2008 4-H/Jr. Fair Had More Participants Than Ever!

The 4-H/Jr. Fair ended last Wednesday with a very large turnout for the 4-H Barbecue and Livestock Auction. There were over 1150 entries in the Jr. Fair classes this year, and the Fairgrounds was filled to capacity with kids, parents, animals and other projects, campers, and lots and lots of volunteers. Extension staff and Jr. Fair Board members sincerely appreciate the interest and involvement from everyone who helps to make it a success! Show results have been released throughout the week, and everyone has a right to be proud of their accomplishments. If you would like to find out how your family can become involved in 4-H, contact our office.

So Easy To Preserve

That is the name of the book considered nationally to be the best reference for food preservation. If you are canning this year to help save on the food bill, but need to make sure your procedures are correct, you need a copy of this book. Cost is $18.00, and we can order one for you. Call 439-3178 for details.

In today's convenience society of frozen dinners, take-out food and restaurant meals, some families rarely cook at home. But University of Illinois Extension is working to change that trend through its Youth Cooking School program.

The main focus of Youth Cooking School is teaching kids how to cook and properly use the kitchen. But, the school offers much more than cooking experience. Kids also learn how to read food labels, plan healthy meals, keep food safe, and prevent foodborne illness.

The Cooking School at Benton runs July 28 – August 1, from 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. each day at the Extension Building west of town. There is no fee to attend. This valuable program is made possible through a federal nutrition grant.

Class size is limited, and advance registration is required. For more details and to register, contact U of I Extension in Benton, 618-439-3178, or email franklin_co@extension.uiuc.edu. If dietary or disability accommodations are needed to participate in this program, please indicate when registering.