As the calendar turns over to October it reminds me of Breast Cancer Awareness month and cooler weather. 

It is very likely that you or someone you know has been affected by breast cancer. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the United States breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women after skin cancer. Cancer is also one of the leading causes of death in the United States, ranking second only after heart disease. One in every four deaths is due to cancer. While there are a lot of risks for cancer that are outside of our control, such as our genetics, gender, and age, there are many lifestyle choices we can make to reduce risk.

First, achieve and maintain a healthy weight. I know! Easier said than done. This is especially important as we get older. Two other choices that can help lower risk for breast cancer, as well as achieve a healthy weight, is to eat a diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and get plenty of exercise. Avoiding alcohol or consuming one drink or less per day will also lower your risk of breast cancer. Sometimes making healthy choices can seem overwhelming, especially when life gets stressful. Start small and build on what you are able to accomplish. Perhaps just pick one thing you would like to change and work on that for a few weeks or months.

While breast cancer risk increases as we age and those over age 50 are at increased risk, there are some things that younger women can do in addition to healthy lifestyle choices listed above. Having children and breastfeeding can help protect yourself from breast cancer. When women are pregnant and breastfeeding their hormone levels are different which can reduce risk of breast cancer later on in life. There is a dose response effect as well, the longer you breastfeed, the lower your risk of breast cancer. This may be a real motivation for some women to breastfeed their children or maybe the motivation to keep going when the baby wakes up again in the middle of the night. Remembering that there are benefits for you, mom, that may help you stay strong and not give up.

Here at the Cottonwood Extension District we want to give you the education and tools to help you lead a better, healthier life. We have resources and tools to share with you. We are your partner to a healthier lifestyle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension , Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension , Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>As the calendar turns over to October it reminds me of Breast Cancer Awareness month and cooler weather. It is very likely that you or someone you know has been affected by breast cancer. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the United States breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women after skin cancer. Cancer is also one of the leading causes of death in the United States, ranking second only after heart disease. One in every four deaths is due to cancer. While there are a lot of risks for cancer that are outside of our control, such as our genetics, gender, and age, there are many lifestyle choices we can make to reduce risk.First, achieve and maintain a healthy weight. I know! Easier said than done. This is especially important as we get older. Two other choices that can help lower risk for breast cancer, as well as achieve a healthy weight, is to eat a diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and get plenty of exercise. Avoiding alcohol or consuming one drink or less per day will also lower your risk of breast cancer. Sometimes making healthy choices can seem overwhelming, especially when life gets stressful. Start small and build on what you are able to accomplish. Perhaps just pick one thing you would like to change and work on that for a few weeks or months.While breast cancer risk increases as we age and those over age 50 are at increased risk, there are some things that younger women can do in addition to healthy lifestyle choices listed above. Having children and breastfeeding can help protect yourself from breast cancer. When women are pregnant and breastfeeding their hormone levels are different which can reduce risk of breast cancer later on in life. There is a dose response effect as well, the longer you breastfeed, the lower your risk of breast cancer. This may be a real motivation for some women to breastfeed their children or maybe the motivation to keep going when the baby wakes up again in the middle of the night. Remembering that there are benefits for you, mom, that may help you stay strong and not give up.Here at the Cottonwood Extension District we want to give you the education and tools to help you lead a better, healthier life. We have resources and tools to share with you. We are your partner to a healthier lifestyle.

KOERNER: Breast cancer and how to lower your risk

It is well understood that weather patterns can have a significant impact on grasshopper populations year to year. Warm, dry weather increases the survival of nymphs and adult grasshoppers, leading to increased egg production during the growing season, while cool, wet weather promotes fungal pathogens that can reduce egg and nymph survival. 

Another factor influencing grasshopper populations is an abundance of food, especially broadleaf weeds. A diet high in these forbs leads to greater nymph survival, faster growth, larger adult grasshoppers, and increased egg production. The abundance of weeds therefore can likely contribute to the noticeable number and diversity of grasshoppers currently being observed. As these weedy sources of food are exhausted or controlled, grasshoppers may shift their grazing over to anything still growing in the landscape. 

In areas with greater grasshopper pressure, seedling alfalfa and wheat could be at risk.

Before planting alfalfa, treatment should be considered if there are 15 or more grasshoppers per square yard around the planting area. Once planted and growing, consider treatment if 3-5 grasshoppers per square yard are found in the seedling alfalfa stand.

Vegetated borders around areas where wheat will be planted should be scouted ten days before planting. Consider treating those borders if there are 7 to 12 grasshoppers per square yard. Once growing, three or more grasshoppers per square yard within the field can destroy seedling wheat stands. If grasshopper populations are low to moderate, seed treatments can protect emerging wheat plants for several weeks if products are applied at the highest registered rate. Seed treatments will be less effective under severe grasshopper pressure. Avoid planting too early, as this will help reduce the time that wheat must be protected.

Please refer to the most recent Alfalfa and Wheat Insect Management Guides for specific control information. Simply type into your internet browser Alfalfa Insect Management Guide KSU or Wheat Insect Management Guide KSU.

Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>It is well understood that weather patterns can have a significant impact on grasshopper populations year to year. Warm, dry weather increases the survival of nymphs and adult grasshoppers, leading to increased egg production during the growing season, while cool, wet weather promotes fungal pathogens that can reduce egg and nymph survival. Another factor influencing grasshopper populations is an abundance of food, especially broadleaf weeds. A diet high in these forbs leads to greater nymph survival, faster growth, larger adult grasshoppers, and increased egg production. The abundance of weeds therefore can likely contribute to the noticeable number and diversity of grasshoppers currently being observed. As these weedy sources of food are exhausted or controlled, grasshoppers may shift their grazing over to anything still growing in the landscape. In areas with greater grasshopper pressure, seedling alfalfa and wheat could be at risk.Before planting alfalfa, treatment should be considered if there are 15 or more grasshoppers per square yard around the planting area. Once planted and growing, consider treatment if 3-5 grasshoppers per square yard are found in the seedling alfalfa stand.Vegetated borders around areas where wheat will be planted should be scouted ten days before planting. Consider treating those borders if there are 7 to 12 grasshoppers per square yard. Once growing, three or more grasshoppers per square yard within the field can destroy seedling wheat stands. If grasshopper populations are low to moderate, seed treatments can protect emerging wheat plants for several weeks if products are applied at the highest registered rate. Seed treatments will be less effective under severe grasshopper pressure. Avoid planting too early, as this will help reduce the time that wheat must be protected.Please refer to the most recent Alfalfa and Wheat Insect Management Guides for specific control information. Simply type into your internet browser Alfalfa Insect Management Guide KSU or Wheat Insect Management Guide KSU.Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

CAMPBELL: Grasshoppers abundant in many areas of Kansas

On Wednesday, October 18 Cottonwood Extension District will be hosting&nbsp;a free Coyote Trapping and Predator Calling&nbsp;program by Wildlife Specialist Drew Ricketts starting at 6:30 p.m. 

The meeting will be held at Hays Agricultural Research Center auditorium, 1232 240th&nbsp;Avenue. &nbsp;

During his program, Ricketts  will discuss coyote biology, helping people to better understand their movements, vocalizations, and diet among other topics.&nbsp;He will also discuss tips and methods on trapping and calling coyotes including the proper use of mouth and electronic calls.&nbsp;

For further information call 785-628-9430. 

If you enjoy the outdoors, or more specifically enjoy hunting coyotes, don’t miss out on this event!&nbsp;All interested people are invited to attend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695669307417.jpeg" alt="Photo by Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Kansas Dept. of Wildlife and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedOn Wednesday, October 18 Cottonwood Extension District will be hosting&nbsp;a free Coyote Trapping and Predator Calling&nbsp;program by Wildlife Specialist Drew Ricketts starting at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at Hays Agricultural Research Center auditorium, 1232 240th&nbsp;Avenue. &nbsp;During his program, Ricketts will discuss coyote biology, helping people to better understand their movements, vocalizations, and diet among other topics.&nbsp;He will also discuss tips and methods on trapping and calling coyotes including the proper use of mouth and electronic calls.&nbsp;For further information call 785-628-9430. If you enjoy the outdoors, or more specifically enjoy hunting coyotes, don’t miss out on this event!&nbsp;All interested people are invited to attend.

Free coyote trapping, predator calling program Oct. 18 in Hays

October 1-7 is an exciting time as 4-H families across the nation celebrate National 4-H Week. 

According to the National 4-H website, 4-H was established as Youth Clubs in 1902 with agricultural after-school clubs focused on particular ag products such as tomatoes or corn. The passage of the Smith-Lever Act in 1914 created the Cooperative Extension System at USDA and nationalized 4-H. By 1914, 4-H Clubs were formed and the clover emblem was adopted. 

The Cooperative Extension System is a partnership of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture within the USDA, more than 100 land-grant universities and more than 3,000 county offices across the nation, including all 105 counties in Kansas. Cooperative Extension combines the expertise and resources of federal, state, and local governments to meet the need for research, knowledge, and educational programs. 

In 4-H, we believe in the power of young people. We see that every child has valuable strengths and real influence to improve the world around us.

On September 26, I was joined by 4-H Ambassador Ailey Williams to address the Barton County Commission. 

We were delighted with Proclamation 2023-13 which states, in part, “4-H, as delivered by Cooperative Extension – a community of more than 100 public universities across the nation that provides experiences where young people have taken on critical societal issues, such as addressing community health inequities, engaging in civil discourse, and advocating for equity and inclusion for all; and whereas, National 4-H Week showcases the incredible experiences that 4-H offers young people, and highlights the remarkable 4-H youth in Kansas and throughout America who work each day to make a positive impact on those around them. Now, therefore, be it proclaimed by the Board of County Commissioners of Barton County, Kansas, that October 1-7, 2023 is hereby known as National 4-H Week throughout Barton County; and further, that the Commission recognizes the importance of using the Head, Heart, Hands, and Health, the four core values of the 4-H mission, to make the best better….”

If you know of a young person who would benefit from the opportunities of 4-H, enrollment for the new year began October 1. The Cottonwood Extension District offers eight community clubs in Barton County and over 40 project areas from art&nbsp;to woodworking for youth to explore, learn, and grow. 

More information can be found at our website cottonwood.k-state.edu or by calling one of our offices.

If you happen to be in our Ellis County area, 4-H members will have several displays around the county.

Community service and citizenship are hallmarks of the 4-H program. "48 Hours of 4-H" is a state-wide service challenge. 

Cottonwood-Barton 4-H families will meet at the 4-H Educational Buildings on Sunday, Oct. 8 to clean up and work on a variety of projects. 

Previous projects have included cleanup at Great Bend-Brit Spaugh Zoo and the making cookies for county-wide emergency service personnel. Many individual clubs will take on separate projects in their town. Teaching youth the value of giving back to their communities helps all communities be stronger and to develop the leaders needed to not just survive but to thrive.

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District, Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179445671.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>October 1-7 is an exciting time as 4-H families across the nation celebrate National 4-H Week. According to the National 4-H website, 4-H was established as Youth Clubs in 1902 with agricultural after-school clubs focused on particular ag products such as tomatoes or corn. The passage of the Smith-Lever Act in 1914 created the Cooperative Extension System at USDA and nationalized 4-H. By 1914, 4-H Clubs were formed and the clover emblem was adopted. The Cooperative Extension System is a partnership of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture within the USDA, more than 100 land-grant universities and more than 3,000 county offices across the nation, including all 105 counties in Kansas. Cooperative Extension combines the expertise and resources of federal, state, and local governments to meet the need for research, knowledge, and educational programs. In 4-H, we believe in the power of young people. We see that every child has valuable strengths and real influence to improve the world around us.On September 26, I was joined by 4-H Ambassador Ailey Williams to address the Barton County Commission. We were delighted with Proclamation 2023-13 which states, in part, “4-H, as delivered by Cooperative Extension – a community of more than 100 public universities across the nation that provides experiences where young people have taken on critical societal issues, such as addressing community health inequities, engaging in civil discourse, and advocating for equity and inclusion for all; and whereas, National 4-H Week showcases the incredible experiences that 4-H offers young people, and highlights the remarkable 4-H youth in Kansas and throughout America who work each day to make a positive impact on those around them. Now, therefore, be it proclaimed by the Board of County Commissioners of Barton County, Kansas, that October 1-7, 2023 is hereby known as National 4-H Week throughout Barton County; and further, that the Commission recognizes the importance of using the Head, Heart, Hands, and Health, the four core values of the 4-H mission, to make the best better….”If you know of a young person who would benefit from the opportunities of 4-H, enrollment for the new year began October 1. The Cottonwood Extension District offers eight community clubs in Barton County and over 40 project areas from art&nbsp;to woodworking for youth to explore, learn, and grow. More information can be found at our website cottonwood.k-state.edu or by calling one of our offices.If you happen to be in our Ellis County area, 4-H members will have several displays around the county.Community service and citizenship are hallmarks of the 4-H program. "48 Hours of 4-H" is a state-wide service challenge. Cottonwood-Barton 4-H families will meet at the 4-H Educational Buildings on Sunday, Oct. 8 to clean up and work on a variety of projects. Previous projects have included cleanup at Great Bend-Brit Spaugh Zoo and the making cookies for county-wide emergency service personnel. Many individual clubs will take on separate projects in their town. Teaching youth the value of giving back to their communities helps all communities be stronger and to develop the leaders needed to not just survive but to thrive.Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District, Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: It's 4-H enrollment time

The following are the district football assignments for the 2024 and 2025 football seasons. For additional information concerning scheduling, brackets, district chairpersons, etc., see pages 17-18 of the <a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Publications/Football.pdf">2023 KSHSAA Football Manual</a>. Each district is to select a district chairperson and that person’s name should be forwarded to the KSHSAA as soon as the district chairperson has been selected.

District 1: Buffalo-Altoona Midway, Chetopa, LeRoy-Southern Coffey County,&nbsp;Melvern-Marais Des Cygnes Valley, Peabody-Burns

District 2: Burrton, Chase, Cunningham, Otis-Bison, Southern Cloud (Miltonvale/Glasco), Tescott

District 3: Ingalls, Kiowa-South Barber, Moscow, Rolla, Rozel-Pawnee Heights

District 4: Almena-Northern Valley, Bird City-Cheylin, Ransom-Western Plains/Healy, Rexford-Golden Plains, Weskan, Winona-Triplains/Brewster

District 1: Colony-Crest, Moran-Marmaton Valley, St. Paul, Waverly

District 2: Burlingame, Hartford, Lebo, Lost Springs-Centre, Rural Vista (Hope/White City)

District 3: Axtell, Frankford, Hanover, Randolph-Blue Valley, Wakefield

District 4: Beloit-St. John’s/Tipton Catholic, Kensington-Thunder Ridge, Linn, Osborne, Scandia-Pike Valley

District 5: Attica/Argonia, Hutchinson-Central Christian, Langdon-Fairfield, Norwich, Pretty Prairie

District 6: Jetmore-Hodgeman County, Macksville, Stafford, St. John-Hudson, Victoria

District 7: Ashland, Bucklin, Deerfield, Minneola, Satanta

District 8: Dighton, Grainfield-Wheatland/Grinnell, Logan/Palco, Sharon Springs-Wallace County, Tribune-Greeley County

District 1: Arma-Northeast, Burden-Central, Cedar Vale/Dexter, Howard-West Elk, Oswego, Sedan

District 2: Allen-Northern Heights, Cottonwood Falls-Chase County, Lyndon, Madison/Hamilton, Rosalia-Flint hills, Yates Center

District 3: Brookville-Ell Saline, Canton-Galva, Claflin-Central Plains, Goessel, Little River, Solomon

District 4: Clifton-Clyde, Downs-Lakeside, Lincoln, Mankato-Rock Hills, Sylvan-Lucas Unified, Washington County

District 5: Coldwater-South Central, Greensburg-Kiowa County, Oxford, Pratt-Skyline, Udall, Wichita-The Independent

District 6: Elkhart, Kinsley, Meade, Montezuma-South Gray, Spearville, Sublette

District 7: Ellis, La Crosse, Leoti-Wichita County, Ness City, Quinter, WaKeeney-Trego Community

District 8: Atwood-Rawlins County, Hill City, Hoxie, Oberlin-Decatur Community, St. Francis, Stockton

District 1: Cherokee-Southeast, Erie, Mound City-Jayhawk Linn, Pittsburg-St. Mary’s Colgan, Pleasanton, Uniontown

District 2: Eskridge-Mission Valley, Olpe, Rossville, Shawnee-Marantha Christian Academy, Topeka-Cair Paravel Latin School, Wabaunsee

District 3: Easton-Pleasant Ridge, Jackson Heights, McLouth, Onaga, Valley Falls, Winchester-Jefferson County North

District 4: Atchison-Maur Hill Mount Academy, Centralia, Highland-Doniphan West, Horton, Troy, Wathena-Riverside

District 5: Belleville-Republic County, Bennington, Blue Rapids-Valley Heights, Herington, Salina-Sacred Heart

District 6: Inman, Marion, Moundridge, Sedgwick, Whitewater-Remington

District 7: Conway Springs, Ellinwood, Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic, Medicine Lodge, South Sumner (Caldwell/South Haven), Sterling

District 8: Hays-Thomas More Prep-Marian, Johnson-Stanton County, Oakley, Plainville/Natoma, Smith Center, Syracuse

District 1: Caney Valley, Cherryvale, Fredonia/Elk Valley, Galena, Riverton

District 2: Eureka, Humboldt, Leon-Bluestem, Pomona-West Franklin, Richmond-Central Heights

District 3: Council Grove, Osage City, Riley County, Silver Lake, St. Marys

District 4: Effingham-Atchison County, Hoyt-Royal Valley, Oskaloosa, Sabetha, Seneca-Nemaha Central

District 5: Belle Plaine, Douglass, Garden Plain, Haven, Kingman

District 6: Ellsworth, Gypsum-SE of Saline, Halstead, Hillsboro, Lyons

District 7: Beloit, Minneapolis, Norton Community, Phillipsburg, Russell

District 8: Cimarron, Hoisington, Kismet-Southwestern Heights, Larned, Lakin

District 1: Baxter Springs, Columbus, Frontenac, Neodesha, Parsons

District 2: Burlington, Garnett-Anderson County, Girard, Iola, LaCygne-Prairie View

District 3: Baldwin, Kansas City-Bishop Ward, Osawatomie, Santa Fe Trail, Wellsville

District 4: Hiawatha, Holton, Meriden-Jefferson West, Perry Lecompton/Bishop Seabury, Topeka-Hayden

District 5: Chapman, Clay Center Community, Concordia, Marysville, St. George-Rock Creek

District 6: Andale, Hesston, Lindsborg-Smoky Valley, Nickerson, Wichita-Trinity Academy

District 7: Anthony-Harper/Chaparral, Cheney, Clearwater, Pratt, Wichita-Collegiate

District 8: Colby, Goodland, Holcomb, Hugoton, Scott Community

East:&nbsp;Altamont-Labette County, Atchison, Bonner Springs, Chanute, Coffeyville-Field Kindley, Eudora, Fort Scott, Kansas City-FL Schlagle, Kansas City-Piper, Kansas City-Sumner Academy, Lansing, Louisburg, Ottawa, Paola, Shawnee Mission-Bishop Miege, Tonganoxie

West:&nbsp;Abilene, Andover-Central, Arkansas City, Augusta, Buhler, El Dorado, Independence, McPherson, Mulvane, Rose Hill, Towanda-Circle, Ulysses, Wamego, Wellington, Wichita-Kapaun Mt. Carmel, Winfield

East:&nbsp;Basehor-Linwood, De Soto, Kansas City-JC Harmon, Kansas City-Turner, Kansas City-Washington, Leavenworth, Lenexa-St. James Academy, Overland Park-Blue Valley, Overland Park-Blue Valley North, Overland Park-Blue Valley Southwest, Overland Park-St. Thomas Aquinas, Pittsburg, Shawnee-Mill Valley, Spring Hill, Tecumseh-Shawnee Heights, Topeka-Highland Park

West:&nbsp;Andover, Emporia, Goddard, Goddard-Eisenhower, Great Bend, Hays, Hutchinson, Liberal, Maize South, Newton, Salina-Central, Salina-South, Topeka-Seaman, Topeka West, Valley Center, Wichita-Bishop Carroll

East:&nbsp;Gardner Edgerton, Kansas City-Wyandotte, Lawrence, Lawrence-Free State, Olathe East, Olathe North, Olathe Northwest, Olathe South, Olathe West, Overland Park-Blue Valley Northwest, Overland Park-Blue Valley West, Shawnee Mission East, Shawnee Mission North, Shawnee Mission Northwest, Shawnee Mission South, Shawnee Mission West

West:&nbsp;Derby, Dodge City, Garden City, Haysville-Campus, Junction City, Maize, Manhattan, Topeka, Topeka-Washburn Rural, Wichita-East, Wichita-Heights, Wichita-North, Wichita-Northwest, Wichita-South, Wichita-Southeast, Wichita-West

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1696434542322.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KSHSAAThe following are the district football assignments for the 2024 and 2025 football seasons. For additional information concerning scheduling, brackets, district chairpersons, etc., see pages 17-18 of the <a href="https://www.kshsaa.org/Publications/Football.pdf">2023 KSHSAA Football Manual</a>. Each district is to select a district chairperson and that person’s name should be forwarded to the KSHSAA as soon as the district chairperson has been selected.6-PLAYERDistrict 1: Buffalo-Altoona Midway, Chetopa, LeRoy-Southern Coffey County,&nbsp;Melvern-Marais Des Cygnes Valley, Peabody-BurnsDistrict 2: Burrton, Chase, Cunningham, Otis-Bison, Southern Cloud (Miltonvale/Glasco), TescottDistrict 3: Ingalls, Kiowa-South Barber, Moscow, Rolla, Rozel-Pawnee HeightsDistrict 4: Almena-Northern Valley, Bird City-Cheylin, Ransom-Western Plains/Healy, Rexford-Golden Plains, Weskan, Winona-Triplains/Brewster8-PLAYER – DIVISION IIDistrict 1: Colony-Crest, Moran-Marmaton Valley, St. Paul, WaverlyDistrict 2: Burlingame, Hartford, Lebo, Lost Springs-Centre, Rural Vista (Hope/White City)District 3: Axtell, Frankford, Hanover, Randolph-Blue Valley, WakefieldDistrict 4: Beloit-St. John’s/Tipton Catholic, Kensington-Thunder Ridge, Linn, Osborne, Scandia-Pike ValleyDistrict 5: Attica/Argonia, Hutchinson-Central Christian, Langdon-Fairfield, Norwich, Pretty PrairieDistrict 6: Jetmore-Hodgeman County, Macksville, Stafford, St. John-Hudson, VictoriaDistrict 7: Ashland, Bucklin, Deerfield, Minneola, SatantaDistrict 8: Dighton, Grainfield-Wheatland/Grinnell, Logan/Palco, Sharon Springs-Wallace County, Tribune-Greeley County8-PLAYER – DIVISION IDistrict 1: Arma-Northeast, Burden-Central, Cedar Vale/Dexter, Howard-West Elk, Oswego, SedanDistrict 2: Allen-Northern Heights, Cottonwood Falls-Chase County, Lyndon, Madison/Hamilton, Rosalia-Flint hills, Yates CenterDistrict 3: Brookville-Ell Saline, Canton-Galva, Claflin-Central Plains, Goessel, Little River, SolomonDistrict 4: Clifton-Clyde, Downs-Lakeside, Lincoln, Mankato-Rock Hills, Sylvan-Lucas Unified, Washington CountyDistrict 5: Coldwater-South Central, Greensburg-Kiowa County, Oxford, Pratt-Skyline, Udall, Wichita-The IndependentDistrict 6: Elkhart, Kinsley, Meade, Montezuma-South Gray, Spearville, SubletteDistrict 7: Ellis, La Crosse, Leoti-Wichita County, Ness City, Quinter, WaKeeney-Trego CommunityDistrict 8: Atwood-Rawlins County, Hill City, Hoxie, Oberlin-Decatur Community, St. Francis, StocktonCLASS 1ADistrict 1: Cherokee-Southeast, Erie, Mound City-Jayhawk Linn, Pittsburg-St. Mary’s Colgan, Pleasanton, UniontownDistrict 2: Eskridge-Mission Valley, Olpe, Rossville, Shawnee-Marantha Christian Academy, Topeka-Cair Paravel Latin School, WabaunseeDistrict 3: Easton-Pleasant Ridge, Jackson Heights, McLouth, Onaga, Valley Falls, Winchester-Jefferson County NorthDistrict 4: Atchison-Maur Hill Mount Academy, Centralia, Highland-Doniphan West, Horton, Troy, Wathena-RiversideDistrict 5: Belleville-Republic County, Bennington, Blue Rapids-Valley Heights, Herington, Salina-Sacred HeartDistrict 6: Inman, Marion, Moundridge, Sedgwick, Whitewater-RemingtonDistrict 7: Conway Springs, Ellinwood, Hutchinson-Trinity Catholic, Medicine Lodge, South Sumner (Caldwell/South Haven), SterlingDistrict 8: Hays-Thomas More Prep-Marian, Johnson-Stanton County, Oakley, Plainville/Natoma, Smith Center, SyracuseCLASS 2ADistrict 1: Caney Valley, Cherryvale, Fredonia/Elk Valley, Galena, RivertonDistrict 2: Eureka, Humboldt, Leon-Bluestem, Pomona-West Franklin, Richmond-Central HeightsDistrict 3: Council Grove, Osage City, Riley County, Silver Lake, St. MarysDistrict 4: Effingham-Atchison County, Hoyt-Royal Valley, Oskaloosa, Sabetha, Seneca-Nemaha CentralDistrict 5: Belle Plaine, Douglass, Garden Plain, Haven, KingmanDistrict 6: Ellsworth, Gypsum-SE of Saline, Halstead, Hillsboro, LyonsDistrict 7: Beloit, Minneapolis, Norton Community, Phillipsburg, RussellDistrict 8: Cimarron, Hoisington, Kismet-Southwestern Heights, Larned, LakinCLASS 3ADistrict 1: Baxter Springs, Columbus, Frontenac, Neodesha, ParsonsDistrict 2: Burlington, Garnett-Anderson County, Girard, Iola, LaCygne-Prairie ViewDistrict 3: Baldwin, Kansas City-Bishop Ward, Osawatomie, Santa Fe Trail, WellsvilleDistrict 4: Hiawatha, Holton, Meriden-Jefferson West, Perry Lecompton/Bishop Seabury, Topeka-HaydenDistrict 5: Chapman, Clay Center Community, Concordia, Marysville, St. George-Rock CreekDistrict 6: Andale, Hesston, Lindsborg-Smoky Valley, Nickerson, Wichita-Trinity AcademyDistrict 7: Anthony-Harper/Chaparral, Cheney, Clearwater, Pratt, Wichita-CollegiateDistrict 8: Colby, Goodland, Holcomb, Hugoton, Scott CommunityCLASS 4AEast:&nbsp;Altamont-Labette County, Atchison, Bonner Springs, Chanute, Coffeyville-Field Kindley, Eudora, Fort Scott, Kansas City-FL Schlagle, Kansas City-Piper, Kansas City-Sumner Academy, Lansing, Louisburg, Ottawa, Paola, Shawnee Mission-Bishop Miege, TonganoxieWest:&nbsp;Abilene, Andover-Central, Arkansas City, Augusta, Buhler, El Dorado, Independence, McPherson, Mulvane, Rose Hill, Towanda-Circle, Ulysses, Wamego, Wellington, Wichita-Kapaun Mt. Carmel, WinfieldCLASS 5AEast:&nbsp;Basehor-Linwood, De Soto, Kansas City-JC Harmon, Kansas City-Turner, Kansas City-Washington, Leavenworth, Lenexa-St. James Academy, Overland Park-Blue Valley, Overland Park-Blue Valley North, Overland Park-Blue Valley Southwest, Overland Park-St. Thomas Aquinas, Pittsburg, Shawnee-Mill Valley, Spring Hill, Tecumseh-Shawnee Heights, Topeka-Highland ParkWest:&nbsp;Andover, Emporia, Goddard, Goddard-Eisenhower, Great Bend, Hays, Hutchinson, Liberal, Maize South, Newton, Salina-Central, Salina-South, Topeka-Seaman, Topeka West, Valley Center, Wichita-Bishop CarrollCLASS 6AEast:&nbsp;Gardner Edgerton, Kansas City-Wyandotte, Lawrence, Lawrence-Free State, Olathe East, Olathe North, Olathe Northwest, Olathe South, Olathe West, Overland Park-Blue Valley Northwest, Overland Park-Blue Valley West, Shawnee Mission East, Shawnee Mission North, Shawnee Mission Northwest, Shawnee Mission South, Shawnee Mission WestWest:&nbsp;Derby, Dodge City, Garden City, Haysville-Campus, Junction City, Maize, Manhattan, Topeka, Topeka-Washburn Rural, Wichita-East, Wichita-Heights, Wichita-North, Wichita-Northwest, Wichita-South, Wichita-Southeast, Wichita-West

🏈 KSHSAA releases districts assignments for 2024-25

September is National Food Safety Education month. Every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 6 people get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized and 3,000 die from eating contaminated food. Getting sick is never fun and is usually quite an inconvenience. 

What can you do at home to help prevent getting sick? The Partnership for Food Safety Education breaks it down into four easy steps: clean, separate, cook, and chill.

The first step is clean. Wash hands and surfaces often. We have heard it so many times but washing hands really does cut down on all types of illnesses including foodborne illnesses. Keep counter tops and other kitchen surfaces clean. How often do you clean out your refrigerator? Yep, that needs to be cleaned regularly also! After wiping the dirt off countertops, surfaces should be sanitized with a solution of one tablespoon bleach and one gallon of water. Cutting boards should also be washed in between preparing each food. Also remember to wash your produce under running water before eating or peeling them to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Step two is to separate. Be careful not to cross-contaminate. Separate raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs from other foods in your grocery cart, grocery bags, and refrigerator. Use different cutting boards and utensils for each type of food and never place cooked food on a plate that had raw meat on it. If you marinate foods be sure and boil the marinade before using it on cooked foods.

Step three is to cook meats to an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees and 160 degrees for ground meat where contamination is more likely. Poultry should be cooked to 165 degrees. Color is not a reliable indicator. Use a food thermometer that has been properly calibrated. Check the thickest part of the meat. Raw eggs can be a source of contamination. When using a microwave to heat up foods again use your food thermometer to check the temperature.

Finally, step four is to chill leftovers as quickly as possible to prevent the growth of bacteria. Keep the refrigerator at 40 degrees or less. Do not let foods set at room temperature for more than two hours. Do not thaw food at room temperature. To thaw foods, use one of three methods: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave. Cook food immediately when defrosting in water or the microwave.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522176561.png" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension , Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension , Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>September is National Food Safety Education month. Every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1 in 6 people get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized and 3,000 die from eating contaminated food. Getting sick is never fun and is usually quite an inconvenience. What can you do at home to help prevent getting sick? The Partnership for Food Safety Education breaks it down into four easy steps: clean, separate, cook, and chill.The first step is clean. Wash hands and surfaces often. We have heard it so many times but washing hands really does cut down on all types of illnesses including foodborne illnesses. Keep counter tops and other kitchen surfaces clean. How often do you clean out your refrigerator? Yep, that needs to be cleaned regularly also! After wiping the dirt off countertops, surfaces should be sanitized with a solution of one tablespoon bleach and one gallon of water. Cutting boards should also be washed in between preparing each food. Also remember to wash your produce under running water before eating or peeling them to prevent the spread of bacteria.Step two is to separate. Be careful not to cross-contaminate. Separate raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs from other foods in your grocery cart, grocery bags, and refrigerator. Use different cutting boards and utensils for each type of food and never place cooked food on a plate that had raw meat on it. If you marinate foods be sure and boil the marinade before using it on cooked foods.Step three is to cook meats to an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees and 160 degrees for ground meat where contamination is more likely. Poultry should be cooked to 165 degrees. Color is not a reliable indicator. Use a food thermometer that has been properly calibrated. Check the thickest part of the meat. Raw eggs can be a source of contamination. When using a microwave to heat up foods again use your food thermometer to check the temperature.Finally, step four is to chill leftovers as quickly as possible to prevent the growth of bacteria. Keep the refrigerator at 40 degrees or less. Do not let foods set at room temperature for more than two hours. Do not thaw food at room temperature. To thaw foods, use one of three methods: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave. Cook food immediately when defrosting in water or the microwave.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: September is National Food Safety Education Month

Every year, more than 25% of Americans age 65+ fall down. 

One fall can drastically alter quality of life and reduce independence. In fact, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries among seniors each year. The good news is that falls are not a natural part of aging and steps can be taken to reduce your risk of falling!

Look for an exercise program in your community that focuses on strength, balance, and flexibility. Reach out to your local Area Agency on Aging or K-State Research and Extension to find a class.

You spend most of your time at home, so make sure it’s a safe space. Increase lighting, remove floor clutter, rearrange furniture to open up the flow of traffic, and install grab bars.

Consult your healthcare provider to assess your fall risk, discuss recent falls, and review medications that may affect balance and coordination.

4. Go for regular vision and hearing checkups.

The eyes and ears provide us with vital senses that affect balance, so it’s important to strive for good vision and hearing health.

Fall prevention is a group effort, and family members can help you spot fall risks, and be a team to call on for help. To check your risk of falling, visit <a href="https://www.ncoa.org/age-well-planner/assessment/falls-free-checkup">https://www.ncoa.org/age-well-planner/assessment/falls-free-checkup</a> to take a short quiz.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at:620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687379885179.png" alt="Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District</figcaption>
 </figure>Every year, more than 25% of Americans age 65+ fall down. One fall can drastically alter quality of life and reduce independence. In fact, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries among seniors each year. The good news is that falls are not a natural part of aging and steps can be taken to reduce your risk of falling!1. Stay active.Look for an exercise program in your community that focuses on strength, balance, and flexibility. Reach out to your local Area Agency on Aging or K-State Research and Extension to find a class.2. Assess your home.You spend most of your time at home, so make sure it’s a safe space. Increase lighting, remove floor clutter, rearrange furniture to open up the flow of traffic, and install grab bars.3. Talk to your doctor.Consult your healthcare provider to assess your fall risk, discuss recent falls, and review medications that may affect balance and coordination.4. Go for regular vision and hearing checkups.The eyes and ears provide us with vital senses that affect balance, so it’s important to strive for good vision and hearing health.5. Find support.Fall prevention is a group effort, and family members can help you spot fall risks, and be a team to call on for help. To check your risk of falling, visit <a href="https://www.ncoa.org/age-well-planner/assessment/falls-free-checkup">https://www.ncoa.org/age-well-planner/assessment/falls-free-checkup</a> to take a short quiz.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at:620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

WINKEL: Fall prevention: Reduce your risk

Meteorological fall began on September 1. It was warm early in the month, with highs over 100 degrees in many locations during Labor Day weekend. It has since turned more seasonable, with pleasant daytime temperatures, cool mornings, and, so far, no threat of cold air. 

Nowhere in Kansas has there been any frost yet, but it was 39°F in Tribune and 40°F in Colby on the morning of the 12th, a harbinger of colder weather yet to come. The autumnal equinox, which marks the beginning of astronomical fall, was on Saturday, September 23, at 1:50 a.m. central time. 

We will eventually experience a first frost and, in time, a first freeze, which can end the growing season, depending on how far below freezing the temperature gets and how many hours sub-freezing conditions persist. 

Exactly when do the first frost and freeze typically occur in Kansas? In this report, we look at the average dates for those two significant cold weather events.

Data for 20 sites in Kansas were examined using the full period of record at each location. For this study, the first frost date is defined as the first occurrence of a temperature at or below 36°, and the first freeze is defined as the first occurrence of 32°F or colder. The dates that the first frost occurred each year were sorted from earliest to latest, and then the dates on which 10%, 20%, 30%, etc., of the first frost occurred on or before were identified (Table 1). This methodology was repeated for the first freeze data (Table 2). To see the data tables, go to <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu.</a>

Looking at the first frost date, the median date is in October, except for the far west and northwest areas of Kansas, where it occurs in late September. The median date is when there is a 50% chance of the first frost having already occurred. The earliest median date is in Oberlin (September 26), and the latest is in Wichita (October 18). Except for Wichita, there is a 10% probability of the first frost occurring before the first of October at all locations and a 90% probability that the first frost has occurred by the end of October.

There is a 60% or greater chance that the first freeze will occur by the end of October at all locations (Table 2), but the probabilities are higher for earlier dates in the west and north. As with the first frost date, Oberlin has the earliest median date (October 3), and Wichita has the latest date (October 28). September freezes happen occasionally, and occasionally, it’s November before the first freeze, but October is typically the month when the growing season ends. October is also when the normal lows each day decrease the fastest (Table 3); the daily normals drop by 11 to 14 degrees. By month’s end, Goodland, Oberlin, and Tribune all have&nbsp;normal lows below freezing. Only eastern and southern locations have normal lows in the 40s by October 31; all other locations have normal lows in the 30s.

Last year, the first freeze was in mid-October across the entire state, thanks to a cold air mass that invaded the state and brought widespread lows in the 20s, with a few upper teens. The first freeze in 2022 was on the 16th in Goodland, the 17th in Garden City and Hutchinson, and the 18th in Wichita and Parsons. For the northwest, this freeze was later than normal, but in the southeast, it was earlier than normal. 

What about this year? It’s too soon to know, but the outlooks for the next two weeks favor above-normal temperatures, so it doesn’t appear that an early freeze will occur in September. As for October, we’ll have to wait and see. Until then, enjoy the pleasant fall weather!

Information and article provided by Matthew Sittel, Assistant State Climatologist, msittel@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Meteorological fall began on September 1. It was warm early in the month, with highs over 100 degrees in many locations during Labor Day weekend. It has since turned more seasonable, with pleasant daytime temperatures, cool mornings, and, so far, no threat of cold air. Nowhere in Kansas has there been any frost yet, but it was 39°F in Tribune and 40°F in Colby on the morning of the 12th, a harbinger of colder weather yet to come. The autumnal equinox, which marks the beginning of astronomical fall, was on Saturday, September 23, at 1:50 a.m. central time. We will eventually experience a first frost and, in time, a first freeze, which can end the growing season, depending on how far below freezing the temperature gets and how many hours sub-freezing conditions persist. Exactly when do the first frost and freeze typically occur in Kansas? In this report, we look at the average dates for those two significant cold weather events.Data for 20 sites in Kansas were examined using the full period of record at each location. For this study, the first frost date is defined as the first occurrence of a temperature at or below 36°, and the first freeze is defined as the first occurrence of 32°F or colder. The dates that the first frost occurred each year were sorted from earliest to latest, and then the dates on which 10%, 20%, 30%, etc., of the first frost occurred on or before were identified (Table 1). This methodology was repeated for the first freeze data (Table 2). To see the data tables, go to <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu.</a>Looking at the first frost date, the median date is in October, except for the far west and northwest areas of Kansas, where it occurs in late September. The median date is when there is a 50% chance of the first frost having already occurred. The earliest median date is in Oberlin (September 26), and the latest is in Wichita (October 18). Except for Wichita, there is a 10% probability of the first frost occurring before the first of October at all locations and a 90% probability that the first frost has occurred by the end of October.There is a 60% or greater chance that the first freeze will occur by the end of October at all locations (Table 2), but the probabilities are higher for earlier dates in the west and north. As with the first frost date, Oberlin has the earliest median date (October 3), and Wichita has the latest date (October 28). September freezes happen occasionally, and occasionally, it’s November before the first freeze, but October is typically the month when the growing season ends. October is also when the normal lows each day decrease the fastest (Table 3); the daily normals drop by 11 to 14 degrees. By month’s end, Goodland, Oberlin, and Tribune all have&nbsp;normal lows below freezing. Only eastern and southern locations have normal lows in the 40s by October 31; all other locations have normal lows in the 30s.Last year, the first freeze was in mid-October across the entire state, thanks to a cold air mass that invaded the state and brought widespread lows in the 20s, with a few upper teens. The first freeze in 2022 was on the 16th in Goodland, the 17th in Garden City and Hutchinson, and the 18th in Wichita and Parsons. For the northwest, this freeze was later than normal, but in the southeast, it was earlier than normal. What about this year? It’s too soon to know, but the outlooks for the next two weeks favor above-normal temperatures, so it doesn’t appear that an early freeze will occur in September. As for October, we’ll have to wait and see. Until then, enjoy the pleasant fall weather!Information and article provided by Matthew Sittel, Assistant State Climatologist, msittel@ksu.edu.Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

CAMPBELL: Looking ahead to the first frost, freeze dates for Kansas

GREAT BEND — On October 11, K-State Research and Extension will be hosting a program by Wildlife Specialist Drew Ricketts starting at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will be held at Cheyenne Bottoms Wetlands Center located at 592 NE K 156 Hwy, Great Bend. &nbsp;

During his program, he will discuss coyote biology, helping people to better understand their movements, vocalizations, and diet among other topics.&nbsp;He will also discuss tips and methods on trapping and calling coyotes including the proper use of mouth and electronic calls. 

A light meal will be served and is sponsored by P &amp; S Electric of Great Bend. Space is limited to 70 people. &nbsp;

If you enjoy the outdoors, or more specifically enjoy hunting coyotes, don’t miss out on this event!

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695668974192.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>KSREGREAT BEND — On October 11, K-State Research and Extension will be hosting a program by Wildlife Specialist Drew Ricketts starting at 6:00 p.m. The meeting will be held at Cheyenne Bottoms Wetlands Center located at 592 NE K 156 Hwy, Great Bend. &nbsp;During his program, he will discuss coyote biology, helping people to better understand their movements, vocalizations, and diet among other topics.&nbsp;He will also discuss tips and methods on trapping and calling coyotes including the proper use of mouth and electronic calls. A light meal will be served and is sponsored by P &amp; S Electric of Great Bend. Space is limited to 70 people. &nbsp;If you enjoy the outdoors, or more specifically enjoy hunting coyotes, don’t miss out on this event!Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

K-State Extension coyote program scheduled for Barton County

The Cottonwood Extension District is looking to help give support
and guidance to those caring for others suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia
during two upcoming presentations.

From 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 10, Family and Community
Wellness agent Monique Koerner will discuss the KSRE Alzheimer’s 101 program
and from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Oct 11, Jill Wechsler, care coordinator at Clinkscales
Elder Law Practice offers a presentation over the behaviors of dementia patients,
along with a panel discussion with experienced caregivers.

Both events will be hosted in the Cottonwood Extension District
office at 601 Main but will be offered online as well.

“We just hope to just raise some awareness over this topic
as well as provide some education,” Koerner said.

For Koerner, knowing how difficult caring for someone
suffering from degenerative disease hits close to home. Her father was diagnosed
with Pick’s disease.

“I understand that concept of losing the person before you
lose the person,” she said. “I also saw the toll that it took on my mother with
losing him not once but twice. And so, I'm so happy to be a part of this and be
able to provide some education and support to our community around this topic.”

For those close to someone with dementia, Koerner said the
situation can be frustrating, as caregivers deal with out-of-the-ordinary
behaviors for the person.

The panel featured in the dementia presentation will feature
participants from A Different Mindset, a support group that meets online every
second Thursday of the month at 2:30 p.m., led by Micki Armstrong.

Armstrong also has a personal connection to dementia. Her
mother suffered from Alzheimer’s for 15 years.

Dementia is an all-encompassing term for many diseases, and
all are welcome to join the group, she said.

“Every person is different,” she said. “My mother's reaction
to certain things may not be the same as somebody else's mother. And so that's
the frustrating part. Because there's no set therapy that's going to be the
same for everybody.”

To sign up for the support group, email
maacarmstrong@gmail.com.

“It can be frustrating. You can feel very alone,” Armstrong
said. “It can be just overwhelming at times. And so having people who have been
in those shoes and who understand what you're going through is very, very
beneficial.”

For the caregiver, self-care is important, and a supportive
group can be help, she said.

“We know that if the caregiver doesn't take care of himself,
that person could easily get sick themselves or even possibly pass away before
the affected person does,” Armstrong said. “So, that's why we want to make sure
that our caregivers are healthy and have an outlet to express their frustration
and let them know that they're not alone in this in this journey.”

To register to attend the Cottonwood Extension District
sessions in person or via Zoom, call (785) 628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695410308572.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="Alzheimer’s, dementia presentations scheduled for Oct. 10-11" allowtransparency="true" height="150" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:150px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=aftu4-14b136a-pb&from=pb6admin&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=315" loading="lazy"></iframe></div>By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe Cottonwood Extension District is looking to help give support
and guidance to those caring for others suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia
during two upcoming presentations.From 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Oct. 10, Family and Community
Wellness agent Monique Koerner will discuss the KSRE Alzheimer’s 101 program
and from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Oct 11, Jill Wechsler, care coordinator at Clinkscales
Elder Law Practice offers a presentation over the behaviors of dementia patients,
along with a panel discussion with experienced caregivers.Both events will be hosted in the Cottonwood Extension District
office at 601 Main but will be offered online as well.“We just hope to just raise some awareness over this topic
as well as provide some education,” Koerner said.For Koerner, knowing how difficult caring for someone
suffering from degenerative disease hits close to home. Her father was diagnosed
with Pick’s disease.“I understand that concept of losing the person before you
lose the person,” she said. “I also saw the toll that it took on my mother with
losing him not once but twice. And so, I'm so happy to be a part of this and be
able to provide some education and support to our community around this topic.”For those close to someone with dementia, Koerner said the
situation can be frustrating, as caregivers deal with out-of-the-ordinary
behaviors for the person.The panel featured in the dementia presentation will feature
participants from A Different Mindset, a support group that meets online every
second Thursday of the month at 2:30 p.m., led by Micki Armstrong.Armstrong also has a personal connection to dementia. Her
mother suffered from Alzheimer’s for 15 years.Dementia is an all-encompassing term for many diseases, and
all are welcome to join the group, she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1695417910638.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“Every person is different,” she said. “My mother's reaction
to certain things may not be the same as somebody else's mother. And so that's
the frustrating part. Because there's no set therapy that's going to be the
same for everybody.”To sign up for the support group, email
maacarmstrong@gmail.com.“It can be frustrating. You can feel very alone,” Armstrong
said. “It can be just overwhelming at times. And so having people who have been
in those shoes and who understand what you're going through is very, very
beneficial.”For the caregiver, self-care is important, and a supportive
group can be help, she said.“We know that if the caregiver doesn't take care of himself,
that person could easily get sick themselves or even possibly pass away before
the affected person does,” Armstrong said. “So, that's why we want to make sure
that our caregivers are healthy and have an outlet to express their frustration
and let them know that they're not alone in this in this journey.”To register to attend the Cottonwood Extension District
sessions in person or via Zoom, call (785) 628-9430.

🎙 Alzheimer’s, dementia presentations scheduled for Oct. 10-11

Seed treatments are an important part of wheat production in Kansas. An updated version of the K-State publication MF2955, Seed Treatment Fungicides for Wheat Disease Management 2023 is now available at: <a href="http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/bookstore/pubs/MF2955.pdf">http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/bookstore/pubs/MF2955.pdf</a>

This updated publication features updated product efficacy information, recommendations for setting seed treatment priorities, considerations for seed treatment success, a key to common seed treatment active ingredients, and a list of some of the more common seed treatments labeled for use in Kansas.

It is important to make sure the seed treatment chosen matches the diseases and pests you are looking to control. 

Most seed treatments available for wheat in Kansas include one or more fungicide active ingredients (FRAC CODES 3 or 11) that provide protection against a suite of seedborne fungal diseases (common bunt, loose smut, flag smut) as well as soilborne seedling diseases which may result in poor emergence or damping off. 

These products may also provide early-season suppression of foliar diseases like powdery mildew and rusts. These products may provide suppression of root and foot rots but will not provide full season control against spring infections. 

Some seed treatments include metalaxyl or mefenoxam (FRAC CODE 4) which control soilborne oomycete diseases like Pythium root rot. Some products also contain insecticides like imidacloprid or thiamethoxam for early-season control of aphids, wireworms, and other insect pests. 

It is important to note that seed treatments will only provide protection from diseases and pests for approximately 30-45 days after planting and do not provide disease or insect control through the spring months. It is important to take note of grazing restrictions if the seed treatment contains an insecticide.

Adequate seed coverage is critical to ensure the maximum efficacy of any seed treatment products. Seed that is heavily contaminated with chaff or dust may limit the adherence of seed treatments. In addition, if too much clumping of the product occurs, the seed may not be uniformly covered and may not flow well through planting equipment.

Fusarium head blight (scab) in northwest Kansas: Fusarium head blight is a serious disease that can result in direct yield loss, discounts, and rejections due to mycotoxin (DON) accumulation, and loss of seed viability. Seed saved from fields with Fusarium head blight may face emergence issues in the fall. Luckily, seed treatments and proper seed cleaning can greatly reduce stand loss in these seed lots.

In 2023, there were higher-than-normal levels of Fusarium head blight in northwest Kansas due to untimely rainfall while wheat was flowering. Affected seed lots should be tested for germination (recent eUpdate article on seed tests and considered as&nbsp;candidates for a seed treatment containing a FRAC 3 or FRAC 11 fungicide, such as difenoconazole, prothioconazole, or tebuconazole).

Loose smut control and common bunt, sometimes called, “stinking smut,” can be controlled very effectively with most commercial treatments. Some regions of the state have struggled with these diseases in recent years. If you are planning to keep seed that is known to have or has been exposed to common bunt, it is critical to use a fungicide seed treatment or to purchase certified seed to avoid problems in the future.

Seed treatments can aid stand establishment when planting wheat after soybean harvest, even on seed that has high test weight and good germination. Planting wheat late into cool, wet soils often delays emergence and reduces the tillering capacity of wheat seedlings. This reduced tillering capacity diminishes the plant's ability to compensate for stand loss and maintain yield potential.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Seed treatments are an important part of wheat production in Kansas. An updated version of the K-State publication MF2955, Seed Treatment Fungicides for Wheat Disease Management 2023 is now available at: <a href="http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/bookstore/pubs/MF2955.pdf">http://www.ksre.ksu.edu/bookstore/pubs/MF2955.pdf</a>This updated publication features updated product efficacy information, recommendations for setting seed treatment priorities, considerations for seed treatment success, a key to common seed treatment active ingredients, and a list of some of the more common seed treatments labeled for use in Kansas.It is important to make sure the seed treatment chosen matches the diseases and pests you are looking to control. Most seed treatments available for wheat in Kansas include one or more fungicide active ingredients (FRAC CODES 3 or 11) that provide protection against a suite of seedborne fungal diseases (common bunt, loose smut, flag smut) as well as soilborne seedling diseases which may result in poor emergence or damping off. These products may also provide early-season suppression of foliar diseases like powdery mildew and rusts. These products may provide suppression of root and foot rots but will not provide full season control against spring infections. Some seed treatments include metalaxyl or mefenoxam (FRAC CODE 4) which control soilborne oomycete diseases like Pythium root rot. Some products also contain insecticides like imidacloprid or thiamethoxam for early-season control of aphids, wireworms, and other insect pests. It is important to note that seed treatments will only provide protection from diseases and pests for approximately 30-45 days after planting and do not provide disease or insect control through the spring months. It is important to take note of grazing restrictions if the seed treatment contains an insecticide.Adequate seed coverage is critical to ensure the maximum efficacy of any seed treatment products. Seed that is heavily contaminated with chaff or dust may limit the adherence of seed treatments. In addition, if too much clumping of the product occurs, the seed may not be uniformly covered and may not flow well through planting equipment.Seed treatment priorities in 2023Fusarium head blight (scab) in northwest Kansas: Fusarium head blight is a serious disease that can result in direct yield loss, discounts, and rejections due to mycotoxin (DON) accumulation, and loss of seed viability. Seed saved from fields with Fusarium head blight may face emergence issues in the fall. Luckily, seed treatments and proper seed cleaning can greatly reduce stand loss in these seed lots. In 2023, there were higher-than-normal levels of Fusarium head blight in northwest Kansas due to untimely rainfall while wheat was flowering. Affected seed lots should be tested for germination (recent eUpdate article on seed tests and considered as&nbsp;candidates for a seed treatment containing a FRAC 3 or FRAC 11 fungicide, such as difenoconazole, prothioconazole, or tebuconazole).Loose smut control and common bunt, sometimes called, “stinking smut,” can be controlled very effectively with most commercial treatments. Some regions of the state have struggled with these diseases in recent years. If you are planning to keep seed that is known to have or has been exposed to common bunt, it is critical to use a fungicide seed treatment or to purchase certified seed to avoid problems in the future.Seed treatments can aid stand establishment when planting wheat after soybean harvest, even on seed that has high test weight and good germination. Planting wheat late into cool, wet soils often delays emergence and reduces the tillering capacity of wheat seedlings. This reduced tillering capacity diminishes the plant's ability to compensate for stand loss and maintain yield potential.Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

CAMBELL: Seed treatments important part of Kansas wheat production 

Living Well Wednesday will begin its fall series in October. It will be the first Wednesday of the month at 12:10 p.m. 

Here is the amazing line up for October 2023-December 2023:

October 4: It's not so Kool to JUUL

Vaping is the new epidemic among youth. Twenty-five percent of Kansas high school students currently vape or have vaped. What do we know about vaping? What does it look like and who is behind this epidemic and why? So, how can we help educate the public and youth? We have learned many things about vaping in the past few years, it causes depression, is very addictive, and hard to quit. Kansas has several programs that are available to help combat this vaping problem among our youth. These topics will be discussed as well as the work going on in prevention.

Presenter: Donna Gerstner, LiveWell Finney County CDRR Grant Coordinator and the E- Cig Prevention Grant Coordinator

November 1: Teen Stress and Anxiety: How Worried Do Parents Need to Be?

This program will examine the current state of teen mental health and decipher for parents what is normal teen stress versus when professional help maybe needed. Parents want to say the right thing when their child talks about their stresses, but sometimes it is hard to find the words. This will give parents scripts and strategies to talk about these tricky topics. Christy Perez, a licensed clinical counselor, will be available to answer any of those hard questions parents may have.

Presenters: • Christine D. Perez, EdS, LCPC; Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Director of Crisis Services @ Crawford County Mental Health Center •&nbsp;&nbsp;Erin Tynon, M.S in Family Life Education and Consultation; Family Consumer Science Agent, Pottawatomie County

December 6: Rapid Development of Baby Brains and Why it Matters

Offered in Spanish on Thursday, December 7 at 11 a.m.

This session will describe the importance of early experiences for babies because of their rapid brain development. Discuss the effects of stress and trauma on brain development and actions that provide protective factors for healthy brain development in babies.

Presenters: • Dr. Bradford Wiles, Kansas State University Child Development Specialist • Monique Koerner, Community Wellness Extension Agent, Cottonwood District •&nbsp; Tristen Cope, Family and Youth Development Agent, Chisholm Trail District Presenter for Spanish: • Elizabeth Brunscheen-Cartagena, Family Life &amp; Resource Management Agent, Sedgwick County

We are hoping to reach parents of all ages and those that interact with youth. Spanish versions will also be available through a live webinar on December 7; other topics will be offered through prerecording with links posted on website: <a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/fcs/livingwellwed/">https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/fcs/livingwellwed/</a>

Mark your calendars and join us! If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with me.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522176561.png" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Living Well Wednesday will begin its fall series in October. It will be the first Wednesday of the month at 12:10 p.m. Here is the amazing line up for October 2023-December 2023:October 4: It's not so Kool to JUULVaping is the new epidemic among youth. Twenty-five percent of Kansas high school students currently vape or have vaped. What do we know about vaping? What does it look like and who is behind this epidemic and why? So, how can we help educate the public and youth? We have learned many things about vaping in the past few years, it causes depression, is very addictive, and hard to quit. Kansas has several programs that are available to help combat this vaping problem among our youth. These topics will be discussed as well as the work going on in prevention.Presenter: Donna Gerstner, LiveWell Finney County CDRR Grant Coordinator and the E- Cig Prevention Grant CoordinatorNovember 1: Teen Stress and Anxiety: How Worried Do Parents Need to Be?This program will examine the current state of teen mental health and decipher for parents what is normal teen stress versus when professional help maybe needed. Parents want to say the right thing when their child talks about their stresses, but sometimes it is hard to find the words. This will give parents scripts and strategies to talk about these tricky topics. Christy Perez, a licensed clinical counselor, will be available to answer any of those hard questions parents may have.Presenters: • Christine D. Perez, EdS, LCPC; Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Director of Crisis Services @ Crawford County Mental Health Center •&nbsp;&nbsp;Erin Tynon, M.S in Family Life Education and Consultation; Family Consumer Science Agent, Pottawatomie County December 6: Rapid Development of Baby Brains and Why it MattersOffered in Spanish on Thursday, December 7 at 11 a.m.This session will describe the importance of early experiences for babies because of their rapid brain development. Discuss the effects of stress and trauma on brain development and actions that provide protective factors for healthy brain development in babies.Presenters: • Dr. Bradford Wiles, Kansas State University Child Development Specialist • Monique Koerner, Community Wellness Extension Agent, Cottonwood District •&nbsp; Tristen Cope, Family and Youth Development Agent, Chisholm Trail District Presenter for Spanish: • Elizabeth Brunscheen-Cartagena, Family Life &amp; Resource Management Agent, Sedgwick County We are hoping to reach parents of all ages and those that interact with youth. Spanish versions will also be available through a live webinar on December 7; other topics will be offered through prerecording with links posted on website: <a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/fcs/livingwellwed/">https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/fcs/livingwellwed/</a>Mark your calendars and join us! If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with me.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Living Well Wednesday virtual learning series starts in Oct.

The general target date for planting wheat for optimum grain yields in Kansas is within a week of the best pest management planting date, or BPMP (formerly known as the “Hessian fly-free”) date. If forage production is the primary goal, earlier planting (mid-September) can increase forage yield. However, if grain yield is the primary goal, then waiting until the BPMP date to start planting is the best approach 

Planting in mid-September is ideal for dual-purpose wheat systems where forage yields need to be maximized while reducing the effects of early planting on reduced grain yields. However, due to the current dry conditions, coupled with the outlook of continued drought in Kansas, planting wheat for dual-purpose or for forage only does not seem like a viable option this year.

While the BPMP planting date on wheat yield will hold true for most years, they will largely depend on environmental conditions and disease pressure during the growing season.

 In some years, earlier-planted wheat does best and in some years the later-planted wheat does best, and these year-specific performances usually relate to the weather experienced in the fall and spring. For instance, early-planted fields in growing seasons with a warm fall might produce excessive biomass that will use an excessive amount of water during the fall. If the following spring is dry, soil water deficit during grain filling then can reduce grain yield. Conversely, a warm fall would favor tillering of a later-planted wheat crop, helping to compensate for this delay. 

The opposite is also true: in years with an early onset of cold temperatures during the fall, an earlier planted crop might perform better than a later-planted crop due to its ability to produce enough fall tillers to maximize grain yield. 

Research was conducted by Merle Witt with late-sown wheat in Garden City from 1985 through 1991. Averaged across all these years, delaying wheat sowing from October 1 to November 1 delayed heading date by 6 days and decreased wheat yields by 23%. The grain-filling period was progressively shortened by about 1.7 days and occurred under hotter temperatures (about 1.5°F) for every month of delay in sowing date.

In dry years, seedling emergence and stand establishment can be uneven. These dry conditions can also lead to poor crown root development and fall tillering. If fields become too wet to plant by mid-October and stay that way through the remainder of the fall, then producers end up planting much later than the optimum planting date.

 Following an unusual year, producers will often start planting earlier than the recommended date if soil conditions are good because the negative consequences of adverse conditions are fresh on their minds. However, planting early also increases the risk of other production problems including multiple diseases, insect pests, weed infestations, and undesirable growth of the crop, to name a few. 

To read the full article of the many risks associated with early planting and to see accompanying tables with other information related to this article (recommended planting dates, etc.) go to <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>.

In summary, early sowing of wheat can lead to several problems, from increased chances of insect or mite-transmitted viral diseases to decreased emergence due to high temperatures and&nbsp;its consequences on wheat germination of particular varieties and reduced coleoptile length. 

Ideally, growers should consider planting around the optimum window; but, if planting early due to moisture availability or a dual-purpose system, growers should consider selecting wheat varieties with tolerance to the major yield-reducing factors in their respective region. Growers should strongly consider a seed treatment with both fungicides and insecticides if planting wheat early in Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The general target date for planting wheat for optimum grain yields in Kansas is within a week of the best pest management planting date, or BPMP (formerly known as the “Hessian fly-free”) date. If forage production is the primary goal, earlier planting (mid-September) can increase forage yield. However, if grain yield is the primary goal, then waiting until the BPMP date to start planting is the best approach Planting in mid-September is ideal for dual-purpose wheat systems where forage yields need to be maximized while reducing the effects of early planting on reduced grain yields. However, due to the current dry conditions, coupled with the outlook of continued drought in Kansas, planting wheat for dual-purpose or for forage only does not seem like a viable option this year.While the BPMP planting date on wheat yield will hold true for most years, they will largely depend on environmental conditions and disease pressure during the growing season. In some years, earlier-planted wheat does best and in some years the later-planted wheat does best, and these year-specific performances usually relate to the weather experienced in the fall and spring. For instance, early-planted fields in growing seasons with a warm fall might produce excessive biomass that will use an excessive amount of water during the fall. If the following spring is dry, soil water deficit during grain filling then can reduce grain yield. Conversely, a warm fall would favor tillering of a later-planted wheat crop, helping to compensate for this delay. The opposite is also true: in years with an early onset of cold temperatures during the fall, an earlier planted crop might perform better than a later-planted crop due to its ability to produce enough fall tillers to maximize grain yield. Research was conducted by Merle Witt with late-sown wheat in Garden City from 1985 through 1991. Averaged across all these years, delaying wheat sowing from October 1 to November 1 delayed heading date by 6 days and decreased wheat yields by 23%. The grain-filling period was progressively shortened by about 1.7 days and occurred under hotter temperatures (about 1.5°F) for every month of delay in sowing date.In dry years, seedling emergence and stand establishment can be uneven. These dry conditions can also lead to poor crown root development and fall tillering. If fields become too wet to plant by mid-October and stay that way through the remainder of the fall, then producers end up planting much later than the optimum planting date. Following an unusual year, producers will often start planting earlier than the recommended date if soil conditions are good because the negative consequences of adverse conditions are fresh on their minds. However, planting early also increases the risk of other production problems including multiple diseases, insect pests, weed infestations, and undesirable growth of the crop, to name a few. To read the full article of the many risks associated with early planting and to see accompanying tables with other information related to this article (recommended planting dates, etc.) go to <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>.In summary, early sowing of wheat can lead to several problems, from increased chances of insect or mite-transmitted viral diseases to decreased emergence due to high temperatures and&nbsp;its consequences on wheat germination of particular varieties and reduced coleoptile length. Ideally, growers should consider planting around the optimum window; but, if planting early due to moisture availability or a dual-purpose system, growers should consider selecting wheat varieties with tolerance to the major yield-reducing factors in their respective region. Growers should strongly consider a seed treatment with both fungicides and insecticides if planting wheat early in Kansas.Stacy Campbell is a crop production extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;

CAMPBELL: Be cautious of planting wheat too early   

Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas offers one-on-one, non-biased counseling and assistance to individuals and families either getting ready to sign up for Medicare, or those who already have Medicare.

Medicare Open Enrollment is from October 15-December 7. During this time period you can:

· Change from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan. · Change from a Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare. · Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another Medicare Advantage Plan. · Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn't offer drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage. · Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn't offer drug coverage. · Join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. · Switch from one Medicare drug plan to another Medicare drug plan. · Drop your Medicare prescription drug coverage completely.

Volunteer counselors receive training on Medicare, Medicare Supplemental Insurance, and other health insurance issues that concern Kansans. The Senior Health Insurance counselors are not affiliated with the insurance industry. 

If you are new to Medicare or have questions about Medicare or Medicare-related issues, the Senior Health Insurance counselors at the Cottonwood Extension office are taking one-on-one appointments for October. Call 620-793-1910 to learn more.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687379885179.png" alt="Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas offers one-on-one, non-biased counseling and assistance to individuals and families either getting ready to sign up for Medicare, or those who already have Medicare.Medicare Open EnrollmentMedicare Open Enrollment is from October 15-December 7. During this time period you can:· Change from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan. · Change from a Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare. · Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another Medicare Advantage Plan. · Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn't offer drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage. · Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan that offers drug coverage to a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn't offer drug coverage. · Join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. · Switch from one Medicare drug plan to another Medicare drug plan. · Drop your Medicare prescription drug coverage completely. Volunteer counselors receive training on Medicare, Medicare Supplemental Insurance, and other health insurance issues that concern Kansans. The Senior Health Insurance counselors are not affiliated with the insurance industry. If you are new to Medicare or have questions about Medicare or Medicare-related issues, the Senior Health Insurance counselors at the Cottonwood Extension office are taking one-on-one appointments for October. Call 620-793-1910 to learn more.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.