Montgomery County holds inaugural Taste Of Extension

October 22, 2023 53

HILLSBORO — On Monday, Oct. 9, the University of Illinois Extension held its inaugural Taste of Extension event. This event allows the public to explore the program areas and “taste” what Extension has to offer.

A few pop-up activities youth participated in included a lesson on pumpkin’s insides with Agricultural Literacy Program Coordinator Rebecca Livingston. Montgomery County Starr Shooters 4-H Club also had activities, which included making a bookmark or pumpkin out of yarn and kids could watch a pumpkin volcano experiment. Adults learned more about the variety of programs offered, and the Montgomery County Master Gardeners handed out seeds, lavender sachets, mint plants and explained how to cook with herbs and grow herbs in the wintertime.

During this event, the Montgomery County 4-H Youth Leadership Team hosted a Community Service Workshop where 16 youth made tie blankets and cards that will be donated to rehabilitation and healthcare centers within the county.

Another youth event was Fall Flowers, where participants were able to create a fall flower arrangement with Extension Horticulture Educator, Andrew Holsinger.

Local food truck Shine-On BBQ was available on-site to purchase lunch.

Be on the lookout this spring and summer for more Taste of Extension events. If interested in providing a food truck at an event, please call Montgomery County Extension at (217) 532-3941.