on” activities to explore the types of specialized mouth parts of insects. Finally the youth played the “secret smells” game where they were
challenged to locate partners based only upon their sense of smell.
Many of the child participants had significant delays, from mild to moderate cognitive impairment. Extension staff were very grateful to be able to provide some learning opportunities for this special group of kids. The parents also seemed pleased with the program. One young parent remarked, “This is really great! It’s awesome that you came and brought these activities.” On June 22-25, Jefferson County youth were treated to another tract of the “I Think Green” program – worms. Volunteer Sandy Clanin, a Master Gardener, provided a four-day lesson to the 3rd-grade students at Buford Summer School. Sandy discussed living/nonliving organisms with the students by investigating a square-foot area of ground outside. The next two days were spent observing and discussing the parts of a worm and their importance to the environment. After the lesson, the teacher commented, “Thanks so much for providing this program. My students really loved it.” ~ Submitted by Liz Miller, 4-H/Youth Development Educator, and Carla Chesnek, Jefferson County Program Coordinator
PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP On June 30, Jay Dunbar of Dunbar Photography provided a beginner photography workshop for 18 Jefferson County youth. Mr. Dunbar discussed the basic functions of a camera, basic rules of photography – including the “Rule of Thirds” and creating angles – and demonstrated techniques used to create superb photos. “I never knew my camera could do that,” remarked one youth. Participants were also shown a photo editing program and techniques to use to enhance their pictures. ~ Submitted by Carla Chesnek, Jefferson County 4-H Program Coordinator Page 5
4-H/YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
Youth Reps lead art workshop On June 8, 12 Jefferson County 4-H Youth Representatives led a workshop for 16 participants ages 8-18. Participants learned how to make a NeoPopRealism drawing, a clay bowl, a unique technique in drawing a self-portrait, punched tin art, and duct tape flowers. “My favorite was making the duct tape flowers,” said one participant.
DID YOU KNOW? Popularity of robotics drew 40 local youth to a six-day fun and educational camp
Two Youth Reps led each art station, and participants rotated from activity to activity. Youth Reps wanted to give participants the opportunity to explore various artistic techniques and open their eyes to project areas they may not have thought about before. ~ Submitted by Carla Chesnek, Jefferson County 4-H Program Coordinator
CLINTON COUNTY ART ACADEMY Clinton County’s 4-H Art Academy, already an annual event at the New Baden Park, was introduced in Breese this year. Many 4-H members and new youth came to learn about crafts and have fun during their summer break. This year, the camp added leather crafting, quilling, and metal punching, and all were a great success. Youth also learned about plastic flowers, mosaics, tie dye, clay, beading, origami, monster pillows, drawing and abstract painting. Many members are returning for the summer programs year after year. With the help of teen teachers talking about their 4-H clubs, 4-H Program Coordinator Tonya Roberts believes Clinton County will see some new traditional club members enroll for 2015-16.
~ Submitted by Tonya Roberts, Clinton County 4-H Program Coordinator
ECOBOT CHALLENGE On June 15 and 18, Jefferson County 4-H presented the Ecobot Challenge to 14 4th-grade students at District 80’s summer school program. Participants discussed types of robots, what jobs robots do, oil spills, and cleaning up after an oil spill. Participants constructed a containment wall on their map of “Bailey Beach” and, using rice, simulated cleaning up the oil spill with an autobot – a robot that completes one task. Ecobots were constructed from tooth brush heads, pager motors, and batteries. One participant was amazed that “robots can be made from simple materials you have at home.” Page 6
~ Submitted by Carla Chesnek, Jefferson County 4-H Program Coordinator
Jefferson County 4-H, in partnership with the FIRST Robotics Team from Mount Vernon Township High School, hosted a six-day robotics camp for 40 local youth in June. Skilled adult volunteers, including the FIRST Robotics Team coach, and the high school team provided “hands-on” training and mentorship to the robotics camp participants. Youth and adult mentors utilized portions of the 4-H Platforms Curriculum, along with a variety of other materials. In a team environment, youth were challenged to build a SUMO-Bot which was used to perform at the culminating event – a SUMO-Bot battle at the local mall! The program’s objectives were to expose participating youth to the challenge and reward of building and analyzing “robotics” mechanisms, nurture and cultivate the students’ interest in robotics and engineering, provide participants with an authentic design-build-test experience that simulates real-world engineering, and increase youth communication, problem solving, critical thinking skills. It also gives Teen Teachers an opportunity to share their knowledge and experience with younger youth. ~ Submitted by Liz Miller, 4-H/ Youth Development Educator, and Carla Chesnek, Jefferson County 4-H Program Coordinator
FAMILY CONSUMER SCIENCE (FCS) & ILLINOIS NUTRITION EDUCATION PROGRAM (SNAP)
DID YOU KNOW? Extension honey bee programs continue to be popular with area residents
Extension staff start students on a gardening adventure Extension staff members Krystal Pruden and Lacey Waggoner visited Hawthorn Elementary in May to teach 3rd-graders about gardening and healthy eating through the brand new Great Garden Detective Adventure program. This program allows students to use their detective instincts and investigate the nutrients that can be found in the fruits and vegetables they grow in their own garden. During the first visit, students studied the different parts of a plant and how fruits and vegetables come from them. The second visit focused on using their five senses to investigate the texture, smell, color, sound, and taste of a variety of different fruits and vegetables. On the final visit, students planted their own seeds to take home to transplant into their family gardens. Krystal and Lacey discussed the best conditions for young seedlings and plants and what they need to help them grow strong and healthy.
“All About Honey Bees” presented by Extension staff on June 17 at Salem Lutheran Church introduced 27 attendees to the life of the honey bee community and the amazing tiny insect that impacts our environment and lives in ways we may never notice. A bee hive with parts of the hive were shown and explained. The tools and protective clothing of beekeeping were on display and demonstrated. A handout, “Bee Prepared” was available to show the basics of beekeeping. One client expressed her amazement at so much that the honey bee does and how wonderfully it was created to do what it does so naturally. After the PowerPoint presentation, the participants asked questions for a half-hour which facilitated discussions about the environment, beekeeping, pure honey products, different types of honey bees, colony collapse and mowing clover. ~ Submitted by Helen Leonhardt, Family & Consumer Science Program Coordinator
The students had such a fun time and were always quick to offer help and add to the discussion. Some were surprised that they liked the new foods they got to taste during the second visit. One boy came up to the staff members to let them know that he was a very picky eater and would probably not like any of the food. He was told that was OK, but they would love it if he would at least just try
them. Later, the boy came up to them again to say he would not be trying the berries. Krystal and Lacey assured him that those were the yummiest of all the foods and he would really like them, but he was not convinced. Finally, they decided to work with him to see what they could get him to try. He wouldn’t touch the berries but finally tasted the spinach. To everyone’s surprise, he loved it! Staff members were so pleased that he liked the more nutritious vegetables over the berries. The program is expected to expand to a number of Marion County schools beginning at the start of the new school year. ~ Submitted by Krystal Pruden and Lacey Waggoner, INEP Community Workers
NASCOTE HEALTH & SAFETY FAIR Staff from Family & Consumer Science, Community & Economic Development and Marketing & Communications represented Extension at the Nascote Health & Safety Fair June 10. The fair was open for Nascote’s 1,000 employees during three shifts to allow for full participation. Employees were encouraged to visit all vendors through a prize drawing offered by Nascote. Extension presented information from all program areas with website bookmarks, printed articles and brochures. A poster highlighted the importance of calcium, and employees could take a quiz to check their daily calcium intake. Handouts covered topics like Calcium, Beverages, Food Safety, Energy Drinks, Budgeting, recipes, sugar, salt, home safety, and budgeting. Clients enthusiastically collected the information on the tables. A male participant commented, “I’m more interested in this stuff now that I’m older.” Some reflected on programs that they knew about for themselves or their children. “My children learned a lot in 4-H, and the parents did, too.” A woman asked, “Does the SNAP teacher still come into the classroom each week? I remember it was the highlight of my week.” ~ Submitted by Helen Leonhardt, Family & Consumer Science Program Coordinator Page 7
FAMILY CONSUMER SCIENCE (FCS) & ILLINOIS NUTRITION EDUCATION PROGRAM (SNAP)
‘Greens & Things’ offered at Friday Food & Art event Extension staff presented “Greens & Things Food Bar” to clients at a new market in partnership with the Mt. Vernon Convention and Visitors Bureau during the second market day of the season. There were nine vendors in the market, an inflatable for children to jump, and a local musician singing and playing the guitar and banjo.
The food demonstration showed eight kinds of green and leafy produce – spinach, peas, kale, radicchio, romaine, mizuna, arugula, endive, and radish – to sample individually and combine in a salad to experience the sweet, mild, earthy, peppery, and spicy tastes and how they complement each other. A handout highlighted the nutritional value, the many flavors of greens and a recipe to sauté greens. Thirty-four visitors took printed information and 19 enjoyed the food samples. Most who stopped by the display knew many of the names of the greens and sampled some new ones. An 8-year-old boy, with his mother and a friend, came to look at the demo. When the youth was asked if he wanted a sample, the mother said, “He doesn’t eat anything green.” When the mother was offered a sample, she declined.
The ladies talked a bit and the youth nudged mom and asked for a sample. Staff member Helen Leonhardt prepared a bowl and told him she was putting in different kinds of green lettuce and red lettuce to start. He didn’t know which others to try, so she helped him choose about three different kinds. After adding a little ranch dressing, he finished the salad completely... without making a “scrunch” face. ~ Submitted by Helen Leonhardt, Family & Consumer Science Program Coordinator
EMPTY CALORIES OR NOT? Extension staff presented a poster display of “Beverages: Empty Calories or Not?” to 109 clients of a local food pantry in partnership with Salem Ministerial Alliance. About 40 people took information and reviewed the materials available, which included fruit and vegetable beverages, reading the nutrition facts label, the functions of beverages in the body, caffeine content of beverages, energy drinks, sports drinks, and benefits of whole milk. Handouts included: “Rethink Your Drink,” Beverage Word Search, Energy Drinks. Participant comments, such as, “We get together and drink coffee every day,” “I only drink diet soda,” “I use Zero Coke,” and “I don’t like water,” reinforced the need for information to encourage a healthy lifestyle, especially in the beverages selected. A SNAP staff member observed during the event to plan for future programs at this location.
~ Submitted by Helen Leonhardt, Family & Consumer Science Program Coordinator Page 8
DID YOU KNOW? Extension staff provide live demonstrations to help encourage healthy lifestyles
Extension presented Cooking With Fresh Garden Produce, a Lesson for Living, with a live food demonstration on June 16 at the Don Lee Extension Center in Mt. Vernon, in partnership with the Jefferson County Association of Home and Community Education. Ten members attended to receive training to share the lesson with their local units. Produce highlighted included chard, kohlrabi, kale and eggplant. Information about purchasing, cleaning, nutritional value, and suggestions for preparation accompanied the demonstration. Clients watched the preparation and then tasted Kale Chips, Fresh Pesto with Bow Tie Pasta, and Marinated Carrots. Attendees were also provided handouts about fresh garden produce and a booklet of 13 recipes. This was the first time any of the participants had been introduced to Kale Chips. They enjoyed the Marinated Carrots and Fresh Pesto with Bow Tie Pasta, also. All of the produce was new to the clients, except the carrots. Participants discussed cooking and preparing each in different ways and their high nutritional values. The cooking smells encouraged an enjoyable tasting session at the end. ~ Submitted by Helen Leonhardt, Family & Consumer Science Program Coordinator
COMMUNITY & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT (CED)
DID YOU KNOW? Extension educator is working with Jefferson County NAACP president on redevelopment project
Pam Schallhorn, Community & Economic Development Educator, began working with Rev. Mrs. Erie Patton, President of the NAACP in Jefferson County, in April on a Believing in Yourself workshop in Mt. Vernon’s south side. Although interested in the course, she was more interested in turning the area into mixed-used development and wanted assistance in making her message clear to City officials. Erie believed that the piece-meal zoning changes by the City were a detriment to the south-side area. Erie and Pam began site visits of the side lots subject to rezoning, and at the June 15 City Council meeting, Erie read a letter she had written to the Mayor on May 29, outlining her hopes to replace the current rezoning plan with a mixed-use plan that included affordable housing. The Mt. Vernon Sentinel covered the story on June 20. After discussions with Jon Hallberg, Director of the Jefferson County Development Corp., it was discussed that the project be expanded into a Design Charrette for the south side area. The end result will be a plan that can be given to the City as a tool to redevelop the area. Pam and Erie have already outlined a series of steps going forward, and Erie has expressed her gratitude to Pam and Extension for their assistance in the process. “... I am blessed that our paths crossed.” Erie told Pam. “... I thank God for you.” ~ Submitted by Pam Schallhorn, Community & Economic Development Educator
Clean-up, renovation efforts move forward in Royal Lakes Since April, Henry Rowell, a local developer, and Pam Schallhorn, Extension Community & Economic Development Educator, have been meeting to determine how to improve conditions at Royal Lakes Resort No. 2 (RL2). Meetings have been held with both the Santa Fe and Wade Township Boards to discuss a potential “clean-up” day in RL2. Both townships are supportive, and the team will be provided dumpsters by the EPA for no charge. Due to recent rains, the project is projected to begin after July. To ensure that the team meets the needs of the community, Henry and Pam visited RL2 on June 11 to talk with residents. One resident, now in her 80s, was once a huge advocate for the project and was able to provide some history, as well as her opinion of what the area needs. At one time, the area included almost 80 families, and the RL2 committee was ready to build a sewer system. Unfortunately, this never occurred. All residents currently have septic systems; however, a few issues with these systems still need addressed. Now, only about 30 families live in the area. Residents in attendance were in favor of a clean-up day, and the project is moving forward. In addition, they would like to see the community center renovated, as it is considered a great place to have classes, community events, etc. Pam has offered to talk with the USDA Rural Development Area Specialist about getting a grant for the renovation of the 40-year-old building. On June 18, Pam received a call from the Carlyle Christian Church which currently provides a book mobile and meals. They are interested in helping move the clean-up
Pam Schallhorn and Henry Rowell
project and other projects forward, with the assistance of some of the other residents. On June 25, Pam and Henry met with Nichole Weh, a teacher at Central High School and part of the Local Project Program at Carlyle Christian Church. She expressed concern that the Book Mobile was being set up at an old playground that is overgrown with weeds and was sold at auction in February to a private owner. Henry suggested that the Book Mobile be moved to the lots next to the community center, which is maintained and owned by the Royal Lakes #2 Improvement Committee. Nichole is also interested in partnering on a grant to revamp the community center. She plans to contact the head of the Improvement Committee to move these plans further. ~ Submitted by Pam Schallhorn, Community & Economic Development Educator
MILLENNIALS SURVEY After Pam Schallhorn, Community & Economic Development Educator, provided research to the Washington County Board Planning Committee in March on “Five Strategies for Retaining and Attracting Youth in Rural Communities,” the Committee asked if Pam would assist with a survey of Washington County youth ages 18-32 – an age group referred to as “Millennials” – to compare with national statistics. The survey questions were created by the committee, and Pam helped post the survey online and spread the word. Amanda Fox, 4-H Program Coordinator, recommended area Millennials who could help gather survey responses. As of June 25, there have been 128 respondents, an excellent response since the original goal was 50. Five individuals are interested in doing a Millennial Focus group, which is currently in the planning stage. Taking the time to identify the needs of its young people is a very progressive move by the Washington County Board and will hopefully assist them in retaining youth where other rural communities in the U.S. have failed. ~ Submitted by Pam Schallhorn, Community & Economic Development Educator Page 9
AG & NATURAL RESOURCES (ANR)
DID YOU KNOW? Master Gardeners serve as Extension ambassadors by sharing their knowledge... and their gardens
Vandalia Community Garden inspires local volunteers Marion County Master Gardeners were inspired after visiting the Vandalia Little Community Garden hosted by Fayette County Master Gardeners and volunteers.
On June 5, Master Gardeners met at Vandalia for a personal tour of the community garden. This work-in-progress garden sat on a huge corner lot with wooded backdrop. At the entrance of the garden sat a big white sign adorned by flowers, a statue and memorial ninebark tree. Two garden sheds placed in the back were decorated with a country look and had gardens planted around them. A wood arbor made of tree limbs was the focal point of a shade garden with bittersweet vines climbing all around giant hosta plants and hellebores. An herb garden had butterflies and bees buzzing from plant to plant, and the giant vegetable garden displayed a variety of crops growing in rows and on fences.
The compost area was fenced off between garden beds, and another fenced area contained the education garden with butterfly garden, colorful seating area, potato growing boxes and an old bed made of wooden limbs which now housed succulents. The tour ended at the brick patio where the host Master Gardeners had prepared refreshments of tea, strawberry lemonade, veggies & dip made from the herb garden, breads, and jellies and jams made for their annual fall fund raisers. Both groups sat and visited exchanging ideas and stories about plants, gardens and workshops. Two Master Gardener Interns were so impressed with the Vandalia Community Garden that they agreed to help out at the Salem Community Garden.
STALEY GARDEN TOUR Even all the June rains couldn’t stop Jefferson County Master Gardeners from attending a garden tour and Master Gardener meeting at Jerry Staley’s childhood home. As one attendee stated, “Even the rain can’t keep a Master Gardener out the garden.” Jerry Staley and wife Mary graciously opened their gardens to other Jefferson County Master Gardeners for an evening of adventure as they explored garden after garden along the stone pathways. Jerry had tales to tell about the old homestead, trees, plants and art that Page 10
STALEY, continued on Page 11
~ Submitted by Brenda Lyons, Ag & Natural Resources Program Coordinator
Clinton County Master Gardener Carla Haselhorst has been a gardener for many years. After retirement Carla immediately signed up to become a Master Gardener. Carla completed the training in spring of 2013. Carla is eager to learn new gardening techniques through self-study, workshops and talking with area gardeners. She is also extremely generous when sharing her garden. She actively divides her plants to add to other beds and share with fellow gardeners and has opened up her garden to two large garden clubs – from Trenton and Edwardsville – this month, with the help of fellow Master Gardeners. Carla’s garden is considered a specialty garden. She tries to plant mostly native plant material which is more disease resistant and drought tolerant during the hot summers. She selects plants that have seasonal qualities so her garden is interesting all year long. Carla always says a plant must be tough to survive in her garden. Carla is a great ambassador for the Master Gardener Program. She promotes throughout the year as she visits with area gardeners who are not Master Gardeners yet. ~ Submitted by Gail DeVilbiss, Ag & Natural Resources Program Coordinator
AG & NATURAL RESOURCES (ANR)
DID YOU KNOW? Hoyleton GIFT Garden continues to offer nutrition and education despite rain
Restoration efforts under way at Aviston butterfly garden Clinton County Master Gardeners are working to restore and maintain the Memorial Monarch Butterfly Garden at Aviston Grade School. The garden was established 10 years ago to pay tribute to both a teacher and student who passed away during the school year.
Clinton County Master Gardener and Aviston resident Carla Haselhorst learned of the garden and contacted the school to see if she could help. That led Carla and fellow Clinton County Master Gardeners to assist in the renovation.
The Hoyleton GIFT (Growing Illinois Food Together) Garden 4-H SPIN Club met four times in June. Despite the rain, members are learning together and maintaining the garden to the best of their abilities.
The gardeners spent several hot summer days weeding and taking inventory of the current plants, offering suggestions on plants BUTTERFLY, continued on Page 12
Common Milkweed is an excellent source of food for Monarch caterpillars.
June offered the opportunity to explore fresh summer squash. Several of the Hoyleton Children’s Home staff and students had never tried it or had never eaten it raw. Students were also able to see what happens to the produce when it becomes overgrown. The overgrown produce was also tasted, and many commented on how tough and bitter it was, which helped emphasize the need to harvest often. Another major lesson this month was the importance of weeding. “The weeds will win if we don’t keep the garden hoed,” explained Gail DeVilbiss, Program Coordinator. Weeding has been the most difficult concept to teach. Students get tired after a short time and want to quit, so it is a study in discipline and perseverance in addition to growing tasty local foods. Now, the club is focusing on the upcoming weeks. New seeds have been purchased, and fall crops will be planted in early August. For fun a scarecrow – dubbed Scarecrow Joe – was built on a day the garden was too wet to work in. The students enjoyed adding him to the entrance to welcome visitors. The students have tasted much of the produce straight from the garden, and more importantly, learned to work together and help each other out. ~ Submitted by Gail DeVilbiss, Ag & Natural Resources Program Coordinator
STALEY, continued from Page 10 surrounded the Staley’s home. Some of the garden features were a dry creek bed that led to a dry pond made of blue painted rocks that looked like a real wet stream and pond. A pergola was covered in purple clematis and vines where a garden swing hung in its private hideaway spot. A special garden around the flagpole was dedicated to the family’s military history where a statute of a serviceman stood. One couldn’t miss the blue painted log in the shade garden that Jerry called his blue dragon, nor the many water fountains or hummingbird feeding stations all around. The stone table on the patio was made from a slab that used to be in the barnyard that the cows walked on to get into the barn. The group enjoyed vegetables from Jerry’s garden along with humus and dip, gluten-free cookies and drinks in the screened-in porch where the meeting took place after the tour. Everyone left with plenty of ideas after seeing the creativity of this proud Master Gardener.
~ Submitted by Brenda Lyons, Ag & Natural Resources Program Coordinator
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AG & NATURAL RESOURCES (ANR)
Could you imagine a world without bees? Extension Program Coordinator Brenda Lyons delivered a PowerPoint presentation for the Salem Lions Club at Sharon’s Café on June 30 that gave the audience a glimpse of what the world would be like without our pollinators, especially bees.
A quote from Charles Darwin started the presentation: “The life of man would be made extremely difficult if the bee disappeared.” Brenda then proceeded to explain why bees are so important by offering facts about pollination, the economic value of pollination, bees and human health, as well as why whole ecosystems are dependent on pollination for survival. After establishing the importance of bees and the work they do, Brenda then removed the bee and showed comparisons in pictures of what our choices would be like if pollination didn’t exist. Then with a chain reaction example, she removed a single crop, illustrating the
detrimental impact it would have on the economy and environment.
Brenda explained why bees are disappearing, and assured the audience that there is hope. The government, public organizations and private enterprises pour massive amounts of resources into studies, planning documents, and restoration projects that protect our pollinators. She then gave examples of what individuals could do to continue the success of our pollinator friends. Following the presentation, Brenda was honored with a certificate of appreciation and invited to join the organization. The librarian at Bryan-Bennett Library, who was in attendance, also asked if Brenda would be available to speak at a library program at the end of the summer. ~ Submitted by Brenda Lyons, Ag & Natural Resources Program Coordinator
BUTTERFLY, continued from Page 11 that benefit the Monarch caterpillars and the adult butterfly. Since school is out during summer when monarchs are active, they plan to add plants that will help the butterflies in the fall prior to migration. This will be an excellent teaching tool when the students return this fall. The students were involved in clean-up efforts this spring, but the rain caused several cancellations so the Master Gardeners completed the project this summer. Master Gardeners will be working with teachers at the school to share the garden with the students, using the butterfly track of the “I Think Green” program (see page 5). The work at the garden has also caught the attention of local media, bringing publicity to the Master Gardener program and the Monarch garden. ~ Submitted by Gail DeVilbiss, Ag & Natural Resources Program Coordinator
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