University of Illinois Extension ­ McLean County

NEWSLETTER January ­ February 2010

In This Issue Agriculture & Natural Resources 13 ­ 14 CED / COMPACT 10 ­ 12 4­H & Youth Development 7 ­ 9 Garden Patch Dispatch 15 Nutrition, Family & Consumer 3 ­ 6 Extension Update 2

Helping You Put Knowledge to Work State / County / Local Groups / United States UI Extension provides equal opportunities Department of Agriculture Cooperating in programs and employment

For more information about events, programs and services offered by Extension in McLean County, visit our website:

www.mcleanextension .org or cal l us a t (309) 663­8306

College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences

McLean County Community COMPACT will celebrate its 20th anniversary in January. Over the years there have been many programs, excellent committee members and volunteers, and many exciting milestones. Jean Bates and Becky Hines are co­chairs of the planning committee for the celebration, and committee members John Freese, Bob Keller, Gene Jontry, and Ron Stack have been working with staff to document the 20 years of service COMPACT has provided to youth in the community.

An anniversary luncheon for current and past members of the COMPACT will be held at the

DoubleTree Hotel & Conference Center, Friday, January 8, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. with a special keynote address from Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson.

For more information, call the McLean County Extension office at (309) 663­8306.

COMPACT Celebrates Building the Communities' Future

Tasty Treats Packed for Troops to Enjoy

More than 390 dozen donated cookies were packed in 187 boxes to send to military personnel stationed overseas for the holidays.

Volunteers from McLean County Home & Community Education, GFWC McLean County Women’s Clubs and the American Legion Auxiliary worked to fill boxes with homemade cookies in a marathon day at the Farm Bureau Auditorium in December.

(L­R) COMPACT Board Member Richard D. Johnson, Interim Coordinator Barbara Findley Stuart, Gov. Jim Edgar, and Board Member Leonard E. Roberts at a conference in 1994.

Principal for a Day participants Rich Beal and Edwin Sargent at Oakdale Elementary School in 2007.

“Thanks to all those who made cookies and helped pack them!” Leatha Poshard, McLean County HCE

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Extension Update Editor’s Note:

Our apologies to logo contest winner Taylor Alsdorf for the incorrect spelling of her name in the story in the December issue. Taylor submitted the winning entry in the contest for the design of a new logo for the McLean County Extension Service Foundation.

Interstate Center Building Sale Brings Changes for McLean County 4­H Show As 4­Hers strive to "Make the Best Better," so do the volunteers of McLean County 4­H Show Committee. With the sale of the large Expo Building at the Interstate Center, the show directors have stepped up to meet the challenge of relocating the exhibits previously shown in Cloverleaf Hall. Our "new" Cloverleaf Hall will be located in former inline hockey building on the west side of the Interstate Center grounds.

Yes, there will be changes ­­ the new building has about one third less square feet and parking will be different from last year, but changes are sometimes opportunities to make improvements! The new owner has graciously agreed to lease the auditorium portion of the large building to us

during fair week for some of our activities. The ag awareness and commercial space may also be available. The livestock barns, horse arena, Mini Expo and grandstand building areas remain open to us as in past years.

Our 14 show directors have already met in the new Cloverleaf Hall and are to be commended for their enthusiasm and creativity as they work out details to best showcase McLean County 4­H exhibits. With McLean County Show Committee, 4­H'ers, club leaders, fair superintendents and other volunteers working together, the 2010 Fair will prove to be the best yet!

Kathy Schwoerer, 4­H Show Coordinator

The 2010 McLean County Fair and 4­H Show will still be held on the Interstate Center grounds, but some of the spaces will be used in different ways. Cloverleaf Hall (seen at right during Young at Heart Day) will move to the former inline hockey building.

Barn Keepers Meeting Thursday, February 25, at 7 p.m. 402 N. Hershey Rd., Bloomington

What do barns and covered bridges have in common? Come "take a ride" with Dale Sutter in his Model T Ford as we tour the covered bridges of Parke County, Indiana. This scenic trip also includes a bit of Amish country, so don't miss it.

Visit our website at:

www.barnkeepers.org

* DEADLINES FOR * * EXTENSION NEWSLETTER *

Deadline for submission of material for this publication is 4 p.m. on the following dates:

Monday, January 25, 2010 (Items for March 2010 print issue)

Monday, March 1, 2010 (Items for April 2010 online issue)

If you need a reasonable accommodation to attend any of the meetings or events mentioned in this newsletter, please contact

the McLean County Extension Office at (309) 663­8306

University of Illinois Extension ­ McLean County 402 N. Hershey Rd., Bloomington, IL 61704

Phone: (309) 663­8306 FAX (309) 663­8270

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Nutrition, Family, Consumer To learn the latest in nutrition and food safety look for Robin Bagwell's food column published in the LIFE section of the

Pantagraph Newspaper every Wednesday! Her column is also in the weekly Community News as "In the Kitchen."

Take the Chill Off: January is National Soup Month There are a number of good reasons to eat soup during January, National Soup Month. Soup warms the body during the cold days of January and February, but it also warms the heart and soul. It's simple and it's the ultimate comfort food­always a welcome change after the holiday frenzy. And for those who made New Year's Resolutions to eat lighter, soup can be a healthy, guilt­free answer to the question, "What's for supper?"

Here are some ideas for making your soup recipes healthier:

l Make sure you're using low­sodium broth or bouillon cubes, otherwise you'll add a considerable amount of sodium to your recipes.

l Instead of using cream for cream soups, consider adding pureed white beans, mashed potatoes, or silken tofu.

These ingredients add a creamy texture without all the saturated fat of real cream. Or simply substitute fat­free milk.

l Wherever possible, add more vegetables or beans to your soup recipes or even to canned soups. These foods add variety, color, and texture along with fiber and important nutrients.

l When purchasing canned soups, select those that are lower in sodium per serving than most of the national brands. Ideally, it's good to choose canned soups that have about the same number of calories and milligrams (mg.) of sodium. For example, if a serving of soup has 100 calories, it should have only 100 ­ 200 mg. of sodium. Most national brands contain 600 or more mg. of sodium for that amount. It pays to read the label. You can offset this by adding rice, pasta or potatoes.

More Soup Tips l Saute vegetables in margarine or oil before adding them to soup. This seals in their flavor and keeps them firm. Give onions a little extra cooking time: slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness.

l Add a little bouillon to a cream soup or a weak homemade stock to increase flavor.

l Soup can be thickened with flour or cornstarch. Blend either one with an equal amount of cold water to form a "slurry". (General rule: One tablespoon of flour will thicken about 1 ½ cups of soup, and one tablespoon of cornstarch will thicken about 3 cups of soup.) Gradually add the slurry to the simmering soup. Cook and stir constantly until soup is thickened and the uncooked starch flavor disappears.

By Robin Bagwell

Grandparents Again? Visit the Parenting Again web site at: http://urbanext.illinois.edu/grandparents/

Here are just a few of the topics available: l Becoming a Parent Again l Troubles?You're Not Alone l What Grandparents Say About Raising Their Grandchildren

l I Just Want To Be Grandma l Making Memories

l Discipline That Works l Other Groups That Give Support l Bright Ideas l Juggling Isn't Just for Clowns l Recipe Corner l Exercise: Short Bouts Make a Difference l Being an Advocate for Your Grandchild l Working With Your Grandchild's Teacher l Helping Children Manage Homework l Teen Life: The Fun Years?

Looking for Some New Soup Recipes? Check out the “Fruits and Veggies Matter” website for healthful, creative, and cost­effective ways to use produce in your meal planning. Learn about different types of fruits and veggies, find great recipes, and get advice on how to eat well on a budget!

www.frui tsandveggiesmatter.gov/ index.html

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Nutrition, Family, Consumer From Extension's Newsletter for Seniors, Your Health and YOU

There are some things you can do to greatly reduce your chances of getting and spreading colds and flu and enjoy your winter months to the fullest!

Drink fluids. Drinking plenty of fluids is important in flushing out toxins and in helping get through a cold or the flu. In cold weather we may not think about drinking fluids, especially water. It is just as important to continue to drink fluids in cold weather as it is in hot weather. Drink at least 6 to 8 cups of liquid daily. This could include water, fruits, vegetables, fruit juices, milk, coffee and tea.

Wash your hands. Have you heard it said that one of the most effective things you can do is wash your hands before eating and after visiting the restroom? Also keep your

hands away from your face to avoid spreading germs from others to yourself.

Make healthy food choices. We tend to eat more during the winter, which can lead to unwanted weight gain. It is important at this time of year to continue to make healthy food choices. Be sure to include at least 3 servings of vegetables and 2 servings of fruit each day. Fruits and vegetables are very good sources of vitamins and minerals that will help to maintain good health. Also be sure to eat plenty of whole grains each day. These foods are rich in fiber, vitamins and minerals. Limiting sweets and high­fat snack foods can help prevent the unwanted weight gain. Be sure to include 2 to 3 servings of low milk, yogurt or cheese everyday to ensure good bone health.

Healthy Winter Tossed Salad 6 cups romaine lettuce or mixed greens ½ cup parsley (fresh), chopped ½ cup cranberries, dried or fresh, chopped

½ cup diced fresh orange segments or canned mandarins, drained

¼ cup red onion, chopped 2 tablespoons pecans, chopped 1 tablespoon red wine or cider vinegar 1 tablespoons vegetable oil black pepper to taste

Toss lettuce and parsley in large salad bowl. Top with cranberries, orange, pecans and onion. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Toss with oil, vinegar and pepper at service time.

Serves 4 each 2­cup serving; 92 calo­ ries, 6 g fat, 0.5 saturated fat, 0 choles­ terol, 15 mg sodium, 9 g carbohydrate, 2.5g protein, 3.5 g fiber.

Stay Healthy This Winter

Living With Diabetes? Check These Websites for Helpful Information! Recipes for Diabetes http://urbanext.illinois.edu/diabetesrecipes/ Your Guide to Diabetes http://urbanext.illinois.edu/diabetes2/

Diabetes Lifelines Newsletter http://urbanext.illinois.edu/diabetes/ In Spanish http://urbanext.illinois.edu/diabetesrecipes_sp/?lang=en

Winter Weather Websites The National Weather Service information on winter weather:

http://www.crh.noaa.gov/ilx/?n=winter The Federal Emergency Management Agency winter preparedness information:

http://www.fema.gov/hazard/winter/index.shtm

The Illinois Emergency Management Agency winter storm preparedness guide: http://iema.illinois.gov/disaster/pdf/iema333_winter_storm_preparedness_guidebook.pdf

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Who: Normal Seniors What: Monthly Consumer Nutrition Topic: Various subjects When: Dates TBA

10:30 ­ 11:30 a.m. Where: Normal Community Activity Center

#1 Normal Plaza, Normal

Who: Western Avenue Seniors What: Monthly Consumer Nutrition Topic: Various subjects When: Third Wednesday of each month

9:45 ­ 10:45 a.m. Where: Western Avenue Community Center

600 N. Western Avenue, Bloomington

Nutrition, Family, Consumer Monthly Consumer Nutrition Programs Offered

The New Year is a good time to look at your financial health. Challenge yourself to make a savings goal for the year and put a small amount back each month. Include your savings as part of your annual budget. Making an annual budget will help you determine where your money is going each month and help reach the financial goals you set.

The first step to starting a budget is to make a list of your income for the month. Income can be salary, interest payments from investments, or other sources such as Social Security or government assistance.

Then, list all of the expenses you have each month, be sure to include all fixed and flexible expenses. Fixed expenses are items that need to be paid at a regular time. Examples of fixed expenses include credit/loan payments, mortgage/rent payments, utility bills, services such as garbage removal, and insurance payments. Also try to include savings as a fixed expense. Saving a little each month will help you if an unexpected expense arises.

Flexible expenses are those expenses that can change from month to month. While not unimportant expenses, flexibility exists in the amount spent on these expenses. Examples of flexible expenses include food, clothing, transportation, and recreation and entertainment.

Once you have determined your income and expenses for the month, subtract your expenses from your income. If your expenses are less than your income and you have money left over in your budget, think about putting more in savings to

reach future financial goals. If your expenses exceed your income, you need to find some ways to adjust your budget.

If your budget is tight, think about lowering or cutting some of your flexible expenses. Some expenses that could be eliminated or reduced might include: cable television, cellular phone, going out to eat, and extras such as CD's, gifts, or video games.

Once you have your budget adjusted, you may still think you can't spare any extra money for savings. But you may be surprised at how little amounts can add up! Here are a few ways to cut back and save: ­­ Fast food lunch, 5 days/week at $5.00/day, can save you $1300.00 a year. ­­ A soft drink, 5 days/week at $1.00/day, can save you $260.00 a year. ­­ A magazine, once a week at $3.50, can save you $182.00 a year.

So, make a resolution to look at your financial health this year! Making a budget and following your plan will help you know where your money is going and can help increase your savings this year. For more information on saving and invest­ ing, visit Plan Well, Retire Well, www.retirewell.uiuc.edu, University of Illinois Extension's free, interactive retirement planning website.

Source: Jennifer Hunt, Extension Educator in Consumer and Family Economics, East Peoria Extension Center

Consumer Corner: Take a Look at Your Financial Health this New Year!

National Radon Poster Contest Entries are Needed University of Illinois Extension, the American Lung Association of Illinois, Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago, and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency Radon Program are partnering with the National Safety Council and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to sponsor the Illinois portion of the 2011 National Radon Poster Contest for youth ages 9­14.

Radon is a colorless, odorless, tasteless, radioactive gas that can cause lung cancer, and 50 percent of Illinois counties are at risk.

Details about the National Radon Poster Contest may be viewed at: http://takeactiononradon.illinois.edu/resources/contest

Submit your posters to the Extension Office by March 1!

These programs are offered

free of charge and are open to

the public.

Chase away those late winter blues with McLean County HCE's day trip to the Chicago Flower and Garden Show at Navy Pier Tuesday, March 9. Theme gardens will showcase the collaboration of the leading designers and builders with several of Chicago's acclaimed theaters in keeping with the 2010 show theme: "Cultivating Great Performances."

There will be FREE educational seminars, interactive gardening workshops, Garden Gourmet cooking demonstrations, inspirational Tablescapes, the Children's Activity Garden, and much more! The popular vendor "Marketplace" showcases fantastic products and services. For more information about this great show, visit the website at: www.chicagoflower.com.

Tour includes deluxe motorcoach transportation and admission to the Chicago Flower and Garden Show. Lunch is NOT included in the ticket price, but everyone will be able to choose from a variety of available eating establishments ranging from upscale restaurants to food court fare.

The cost is $57 for HCE members and $62 for non­members. Deadline for reservations is February 10. For reservations and details, contact Mary Ellen Gottselig, (309) 663­1689, or Connie Lindenbaum, e­mail: jclind@a5.com.

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Nutrition, Family, Consumer McLean County Association for

Home and Community Education

http://www.mcleanhce.org

January 15 "Folk Art Door Stop" Workshop 1­5 p.m. Learn simple folk art painting on a brick and make an inter­ esting door stop. Class fee: members, $8; non­members, $10 (includes creative brick, paint and other supplies). Wear paint clothes! Contact: Karen H. (309) 724­8461 for reservations

February 12 "Candy Making" Workshop 1­5 p.m. Learn to work with chocolate and other great candy ideas. Class fee: Members­ $10; non­members­$12. All supplies included. Contact: Carmen, (309) 379­3141 for reservations

For information about HCE programs and events, see the McLean County HCE directory. Contact information and calendar listings are

included on our website: http://www.mcleanhce.org

Linus/Comfort Blanket Workshop January 8 1 ­ 5 p.m.

Extension Office 402 N. Hershey Rd.

Bloomington Enjoy the fun of working with a group to make Linus/comfort

blankets and reversible quilt­as­you­go quilts for hospitals, nursing homes and families in need. Donations of flannel or fleece and other supplies for making the blankets will be appreciated.

Supplies needed: For no­sew fleece blanket: fleece is usually 50­60 inches wide. Get 1½ yards to 4 yards, or other size that will make a nice blanket.

For the Reversible Quilt, supplies are: 3 yards of print flannel and 2 yards of plain flannel. This will make a 40x60­inch flannel quilt.

Sewing machines will be available at the workshop, but anyone who wants to bring one along is welcome to do so. Participants are asked to bring their own scissors and a ruler.

For more information, contact Carmen at (309) 379­3141.

HCE Plans Spring Trip to Chicago Flower Show

The “Hope for Healing the Planet Garden” is one of the many theme gardens at the Chicago Flower and Garden Show.

HCE Cultural Enrichment Workshops to be Offered

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Renewable Energy Ag Mag, a new addition to the Ag Mag library, is now available for teachers and 4­H leaders in McLean County. Replacing the Earth Day Ag Mag, this full color edition features articles, activities, information and interviews dealing with the many sources of renewable energy now in the national spotlight.

Here are some "bright ideas" found in the Ag Mag: Don't put grass clippings and leaves in plastic bags. Keep

them and start your own compost pile. Turn off electronics (as in disconnect) TV, computers and

unplug chargers for cell phones and MP3 players when not in use.

The publication also talks about wind energy, the ethanol cycle, solar power, energy from biomass and soy biodiesel. Readers will also find a colorful energy timeline going back to before 600 B.C. when wood provided the main source of energy for cooking and heating.

As with all ag mags, the Renewable Energy issue is free and comes in bundles of 30. Contact Randy at (309) 663­8306 or by e­mail at Lloyd1@illinois.edu to obtain this and all ag mag issues.

The October CHICK IT OUT project was a great success, as reported in earlier Extension Newsletters. With spring just around the corner, we are preparing for the April incubation period. Currently, 56 educators have enrolled with 1,598 students participating. Teachers who have not enrolled are welcome to contact Randy at (309) 663­8306 or by e­mail at Lloyd1@illinois.edu to get their class on the list.

The April incubation will start with a new teacher workshop at 4:15 p.m. April 12. Materials for those teachers will be available that afternoon.

All other teachers can pick up their materials between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 13. The chicks will hatch during the week of May 3 and those chicks without a home will be delivered to the Extension office on Friday, May 7, and will be given to area farmers who will raise them.

Grocery checkout lines can create frustration! How do you know which supermarket line will move faster? That is the question that math teacher Dan Meyer (no relation to our own DON Meyer) wanted to answer. According to

World Magazine, which published the results of Meyer's study, the line with the fewest people, regardless of the number of items in their carts, should move quicker.

Meyer found that it takes 2.8 seconds to scan an item being purchased, but it takes 48 seconds to "process" the person (that's "tender time" plus "other time") so it is better to add 17 items to a cart than add another person to the line.

Math­inclined persons, including teachers, might want to visit Meyer's blog for other math­related problems. He writes, "My purpose here is practice not policy. This blog goes out to the classroom grinders, to the teachers handling the tough classrooms. Let's figure out how to make this job better and easier" (blog.mrmeyer.com).

Kernels of truth: There are 11 cents of corn in your morning cereal. Most of our corn crop is used to feed livestock or ethanol plants. Only a small percent goes to the food sector for items like cereal. In addition, a one­liter bottle of soda contains 3.5 cents of corn. High fructose corn syrup makes up only 7% of our total corn production, but it is used in small amounts in many cereals, snacks and drinks.

Where did your Thanksgiving dinner grow? The holidays are past now, but it's fascinating to consider the source of the bountiful meals we enjoy. Researchers at Western Illinois University tracked down details about the states that are the top producers of the food items we enjoyed for a traditional Thanksgiving or Christmas meal.

Green Beans ­ Wisconsin, New York, Florida Sweet Corn ­ Washington, Minnesota, Wisconsin Cranberries ­ Wisconsin, Washington, New Jersey Onions ­ Washington, Oregon, California Pecans ­ Texas, Oklahoma, Georgia Potatoes ­ Idaho, Washington Pumpkins ­ Illinois, Michigan, Ohio Squash ­ California, Michigan, Florida Sweet Potatoes ­ North Carolina, California, Louisiana Turkey ­ Minnesota, North Carolina, Missouri, Arkansas Wheat ­ North Dakota, Kansas, South Dakota, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas, Montana

You can find more information at: http://faculty.wiu.edu/LR­Zellmer/thanksgiving.html

‘The Schoolroom’ by Randall Lloyd, School Program and Ag Awareness Coordinator

4­H & Youth Development

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4­H & Youth Development

The Illinois State 4­H Horse Judging team competed at the Quarter Horse Congress Horse Judging Contest in Columbus, Ohio in October. Rachel Riddle, a member of the Blazing Saddles 4­H club, and team members Jessica Rush, and Emily Callahan came in 8th overall and they placed 10th overall for the Oral Reasons category.

At left: Coach Paul Rogers, Jessica Rush and Rachel Riddle at the awards banquet. (Not pictured: Emily Callahan)

4­H Horse News

2010 VALUED Volunteer 4­H Telenet Training

Series Participants may come to the Extension Office or listen via toll­free phone connection at home.

TOPICS Behavior Management ­ January 20 or February 11 Community Service ­ January 11or February 2 Parental Involvement ­ January 26 or February 4 Public Presentations ­ January 28 or February 1 Risk Management ­ January 21 or February 10

Get information, enhance skills, and share challenges and solutions with other 4­H volunteers!

There is no charge for these sessions. For DEADLINES and REGISTRATION, call (309) 663­8306 or see the link (top right) at:

www.mcleanextension.org.

4­H Volunteer Orientation & Screening February 17 6:30 ­ 8 p.m. Extension Office

The State 4­H Office requires youth to be with screened volunteers at ALL times at 4­H events. This process involves child abuse and neglect screening, criminal background check, and personal reference checks. Please register in advance at the link at: www.mcleanextension.org.

Learn & Fun Day 2010 January 23

at Heartland Community College

Learn & Fun Day offers beginner and advanced level workshops on a wide variety of topics.

Contact your 4­H leader for registration materials. Forms are also available online at:

www.mcleanextension.org.

Deadline to register is January 8.

Illinois 4­H Junior Leadership Convention For 7th and 8th Grade 4­H Members

February 20 ­ 21 Lake Williamson Camp & Conference Center, Carlinville, Ill. This year, a 4­H'er can invite 1 non­4­H friend to attend with them! Cost: $98

Registration Deadline: Monday, January 25. Paperwork and payment must be postmarked by January 26. Registration link: https://webs.extension.uiuc.edu/registration/?RegistrationID=3773

Adults: You can be part of the McLean County Horse Program Committee Help plan year 'round educational activities, horse clinics, horse bowl, hippology, horse judging, workshops, tack sales, and more. Adults with ideas and the willingness to implement them are invited to attend a meeting January 11 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Extension Office, 402 N. Hershey Rd., Bloomington. For details, contact Sandy McGhee or Kathy Schwoerer at (309) 663­8306. Registration will be available online at www.mcleanextension.org and by calling the Extension office.

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4­H & Youth Development

4­H Calendar January 14 4­H Alumni, Extension Office 17 ­18 TILT 23 Learn & Fun Day, Heartland

Community College, Normal (HCC) 26 Volunteer Leaders Update, HCC February 6 4­H Rollerskating Party, Skate ‘n’ Place, Bloomington

6 TILT 12 ­13 The Great 4­H Debate, Springfield 17 4­H Volunteer Orientation &

Screening, Extension Office 20 Students In Technology Conference,

HCC March 6 4­H Technology Academy, HCC 6 TILT 11 4­H Alumni, Extension Office 13 4­H Find Out Party, Extension Office 29 Oh the places you’ll go in 4­H! ­

Records training, Extension Office

4­H Volunteer Leader Update January 26 6:30 ­ 8:30 p.m. Heartland Community College

Delegation, It's NOT a Dirty Word Presented by Sue Doyle and Linda White

former 4­H organizational leaders

4­H Leaders have a lot to do and a lot of people depending on them. Have you ever wondered just how you're going to get it all done? The secret is knowing what "tools" are in your 4­H Leader Toolbox and how to use them. During this workshop, you will learn to engage and share responsibilities with parents and other 4­H leaders while developing youth to become the leaders of tomorrow. Registration deadline is January 26. For details,

call (309) 663­8306 or see the link at www.mcleanextension.org

WHO DID IT?: CSI

A conference for youth 12 ­ 14

February 12 & 13 in Nauvoo, Illinois

Learn skills of investigating, examining per­ sonal traits and more at this interactive, fun­ filled, overnight stay with hotel accommoda­ tions, food, and entertainment included.

Registration and details online at: www.mcleanextension.org

The Great 4­H Debate ­­ February 12 ­ 13 The 4­H Great Debate brings youth from across Illinois to Springfield to debate bills and learn about the legislative process. The conference will be held February 12 through 13 in Chatham, Ill. and is open to all high school age youth interested in learning about how Illinois state government works. Participants learn about persuasive speaking, find information on the legislative process, debate "mock" bills in the Illinois House of Representatives, and meet people from other areas of the state. The deadline for registration is January 22.

(NOTE: online registration is NOT offered this year.)

For more information, visit the website at: http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/mclean/greatdebate

Don’t Miss 4­H Technology Academy! Saturday, March 6 9 a.m. ­ 2:30 p.m. Heartland Community College, Normal

Learn the skills needed to complete 4­H projects and increase awareness in electricity, computers, GPS/GIS, solar power, wind energy, and robotics.

Registration deadline is February 12. For details, call (309) 663­8306 or see the link at

www.mcleanextension.org

FOLLOW THE LEADER A multi­county 4­H Leader Training Workshop

March 20 8:45 a.m. ­ 12:30 p.m. Crossroads United Methodist Church, Washington, Ill.

Watch our website for more details and registration.

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The Local Government Information and Education Network (LGIEN) offers an informative series of telenets on a variety of important topics. These programs are offered at no charge to all local government officials and citizens.

The telenets are broadcast over a statewide audio­ teleconferencing system for local participants at the McLean County Extension office, 402 N. Hershey Rd., Bloomington. The presentations last from 3 to 5 p.m. Two hours of general credit toward Certified County Officials certification will be given to eligible participants. Call the Extension office at (309) 663­8306 to register (ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS APPRECIATED).

The first two sessions for Spring 2010 will be:

Quality of Life: Why Is It Important? January 28 "Green­Collar" Jobs: Workforce Development in

the New Economy February 25

For more information about the LGIEN and details on topics for the spring sessions, contact the Extension Office

or visit the website at: http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/lgien

Local Government Officials and the Public Invited to Telenet Sessions

CED / COMPACT

The 2009 Teens in Prevention Leadership Conference (TiPS) took place in November at the Interstate Center. Several high school students from McLean County participated in the daylong conference this year. The summer YouthLEADS students worked this fall to coordinate the conference, and added a new twist to the conference by including issues and activities highlighting healthy lifestyles, wellness, and nutrition.

Kim McClintic, nutritionist from OSF Center for Healthy Lifestyles, was the keynote speaker at this year's event. She spoke about the many ways high school students can achieve a well­ balanced lifestyle.

Chef Paul Stroup from the Second Presbyterian Church in Bloomington was another featured speaker. He gave great examples about the "10 super foods," and

talked about ways to make "unhealthy" meals more nutritious. Yadira Ruiz, director of the YWCA Stepping Stones program, talked about a holistic sense of health and body images, emphasizing that there is NOT a "perfect" body in today's society. Instead, we should remember that a perfect body is a healthy body.

Janae Jontry and Carl Olson from Radio Bloomington spoke about advertising and marketing through radio. Groups of students created a 20­second public service announcement as part of a contest about not drinking and driving during the holiday season. The winning team will visit the radio studio to record their PSA.

Glen Newton shared stories and excitement about the WJBC Brotherhood Tree, a volunteer effort spearheaded by the radio station to help area families at Christmas. Past TiPS participants have volunteered to help wrap and deliver presents to families during holiday season.

The day wrapped up with Community Partners skits. Groups of students from different high schools were matched up with a community partner. Through a 20­minute conversa­ tion, the students learned about the organization, the mission, and volunteer opportunities. Students then presented skits based on what they learned about the organizations and how teens can help out.

Thanks to the following organizations for their support: American Red Cross of the Heartland, Project OZ, Ecology Action Center, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, YWCA, Normal Police Department, and the McLean County Health Department.

TiPS Conference: Teens and Healthy Lifestyles

Chef Paul Stroup from Second Presbyterian Church talked about the 10 “super foods” during the TiPS conference.

Kim McClintic gave the keynote address.

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Lessons in Building a High Performing Team Presented to MCLP Group

CED / COMPACT

The Multicultural Leadership class listened to a panel discussion on various aspects of social justice in November. Panelists included: Dr. George Gordon (McLean County Board member, District 8); Meta Mickens Baker (president, McLean County Unit 5 School Board); Karen Schmidt (Bloomington alderman, Ward 6); Judge Beth Robb (chief judge, McLean County Circuit Court); Judy Markowitz (former mayor of Bloomington); and State Representative Dan Brady (88th Legislative District). The program was moderated by WGLT radio reporter and Morning Edition host Jim Browne.

The discussion lasted over two hours and topics ranged from community activism as a training ground for politics to the role education can play in getting people involved in the community.

The first question presented to the panel was, "What does social justice mean?" Judge Robb responded while there are numerous definitions in the dictionary, they all tend to be ambiguous and vague. To her, social justice means

every person is afforded equal treatment under the law and free speech is an important element. Dr. Gordon added that although laws are necessary for social justice, there has to be something more than just laws; implementation of social justice is crucial. Mickens Baker offered that social justice begins with the individual. One needs to take a stand on an issue and see it through until change occurs.

When the panelists were asked how people can become involved in the community, Schmidt advised starting with neighborhood associations and schools. Markowitz reminded everyone to look at what organizations they are already involved with and find ways in which to step up to a leadership role within those organizations. After a thought­provoking dialogue, Browne closed the discussion with the argument that there is no social justice without economic justice. He encouraged the participants to find a way to make a

difference economically to those around them.

The panel provided timely and lively dialogue about social justice, and they also suggested a number of opportunities and offered challenges to the participants. While it is often difficult to find time in a busy schedule to attend a council meeting, join a committee or board, or volunteer with a local non­profit, each person needs to ask: if I don't, who will?

Leadership Class Examines Social Justice and Our Community

A high performing team is a group of people that have complementary expertise and skills, absolute trust and respect of each other, the freedom and

discipline of mutual accountability, and individual commitment and attention to achieving the common goals of the group. Ed Rose, manager of member leadership development at GROWMARK, Inc., introduced the Multicultural Leadership Program participants to some of the lessons in Patrick Lencioni's book, "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team," in November.

The five dysfunctions of a team are: absence of trust, fear of conflict, lack of commitment, avoidance of accountability, and inattention to results. According to Lencioni, "It is teamwork that remains the ultimate

competitive advantage, both because it is so powerful and so rare." Rose asked the participants to list all the groups to which they belong and to think about their contribution to each group. By the end of Rose's presentation, the challenge for the participants was to take all the information and use it to increase the effectiveness of many different groups in the community.

L­R: Moderator Jim Browne (standing), Rep. Dan Brady, Meta Mickens Baker, George Gordon, Judge Beth Robb, Judy Markowitz, and Karen Schmidt discussed social justice.

Ed Rose explains effective ways to build a high performing team for the Multicultural Leadership Program class.

12

CED / COMPACT

The 3rd Annual 8th Grade Career Expo held in November gave participating business exhibitors a chance to demonstrate their creativity for fun and prizes. The exhibitors were encouraged to decorate their booths to the illustrate the "Test Drive a Career" theme as they helped eighth­grade students learn about potential careers in a wide variety of fields. The top three winners received a plaque and a prize. The three winners were: 1st Place ­ Heritage Manor, Peg Lucht, 2nd Place ­ Little Jewels Learning Center, Natalie Wright and April Steigerwald, 3rd Place ­ Bloomington Normal Joint Apprenticeship Training Commission, Renee Riddle.

Natalie Wright and April Steigerwald from Little Jewels Learning Center spoke about their experience with the Expo at the November COMPACT Council meeting. Little Jewels has participated in the Expo the last two years, and the two commented that they were impressed at the multitude students, and appreciated how well the event was organized and coordinated. They plan to return for next year's expo, and are excited to see many more improvements.

Sue Bandy also recognized three past Executive Committee members during the meeting. Judge Charles Reynard and Dave Ezell served on the Executive Committee from 2003 to 2008, and Dr. Robert Nielsen served on t h e E x e c u t i v e Committee from 2002 t o 2 0 0 8 . T h e y were each presented with a plaque in appreci a t i on fo r their service to the organization.

Awards Presented to Council Members and Volunteers

WYSE 2010 Marks 12 Years of Local Participation This January marks 12th year McLean County Community COMPACT has teamed up with U of I College of Engineering to offer the Worldwide Youth in Science and Engineering (WYSE) Academic Challenge to McLean County students. Illinois State University's College of Arts and Sciences has graciously hosted the event for the past 10 years.

The competition started with eight schools and now includes 11 schools annually. Students compete with others from various schools on an academic basis, and earn both personal and team awards in seven subject areas.

Teams compete in groups of schools with 300, 700, 1,500, or an unlimited population of students. This allows four levels of 1st and 2nd place team winners to advance to the Sectional Competition held at Bradley University in Peoria. Sectional winners advance to the State Competition held at the U of I each year.

Local students also win prizes from local businesses in the Intermission Competition, which offers some entertaining competition and interaction. The awards ceremony for the 2010 WYSE Academic Challenge will be held at 1 p.m. at Bone Student Center. The WYSE Challenge has allowed hundreds of students to be recognized for their academic ability and encouraged them to pursue a college degree that will help each one find a successful and rewarding career.

Our WYSE committee members for this year are: Jean Bates, DuPont, and Chuck Hartseil, Mackinaw Valley Special Education, co­chairs; Lee Gethius, Commerce Bank; Dr. Jonathan Rosenthal, Illinois State University; Sandi Krumtinger, Illinois State University; Dan Hagberg, Heartland Community College; Talbert Houle, Envision Insurance; Blaise DeMuth, B & D Enterprises; and Barb Meek, BLDD Architects.

Sue Bandy honored Dave Ezell for his years of service to the COMPACT.

April Steigerwald a n d Na t a l i e Wright from Little Jewels Learning Center spoke to the COMPACT Counci l about the 8th Grade Career Expo.

Find out how YOU can become part of COMPACT ­­ Call (309) 663­8306 today!

13

Agriculture & Natural Resources

Ag & Natural Resources Calendar January 12 Illinois Corn & Soy Classic, Doubletree Hotel

& Conference Center, Bloomington

February 6 Beef Weigh­in & Tattoo ­ Reel Livestock

Center, Congerville, Ill. 8 Landowner 101 – Basic Agronomy for

Landowners, Extension Office, Bloomington 8 Alfalfa Workshop ­­ Positioning for Success,

Extension Office 10 Soil and Water Management Workshop for

CCAs, Extension Office 12 McLean County Chamber of Commerce Ag

Awards Dinner, Holiday Inn & Suites, Bloomington

15 Landowner 101 – Farmland Leasing and Economics, Extension Office

22 Farmer Series – Crop Insurance Decisions Extension Office

23 Pesticide Applicator training & testing for farmers, Extension Office

March 10 Pesticide Safety Education Program,

Extension Office

For more information about these and other events, call (309) 663­8306 or see the link under “Upcoming

Events” at www.mcleanextension.org

For up­to­the­minute farm management information and agribusiness news, visit the website at: h t t p : / / www. f a rmdoc . i l l i no i s . e du /

Five statewide conservation agencies are teaming up to offer the Illinois Tillage Seminar, with a theme of "Tillage & Technology: Impacts Above and Below the Soil Surface." The seminar will focus on the role tillage plays in making corn and soybean enterprises profitable, especially with wet soil conditions. For the first time in recent years, this will be a statewide seminar rather than one of several regional seminars as in the past. The seminar will be held January 26 at the Hotel Pere Marquette in downtown Peoria.

The program, featuring state and nationally recognized speakers, runs from 8:50 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Registration, with refreshments and exhibits, begins at 8 a.m. Co­sponsors include U of I Extension, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Natural Resources Conservation Service, AISWCD, IL EPA and the Illinois Department of Agriculture.

Certified Crop Adviser credits have been approved at 5.5 CEUs in soil and water management.

Topics will include: The New Illinois Statewide Tillage and Erosion Trend Study; Using Cover Crops for Soil Quality and Management; Managing Soil Moisture and Water Quality with Conservation Drainage; Residue and Tillage Management Impact on Weeds; Managing and Measuring Streams and Riparian Areas for Water Quality and Erosion; Tillage and Residue Management on Saturated Soils for Optimum Production and On­site Tillage Management.

Pre­registration is necessary and the deadline is January 19. Seating is limited so registration will be taken on a first­come basis. The $25 fee includes a noon luncheon.

To register by mail, include the following information with your check: IL Tillage Seminar, name(s) of those attending, address and county of residence, phone number and e­mail if available. Please make your check payable to "University of Illinois Extension" and send to: University of Illinois Extension­Rockford Center, 1601 Parkview Ave., Rockford, IL 61107.

On­line, credit card registrations can be made at http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/rockfordcenter.

For more information or if special accommodations are needed to attend, contact John Church, Extension Educator, Natural Resources, Rockford Center, phone 815­395­5710 or e­mail churchj@illinois.edu.

Beef Weigh­In & Tattoo February 6 9 a.m. ­ Noon

Reel Livestock Center Congerville, Ill.

McLean County 4­H Exhibitors can weigh their cattle for exhibition at the 2010 McLean County Fair. Call (309) 663­8306 for more information.

Statewide Illinois Tillage Seminar to be held in January

Celebrate National Ag Week March 14 ­ 20, 2010

14

Agriculture & Natural Resources

Using herbs as seasoning in foods will be one of the featured topics at this year's University of Illinois Herb Day. The event will be held on Saturday, January 16, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Center near Lincoln Ave. and I­74 in Urbana.

Felder Rushing, a noted herbal author, speaker, retired Extension specialist, and "Slow Gardening Guru" will present two talks at Herb Day.

The first is entitled, "Herbs in Small Spaces." The other is "If you don't cook with an herb, it's just another pretty flower!"

"If you've never met Felder and his traveling pink flamingo, you're surely in for a treat," said Chuck Voigt, University of Illinois Extension vegetable and herb specialist and coordinator of the event.

Long­time herb grower and marketer from Chaska, Minnesota Theresa Mieseler will share information about how to attract birds, bees and butterflies with herbs and flowers. "She has successfully developed wildlife­friendly gardens in her Zone 4 location, so she knows what she's talking about," Voigt said.

Herbs as Cajun spices will be featured in a cooking demonstration by Avery and Amy Soileau of Soileau's Seasonings. "Avery is from Louisiana and Amy is originally from Pennsylvania, but has adapted to the bayou style cuisine of her husband's upbringing," Voigt said. The session will feature authentic Cajun dishes.

Susan Hess from Farm at Coventry in Pottstown, Pennsylvania claims a Pennsylvania Dutch heritage. "She discovered that this group once had a tremendous store of herbal knowledge and lore, which was suppressed and nearly lost in the latter half of the 20th Century. She and her fellow researchers are working hard to rebuild that storehouse of knowledge," said Voigt. Hess will present wisdom from that culture on the uses of traditional plants.

In addition to the speakers, there will be a retail area selling a wide variety of herb, spice and gardening products as well as books and products from the presenters.

Advance registration is $60, which includes an herb­themed lunch buffet, and must be received by January 8. For registration details, contact Tracey Malkovich (217)333­3420; or e­mail:malkovic@illinois.edu.

On­site registration on January 16 begins at 8 a.m. only as space allows and does not include lunch. The first session begins promptly at 9 a.m.

Gardening and cooking tips featured at Herb Day, January 16

2010 Illinois Corn & Soy Classic January 12

Double Tree Hotel & Conference Center, Bloomington http://www.cropsciconferences.com/Illinois_Corn_and_Soybean_Classic/

All sessions will be held at the Extension Office, 402 N. Hershey Rd., Bloomington. For details and registration, visit www.mcleanextension.org or call (309) 663­8306.

February 8, 2010 Landowner 101 ­ Basic Agronomy for Landowners

February 15, 2010 Landowner 101­Farmland Leasing and Economics

February 22, 2010 Crop Insurance Decisions

Garden Guru Felder Rushing will be featured at Herb Day.

Register NOW for These Upcoming Agriculture­related Programs!

15

Garden Patch Dispatch By the U of I Extension Master Gardeners of McLean County ­ Editors: Candace Armstrong & Barbara Schaad

These days there is a resurgence of interest in terrariums, which are transparent glass or plastic containers in which to grow plants. Some containers are designed especially for use as terrariums, but others such as fish tanks, brandy snifters, old glass jars, jugs, or bottles can be used successfully.

The basic container must be clear glass or plastic, not tinted or cloudy, with a transparent cover. Whichever you choose, start by sterilizing the container with hot, soapy water and dry thoroughly before planting.

Generally about ¼ of the terrarium's volume will be devoted to soil and drainage material. Pebbles or pea gravel should be placed on the bottom at a depth of one to three inches and covered with about ½ inch of horticultural charcoal for possible odor control due to excess moisture. Sphagnum moss or nylon fabric placed over the layer of drainage material prevents soil from sifting into it.

Use sterilized potting soil in about a 50/50 mix with peat moss up to a minimum level of 1 ½ inches. The growing medium should be moist to keep dust from stirring up but not so moist that it's muddy and sticks to the sides of the glass.

Suitable plants usually have a low, dense growing habit, but larger ones can be used if the tips are regularly cut back. Choose ones that share similar needs regarding moisture and light. Examples of common terrarium plants are small ferns and palms, aluminum plant (pilea), fittonia, dracenia, pothos, and philodendron. Your garden center will have many others. Arrange them for variations in size, color and texture with taller plants toward the back from the viewing side. Rocks, sand, wood and other natural materials can be used to create interesting scenes around your plants.

After planting, mist to remove soil from the leaves, but don't put the lid on the

terrarium until the foliage is dry. A closed terrarium will not need water for several months and you will know if it does when you don't see condensation on the interior walls of the terrarium or if the plants are wilting. Never overwater.

To avoid injurious heat build up, don't place a terrarium in direct sunlight. Most terrarium plants do well in medium light, and seldom need fertilizer due to their slow growth. If the plants are yellowish and seem to lack vigor without any other problems, consider a light fertilization of a water­ soluble houseplant fertilizer at about ¼ the recommended rate for houseplants.

Enjoy your new terrarium while you are browsing those garden catalogs this winter!

Combat the Winter Gardener Blues: Plant a Terrarium! By Candace Armstrong, Master Gardener

See page 16 for more Master Gardener News.

Saturday, March 6 Central Catholic High School, 1201 Airport Rd., Bloomington

Home, Lawn and Garden Day 2010, sponsored by the University of Illinois Master Gardeners of McLean County, will be held at Central Catholic High School, 1201 Airport Road, Bloomington, on Saturday, March 6.

This full­day event will offer several choices of workshops, exhibitors, door prizes, and lunch for $40. Diane Noland, University of Illinois horticulture instructor and host of WILL TV's Illinois Gardener, will be the keynote speaker.

Call the McLean County Extension office (309) 663­8306 for more information.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS FEBRUARY 26!

Don’t Miss the Annual Home, Lawn and Garden Day

Diane Noland

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You! McLean County residents really came through for this year's Operation Santa project. Citizen S.A.M. (a group of volunteers who support our Armed Forces) spearheaded the effort. Go to the website at: www.citizensam.org and click on to the video to see how the Christmas stockings were packed to be sent to military personnel.

It was a big project this year, and so many people donated stocking fillers and made stockings. McLean County Home Community Education, GFWC 17th District Woman's Clubs, and McLean

County Woman's Club received over 1,400 stockings and lots and lots of supplies to fill them! Some of these items were also taken to Midwest Food Bank in Bloomington, and a carload of stockings, candy and stocking fillers were taken to Peoria to the Midwest Food Bank.

Thanks to everyone for helping to make this project successful. Leatha Poshard, McLean County HCE

In the Extension Spotlight

Please report address & ZIP Code changes by calling (309) 663­8306.

McLean County Extension Service Foundation

Annual Meeting March 4 at 6:30 p.m.

Extension Office 402 N. Hershey Rd., Bloomington

The public is invited. Call (309) 663­8306 for an agenda.

The Extension Office will be closed Monday, January 18

(Martin Luther King Jr. Day)

Extension Council Meetings Thursday, January 28 Tuesday, February 16

5:30 p.m. ­ Extension Office

Master Gardener 2nd Thursday Classes

February 11 Annuals: Beyond Impatiens & Petunias

* Propagation * New and underused annuals

April 8 Perennials: Beyond Coneflowers & Hostas

* Unusual ways to use perennials * Selecting perennials for your site

May 13 Beyond Nature's Challenges

* Good and bad bugs * Preventing diseases

* Gardening with Illinois weather

These classes meet on the 2nd Thursday of the month from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Extension Office, 402 N. Hershey Rd., Bloomington. To register, call (309) 663­8306.

Fee is $10 for each class, or $25 for all three.

Each year, approximately 104 children across the United States die in farm­related accidents. Most of these incidents are predictable and preventable. Through proper education for farm children and their friends who visit farms, we have the opportunity to help children remain injury free. The Illini Chapter of Farm Safety 4 Just Kids has been set up in Urbana, and older 4­H members and club leaders are invited to join this effort to prevent farm injuries to young people.

For more information, call the Extension Office at (309) 663­8306 or visit the FS4JK website at

www.fs4jk.org