Entries are being sought for the 2008 4-H Performance Showcase to be held on Sunday, Aug. 10, at the Illinois Sate Fair. Entries are being accepted from soloist, musical groups, instrumentalist, comedians, and performance groups (comedy skits, singers, or dancers.)

Applicants are to submit an audition tape for review by the Showcase Director. Entries must be postmarked by May 15. Selected applicants will participate in rehearsals on Aug. 9. The 4-H Performance Showcase will be held on stage in the Illinois Building on the Illinois State Fairgrounds.

For more information and/or to obtain an entry form, contact the Extension Office.

Will be held in Columbus, Ohio – November 6-8, 2008. This event offers participants opportunities to learn how to bring youth and adults together to work in partnership, reach diverse audiences, and implement hands-on learning opportunities. On-line registration information will be available in mid-May.

Host families are needed for the Japanese Exchange Program. In this program, Japanese youth (ages 12-16) live with a family for a month beginning July 23, 2008. Through this experience families have opportunities to learn about Japanese life and culture and share their own culture. For more information, contact the Extension Office or Bill Million at the State 4-H Office. Information is also available on the State 4-H Website.

Consider submitting a photograph for the 2008-2009 edition of the Illinois Clover. Color or black & white photos for submission may be prints or electronic files (.tif or .jpg). Submit photographs to the Extension Office. A photo release will be required for each photo submitted.

Ag Olympics will be held on Sunday, August 3, at 3:00 p.m., at the Beef Show Ring on the Kankakee County Fairgrounds. Ag Olympics is sponsored by the Kankakee County Farm Bureau Young Farmers. Information from the Farm Bureau was included in a leader packet. Registration forms must be returned directly to the Farm Bureau.

Dates are still available for this summer's fun! Summer camp is more than entertainment for a few days. Traditional 4-H camping is based upon the "learning by doing" philosophy that translates into decision-making experiences for you. Campers develop a great sense of independence, responsibility and self-confidence. You will learn to work and play with others of diverse race, creed, culture, age, disability and gender. There are opportunities to make new friends, attain new skills and gain a greater appreciation for the natural environment.

Call the Extension office for a camp brochure or check the camp website: www.campshaw.org.