Wheat planting is just around the corner in Kansas, so now is the time to get your soil sampling done to have good information on which to base your fertilizer inputs. This is particularly important after drought and lower-than-expected yields for the previous crops in parts of the state.

The most important tests and nutrients to focus on this year depend in part on where you are located, the choices you make when applying nitrogen, and your tillage system.

The nutrients for which wheat is most likely to show responses statewide are nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). Wheat is the most P-responsive crop we grow in Kansas, and while P removal with wheat may be less than with corn or soybeans, the relative yield response is often the highest. Therefore, knowledge of P soil test levels and fertilizer needs will be valuable

A standard 0-6 inch surface sample is normally used to test for pH and the non-mobile nutrients such as P and potassium (K). Growers might also want to check for the micronutrient of zinc (Zn). Zinc is not a nutrient commonly found deficient in wheat production. However, it is important for corn and grain sorghum. Thus including it in your sample package would be helpful for planning for these rotation crops.

Soil organic matter (SOM) is an important source of nutrients such as N and sulfur (S). When calculating the fertilizer needs for both these nutrients, SOM is taken into consideration. For wheat production, 10 pounds of available N and 2.5 pounds of S are credited for every 1% SOM in the soil.

In addition to pH, SOM, P, K, and Zn -- all of which are non-mobile in soils and accumulate in the surface – the mobile nutrients N, S, and chloride can provide significant yield responses when deficient in soils. Since all three of these nutrients are mobile in soils and tend to accumulate in the subsoil, it is strongly recommended to use a 24-inch profile soil sample prior to growing wheat, corn, or grain sorghum.

In summary, wheat producers in Kansas should consider soil testing to help in making accurate fertilizer decisions. 

Accurate decisions are especially important during years with falling grain prices and tight budgets. Furthermore, after variable conditions and yield levels across the state, fertilizer needs may require adjustments based on soil tests. 

Wheat producers specifically, should use surface 0-6 inch samples to determine the need for lime on low pH soils, P, K, Zn, and soil organic matter. They also should be using 24-inch profile soil tests for N, S, and Cl. 

Now is the time to get those samples taken, to ensure there will be enough time to consider those test results when planning your fall fertilizer programs.

For more information on soil sampling and submitting samples to the K-State Soil Testing Laboratory, visit their website at <a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/outreach-and-services/soil-testing-lab/">http://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/services/soiltesting/ </a>or stop into the Cottonwood District offices in Great Bend and Hays. We have soil sample probes to loan out and can mail off your soil samples and help you with interpreting the results and recommendations.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<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>Wheat planting is just around the corner in Kansas, so now is the time to get your soil sampling done to have good information on which to base your fertilizer inputs. This is particularly important after drought and lower-than-expected yields for the previous crops in parts of the state.The most important tests and nutrients to focus on this year depend in part on where you are located, the choices you make when applying nitrogen, and your tillage system.The nutrients for which wheat is most likely to show responses statewide are nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). Wheat is the most P-responsive crop we grow in Kansas, and while P removal with wheat may be less than with corn or soybeans, the relative yield response is often the highest. Therefore, knowledge of P soil test levels and fertilizer needs will be valuableA standard 0-6 inch surface sample is normally used to test for pH and the non-mobile nutrients such as P and potassium (K). Growers might also want to check for the micronutrient of zinc (Zn). Zinc is not a nutrient commonly found deficient in wheat production. However, it is important for corn and grain sorghum. Thus including it in your sample package would be helpful for planning for these rotation crops.Soil organic matter (SOM) is an important source of nutrients such as N and sulfur (S). When calculating the fertilizer needs for both these nutrients, SOM is taken into consideration. For wheat production, 10 pounds of available N and 2.5 pounds of S are credited for every 1% SOM in the soil.In addition to pH, SOM, P, K, and Zn -- all of which are non-mobile in soils and accumulate in the surface – the mobile nutrients N, S, and chloride can provide significant yield responses when deficient in soils. Since all three of these nutrients are mobile in soils and tend to accumulate in the subsoil, it is strongly recommended to use a 24-inch profile soil sample prior to growing wheat, corn, or grain sorghum.In summary, wheat producers in Kansas should consider soil testing to help in making accurate fertilizer decisions. Accurate decisions are especially important during years with falling grain prices and tight budgets. Furthermore, after variable conditions and yield levels across the state, fertilizer needs may require adjustments based on soil tests. Wheat producers specifically, should use surface 0-6 inch samples to determine the need for lime on low pH soils, P, K, Zn, and soil organic matter. They also should be using 24-inch profile soil tests for N, S, and Cl. Now is the time to get those samples taken, to ensure there will be enough time to consider those test results when planning your fall fertilizer programs.For more information on soil sampling and submitting samples to the K-State Soil Testing Laboratory, visit their website at <a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/outreach-and-services/soil-testing-lab/">http://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/services/soiltesting/ </a>or stop into the Cottonwood District offices in Great Bend and Hays. We have soil sample probes to loan out and can mail off your soil samples and help you with interpreting the results and recommendations.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Planning your wheat fertility program: Start now by soil testing

Female imagery will fill the Hays Arts Center for the 38th
annual Fall Art Walk in Hays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Aug. 25.

The opening of the invitational exhibition "She Is…" will
anchor the evening that will see businesses and organizations downtown
and beyond open their doors to the community to partake in artistic expressions
of all types.

“I’ve just seen so many of the
wonderful artists, not only in our area, but other artists I was aware of that
I'd never even worked with before, but admired their work and had the idea for
the show called 'She Is…,'” said Hays Arts Council executive director Brenda
Meder.

“And so, the idea of, she is old, she is young, she is somber, she is
joyful, she is contemplative, she is bold, just all those different aspects of female imagery in art.”

The exhibition includes paintings,
photography, etchings, silkscreens, caustic ceramic sculpture and stone
sculpture. It features both local artists and others from across the
state whose work will be exhibited at the center for the first time, she said

“It's a whole variety of
different styles, expressions, and just wonderful images, painting styles out of female imagery through a variety of ages and creative media,” Meder
said.

The arts center is only
one stop of many scheduled for the evening.

“We've got a lot of wonderful
features and opportunities for people to just enjoy in our community,” Meder said.

In conjunction with the Art
Walk, the Hays Symphony Pops concert is scheduled at 7:30 p.m. in Union Pacific
Park, 10th and Main. 

The K-State Research and
Extension Cottonwood District Master Gardeners will be showcasing their four gardens at the extension district office 601 Main; Historic Fort Hays, 1472 U.S. Highway 183 Alt.; and at the K-Stae Ag Research Center, 1232 240th Ave.

The evening also will mark the
opening of Toby Ironworks, 708 Main, the new workspace of local artist Toby
Flores.

“Everybody will want to get
to Toby’s,” Meder said. “He bought the building, and it's going to be a studio/gallery
workspace. It's just another cool, exciting space in downtown Hays.”

Fort Hays State
University’s Moss-Thorns and Taylor galleries will be open from 6 to
8:30 p.m.

“Come
out and enjoy your visit whatever places you want, staying for however long you
want, in whatever order you want,” Meder said.

“It's your evening to design however you want, but we're providing it and a whole lot of other great people
in this community. [We are] making sure it happens to the highest level of fun,
entertainment and artistic expression.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823735458.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><div><iframe title="’She Is...’ to anchor Fall Art Walk in downtown Hays Friday" 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=9s3w2-148a2a5-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 PostFemale imagery will fill the Hays Arts Center for the 38th
annual Fall Art Walk in Hays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Aug. 25.The opening of the invitational exhibition "She Is…" will
anchor the evening that will see businesses and organizations downtown
and beyond open their doors to the community to partake in artistic expressions
of all types.“I’ve just seen so many of the
wonderful artists, not only in our area, but other artists I was aware of that
I'd never even worked with before, but admired their work and had the idea for
the show called 'She Is…,'” said Hays Arts Council executive director Brenda
Meder.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823769710.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>“And so, the idea of, she is old, she is young, she is somber, she is
joyful, she is contemplative, she is bold, just all those different aspects of female imagery in art.”The exhibition includes paintings,
photography, etchings, silkscreens, caustic ceramic sculpture and stone
sculpture. It features both local artists and others from across the
state whose work will be exhibited at the center for the first time, she said“It's a whole variety of
different styles, expressions, and just wonderful images, painting styles out of female imagery through a variety of ages and creative media,” Meder
said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823794033.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The arts center is only
one stop of many scheduled for the evening.“We've got a lot of wonderful
features and opportunities for people to just enjoy in our community,” Meder said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692814298595.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In conjunction with the Art
Walk, the Hays Symphony Pops concert is scheduled at 7:30 p.m. in Union Pacific
Park, 10th and Main. The K-State Research and
Extension Cottonwood District Master Gardeners will be showcasing their four gardens at the extension district office 601 Main; Historic Fort Hays, 1472 U.S. Highway 183 Alt.; and at the K-Stae Ag Research Center, 1232 240th Ave.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823819008.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>The evening also will mark the
opening of Toby Ironworks, 708 Main, the new workspace of local artist Toby
Flores.“Everybody will want to get
to Toby’s,” Meder said. “He bought the building, and it's going to be a studio/gallery
workspace. It's just another cool, exciting space in downtown Hays.”Fort Hays State
University’s Moss-Thorns and Taylor galleries will be open from 6 to
8:30 p.m.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823849761.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>“Come
out and enjoy your visit whatever places you want, staying for however long you
want, in whatever order you want,” Meder said.“It's your evening to design however you want, but we're providing it and a whole lot of other great people
in this community. [We are] making sure it happens to the highest level of fun,
entertainment and artistic expression.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823866274.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823878357.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823906694.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1692823892545.jpeg" alt="Photo by James Bell/Hays Post" />
 <figcaption>Photo by James Bell/Hays Post</figcaption>
 </figure>

🎙 'She Is...' to anchor Fall Art Walk Friday in downtown Hays 

Pre-emergence herbicides with residual activity are an important component of high-yielding cropping systems. They are used less frequently in wheat production compared to other cropping systems in Kansas, but residual herbicides applied prior to wheat emergence can be part of a good weed management system in wheat production.

Most residual herbicides labeled for pre-emergence application in wheat are Group 2 (ALS-inhibiting) herbicides, which are associated with herbicide-resistant populations of kochia, marestail (horseweed), bushy wallflower, flixweed, henbit, and brome species in Kansas. Products in Groups 14 (the PPO-inhibiting herbicides) and 15 (the long-chain fatty acid-inhibiting herbicides) are also labeled; however, they are generally more dependent on rainfall for activation than the Group 2 herbicides.

Herbicides without residual activity may be applied with or without residual herbicides in the weeks prior to planting wheat. Older products include the Group 2 herbicides Amber, Olympus, and Pre-Pare, as well as Group 4 (plant growth regulating) herbicides like 2,4-D, dicamba, or fluroxypyr. It is especially important to know planting interval restrictions for Group 4 herbicides, which range from 10 to 45 days.

When selecting pre-emergence herbicides for use in wheat production, keep in mind that many of these products are also labeled for use in emerged wheat. Unless using a planned split application, avoid repeated use of products from the same herbicide group to slow the development of herbicide-resistant weed populations in your fields.

To see a handy table that list the selected herbicides for pre-emergence or pre-plant applications in winter wheat. Which shows the herbicide group, application timing and comments/tips on application, go to our web site&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under hot topics.

Field bindweed can be difficult to control

Field bindweed is a particularly troublesome weed to control. 

In a 12-year experiment conducted at the Agricultural Research Center - Hays, field bindweed reduced wheat yield by 2 to 50%. Management of this weed during wheat establishment is important because field bindweed continues to grow until temperatures drop below 20°F.

The herbicides most commonly recommended for field bindweed control include various formulations of 2,4-D, dicamba, and glyphosate. Dicamba tends to provide greater control for fall applications compared to 2,4-D or glyphosate, especially if plants are drought-stressed. 

Another commonly used product is Facet (quinclorac). It is most effective when applied just before the first killing frost. Other herbicides that are labeled for fall application to control or suppress field bindweed in wheat include Affinity, Aim, and Cimarron.

A single herbicide application will not achieve satisfactory control of field bindweed. It will take multiple years of herbicide applications to deplete the energy stored in the root system and control an established infestation.

For additional information, see the “<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/Item.aspx?catId=236&amp;pubId=19360">2023 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, and Noncropland</a>” guide available online, or check with your local K-State Research and Extension office for a paper copy.

The use of trade names is for clarity to readers and does not imply endorsement of a particular product, nor does exclusion imply non-approval. 

Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements.

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>Pre-emergence herbicides with residual activity are an important component of high-yielding cropping systems. They are used less frequently in wheat production compared to other cropping systems in Kansas, but residual herbicides applied prior to wheat emergence can be part of a good weed management system in wheat production.Most residual herbicides labeled for pre-emergence application in wheat are Group 2 (ALS-inhibiting) herbicides, which are associated with herbicide-resistant populations of kochia, marestail (horseweed), bushy wallflower, flixweed, henbit, and brome species in Kansas. Products in Groups 14 (the PPO-inhibiting herbicides) and 15 (the long-chain fatty acid-inhibiting herbicides) are also labeled; however, they are generally more dependent on rainfall for activation than the Group 2 herbicides.Herbicides without residual activity may be applied with or without residual herbicides in the weeks prior to planting wheat. Older products include the Group 2 herbicides Amber, Olympus, and Pre-Pare, as well as Group 4 (plant growth regulating) herbicides like 2,4-D, dicamba, or fluroxypyr. It is especially important to know planting interval restrictions for Group 4 herbicides, which range from 10 to 45 days.When selecting pre-emergence herbicides for use in wheat production, keep in mind that many of these products are also labeled for use in emerged wheat. Unless using a planned split application, avoid repeated use of products from the same herbicide group to slow the development of herbicide-resistant weed populations in your fields.To see a handy table that list the selected herbicides for pre-emergence or pre-plant applications in winter wheat. Which shows the herbicide group, application timing and comments/tips on application, go to our web site&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu/" target="_blank">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under hot topics.Field bindweed can be difficult to controlField bindweed is a particularly troublesome weed to control. In a 12-year experiment conducted at the Agricultural Research Center - Hays, field bindweed reduced wheat yield by 2 to 50%. Management of this weed during wheat establishment is important because field bindweed continues to grow until temperatures drop below 20°F.The herbicides most commonly recommended for field bindweed control include various formulations of 2,4-D, dicamba, and glyphosate. Dicamba tends to provide greater control for fall applications compared to 2,4-D or glyphosate, especially if plants are drought-stressed. Another commonly used product is Facet (quinclorac). It is most effective when applied just before the first killing frost. Other herbicides that are labeled for fall application to control or suppress field bindweed in wheat include Affinity, Aim, and Cimarron.A single herbicide application will not achieve satisfactory control of field bindweed. It will take multiple years of herbicide applications to deplete the energy stored in the root system and control an established infestation.For additional information, see the “<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/Item.aspx?catId=236&amp;pubId=19360">2023 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, and Noncropland</a>” guide available online, or check with your local K-State Research and Extension office for a paper copy.The use of trade names is for clarity to readers and does not imply endorsement of a particular product, nor does exclusion imply non-approval. Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements.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: Pre-emergence herbicides in wheat

The body and mind are connected in ways we don’t even realize. Neural transmitters and hormones are just a couple of examples of how the brain and body communicate with each other. 

What we do with our physical bodies such as exercise impacts our mental state. On the other hand, our thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes can affect our biological functioning! It is amazing how the mind and body work together, and the connection between physical and mental health is intertwined closer than we realize.

We all know that a sedentary lifestyle is bad for physical health, but mental health also suffers when we don’t get as much movement as needed. In fact, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem are more prevalent in those who have sedentary lifestyles. 

Movement and muscle-strengthening activities release endorphins that boost energy levels and mood for immediate results. In the long term, exercise habits build strong bones and muscles, but it also builds neural pathways that allow for a strong mind. This improved connection boosts our functionality, positivity, and sense of happiness.

One of the most overlooked forms of exercise, dancing, enhances the brain-body connection and improves emotional awareness. When we dance, rigid emotional patterns are broken, allowing us to find new thought processes. This helps creative juices to get flowing, and it breaks negative thought cycles in our minds. So, this is your cue to take a dance break! You might just be surprised by how refreshing it is.

Whatever your choice of movement is, be encouraged knowing that it has the opportunity to improve your physical well-being, and boost your mental state in return!

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. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The body and mind are connected in ways we don’t even realize. Neural transmitters and hormones are just a couple of examples of how the brain and body communicate with each other. What we do with our physical bodies such as exercise impacts our mental state. On the other hand, our thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes can affect our biological functioning! It is amazing how the mind and body work together, and the connection between physical and mental health is intertwined closer than we realize.We all know that a sedentary lifestyle is bad for physical health, but mental health also suffers when we don’t get as much movement as needed. In fact, depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem are more prevalent in those who have sedentary lifestyles. Movement and muscle-strengthening activities release endorphins that boost energy levels and mood for immediate results. In the long term, exercise habits build strong bones and muscles, but it also builds neural pathways that allow for a strong mind. This improved connection boosts our functionality, positivity, and sense of happiness.One of the most overlooked forms of exercise, dancing, enhances the brain-body connection and improves emotional awareness. When we dance, rigid emotional patterns are broken, allowing us to find new thought processes. This helps creative juices to get flowing, and it breaks negative thought cycles in our minds. So, this is your cue to take a dance break! You might just be surprised by how refreshing it is.Whatever your choice of movement is, be encouraged knowing that it has the opportunity to improve your physical well-being, and boost your mental state in return!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: The mind and movement connection

More than 37 million adults in the United States have diabetes, and those who suffer from the disease know that it can be difficult to manage. If you’re one who battles diabetes, you have probably run into multiple roadblocks along the way. Maybe you consistently monitor your glucose, eat correctly, and exercise, yet still struggle with blood sugar control. 

Experiencing these frequent problems can interfere with daily living, impact mental health, and even lead to hospitalization or death. Learning how to manage diabetes is a continual process and unexpected barriers will arise on the journey. 

So, what do you do when doing all the right things doesn’t work?

Examine your daily routine. Keeping a journal of your habits may reveal the source of many blood sugar issues. A journal allows you to see patterns among the variables of your daily life such as blood sugar levels, types of foods, meal timing, mood, medications, and exercise.

Understanding the patterns of your glucose levels is a key reason to keep a diabetes journal. Being consistent is necessary, difficult, yet rewarding. For example, if you realize that nighttime episodes of hypoglycemia regularly occur when you are more active throughout the day, you might need to increase your intake to refuel and reduce the risk of your blood sugar plummeting at night.

A healthy diet is an essential part of diabetes management, but it can be difficult to remember what foods you eat. By consistently tracking your meals and snacks, you can identify foods that may spike your glucose levels. Over time, you may be surprised to see that certain foods have a greater (or less) impact on your blood sugar than you thought!

Mental health can be greatly affected by diabetes, and your mood may seem to be on a constant rollercoaster due to rapid blood sugar changes. Since mood can be an indication of glucose spikes and drops, it’s a good idea to take note of how you feel. This awareness can help you build a stronger connection between your mind, body, and diabetes management strategy.

When diagnosed with diabetes, medications are often prescribed. This addition can make a big impact on your daily routine. By keeping a record of medication, doses, and timing, you may be able to control glucose levels better. This also allows you to be aware of side effects or changes in symptoms so you can work with your doctor to make any necessary changes.

Regular exercise can play a major role in fluctuating glucose levels, and it has the ability to help you keep your diabetes in check. Keeping a log of your exercise routine can help you find the types of physical activity that help you feel your best and stay motivated to meet your fitness goals!

The recurring theme of a diabetes journal is awareness. Writing down your lifestyle habits gives you the opportunity to reflect on your daily routine with diabetes. It gives insight into your symptoms, and it allows you to identify habits that improve well-being and others that have a negative impact on health. 

Keeping a diabetes journal may be a big commitment, but it can help you solve many problems related to managing the disease.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District.

<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>More than 37 million adults in the United States have diabetes, and those who suffer from the disease know that it can be difficult to manage. If you’re one who battles diabetes, you have probably run into multiple roadblocks along the way. Maybe you consistently monitor your glucose, eat correctly, and exercise, yet still struggle with blood sugar control. Experiencing these frequent problems can interfere with daily living, impact mental health, and even lead to hospitalization or death. Learning how to manage diabetes is a continual process and unexpected barriers will arise on the journey. So, what do you do when doing all the right things doesn’t work?Examine your daily routine. Keeping a journal of your habits may reveal the source of many blood sugar issues. A journal allows you to see patterns among the variables of your daily life such as blood sugar levels, types of foods, meal timing, mood, medications, and exercise.Blood SugarUnderstanding the patterns of your glucose levels is a key reason to keep a diabetes journal. Being consistent is necessary, difficult, yet rewarding. For example, if you realize that nighttime episodes of hypoglycemia regularly occur when you are more active throughout the day, you might need to increase your intake to refuel and reduce the risk of your blood sugar plummeting at night.Types of FoodsA healthy diet is an essential part of diabetes management, but it can be difficult to remember what foods you eat. By consistently tracking your meals and snacks, you can identify foods that may spike your glucose levels. Over time, you may be surprised to see that certain foods have a greater (or less) impact on your blood sugar than you thought!MoodMental health can be greatly affected by diabetes, and your mood may seem to be on a constant rollercoaster due to rapid blood sugar changes. Since mood can be an indication of glucose spikes and drops, it’s a good idea to take note of how you feel. This awareness can help you build a stronger connection between your mind, body, and diabetes management strategy.MedicationsWhen diagnosed with diabetes, medications are often prescribed. This addition can make a big impact on your daily routine. By keeping a record of medication, doses, and timing, you may be able to control glucose levels better. This also allows you to be aware of side effects or changes in symptoms so you can work with your doctor to make any necessary changes.ExerciseRegular exercise can play a major role in fluctuating glucose levels, and it has the ability to help you keep your diabetes in check. Keeping a log of your exercise routine can help you find the types of physical activity that help you feel your best and stay motivated to meet your fitness goals!The recurring theme of a diabetes journal is awareness. Writing down your lifestyle habits gives you the opportunity to reflect on your daily routine with diabetes. It gives insight into your symptoms, and it allows you to identify habits that improve well-being and others that have a negative impact on health. Keeping a diabetes journal may be a big commitment, but it can help you solve many problems related to managing the disease.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District.

WINKEL: How to problem solve diabetes management

Canning produce correctly is essential to safe food preservation, and according to Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee, two key ingredients to make many canned or pickled foods safe are bottled lemon juice and vinegar.

“Bottled lemon juice is standardized, or uniformly acidified, per U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulations,” Blakeslee said. “Therefore, it is consistent, which provides a known level of safety for food preservation.”

The acidity of the product is important to prevent the growth of microorganisms that can cause spoilage or foodborne illness. 

Fresh lemons have an inconsistent acid, or pH, level. This can vary within the same variety of lemons but also vary due to maturity, growing conditions, soil, fertilizer, rootstock, and storage conditions.

Researched and tested recipes have been created and evaluated to achieve the safest food product in the end.

“Taking shortcuts in food preservation can lead to spoiled food, foodborne illness, and in rare cases, death,” Blakeslee warned.

If using vinegar, the first step is to read the label. Look for vinegar that is 5% acidity, but not all vinegar is the same. They range from 2.5% to more than 6% acidity. If it is not 5%, it could lead to improperly acidified foods and unsafe foods after processing.

“Do not use any vinegar labeled for cleaning purposes as they may contain other ingredients that are not safe to consume,” Blakeslee said.

Blakeslee publishes a monthly newsletter called You Asked It! that provides numerous tips on food safety. More information is also available from the Cottonwood Extension offices in Great Bend and Hays.

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. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<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.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Canning produce correctly is essential to safe food preservation, and according to Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee, two key ingredients to make many canned or pickled foods safe are bottled lemon juice and vinegar.“Bottled lemon juice is standardized, or uniformly acidified, per U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulations,” Blakeslee said. “Therefore, it is consistent, which provides a known level of safety for food preservation.”The acidity of the product is important to prevent the growth of microorganisms that can cause spoilage or foodborne illness. Fresh lemons have an inconsistent acid, or pH, level. This can vary within the same variety of lemons but also vary due to maturity, growing conditions, soil, fertilizer, rootstock, and storage conditions.Researched and tested recipes have been created and evaluated to achieve the safest food product in the end.“Taking shortcuts in food preservation can lead to spoiled food, foodborne illness, and in rare cases, death,” Blakeslee warned.If using vinegar, the first step is to read the label. Look for vinegar that is 5% acidity, but not all vinegar is the same. They range from 2.5% to more than 6% acidity. If it is not 5%, it could lead to improperly acidified foods and unsafe foods after processing.“Do not use any vinegar labeled for cleaning purposes as they may contain other ingredients that are not safe to consume,” Blakeslee said.Blakeslee publishes a monthly newsletter called You Asked It! that provides numerous tips on food safety. More information is also available from the Cottonwood Extension offices in Great Bend and Hays.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. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WINKEL: Canning safety tips: Lemon juice and vinegar

Have you considered joining the Extension Master Gardener program? 

Stop by or call one of our offices in Hays or Great Bend&nbsp; to get an application. Applications are due August 25.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691958197686.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Have you considered joining the Extension Master Gardener program? Stop by or call one of our offices in Hays or Great Bend&nbsp; to get an application. Applications are due August 25.

Applications to be come a master gardener open in Cottonwood Extension District

On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">Cottonwood Extension District</a> Family and Community Wellness agent Monique Koerner discusses the upcoming Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3fc32c22-ab00-4770-acef-654ba07cd1cf" target="_blank">Read about Stay Strong, Stay Healthy by clicking here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Stay Strong, Stay Healthy begins Aug. 29 in Hays" 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=85ci4-147b16c-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>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">Cottonwood Extension District</a> Family and Community Wellness agent Monique Koerner discusses the upcoming Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/3fc32c22-ab00-4770-acef-654ba07cd1cf" target="_blank">Read about Stay Strong, Stay Healthy by clicking here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Stay Strong, Stay Healthy begins Aug. 29 in Hays

One of the best ways to keep your mind and body functioning at its best is to exercise. 

When I worked with small children we always used to say, “the best exercise for the brain is exercise!” The same holds true as we age. 

Exercise produces a wide range of benefits for not only our physical health, but also mental health. Regular participation in strengthening exercises can help you build muscle and increase bone density. It can also help relieve stress and reduce depression symptoms. 

The Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program focuses on improving the health and well being of older adults. The goal of the program is to provide safe, structured and effective strength training for older adults. 

Strength training promotes quality of life and independence, especially for adults over age 60.

Stay Strong, Stay Healthy is an evidence-based program that has been shown to increase strength, balance, and flexibility.

You might be asking yourself, “I wonder what we’ll do?” It is an eight-week program that meets twice a week for one-hour. We will do warm up exercises, easy strengthening exercises, with or without weights, based on your preference, and finish with cool-down stretches and breathing exercises. The best part is there is no membership fees like at a gym and no special clothes or equipment are needed. 

We will have weights available if you want to use them. 

You will work at your own pace and progress as you are able. There are modifications to the exercises based on your own fitness level.

If you would like more information before signing up, I will hold an orientation class which will introduce the program and exercises. The orientation class will be Thursday, August 24, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at our office in Hays, located at 601 Main Street, in the back meeting room.

Regular classes will begin August 29, 2023 and will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. for eight weeks. All classes will be held at our office in Hays. 

There will be a one-time fee of $20 to participate in the eight-week program. Please call the office if you have any questions or email Monique at moniquek@ksu.edu

Cottonwood Extension District would like to extend a huge thank you to Heartland Community Foundation. 

This project was funded in part by a grant from the Ellis County Legacy Fund and the Dane G. Hansen Community Grant Fund-Heartland of the Heartland Community Foundation. Their funding allowed us to purchase our own weight set for our district so we will be able to offer classes more often.

Come join me for some fun and get healthier and stronger!

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/2022/11/1668522152076.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>One of the best ways to keep your mind and body functioning at its best is to exercise. When I worked with small children we always used to say, “the best exercise for the brain is exercise!” The same holds true as we age. Exercise produces a wide range of benefits for not only our physical health, but also mental health. Regular participation in strengthening exercises can help you build muscle and increase bone density. It can also help relieve stress and reduce depression symptoms. The Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program focuses on improving the health and well being of older adults. The goal of the program is to provide safe, structured and effective strength training for older adults. No one is too inactive to participate. Strength training promotes quality of life and independence, especially for adults over age 60.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/8/1691425639307.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Stay Strong, Stay Healthy is an evidence-based program that has been shown to increase strength, balance, and flexibility.You might be asking yourself, “I wonder what we’ll do?” It is an eight-week program that meets twice a week for one-hour. We will do warm up exercises, easy strengthening exercises, with or without weights, based on your preference, and finish with cool-down stretches and breathing exercises. The best part is there is no membership fees like at a gym and no special clothes or equipment are needed. We will have weights available if you want to use them. You will work at your own pace and progress as you are able. There are modifications to the exercises based on your own fitness level.If you would like more information before signing up, I will hold an orientation class which will introduce the program and exercises. The orientation class will be Thursday, August 24, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. at our office in Hays, located at 601 Main Street, in the back meeting room.Regular classes will begin August 29, 2023 and will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. for eight weeks. All classes will be held at our office in Hays. There will be a one-time fee of $20 to participate in the eight-week program. Please call the office if you have any questions or email Monique at moniquek@ksu.eduCottonwood Extension District would like to extend a huge thank you to Heartland Community Foundation. This project was funded in part by a grant from the Ellis County Legacy Fund and the Dane G. Hansen Community Grant Fund-Heartland of the Heartland Community Foundation. Their funding allowed us to purchase our own weight set for our district so we will be able to offer classes more often.Come join me for some fun and get healthier and stronger!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: Stay strong, stay healthy

In Kansas, the 4-H year runs from October 1 to September 30. 

Project learning begins early in the 4-H year as youth begin learning about foods and nutrition, begin the next level of their entomology collection, or begin thinking about their livestock for the coming year.

Several opportunities to showcase that project learning occur throughout the year. 

4-H Club Days are a chance to practice communication skills and are one of the first events for youth to share about an area of interest as this occurs in February and March. County fair is about three-fourths of the way through the year and advanced learning is showcased with feedback from judges as an important part of the process.

Two of the big pieces of the 4-H year occur in September.

Many 4-H members can qualify for participation at the Kansas State Fair by receiving a top placing at the county fair. 

We don’t have consultative judging at this level but it is an incredible opportunity for those youth to see their project exhibit displayed and evaluated with 4-H members from across the state.

 We have 57 4-H members who have qualified to take one or more entries to the Kansas State fair and that doesn’t include any animals! When I was a 4-H member, we lived too far from the state fair to see my exhibits on display so I encourage all of our 4-H members and their friends and family to make a trip and be sure it includes some time in Centennial Hall!

The other very important part of project learning that is in the works right now is the completion of project record books. While few of us love record-keeping, it is an important life skill and the Kansas 4-H Project Record provides steps for youth to learn and improve in this process. 

The youngest 4-H members complete sentences with plenty of direction to learn the basics of record-keeping. As they get a little older, the intermediate version includes fewer specifics but still guidance on how to complete financial records, note project learning opportunities, and examples of project-related community service. For our senior 4-H members, this also includes a cover letter, a resume related to their project learning, and if it qualifies for competition at the state level, a video presentation. 

All of these are important skills for our youth to learn and wrap up a year of project learning.

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. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>In Kansas, the 4-H year runs from October 1 to September 30. Project learning begins early in the 4-H year as youth begin learning about foods and nutrition, begin the next level of their entomology collection, or begin thinking about their livestock for the coming year.Several opportunities to showcase that project learning occur throughout the year. 4-H Club Days are a chance to practice communication skills and are one of the first events for youth to share about an area of interest as this occurs in February and March. County fair is about three-fourths of the way through the year and advanced learning is showcased with feedback from judges as an important part of the process.Two of the big pieces of the 4-H year occur in September.Many 4-H members can qualify for participation at the Kansas State Fair by receiving a top placing at the county fair. We don’t have consultative judging at this level but it is an incredible opportunity for those youth to see their project exhibit displayed and evaluated with 4-H members from across the state. We have 57 4-H members who have qualified to take one or more entries to the Kansas State fair and that doesn’t include any animals! When I was a 4-H member, we lived too far from the state fair to see my exhibits on display so I encourage all of our 4-H members and their friends and family to make a trip and be sure it includes some time in Centennial Hall!The other very important part of project learning that is in the works right now is the completion of project record books. While few of us love record-keeping, it is an important life skill and the Kansas 4-H Project Record provides steps for youth to learn and improve in this process. The youngest 4-H members complete sentences with plenty of direction to learn the basics of record-keeping. As they get a little older, the intermediate version includes fewer specifics but still guidance on how to complete financial records, note project learning opportunities, and examples of project-related community service. For our senior 4-H members, this also includes a cover letter, a resume related to their project learning, and if it qualifies for competition at the state level, a video presentation. All of these are important skills for our youth to learn and wrap up a year of project learning.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: Kansas State Fair bound!

Variety selection is one of the most important decisions that a grower can make to ensure success on their farm. 

Now is the time when wheat producers across Kansas are reviewing yield data and making decisions about the varieties they will plant in the fall. 

Although yield is always a top priority, disease, and insect resistance, along with appropriate agronomic traits, can buffer against crop losses. In addition, genetic resistance to diseases and insect pests can be the most effective, economical, and environmentally sound method for control.

The Kansas Wheat Variety Guide 2023 (formerly called Wheat Variety Disease and Insect Ratings), from K-State Research and Extension, has now been released for this year. Agronomic characteristics, disease, and pest resistance information are included, as well as profiles that highlight some more common or new varieties for the state of Kansas.

Updates this year include the addition of variety profiles for varieties AP Bigfoot, KS Territory, KS Providence, and Strad CL + as well as disease, insect, and agronomic ratings for several other new varieties.

Ratings in this publication represent results from field and greenhouse evaluations by public and private wheat researchers at multiple locations over multiple years.

A few other resources available to assist farmers with wheat variety selection are the Kansas wheat variety performance tests that are conducted around the state at K-State Experiment Stations and in other locations. These variety performance tests are replicated, each variety is randomly planted in four different locations in the field to increase accuracy of the yield data. 

That information along with all the other resources referenced in this article can be accessed from our Cottonwood Extension District web site at <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/crops-livestock/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>.

The Colorado Wheat Variety Database decision tool provides complete access to variety information and data from university variety trials in Colorado and several other Great Plains states, including Kansas. The database also includes private company trial data (Limagrain Cereal Seeds, Syngenta-Agripro). 

The database may be used to find up-to-date wheat variety information, display data from individual trial locations, generate summaries across multiple trial locations and years, and generate head-to-head comparisons for varieties of interest. It is an easy tool to use and very helpful!

Lastly our local variety demonstration plot in Ellis County is also available on our web site at <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/crops-livestock/ag_articles/2023%20Ellis%20County%20Wheat%20Variety%20Demonstration%20Plot.pdf">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a> click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under Hot Topics for any of these resources.

<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>Variety selection is one of the most important decisions that a grower can make to ensure success on their farm. Now is the time when wheat producers across Kansas are reviewing yield data and making decisions about the varieties they will plant in the fall. Although yield is always a top priority, disease, and insect resistance, along with appropriate agronomic traits, can buffer against crop losses. In addition, genetic resistance to diseases and insect pests can be the most effective, economical, and environmentally sound method for control.The Kansas Wheat Variety Guide 2023 (formerly called Wheat Variety Disease and Insect Ratings), from K-State Research and Extension, has now been released for this year. Agronomic characteristics, disease, and pest resistance information are included, as well as profiles that highlight some more common or new varieties for the state of Kansas.Updates this year include the addition of variety profiles for varieties AP Bigfoot, KS Territory, KS Providence, and Strad CL + as well as disease, insect, and agronomic ratings for several other new varieties.Ratings in this publication represent results from field and greenhouse evaluations by public and private wheat researchers at multiple locations over multiple years.A few other resources available to assist farmers with wheat variety selection are the Kansas wheat variety performance tests that are conducted around the state at K-State Experiment Stations and in other locations. These variety performance tests are replicated, each variety is randomly planted in four different locations in the field to increase accuracy of the yield data. That information along with all the other resources referenced in this article can be accessed from our Cottonwood Extension District web site at <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/crops-livestock/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>.The Colorado Wheat Variety Database decision tool provides complete access to variety information and data from university variety trials in Colorado and several other Great Plains states, including Kansas. The database also includes private company trial data (Limagrain Cereal Seeds, Syngenta-Agripro). The database may be used to find up-to-date wheat variety information, display data from individual trial locations, generate summaries across multiple trial locations and years, and generate head-to-head comparisons for varieties of interest. It is an easy tool to use and very helpful!Lastly our local variety demonstration plot in Ellis County is also available on our web site at <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/crops-livestock/ag_articles/2023%20Ellis%20County%20Wheat%20Variety%20Demonstration%20Plot.pdf">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a> click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under Hot Topics for any of these resources.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Kansas Wheat Variety Guide 2023 now available

Eating out at a favorite restaurant or community event is always a treat, and as consumers, we expect the food to be safe. In most food environments, food safety training is required because we must rely on food handlers to provide fresh, safe meals.

K-State Research and Extension in partnership with the Kansas Restaurant and Hospitality Association provides training for all food handlers. The ServSafe program is a national certification program designed to teach safe handling practices to those who serve food to the public.

ServSafe Food Handlers class is scheduled for Tuesday, August 15, from 1-4 p.m. at the Cottonwood Extension Office at 3007 10th St. in Great Bend. 

The class covers basic food safety, personal hygiene, cross-contamination prevention, time and temperature abuse, cleaning, and sanitation. The course is for both commercial food safety employees and non-profit volunteers. 

Food Handler's certificates are valid for 3 years. 

The course is $15 and covers the cost of the ServSafe® Food Handlers manual, training materials, and refreshments. 

Registration is due by August 11. For more information or to sign up, please contact me via email at krwinkel@ksu.edu or phone at 620-793-1910.

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. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Eating out at a favorite restaurant or community event is always a treat, and as consumers, we expect the food to be safe. In most food environments, food safety training is required because we must rely on food handlers to provide fresh, safe meals.K-State Research and Extension in partnership with the Kansas Restaurant and Hospitality Association provides training for all food handlers. The ServSafe program is a national certification program designed to teach safe handling practices to those who serve food to the public.ServSafe Food Handlers class is scheduled for Tuesday, August 15, from 1-4 p.m. at the Cottonwood Extension Office at 3007 10th St. in Great Bend. The class covers basic food safety, personal hygiene, cross-contamination prevention, time and temperature abuse, cleaning, and sanitation. The course is for both commercial food safety employees and non-profit volunteers. Food Handler's certificates are valid for 3 years. The course is $15 and covers the cost of the ServSafe® Food Handlers manual, training materials, and refreshments. Registration is due by August 11. For more information or to sign up, please contact me via email at krwinkel@ksu.edu or phone at 620-793-1910.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;

WINKLER: ServSafe food handlers training coming up in Great Bend

August 1 signifies the kickoff for World Breastfeeding Week (August 1-7) as well as August as National Breastfeeding Month. 

Each year the United States Breastfeeding Committee requests a Congressional Proclamation to declare August as National Breastfeeding Month in the United States. 

In 2021, the USBC piloted a toolkit that individuals could use to urge their governor to proclaim August as "Breastfeeding Month" in their state or territory. Kansas has joined the list! Governor Kelly signed the proclamation for Kansas on July 29, 2023. The theme this year is “This is Our Why.”

National Breastfeeding Month 2023 Weekly Observances •Week 1 (August 1-7): World Breastfeeding Week Theme: Enabling&nbsp;Breastfeeding: Making a difference for working parents •Week 2 (August 8-14): Indigenous Milk Medicine Week Theme: From the Stars to a Sustainable Future •Week 3 (August 15-21): Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Breastfeeding Week Theme: Telling Our Stories, Elevating Our Voices! •Week 4 (August 25-31): Black Breastfeeding Week Theme: We Outside!: Celebrating Connection &amp; Our Communities •New Week 5 (September 5-11): Semana de La Lactancia Latina Theme: to be announced.

Most of us have heard about how breastfeeding positively affects the health of infants and toddlers. Breastfeeding also positively impacts families financially as well as the environment. 

However, many have not heard about the positive impacts on a mother’s health. Women who breastfeed their children lower their risk of breast cancer. According to an epidemiological study published in the The Lancet, breastfeeding is dose specific. For every 12 months of breastfeeding, the risk of breast cancer goes down by 4.3%. This can be for one child or a combination of children. 

Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of ovarian cancer, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes as reported by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. 

Finally, studies also show that breastfeeding can help lower the risk of osteoporosis and stroke.

 That is a lot of health benefits that make for healthier women and society. And those are only the physical health benefits. There are also social-emotional benefits as well that help with bonding and parenting.

Just because a woman wants to breastfeed though doesn’t mean that she has the support to do so. While breastfeeding is natural, it isn’t always easy. 

The World Breastfeeding Week campaign this year focuses on “Enabling Breastfeeding: Making a difference for working parents.” Workplace challenges remain the most common reason for women to never start breastfeeding or stop breastfeeding earlier then recommended.

Join us to celebrate mothers and work to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding and human milk feeding for the 13th annual National Breastfeeding Month. 

In Hays and Ellis County, La Leche League of the Western Plains, the Ellis County Breastfeeding Coalition, and Cottonwood Extension District will display the traveling photography exhibit “In My Mother’s Arms” during the Hays Arts Council Summer Art Walk from 6:00-9:00 p.m. on August 25, 2023 at 601 Main Street. 

The traveling photography exhibit’s goal is to normalize breastfeeding. 

<a href="https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/">https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/</a> <a href="https://www.usbreastfeeding.org/">https://www.usbreastfeeding.org/national-breastfeeding-month.html</a>

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

<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>August 1 signifies the kickoff for World Breastfeeding Week (August 1-7) as well as August as National Breastfeeding Month. Each year the United States Breastfeeding Committee requests a Congressional Proclamation to declare August as National Breastfeeding Month in the United States. In 2021, the USBC piloted a toolkit that individuals could use to urge their governor to proclaim August as "Breastfeeding Month" in their state or territory. Kansas has joined the list! Governor Kelly signed the proclamation for Kansas on July 29, 2023. The theme this year is “This is Our Why.”National Breastfeeding Month 2023 Weekly Observances •Week 1 (August 1-7): World Breastfeeding Week Theme: Enabling&nbsp;Breastfeeding: Making a difference for working parents •Week 2 (August 8-14): Indigenous Milk Medicine Week Theme: From the Stars to a Sustainable Future •Week 3 (August 15-21): Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Breastfeeding Week Theme: Telling Our Stories, Elevating Our Voices! •Week 4 (August 25-31): Black Breastfeeding Week Theme: We Outside!: Celebrating Connection &amp; Our Communities •New Week 5 (September 5-11): Semana de La Lactancia Latina Theme: to be announced.Most of us have heard about how breastfeeding positively affects the health of infants and toddlers. Breastfeeding also positively impacts families financially as well as the environment. However, many have not heard about the positive impacts on a mother’s health. Women who breastfeed their children lower their risk of breast cancer. According to an epidemiological study published in the The Lancet, breastfeeding is dose specific. For every 12 months of breastfeeding, the risk of breast cancer goes down by 4.3%. This can be for one child or a combination of children. Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of ovarian cancer, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes as reported by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Finally, studies also show that breastfeeding can help lower the risk of osteoporosis and stroke. That is a lot of health benefits that make for healthier women and society. And those are only the physical health benefits. There are also social-emotional benefits as well that help with bonding and parenting.Just because a woman wants to breastfeed though doesn’t mean that she has the support to do so. While breastfeeding is natural, it isn’t always easy. The World Breastfeeding Week campaign this year focuses on “Enabling Breastfeeding: Making a difference for working parents.” Workplace challenges remain the most common reason for women to never start breastfeeding or stop breastfeeding earlier then recommended.Join us to celebrate mothers and work to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding and human milk feeding for the 13th annual National Breastfeeding Month. In Hays and Ellis County, La Leche League of the Western Plains, the Ellis County Breastfeeding Coalition, and Cottonwood Extension District will display the traveling photography exhibit “In My Mother’s Arms” during the Hays Arts Council Summer Art Walk from 6:00-9:00 p.m. on August 25, 2023 at 601 Main Street. The traveling photography exhibit’s goal is to normalize breastfeeding. <a href="https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/">https://worldbreastfeedingweek.org/</a> <a href="https://www.usbreastfeeding.org/">https://www.usbreastfeeding.org/national-breastfeeding-month.html</a>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at&nbsp; 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: World Breastfeeding Month/Week

Some producers may be anxious this year to find out the germination percent of the wheat they harvest, to see if it will make suitable seed. 

If they do a home germination test too soon after harvest, they may be shocked at the low germination percentage – unless the test is done correctly. That’s because wheat has a post-harvest dormancy requirement (some varieties more so than others). Even high-quality seed will not germinate at its maximum capacity right after harvest in most cases. This post-harvest dormancy is important to help decrease the chances of pre-harvest sprouting in case harvest is delayed due to weather conditions or other reasons.

To get around that, for the first several weeks after harvest, it’s important to make sure the wheat is pre-chilled before taking a germination test. Any reputable seed lab will do that on a routine basis. Producers testing their seed at home should also pre-chill the wheat by planting it and putting it in the refrigerator at about 40 degrees for five days. If the seed is not pre-chilled, producers should wait a month and a half after harvest before testing for germination.

There is some difference among varieties regarding how long their post-harvest dormancy requirement is – so much so that some varieties are more prone to pre-harvest sprouting. 

Hard white wheat varieties with poor sprouting tolerance, for example, have almost no summer dormancy requirement. They will germinate almost as soon as the seed is harvested. Other varieties have a relatively long summer dormancy requirement, and may not germinate well for five or six weeks after harvest unless the seed is pre-chilled. By Labor Day, all varieties will have lost their summer dormancy and should germinate unless the seed is defective in some way.

If there is any question about the viability of the seed, it is well worth the cost to have the seed tested for germination by a professional seed laboratory. This is especially true in areas where there was freeze damage, severe drought or heat stresses during grain filling, a rain delay at harvest, or wheat head scab.

Professional lab testing -having your seed professionally tested for germination is always a good practice - but with the severe drought and heat stress on the wheat crop in many areas this year, it is highly recommended. 

To have an official germination test on the seed, send a two-pound sample to: Kansas Crop Improvement Association &nbsp;2000 Kimball Ave. Manhattan, KS 66502

A germination test for non-members of KCIA will cost $20.00 and a sample submittal form can be printed off from the KCIA website: <a href="https://www.kscrop.org/seed-lab.html">www.kscrop.org/seed-lab.html</a>

Other seed quality tests are also available and are listed on the submittal form. A companion article in this eUpdate discusses the Accelerated Aging test that can help identify weak seed lots beyond the standard germination test.

If you want to do a germination test at home go to our web site <a href="http://www.cottonwood@ksu.edu">www.cottonwood@ksu.edu</a> and click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under Hot Topics for the details of how to conduct it properly.

Information provided by Eric Fabrizius, Kansas Crop Improvement Association and Romulo Lollato, Extension Wheat and Forages Specialist.

<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.&nbsp;Courtesy photo&nbsp;" />
 <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.&nbsp;Courtesy photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Some producers may be anxious this year to find out the germination percent of the wheat they harvest, to see if it will make suitable seed. If they do a home germination test too soon after harvest, they may be shocked at the low germination percentage – unless the test is done correctly. That’s because wheat has a post-harvest dormancy requirement (some varieties more so than others). Even high-quality seed will not germinate at its maximum capacity right after harvest in most cases. This post-harvest dormancy is important to help decrease the chances of pre-harvest sprouting in case harvest is delayed due to weather conditions or other reasons.To get around that, for the first several weeks after harvest, it’s important to make sure the wheat is pre-chilled before taking a germination test. Any reputable seed lab will do that on a routine basis. Producers testing their seed at home should also pre-chill the wheat by planting it and putting it in the refrigerator at about 40 degrees for five days. If the seed is not pre-chilled, producers should wait a month and a half after harvest before testing for germination.There is some difference among varieties regarding how long their post-harvest dormancy requirement is – so much so that some varieties are more prone to pre-harvest sprouting. Hard white wheat varieties with poor sprouting tolerance, for example, have almost no summer dormancy requirement. They will germinate almost as soon as the seed is harvested. Other varieties have a relatively long summer dormancy requirement, and may not germinate well for five or six weeks after harvest unless the seed is pre-chilled. By Labor Day, all varieties will have lost their summer dormancy and should germinate unless the seed is defective in some way.If there is any question about the viability of the seed, it is well worth the cost to have the seed tested for germination by a professional seed laboratory. This is especially true in areas where there was freeze damage, severe drought or heat stresses during grain filling, a rain delay at harvest, or wheat head scab.Professional lab testing -having your seed professionally tested for germination is always a good practice - but with the severe drought and heat stress on the wheat crop in many areas this year, it is highly recommended. To have an official germination test on the seed, send a two-pound sample to: Kansas Crop Improvement Association &nbsp;2000 Kimball Ave. Manhattan, KS 66502A germination test for non-members of KCIA will cost $20.00 and a sample submittal form can be printed off from the KCIA website: <a href="https://www.kscrop.org/seed-lab.html">www.kscrop.org/seed-lab.html</a>Other seed quality tests are also available and are listed on the submittal form. A companion article in this eUpdate discusses the Accelerated Aging test that can help identify weak seed lots beyond the standard germination test. If you want to do a germination test at home go to our web site <a href="http://www.cottonwood@ksu.edu">www.cottonwood@ksu.edu</a> and click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under Hot Topics for the details of how to conduct it properly.Information provided by Eric Fabrizius, Kansas Crop Improvement Association and Romulo Lollato, Extension Wheat and Forages Specialist.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Germination tests for wheat seed at home and professional lab

TOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced that 24 communities in rural counties throughout the state will, including Ellis and Gorham, receive a share of nearly $7.9 million in federal grants to assist with community development projects.

The Community Development Block Grant program, facilitated and administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce Community Development Division, is a federal grant program that funds various local projects. The $7,897,922 will be matched with local funding, allowing more than $16.9 million to be available.

In Ellis County, the city of Ellis will receive&nbsp;$334,216 in grant funds for a park project, to be matched locally with&nbsp;$143,235. Total project cost is $477,451.

In Graham County, the city of Morland&nbsp;will also have a park improvement project at a total cost of&nbsp;$188,792. The city received a&nbsp;$141,594 state grant and will match it with&nbsp;$47,198 in local funds.&nbsp;

“The Community Development Block Grant program provides the funding needed for communities to make critical improvements they otherwise might not be able to afford,”&nbsp; Kelly said. “We will continue leveraging all available resources that make positive economic impacts to communities across Kansas.”

“These revitalization projects will help improve the overall business and residential appeal of these communities,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Investing in these specific assets will help spur further economic development in areas of need throughout the state.”

CDBG awards were made in five program areas:

The CDBG program provides federal funds to local governments to develop viable communities by addressing their housing, public facilities, and economic needs. To be awarded funds, projects must meet at least one of three program objectives:

The CDBG funds are one of the Department of Commerce’s primary tools in supporting the state’s smaller, predominantly rural communities. 

To view the complete list of awardees, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi9jZGJnLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA3MjYuODAyMTU5MjEifQ.IZK-qEgYcuD-vT3yiL5tKeqB8WL5cvTTQAUczCsBJoo/s/1303161001/br/223232102929-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690403191751.jpeg" alt="Photo by Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>KDCTOPEKA&nbsp;– Governor Laura Kelly announced that 24 communities in rural counties throughout the state will, including Ellis and Gorham, receive a share of nearly $7.9 million in federal grants to assist with community development projects.The Community Development Block Grant program, facilitated and administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce Community Development Division, is a federal grant program that funds various local projects. The $7,897,922 will be matched with local funding, allowing more than $16.9 million to be available.In Ellis County, the city of Ellis will receive&nbsp;$334,216 in grant funds for a park project, to be matched locally with&nbsp;$143,235. Total project cost is $477,451.In Graham County, the city of Morland&nbsp;will also have a park improvement project at a total cost of&nbsp;$188,792. The city received a&nbsp;$141,594 state grant and will match it with&nbsp;$47,198 in local funds.&nbsp;“The Community Development Block Grant program provides the funding needed for communities to make critical improvements they otherwise might not be able to afford,”&nbsp; Kelly said. “We will continue leveraging all available resources that make positive economic impacts to communities across Kansas.”“These revitalization projects will help improve the overall business and residential appeal of these communities,”&nbsp;Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Investing in these specific assets will help spur further economic development in areas of need throughout the state.”CDBG awards were made in five program areas:<ol>
 <li>Community Centers, Parks &amp; Libraries&nbsp;funds projects to increase community engagement, health, connectedness, and vibrancy in communities. Morland, for example, was one of the 13 award recipients. The city has proposed a project to construct a looped trail/walking path around Morland City Park and the addition of new curbs, gutters, and ADA-accessible parking.</li><li>Sidewalks &amp; Trails&nbsp;funds projects that connect community members to services, community centers, schools, and recreational areas. Wathena will use this funding to construct a wide sidewalk, retaining wall, utility modifications, pavement marking, and surface restorations in their community.</li><li>Childcare Facilities&nbsp;funds projects to address the childcare shortage in Kansas. These grants help fund the construction of facilities and cannot be used for operations. Hillsboro will use these funds to renovate a building that will provide childcare to 99 children in their community.</li><li>Youth Job Training&nbsp;funds projects to address the needs of at-risk youth in workforce training and development. Sumner County will use this funding to assist low- to moderate-income high school students in attending classes at a local community college. Classes will focus on trade and technical skills to address workforce needs identified in their community.</li><li>ADA Improvements&nbsp;fund projects that increase access to essential goods and services in downtown or Main Street districts and other non-residential buildings in the community. Cottonwood Falls will use its funding to remove barriers for nine businesses, including installing ramps and door openers and increasing door widths to improve ADA access for community members.</li>
 </ol>The CDBG program provides federal funds to local governments to develop viable communities by addressing their housing, public facilities, and economic needs. To be awarded funds, projects must meet at least one of three program objectives:<ol>
 <li>The grant will benefit low- and moderate-income persons.</li><li>The grant will prevent or eliminate slums and blight.</li><li>The grant will resolve an urgent need that communities are not able to do on their own.</li>
 </ol>The CDBG funds are one of the Department of Commerce’s primary tools in supporting the state’s smaller, predominantly rural communities. To view the complete list of awardees, click&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmthbnNhc2NvbW1lcmNlLmdvdi9jZGJnLyIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMzA3MjYuODAyMTU5MjEifQ.IZK-qEgYcuD-vT3yiL5tKeqB8WL5cvTTQAUczCsBJoo/s/1303161001/br/223232102929-l" target="_blank">here</a>.

Ellis, Morland receive state grants for park projects

It’s hard to believe that July 25 marks my one-year anniversary of becoming an extension agent. This year went by so fast! I’ve been so blessed by making the move to K-State Research and Extension. I love my job and have gotten to do so many fun things this past year. 

I started right after the Ellis County Fair last year, and as I sit here writing this, we are wrapping up my first county fair as an extension agent.

 I have been so impressed by the youth in our community. Watching the kids work with their animals, make projects, and helping out in the food stand has been such a pleasure. So many volunteers work hard to bring the Ellis County Fair together.

One of the things that is so enjoyable about my job is no two days are ever the same. Some days are office days and other days I don’t see my office. 

You never know what question will come in either by phone, email or in person at the office. Questions are great because if I don’t know the answer then I do the research to get the answer. It is safe to say I learn something new every day. Hearing what other people are curious about makes my job interesting. Keep asking questions!

One of the highlights of my first year was the Stay Strong, Stay Healthy class held earlier this year. 

Stay Strong, Stay Healthy is a strength training class for older adults that helps them with balance, strength and flexibility. Sixteen men and women signed up for the class and not one person quit during the 8 weeks. They all finished! Now that is perseverance! Yes, life happens and throws us curveballs. Some participants had to miss a few classes, but they all finished. Not only did they all finish, but a group of them continued to meet and do the exercises on their own! We had so much fun during the class telling jokes and trying new recipes. I’m so thankful for these opportunities. Another class will begin in late August. Watch for the announcement.

Programming for older people has been a pleasure, and going into the schools has been fun also. Since my background is in early childhood, I really enjoy being able to go into the childcare setting, libraries and schools to deliver programming around health and nutrition. Glo-germ handwashing, field to fork, blender bike and organwise are a few of the programs I have offered for the youth.

I look forward to many more years as an extension agent and continuing to form relationships with community partners. 

Goals for my second year include offering more signature programs from K-State such as Walk with Ease, Dining with Diabetes and Med Instead of Meds. I will also get trained in Stay Strong, Stay Healthy, Level 2. Mental health programming and youth programming continue to be important as well.

<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>It’s hard to believe that July 25 marks my one-year anniversary of becoming an extension agent. This year went by so fast! I’ve been so blessed by making the move to K-State Research and Extension. I love my job and have gotten to do so many fun things this past year. I started right after the Ellis County Fair last year, and as I sit here writing this, we are wrapping up my first county fair as an extension agent. I have been so impressed by the youth in our community. Watching the kids work with their animals, make projects, and helping out in the food stand has been such a pleasure. So many volunteers work hard to bring the Ellis County Fair together.One of the things that is so enjoyable about my job is no two days are ever the same. Some days are office days and other days I don’t see my office. You never know what question will come in either by phone, email or in person at the office. Questions are great because if I don’t know the answer then I do the research to get the answer. It is safe to say I learn something new every day. Hearing what other people are curious about makes my job interesting. Keep asking questions!One of the highlights of my first year was the Stay Strong, Stay Healthy class held earlier this year. Stay Strong, Stay Healthy is a strength training class for older adults that helps them with balance, strength and flexibility. Sixteen men and women signed up for the class and not one person quit during the 8 weeks. They all finished! Now that is perseverance! Yes, life happens and throws us curveballs. Some participants had to miss a few classes, but they all finished. Not only did they all finish, but a group of them continued to meet and do the exercises on their own! We had so much fun during the class telling jokes and trying new recipes. I’m so thankful for these opportunities. Another class will begin in late August. Watch for the announcement.Programming for older people has been a pleasure, and going into the schools has been fun also. Since my background is in early childhood, I really enjoy being able to go into the childcare setting, libraries and schools to deliver programming around health and nutrition. Glo-germ handwashing, field to fork, blender bike and organwise are a few of the programs I have offered for the youth.I look forward to many more years as an extension agent and continuing to form relationships with community partners. Goals for my second year include offering more signature programs from K-State such as Walk with Ease, Dining with Diabetes and Med Instead of Meds. I will also get trained in Stay Strong, Stay Healthy, Level 2. Mental health programming and youth programming continue to be important as well.Thank you for a great first year!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