The holidays can be a good time to try new recipes. &nbsp;I thought I would use the opportunity to recognize recipes from the&nbsp;2022 Ellis County&nbsp;Fair that won awards. Esther&nbsp;Neher, a member of the Victoria Vikings 4-H club, won Grand Champion junior foods with her recipe,&nbsp;Layered Reese’s Cake. &nbsp;Mya&nbsp;Neher, a member of the Victoria Vikings 4-H Club,&nbsp;won Reserve Champion junior foods for her entry of a Fresh Orange Cake. &nbsp;

​2 boxes devil’s food chocolate cake mixes

​Peanut butter cups, some whole, some chopped for topping

•Preheat oven to 350 degrees.•Prepare two 9 in round cake pans with cooking spray and parchment cut to fit the bottom of the pan. •Prepare each cake separately with a cake mix, 2 cups of water, 1 stick of butter and 4 eggs. Bake each cake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. •Let cakes cool and remove from pans.•For the frosting, combine the butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream with an electric mixer until well combined and smooth. &nbsp; •To frost the cake, it works best for it to be chilled or even frozen. If the cake is mounded on time use a serrated knife to level it off. &nbsp;Place a thin layer of frosting between the layer and frost the outside using a piping bag and/or an off-set knife. &nbsp; •Decorate with peanut butter cups and enjoy!

•Preheat oven to 350 degrees•Lightly mist a 12 cup Bundt pan with cooking spray, then dust with flour. &nbsp;Shake out the excess flour. •Place cake ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix with an electric mixer. &nbsp;Stop the machine to scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula. &nbsp;Turn mixer back on to medium and mix for two minutes. &nbsp; •Bake the cake until golden brown and just starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, 45 to 47 minutes. &nbsp;Remove the pan from the oven and allow to cool for 20 minutes. &nbsp;Run a knife along the edge of the cake and invert it to release the cake. &nbsp; Allow to cool another 30 minutes. •Meanwhile, prepare the glaze. &nbsp;Combine the confectioner’s sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl and stir until smooth. •Place the cake on a serving platter and pour the glaze over the top, letting it drizzle down the sides and into the center. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.

<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." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>The holidays can be a good time to try new recipes. &nbsp;I thought I would use the opportunity to recognize recipes from the&nbsp;2022 Ellis County&nbsp;Fair that won awards. Esther&nbsp;Neher, a member of the Victoria Vikings 4-H club, won Grand Champion junior foods with her recipe,&nbsp;Layered Reese’s Cake. &nbsp;Mya&nbsp;Neher, a member of the Victoria Vikings 4-H Club,&nbsp;won Reserve Champion junior foods for her entry of a Fresh Orange Cake. &nbsp;<h2>Layered Reese’s Cake</h2>Cake Ingredients​2 boxes devil’s food chocolate cake mixes​1 cup butter (2 sticks)​2 cups water​8 whole eggsFrosting and Topping Ingredients​2 cups butter (room temperature)​6 cups powdered sugar​4-8 Tbsp. whipping cream​1 ½ cups peanut butter​1 tsp vanilla​Peanut butter cups, some whole, some chopped for toppingInstructions•Preheat oven to 350 degrees.•Prepare two 9 in round cake pans with cooking spray and parchment cut to fit the bottom of the pan. •Prepare each cake separately with a cake mix, 2 cups of water, 1 stick of butter and 4 eggs. Bake each cake for about 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. •Let cakes cool and remove from pans.•For the frosting, combine the butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream with an electric mixer until well combined and smooth. &nbsp; •To frost the cake, it works best for it to be chilled or even frozen. If the cake is mounded on time use a serrated knife to level it off. &nbsp;Place a thin layer of frosting between the layer and frost the outside using a piping bag and/or an off-set knife. &nbsp; •Decorate with peanut butter cups and enjoy!<h2>Fresh Orange Cake</h2>Cake Ingredients​I box yellow cake mix​½ cup butter​1 tsp pure vanilla extract​1 cup fresh orange juice​¼ cup granulated sugar​4 large eggsGlaze Ingredients​1 cup confectioner’s sugar​1 tsp fresh grated orange zest​3 Tbsp fresh orange juiceInstructions•Preheat oven to 350 degrees•Lightly mist a 12 cup Bundt pan with cooking spray, then dust with flour. &nbsp;Shake out the excess flour. •Place cake ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix with an electric mixer. &nbsp;Stop the machine to scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula. &nbsp;Turn mixer back on to medium and mix for two minutes. &nbsp; •Bake the cake until golden brown and just starts to pull away from the sides of the pan, 45 to 47 minutes. &nbsp;Remove the pan from the oven and allow to cool for 20 minutes. &nbsp;Run a knife along the edge of the cake and invert it to release the cake. &nbsp; Allow to cool another 30 minutes. •Meanwhile, prepare the glaze. &nbsp;Combine the confectioner’s sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest in a small bowl and stir until smooth. •Place the cake on a serving platter and pour the glaze over the top, letting it drizzle down the sides and into the center. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.

KOERNER: Award-winning 4-H fair recipes

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District, Hays

Kansas is primarily an agriculture state with&nbsp;about&nbsp;87 percent of all Kansas land contributing to some form of agriculture production.&nbsp;More than 21 million acres in Kansas is harvested for crops and over 14 million is pastureland for grazing animals.

Most&nbsp;agriculture producers&nbsp;(tenants) lease ground from multiple landlords. In Kansas the average number of landlords that tenants have is approximately seven.&nbsp;The last time farmers and ranchers in Kansas were surveyed, over two thirds of all crop and pasture land was leased.&nbsp;You can imagine the struggles that tenants and landlords alike can experience in trying to communicate effectively with each other.&nbsp;Especially given the fact that one, two or more generations of families may be removed from the farm or ranch and live&nbsp;a few hours away or&nbsp;out of state but still own the land and thus lease it to others.&nbsp;

One of the best ways to create a better understanding between tenant and landlord in most cases is to have a written lease. &nbsp;Having a written lease can lead to many topics for discussion that otherwise might not be considered. These, would include but are not limited to:

• Hunting/fishing rights&nbsp; • Recreation access&nbsp; • Payment due dates&nbsp; • Termination procedures&nbsp;

In addition to the previously mentioned items, a written pasture lease for example can spell out responsibilities of both parties in regards to:&nbsp;

• Care of fences&nbsp; • Noxious weed control • Water supply maintenance&nbsp; • Grazing capacity restrictions and beginning and ending date of grazing season

A bonus of a written lease is that it documents the terms of the business relationship in case the contract is questioned. This can be especially important if the land changes hands.&nbsp;

Obviously, it is not necessary to have a written lease in order to have good communication between tenant and landlord but it can be helpful in spelling things out and avoiding misunderstandings and hard feelings.&nbsp;This is especially true when there is a death of either party, and the spouse&nbsp;or relatives are uninformed as to any details about the lease,&nbsp;particularly&nbsp;if it is an oral lease. If there is a written lease have it filed away and let&nbsp;your family&nbsp;know where it is.&nbsp;

There may be some cases when introducing the possibility of implementing a written lease might&nbsp;<a></a>damage the business relationship. Whether you have a written lease or not, make sure those lines of communication are kept open, visit with each other at least a few times a year.&nbsp;

Lastly if you are thinking about terminating a lease. For all leases, except written leases signed by the parties that provide otherwise, Kansas law provides that notice to terminate farm and pastureland leases must be given as follows: 1. In writing. 2. At least 30 days prior to March 1, and 3. Must fix March 1 as the termination date of the tenancy. &nbsp;If you want more specifics on Kansas Agricultural Lease Law refer to a publication at&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/c668.pdf">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/c668.pdf</a>&nbsp;or stop by your Extension Office for a copy.&nbsp;

K-State Research &amp; Extension Agricultural Economics Department has a plethora of information on Kansas Agricultural Land Leasing at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agmanager.info/">www.agmanager.info</a>&nbsp;then hold your mouse/cursor on the Farm Management tab and a drop-down menu will appear.&nbsp;

If you have any questions you can contact your local County or District Extension Office.&nbsp;

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/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="Campbell&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Campbell&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District, HaysKansas is primarily an agriculture state with&nbsp;about&nbsp;87 percent of all Kansas land contributing to some form of agriculture production.&nbsp;More than 21 million acres in Kansas is harvested for crops and over 14 million is pastureland for grazing animals.Most&nbsp;agriculture producers&nbsp;(tenants) lease ground from multiple landlords. In Kansas the average number of landlords that tenants have is approximately seven.&nbsp;The last time farmers and ranchers in Kansas were surveyed, over two thirds of all crop and pasture land was leased.&nbsp;You can imagine the struggles that tenants and landlords alike can experience in trying to communicate effectively with each other.&nbsp;Especially given the fact that one, two or more generations of families may be removed from the farm or ranch and live&nbsp;a few hours away or&nbsp;out of state but still own the land and thus lease it to others.&nbsp;One of the best ways to create a better understanding between tenant and landlord in most cases is to have a written lease. &nbsp;Having a written lease can lead to many topics for discussion that otherwise might not be considered. These, would include but are not limited to:• Hunting/fishing rights&nbsp; • Recreation access&nbsp; • Payment due dates&nbsp; • Termination procedures&nbsp;In addition to the previously mentioned items, a written pasture lease for example can spell out responsibilities of both parties in regards to:&nbsp;• Care of fences&nbsp; • Noxious weed control • Water supply maintenance&nbsp; • Grazing capacity restrictions and beginning and ending date of grazing seasonA bonus of a written lease is that it documents the terms of the business relationship in case the contract is questioned. This can be especially important if the land changes hands.&nbsp;Obviously, it is not necessary to have a written lease in order to have good communication between tenant and landlord but it can be helpful in spelling things out and avoiding misunderstandings and hard feelings.&nbsp;This is especially true when there is a death of either party, and the spouse&nbsp;or relatives are uninformed as to any details about the lease,&nbsp;particularly&nbsp;if it is an oral lease. If there is a written lease have it filed away and let&nbsp;your family&nbsp;know where it is.&nbsp;There may be some cases when introducing the possibility of implementing a written lease might&nbsp;<a></a>damage the business relationship. Whether you have a written lease or not, make sure those lines of communication are kept open, visit with each other at least a few times a year.&nbsp;Lastly if you are thinking about terminating a lease. For all leases, except written leases signed by the parties that provide otherwise, Kansas law provides that notice to terminate farm and pastureland leases must be given as follows: 1. In writing. 2. At least 30 days prior to March 1, and 3. Must fix March 1 as the termination date of the tenancy. &nbsp;If you want more specifics on Kansas Agricultural Lease Law refer to a publication at&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/c668.pdf">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/c668.pdf</a>&nbsp;or stop by your Extension Office for a copy.&nbsp;K-State Research &amp; Extension Agricultural Economics Department has a plethora of information on Kansas Agricultural Land Leasing at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agmanager.info/">www.agmanager.info</a>&nbsp;then hold your mouse/cursor on the Farm Management tab and a drop-down menu will appear.&nbsp;If you have any questions you can contact your local County or District Extension Office.&nbsp;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: Farm & pasture land leasing arrangements

Over the last few years,&nbsp;I have heard a lot about self-care. Taking care of ourselves is extremely important as we cannot care for others if we are tapped out.&nbsp;

One of the areas of self-care that I have worked on&nbsp;for several years&nbsp;is mindfulness. Mindfulness is defined as the practice of purposely bringing one’s attention to experiences in the present moment without judgement. The definition includes that it is a skill that develops through practice. In other words, it doesn’t just happen by accident.

Making time for being present –&nbsp;being&nbsp;in the moment – takes work and is a skill that I,&nbsp;as a people-focused, service-oriented individual,&nbsp;don’t do very well. I am getting better at it, however.&nbsp;

I am making time to sit with my cup of coffee and listen to the wind chimes&nbsp;severalmornings each week&nbsp;with my dog snuggled in my lap and just be quiet. I am making time to connect with family and be completely engaged in the conversation.&nbsp;This may mean turning off or putting&nbsp;away&nbsp;my phone.

When our daughter was small, we started a tradition of Saturday “Ladies Lunch”. Now, this wasn’t anything fancy and we were usually just picking up groceries. My only rule was that the restaurant had to be somewhere with waitstaff. Not only were we practicing table&nbsp;manners&nbsp;but our daughter knew that for that time, she had my undivided attention. We were building a wonderful (but certainly not perfect!) relationship. When she was in college, she would occasionally call to ask if I could meet her halfway for “Ladies Lunch” so that we could catch up and have some priceless, focused time together. This was one way to model mindfulness at its best!

Some of my favorite moments can happen in the next few weeks. I love to sit with just the Christmas tree lights on and soak&nbsp;up&nbsp;the flickering colors and shiny ornaments as I reflect on&nbsp;family and friends.

Have you ever watched a small child when they see something&nbsp;fascinating? The sheer delight on their face and&nbsp;contagious&nbsp;giggle is hard to beat – and&nbsp;it&nbsp;happens because they are completely in the moment!&nbsp;

It is hard as adults to put away our stresses, concerns, and fears to be completely in the moment. It is a good skill to model for young people. It does not mean ignoring our responsibilities but gives us the ability to better address the hard things in our days.

Over the next few weeks, make time to stop for a few minutes ... just listen to your heart, to nature, to your favorite music, to a child’s laughter.&nbsp;Pick up a book of inspirational quotes or devotions.&nbsp;If you are with family or friends, put your phone away and turn off the tv to be fully engaged in the conversation.&nbsp;

Mindfulness takes practice and now is a perfect time to get started!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District&nbsp;– Barton&nbsp;Office at&nbsp;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&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Over the last few years,&nbsp;I have heard a lot about self-care. Taking care of ourselves is extremely important as we cannot care for others if we are tapped out.&nbsp;One of the areas of self-care that I have worked on&nbsp;for several years&nbsp;is mindfulness. Mindfulness is defined as the practice of purposely bringing one’s attention to experiences in the present moment without judgement. The definition includes that it is a skill that develops through practice. In other words, it doesn’t just happen by accident.Making time for being present –&nbsp;being&nbsp;in the moment – takes work and is a skill that I,&nbsp;as a people-focused, service-oriented individual,&nbsp;don’t do very well. I am getting better at it, however.&nbsp;I am making time to sit with my cup of coffee and listen to the wind chimes&nbsp;severalmornings each week&nbsp;with my dog snuggled in my lap and just be quiet. I am making time to connect with family and be completely engaged in the conversation.&nbsp;This may mean turning off or putting&nbsp;away&nbsp;my phone.When our daughter was small, we started a tradition of Saturday “Ladies Lunch”. Now, this wasn’t anything fancy and we were usually just picking up groceries. My only rule was that the restaurant had to be somewhere with waitstaff. Not only were we practicing table&nbsp;manners&nbsp;but our daughter knew that for that time, she had my undivided attention. We were building a wonderful (but certainly not perfect!) relationship. When she was in college, she would occasionally call to ask if I could meet her halfway for “Ladies Lunch” so that we could catch up and have some priceless, focused time together. This was one way to model mindfulness at its best!Some of my favorite moments can happen in the next few weeks. I love to sit with just the Christmas tree lights on and soak&nbsp;up&nbsp;the flickering colors and shiny ornaments as I reflect on&nbsp;family and friends.Have you ever watched a small child when they see something&nbsp;fascinating? The sheer delight on their face and&nbsp;contagious&nbsp;giggle is hard to beat – and&nbsp;it&nbsp;happens because they are completely in the moment!&nbsp;It is hard as adults to put away our stresses, concerns, and fears to be completely in the moment. It is a good skill to model for young people. It does not mean ignoring our responsibilities but gives us the ability to better address the hard things in our days.Over the next few weeks, make time to stop for a few minutes ... just listen to your heart, to nature, to your favorite music, to a child’s laughter.&nbsp;Pick up a book of inspirational quotes or devotions.&nbsp;If you are with family or friends, put your phone away and turn off the tv to be fully engaged in the conversation.&nbsp;Mindfulness takes practice and now is a perfect time to get started!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District&nbsp;– Barton&nbsp;Office at&nbsp;620-793-1910.

BERAN: Practicing mindfulness

By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District

Encouraging families to read and giving them the resources to read to their children every day is so important for a young child’s development and success&nbsp;in&nbsp;school. &nbsp;Reading to my children was one of my favorite things to do with them when they were young and even as they got older. I have fond memories of attending library story time as well as snuggling on the couch to read a good book. &nbsp;This is one of those times that parents can use to touch base with their child and maybe help them wind down for nap or bed. &nbsp;It doesn’t matter what time of day it is, finding a time to read in your routine is what is important. &nbsp;

Not only is reading an important skill for school but it also helps children with other developmental skills as well. &nbsp;Exposing children to books from birth is a great way to aid their development. &nbsp;Books not only aid literacy skills but they also help little fingers develop. &nbsp;As they learn to turn pages of a book, they strengthen their fingers and fine motor skills.

Often times parents think they have to read a book from beginning to end, not skipping any pages. &nbsp;However, research from the Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch Up (ABC) program at the University of Delaware,&nbsp;actually promotes following your child’s lead with reading and play. &nbsp;If a child is looking at or chewing on a book on their own that’s okay! &nbsp;Talk to them about what they are doing. &nbsp;If they bring you a book, allow them to turn the pages and talk to them about what is on the page. &nbsp;This can put the child in charge and allow them time to explore on their own terms which aids their social emotional development&nbsp;by making them feel important and that they can have an effect on their world.

While libraries are great and offer many programs to get&nbsp;children&nbsp;involved with&nbsp;books and&nbsp;reading, sometimes it’s nice to start building&nbsp;a library at home as well. &nbsp;Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has been integral in getting books into the hands of children and their parents.&nbsp;&nbsp;Once you sign up, books are mailed to the child&nbsp;every month&nbsp;from birth to age five. &nbsp;They are sent directly to the child so it’s exciting for them to get mail and the books are&nbsp;ageappropriate also. &nbsp;In Ellis&nbsp;and Barton&nbsp;<a></a>County you can go to the website imaginationlibrary.com to sign up. &nbsp;There are also lots of tips about reading to your child on their website. &nbsp;Be sure and check it out!

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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1667936438167.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MONIQUE KOERNER Cottonwood Extension District Encouraging families to read and giving them the resources to read to their children every day is so important for a young child’s development and success&nbsp;in&nbsp;school. &nbsp;Reading to my children was one of my favorite things to do with them when they were young and even as they got older. I have fond memories of attending library story time as well as snuggling on the couch to read a good book. &nbsp;This is one of those times that parents can use to touch base with their child and maybe help them wind down for nap or bed. &nbsp;It doesn’t matter what time of day it is, finding a time to read in your routine is what is important. &nbsp;Not only is reading an important skill for school but it also helps children with other developmental skills as well. &nbsp;Exposing children to books from birth is a great way to aid their development. &nbsp;Books not only aid literacy skills but they also help little fingers develop. &nbsp;As they learn to turn pages of a book, they strengthen their fingers and fine motor skills.Often times parents think they have to read a book from beginning to end, not skipping any pages. &nbsp;However, research from the Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch Up (ABC) program at the University of Delaware,&nbsp;actually promotes following your child’s lead with reading and play. &nbsp;If a child is looking at or chewing on a book on their own that’s okay! &nbsp;Talk to them about what they are doing. &nbsp;If they bring you a book, allow them to turn the pages and talk to them about what is on the page. &nbsp;This can put the child in charge and allow them time to explore on their own terms which aids their social emotional development&nbsp;by making them feel important and that they can have an effect on their world.While libraries are great and offer many programs to get&nbsp;children&nbsp;involved with&nbsp;books and&nbsp;reading, sometimes it’s nice to start building&nbsp;a library at home as well. &nbsp;Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has been integral in getting books into the hands of children and their parents.&nbsp;&nbsp;Once you sign up, books are mailed to the child&nbsp;every month&nbsp;from birth to age five. &nbsp;They are sent directly to the child so it’s exciting for them to get mail and the books are&nbsp;ageappropriate also. &nbsp;In Ellis&nbsp;and Barton&nbsp;<a></a>County you can go to the website imaginationlibrary.com to sign up. &nbsp;There are also lots of tips about reading to your child on their website. &nbsp;Be sure and check it out!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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>

KOERNER: Reading a cornerstone of success for kids

When the pilgrims first came to America from England, they had a very difficult first year, and without the help of the Native Americans, would not have survived. After finally having a successful harvest the following year, they had a harvest feast to celebrate with their new neighbors. We continue this tradition today on the 4th&nbsp;Thursday of November with family and friends. Our feast today has much in common with the first Thanksgiving celebration with some major and minor differences. In the end though, the Thanksgiving feast is a chance to gather with family and friends and remember how much you have to be thankful for!&nbsp;

Turkeys are one of the few domesticated animals today that originated in North America, so they most likely were on the menu, but other fowl were probably prepared as well for the feast. Wild ducks, geese, and swans would have also been consumed that day. The turkey would have been wild rather than the domesticated one that you purchase at the local store. Its taste would be similar to the heritage turkeys that can still be ordered from specialty shops or the wild ones still roaming the fields today. Shellfish and varieties of fish would have also been offered since that was a convenient source of protein for a colony that was close to the sea. Historical records also show that the Wampanoag tribe brought an offering of 5 deer for the celebration, so the meal had a wide variety of what today we would consider the main course to choose from!&nbsp;

Vegetables were also very much present at the first Thanksgiving in 1621. After all, this was a celebration of the first successful harvest in the new world, but some may have looked different than how we eat them today. Of course there would be no green bean casserole on the table for another 300- plus years, and even though they grew and harvested maize (or corn), they would have made cornmeal out of it and created a mush or porridge to eat. Onions, beans carrots, and, lettuce would have graced the table similar to today. &nbsp;

The first version of pumpkin pie was probably consumed as well in 1621. Once again, it was there, but just different. The fledgling colony lacked the butter and flour to be able to make a pie crust, as well as the oven to bake the pie in. What they did instead was make custard by hollowing out the pumpkins and adding milk, honey and spices, and then placing the gourds in the hot ashes of the fire to roast creating the precursor to what we know as pumpkin pie today.&nbsp;

So whatever you are planning for your Thanksgiving meal, whether it is the “traditional” feast of today, or your favorite variation of it, I hope you have a blessed holiday spent with those you care about most. Happy Thanksgiving!&nbsp;

&nbsp;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/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>When the pilgrims first came to America from England, they had a very difficult first year, and without the help of the Native Americans, would not have survived. After finally having a successful harvest the following year, they had a harvest feast to celebrate with their new neighbors. We continue this tradition today on the 4th&nbsp;Thursday of November with family and friends. Our feast today has much in common with the first Thanksgiving celebration with some major and minor differences. In the end though, the Thanksgiving feast is a chance to gather with family and friends and remember how much you have to be thankful for!&nbsp;Turkeys are one of the few domesticated animals today that originated in North America, so they most likely were on the menu, but other fowl were probably prepared as well for the feast. Wild ducks, geese, and swans would have also been consumed that day. The turkey would have been wild rather than the domesticated one that you purchase at the local store. Its taste would be similar to the heritage turkeys that can still be ordered from specialty shops or the wild ones still roaming the fields today. Shellfish and varieties of fish would have also been offered since that was a convenient source of protein for a colony that was close to the sea. Historical records also show that the Wampanoag tribe brought an offering of 5 deer for the celebration, so the meal had a wide variety of what today we would consider the main course to choose from!&nbsp;Vegetables were also very much present at the first Thanksgiving in 1621. After all, this was a celebration of the first successful harvest in the new world, but some may have looked different than how we eat them today. Of course there would be no green bean casserole on the table for another 300- plus years, and even though they grew and harvested maize (or corn), they would have made cornmeal out of it and created a mush or porridge to eat. Onions, beans carrots, and, lettuce would have graced the table similar to today. &nbsp;The first version of pumpkin pie was probably consumed as well in 1621. Once again, it was there, but just different. The fledgling colony lacked the butter and flour to be able to make a pie crust, as well as the oven to bake the pie in. What they did instead was make custard by hollowing out the pumpkins and adding milk, honey and spices, and then placing the gourds in the hot ashes of the fire to roast creating the precursor to what we know as pumpkin pie today.&nbsp;So whatever you are planning for your Thanksgiving meal, whether it is the “traditional” feast of today, or your favorite variation of it, I hope you have a blessed holiday spent with those you care about most. Happy Thanksgiving!&nbsp;&nbsp;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.

BOOR: Taking a further look at that Thanksgiving dinner

Ellis County 4-H Council invites Kansas teens&nbsp;to participate in&nbsp;its upcoming&nbsp;“Chat, Don’t Snap”&nbsp;workshop on&nbsp;Sunday, Dec. 4&nbsp;from 1 to 5 p.m. at the FHSU Memorial Union. The event will&nbsp;give teens the opportunity to grow their leadership and communication skills&nbsp;through civil discourse.

Dr. Lori Kniffin, Fort Hays State University Assistant Professor of Leadership&nbsp;Studies&nbsp;and expert in civic leadership &amp; dialogue,&nbsp;will&nbsp;introduce&nbsp;the&nbsp;importance of civil discourse through a keynote&nbsp;address. Breakout sessions for both parents and their teens will allow each group to practice these vital communication skills. The event will conclude with a free concert for all in attendance by the Peterson Farm Brothers.&nbsp;Free commemorative t-shirts will be given to the first 100 teens who register, and refreshments will be served.

The event will be hosted by Ellis County 4-H Council and spearheaded by Hays High sophomores Elizabeth Noble, Marisa Wasinger, and John Weisenborn.&nbsp;Attendees will choose to attend sessions&nbsp;with discussions&nbsp;on The Future of Our Environment, Pros and Cons of&nbsp;Social Media,&nbsp;and Guns in America.&nbsp;This event is open to all teens. You don’t have to be a 4-Her to attend.

Sponsors for the event include&nbsp;Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Midwest Energy Community Fund, Lang Diesel,&nbsp;eyeSMILE&nbsp;Vision &amp; Dental, Hays Optimist Club, Redeem Designs, Hays Kiwanis Club, Ellis County 4-H Council, FHSU Department of Leadership Studies, and private donors.

To learn more or to register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://rb.gy/2ct9ui?fbclid=IwAR3rXvmdqXtb-Os_KcLDIDJe4KPF8NcnJJosZOxtX52QOGmjhoSCowbD6UY">https://rb.gy/2ct9ui</a>&nbsp;or contact the Cottonwood District&nbsp;Extension&nbsp;office at 785-628-9430.&nbsp;The registration deadline is Monday.

If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability, contact Stacy at 785-628-9430.

News releaseEllis County 4-H Council invites Kansas teens&nbsp;to participate in&nbsp;its upcoming&nbsp;“Chat, Don’t Snap”&nbsp;workshop on&nbsp;Sunday, Dec. 4&nbsp;from 1 to 5 p.m. at the FHSU Memorial Union. The event will&nbsp;give teens the opportunity to grow their leadership and communication skills&nbsp;through civil discourse.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1669133924778.jpeg" alt="Dr. Lori Kniffin" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Lori Kniffin</figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Lori Kniffin, Fort Hays State University Assistant Professor of Leadership&nbsp;Studies&nbsp;and expert in civic leadership &amp; dialogue,&nbsp;will&nbsp;introduce&nbsp;the&nbsp;importance of civil discourse through a keynote&nbsp;address. Breakout sessions for both parents and their teens will allow each group to practice these vital communication skills. The event will conclude with a free concert for all in attendance by the Peterson Farm Brothers.&nbsp;Free commemorative t-shirts will be given to the first 100 teens who register, and refreshments will be served.The event will be hosted by Ellis County 4-H Council and spearheaded by Hays High sophomores Elizabeth Noble, Marisa Wasinger, and John Weisenborn.&nbsp;Attendees will choose to attend sessions&nbsp;with discussions&nbsp;on The Future of Our Environment, Pros and Cons of&nbsp;Social Media,&nbsp;and Guns in America.&nbsp;This event is open to all teens. You don’t have to be a 4-Her to attend.Sponsors for the event include&nbsp;Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Midwest Energy Community Fund, Lang Diesel,&nbsp;eyeSMILE&nbsp;Vision &amp; Dental, Hays Optimist Club, Redeem Designs, Hays Kiwanis Club, Ellis County 4-H Council, FHSU Department of Leadership Studies, and private donors.To learn more or to register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://rb.gy/2ct9ui?fbclid=IwAR3rXvmdqXtb-Os_KcLDIDJe4KPF8NcnJJosZOxtX52QOGmjhoSCowbD6UY">https://rb.gy/2ct9ui</a>&nbsp;or contact the Cottonwood District&nbsp;Extension&nbsp;office at 785-628-9430.&nbsp;The registration deadline is Monday.If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability, contact Stacy at 785-628-9430.

Ellis County 4-H event will feature Peterson brothers, FHSU prof

Those flu bugs are nasty this year, and with so many families spending time together over

the holidays, it is likely that you or someone close to you will catch it. &nbsp;The information that crosses my desk about avoiding contagious illnesses is consistent. WASH YOUR HANDSOFTEN. &nbsp;Washing your hands at every step in the food preparation process will certainly help from spreading those germs. &nbsp;Whenever you touch your face or hair, or after sneezing or coughing into your hand you will want to wash. Reminding children to wash up after they have been playing outside, or with the family pet is another key.&nbsp;

The correct way to wash hands is to wet them with warm water, lather the soap and rinse; a process that should take around 20 seconds. Make sure you&nbsp;wash the cuticle area and around jewelry especially well.&nbsp;Keep a clean hand towel near every sink or consider switching to paper towels that can be disposed of.&nbsp;&nbsp;The use of hand sanitizers may sound like a good idea but when we have used our&nbsp;“glow&nbsp;germ”&nbsp;activity we found lots of germs survive the use of such cleansers. The use of warm water and soap works best.

Of course there are some other things you can do to avoid becoming ill. &nbsp;Getting plenty of rest and eating right, including lots of fruits and vegetables&nbsp;that are chock full of immune boosting vitamins&nbsp;is a great idea. Make time in your day for some quiet time to reflect and relax. Keeping the stress level down will help promote health. Limit visits with people who have a compromised immune system, especially if you have any symptoms of illness.

​Have a Happy and Healthy&nbsp;Holiday Season, beginning with Thanksgiving this week!

Donna Krug is the&nbsp;District Director and&nbsp;Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with&nbsp;K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;–&nbsp;Cottonwood District.&nbsp;You may reach her at (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Those flu bugs are nasty this year, and with so many families spending time together overthe holidays, it is likely that you or someone close to you will catch it. &nbsp;The information that crosses my desk about avoiding contagious illnesses is consistent. WASH YOUR HANDSOFTEN. &nbsp;Washing your hands at every step in the food preparation process will certainly help from spreading those germs. &nbsp;Whenever you touch your face or hair, or after sneezing or coughing into your hand you will want to wash. Reminding children to wash up after they have been playing outside, or with the family pet is another key.&nbsp;The correct way to wash hands is to wet them with warm water, lather the soap and rinse; a process that should take around 20 seconds. Make sure you&nbsp;wash the cuticle area and around jewelry especially well.&nbsp;Keep a clean hand towel near every sink or consider switching to paper towels that can be disposed of.&nbsp;&nbsp;The use of hand sanitizers may sound like a good idea but when we have used our&nbsp;“glow&nbsp;germ”&nbsp;activity we found lots of germs survive the use of such cleansers. The use of warm water and soap works best.Of course there are some other things you can do to avoid becoming ill. &nbsp;Getting plenty of rest and eating right, including lots of fruits and vegetables&nbsp;that are chock full of immune boosting vitamins&nbsp;is a great idea. Make time in your day for some quiet time to reflect and relax. Keeping the stress level down will help promote health. Limit visits with people who have a compromised immune system, especially if you have any symptoms of illness.​Have a Happy and Healthy&nbsp;Holiday Season, beginning with Thanksgiving this week!Donna Krug is the&nbsp;District Director and&nbsp;Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with&nbsp;K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;–&nbsp;Cottonwood District.&nbsp;You may reach her at (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Spread joy, not germs this holiday season

Looking at turkeys for your holiday meals? &nbsp;Here are some tips&nbsp;to help make your holiday&nbsp;turkey&nbsp;safe and healthy. &nbsp;Turkey is a healthy choice&nbsp;since&nbsp;it is considered a white meat and full of protein! &nbsp;

ome tips for keeping it as healthy as possible is to bake it and not fry it&nbsp;or&nbsp;use herbs&nbsp;and&nbsp;lemon to season rather than butter and salt. &nbsp;Allow&nbsp;one&nbsp;pound (1&nbsp;lb)&nbsp;of turkey per person&nbsp;you are serving.&nbsp;Thawing turkeys can be tricky but remember to thaw them&nbsp;in one of three ways:&nbsp;in the refrigerator, in cold water,&nbsp;or the microwave. &nbsp;Allowing your bird to thaw at room temperature can allow dangerous bacteria to grow. &nbsp;Washing a raw turkey or poultry also spreads bacteria around the kitchen so you can save time and skip washing the bird.&nbsp;To roast the turkey, start with&nbsp;an oven temperature set at least at 325 degrees. &nbsp;Timetable for turkey roasting varies based on size and if the turkey is stuffed or not. &nbsp;The turkey&nbsp;should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees&nbsp;when it is thoroughly cooked. &nbsp;Allow the turkey to stand for 20 minutes before carving.

Then there are the leftovers. &nbsp;Turkey can be eaten hot or cold once it is cooked. &nbsp;However,&nbsp;a good rule is to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold and don’t allow leftovers out for too long. &nbsp;Resist the temptation to leave lunch out for supper.&nbsp;&nbsp;Leftovers should be refrigerated within two hours. &nbsp;Dividing leftovers into smaller portions and in shallow containers allows leftovers to coolquickly. &nbsp;Leftovers should be used within three to four days. &nbsp;

The USDA has a meat and poultry hotline and website if you find you have questions during the holidays. &nbsp;Th phone number is&nbsp;1-888-674-6854 (1-888-MPHotline) Monday-Friday 10am-4pm or online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fsis.usda.gov/">www.fsis.usda.gov</a>. &nbsp;You can always call the office to talk to an extension agent to have your questions answered as well.&nbsp;Cottonwood Extension District has lots of tips on our website as well. &nbsp;<a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/</a>

I hope you enjoy&nbsp;eating lots of turkey&nbsp;this holiday season.

<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." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Looking at turkeys for your holiday meals? &nbsp;Here are some tips&nbsp;to help make your holiday&nbsp;turkey&nbsp;safe and healthy. &nbsp;Turkey is a healthy choice&nbsp;since&nbsp;it is considered a white meat and full of protein! &nbsp;ome tips for keeping it as healthy as possible is to bake it and not fry it&nbsp;or&nbsp;use herbs&nbsp;and&nbsp;lemon to season rather than butter and salt. &nbsp;Allow&nbsp;one&nbsp;pound (1&nbsp;lb)&nbsp;of turkey per person&nbsp;you are serving.&nbsp;Thawing turkeys can be tricky but remember to thaw them&nbsp;in one of three ways:&nbsp;in the refrigerator, in cold water,&nbsp;or the microwave. &nbsp;Allowing your bird to thaw at room temperature can allow dangerous bacteria to grow. &nbsp;Washing a raw turkey or poultry also spreads bacteria around the kitchen so you can save time and skip washing the bird.&nbsp;To roast the turkey, start with&nbsp;an oven temperature set at least at 325 degrees. &nbsp;Timetable for turkey roasting varies based on size and if the turkey is stuffed or not. &nbsp;The turkey&nbsp;should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees&nbsp;when it is thoroughly cooked. &nbsp;Allow the turkey to stand for 20 minutes before carving.Then there are the leftovers. &nbsp;Turkey can be eaten hot or cold once it is cooked. &nbsp;However,&nbsp;a good rule is to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold and don’t allow leftovers out for too long. &nbsp;Resist the temptation to leave lunch out for supper.&nbsp;&nbsp;Leftovers should be refrigerated within two hours. &nbsp;Dividing leftovers into smaller portions and in shallow containers allows leftovers to coolquickly. &nbsp;Leftovers should be used within three to four days. &nbsp;The USDA has a meat and poultry hotline and website if you find you have questions during the holidays. &nbsp;Th phone number is&nbsp;1-888-674-6854 (1-888-MPHotline) Monday-Friday 10am-4pm or online at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fsis.usda.gov/">www.fsis.usda.gov</a>. &nbsp;You can always call the office to talk to an extension agent to have your questions answered as well.&nbsp;Cottonwood Extension District has lots of tips on our website as well. &nbsp;<a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/</a>I hope you enjoy&nbsp;eating lots of turkey&nbsp;this holiday season.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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>

KOERNER: Turkey preparation reminders

Holidays are a great time of year to connect with family. It is easy to let schedules get too hectic so make sure you prioritize your family this time of year. Hopefully you will have some down time to visit around the dining room table, without any electronic devices. That is the perfect environment for treasured family time.&nbsp;

Incorporating games, working a jig saw puzzle or building a snowman (if we get snow) are definitely memory makers. I have a great poster titled, “100 Ways to Celebrate your Family” that is free if you simply stop by our office at 3007 10th&nbsp;Street in Great Bend. All of the suggestions are no-cost or very&nbsp;low cost and I firmly believe that those are the things that make the biggest impression on kids.

When our grandkids come for a visit I always have plenty of paper, markers, and colored pencils on hand for the budding artists. When they leave, I have new pictures to put on the refrigerator.&nbsp;

Another consideration during this busy time of year is to stick to a simpler menu. There is no prize for stressing yourself out in the kitchen. Menu ideas I go to at this time of year include soups and stews, served up with some tasty fresh fruit. Not only are these ideas simple but they are healthier choices as well.&nbsp;

Later this month, on November 30th, at noon, I hope you will mark your calendar and join me at noon at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th&nbsp;Street. I have invited Monique, my team member from the Hays office, to work together to present an educational program we have titled, “Heathy Holiday Hints.” We’ll have some fun ideas to share that may help&nbsp;you&nbsp;de-stress and enjoy the holidays for the right reasons.&nbsp;

Whatever you are planning and wherever your holiday travels take you, make time for some simple fun with your family!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with the Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend Office. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Holidays are a great time of year to connect with family. It is easy to let schedules get too hectic so make sure you prioritize your family this time of year. Hopefully you will have some down time to visit around the dining room table, without any electronic devices. That is the perfect environment for treasured family time.&nbsp;Incorporating games, working a jig saw puzzle or building a snowman (if we get snow) are definitely memory makers. I have a great poster titled, “100 Ways to Celebrate your Family” that is free if you simply stop by our office at 3007 10th&nbsp;Street in Great Bend. All of the suggestions are no-cost or very&nbsp;low cost and I firmly believe that those are the things that make the biggest impression on kids.When our grandkids come for a visit I always have plenty of paper, markers, and colored pencils on hand for the budding artists. When they leave, I have new pictures to put on the refrigerator.&nbsp;Another consideration during this busy time of year is to stick to a simpler menu. There is no prize for stressing yourself out in the kitchen. Menu ideas I go to at this time of year include soups and stews, served up with some tasty fresh fruit. Not only are these ideas simple but they are healthier choices as well.&nbsp;Later this month, on November 30th, at noon, I hope you will mark your calendar and join me at noon at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th&nbsp;Street. I have invited Monique, my team member from the Hays office, to work together to present an educational program we have titled, “Heathy Holiday Hints.” We’ll have some fun ideas to share that may help&nbsp;you&nbsp;de-stress and enjoy the holidays for the right reasons.&nbsp;Whatever you are planning and wherever your holiday travels take you, make time for some simple fun with your family!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with the Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend Office. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>

KRUG: Take time for family​

October started a new year of enrollment for 4-H members in our eight community clubs and their involvement in 40 project areas! Each community club elects representatives to serve on the 4-H Council, much&nbsp;like Student Council. This is an additional layer of leadership and communication learning as the youth and parent representatives share information to and from their clubs. Additionally, they serve on committees to plan county-wide events such as our Achievement Celebration and 4-H Club Day.

The Achievement Celebration was held a week ago and provides an opportunity for fun, fellowship, and award recognition. The committee selected an 80s theme for a Totally Rad&nbsp;Celebration,&nbsp;and we had lots of neon attire and ice cream sundaes.

All 4-H members are encouraged to keep a record book. Now, I know that record books aren’t everyone’s favorite thing but it does provide good life skills practice in setting goals, keeping track of related finances and activities, and sharing the struggles and successes as our 4-H members learn.

Each year at the end of the celebration, I remind 4-H members to turn to their family members to tell them Thank You! I will add my thanks to club leaders, project leaders, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and neighbors who all have a hand in helping a 4-H member learn, grow, and thrive!&nbsp;

If you have a young person in your world who would like to know more, be sure to contact one of our Extension Offices for more information.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District&nbsp;– Barton&nbsp;Office at&nbsp;620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668177490614.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>October started a new year of enrollment for 4-H members in our eight community clubs and their involvement in 40 project areas! Each community club elects representatives to serve on the 4-H Council, much&nbsp;like Student Council. This is an additional layer of leadership and communication learning as the youth and parent representatives share information to and from their clubs. Additionally, they serve on committees to plan county-wide events such as our Achievement Celebration and 4-H Club Day.The Achievement Celebration was held a week ago and provides an opportunity for fun, fellowship, and award recognition. The committee selected an 80s theme for a Totally Rad&nbsp;Celebration,&nbsp;and we had lots of neon attire and ice cream sundaes.All 4-H members are encouraged to keep a record book. Now, I know that record books aren’t everyone’s favorite thing but it does provide good life skills practice in setting goals, keeping track of related finances and activities, and sharing the struggles and successes as our 4-H members learn.Each year at the end of the celebration, I remind 4-H members to turn to their family members to tell them Thank You! I will add my thanks to club leaders, project leaders, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and neighbors who all have a hand in helping a 4-H member learn, grow, and thrive!&nbsp;If you have a young person in your world who would like to know more, be sure to contact one of our Extension Offices for more information.Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District&nbsp;– Barton&nbsp;Office at&nbsp;620-793-1910.

BERAN: 4-H celebration! 

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

I would like to thank those involved in making this year’s sorghum demonstration plot possible. Cooperators Josh Debes and Dean&nbsp;Stoskopf&nbsp;along with Johnny&nbsp;Luerman&nbsp;in Barton County and Matt, John and Wyatt Grabbe in Ellis County.&nbsp;Also a shout-out to all of&nbsp;the seed companies and dealers for providing the seed and signs.&nbsp;

Of course,&nbsp;this year the yields were low due to the drought. In the&nbsp;Barton County&nbsp;plot&nbsp;the yields ranged from&nbsp;a low of 48&nbsp;to a high of 72 bushels per acre with test weights from 58.3 to 61.6. In Ellis County the yields ranged from 30 to 56 bushels per acre with test weights from 51.5 to 57.6.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;results are posted on our web site at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and then look under Hot Topics. Also they will be posted on Facebook&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ksrecottonwood/">https://www.facebook.com/ksrecottonwood/</a>&nbsp;and my Twitter account&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/scampbel_stacy">https://twitter.com/scampbel_stacy</a>

I always like to remind growers that when making their next seed purchasing decisions to look at several different sources (test plot) results, if possible over multiple years&nbsp;and locations.&nbsp;Whether it be county agent plots, Coops, seed companies, etc. I would especially encourage you to look at the Kansas Performance Tests with Grain Sorghum by Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Stations&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/services/crop-performance-tests/">https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/services/crop-performance-tests/</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;These variety plots are replicated, meaning each hybrid has been randomly planted in the test plot in 4 different spots. Replication is used to smooth out or account for variability within a field.&nbsp;This site also has crop performance (variety yields) of 8 different crops&nbsp;grown here in Kansas.&nbsp;Tested&nbsp;over multiple K-State Ag Research Centers around the state.&nbsp;

If you would like to have a paper copy of the Cottonwood District Sorghum Demonstration Plotsstop by either&nbsp;Extension Office. The&nbsp;K-State Performance Test books&nbsp;for grain sorghum should be coming out soon and you can stop in later for one of those.&nbsp;Our&nbsp;offices are located&nbsp;in Hays at 601 Main Street or Great Bend at 3007 10th&nbsp;Street.&nbsp;If you ever have any questions on crop production feel free to give me a call at 785-628-9430.&nbsp;

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictI would like to thank those involved in making this year’s sorghum demonstration plot possible. Cooperators Josh Debes and Dean&nbsp;Stoskopf&nbsp;along with Johnny&nbsp;Luerman&nbsp;in Barton County and Matt, John and Wyatt Grabbe in Ellis County.&nbsp;Also a shout-out to all of&nbsp;the seed companies and dealers for providing the seed and signs.&nbsp;Of course,&nbsp;this year the yields were low due to the drought. In the&nbsp;Barton County&nbsp;plot&nbsp;the yields ranged from&nbsp;a low of 48&nbsp;to a high of 72 bushels per acre with test weights from 58.3 to 61.6. In Ellis County the yields ranged from 30 to 56 bushels per acre with test weights from 51.5 to 57.6.&nbsp;The&nbsp;results are posted on our web site at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and then look under Hot Topics. Also they will be posted on Facebook&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ksrecottonwood/">https://www.facebook.com/ksrecottonwood/</a>&nbsp;and my Twitter account&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/scampbel_stacy">https://twitter.com/scampbel_stacy</a>I always like to remind growers that when making their next seed purchasing decisions to look at several different sources (test plot) results, if possible over multiple years&nbsp;and locations.&nbsp;Whether it be county agent plots, Coops, seed companies, etc. I would especially encourage you to look at the Kansas Performance Tests with Grain Sorghum by Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Stations&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/services/crop-performance-tests/">https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/services/crop-performance-tests/</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;These variety plots are replicated, meaning each hybrid has been randomly planted in the test plot in 4 different spots. Replication is used to smooth out or account for variability within a field.&nbsp;This site also has crop performance (variety yields) of 8 different crops&nbsp;grown here in Kansas.&nbsp;Tested&nbsp;over multiple K-State Ag Research Centers around the state.&nbsp;If you would like to have a paper copy of the Cottonwood District Sorghum Demonstration Plotsstop by either&nbsp;Extension Office. The&nbsp;K-State Performance Test books&nbsp;for grain sorghum should be coming out soon and you can stop in later for one of those.&nbsp;Our&nbsp;offices are located&nbsp;in Hays at 601 Main Street or Great Bend at 3007 10th&nbsp;Street.&nbsp;If you ever have any questions on crop production feel free to give me a call at 785-628-9430.&nbsp;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.

Results of Cottonwood District grain sorghum hybrid demonstration plots

Make plans to attend&nbsp;the Central&nbsp;Kansas Beef Summit on&nbsp;Tuesday,&nbsp;November&nbsp;29th,&nbsp;2022, from 8:30 am – 3:00 pm.&nbsp;The event will be highlighted by a&nbsp;Weather Summary &amp; Outlook by Chip Redmond, Kansas&nbsp;Mesonet; a presentation on&nbsp;Managing&nbsp;Pastureland&nbsp;and&nbsp;Grassland through Drought by Doug Spencer,&nbsp;NRCS;&nbsp;and a Market Outlook and Update from K-State specialist, Dr. Glynn Tonsor.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

In addition to the speakers, the program will offer breakout sessions where attendees can pick and choose which topics apply to them. This year’s topics will be an Introduction of the Office of Farm and Ranch Transition by Ashlee Westerhold, KSU, Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) &amp; Pasture, Rangeland, and Forage (PRF) policy by Dr. Jennifer Ifft, KSU, and Blue Green Algae by Dr. Jow Gerken, KSU.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

We will end the program with our Crisis Management panel. Hear from&nbsp;livestock&nbsp;producers impacted by 2021&nbsp;fires, industry representatives, and media personnel speak on&nbsp;topics relating to crisis management, emergency preparedness, and utilizing your resources in times of need.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The field day, held&nbsp;in&nbsp;Salina, Kansas&nbsp;at the Saline&nbsp;Co Livestock &amp; Expo Center 4H Building, will be a collaboration among&nbsp;numerous&nbsp;K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;districts and&nbsp;will give producers a better chance to&nbsp;not only hear from industry leaders, but to also take part in&nbsp;conversation with one another.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

RSVP today to make sure you get a plate&nbsp;of delicious lunch.&nbsp;The cost&nbsp;to attend is $10 if you register by&nbsp;November 22nd,&nbsp;otherwise late registration is $15.&nbsp;For more information, or to register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu/livestock/programs" target="_blank">https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu/livestock/programs</a>&nbsp;or call Alicia Boor at 620-793-1910 or by email at aboor@ksu.edu.&nbsp;This event has been generously sponsored by several agribusinesses in collaboration with K-State Research and Extension Districts, Central KS, Cottonwood, Midway,&nbsp;River Valley,&nbsp;Phillips/Rooks,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Post&nbsp;Rock.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Please direct any questions to Alicia Boor at 620-793-1910. We look forward to having you there!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Make plans to attend&nbsp;the Central&nbsp;Kansas Beef Summit on&nbsp;Tuesday,&nbsp;November&nbsp;29th,&nbsp;2022, from 8:30 am – 3:00 pm.&nbsp;The event will be highlighted by a&nbsp;Weather Summary &amp; Outlook by Chip Redmond, Kansas&nbsp;Mesonet; a presentation on&nbsp;Managing&nbsp;Pastureland&nbsp;and&nbsp;Grassland through Drought by Doug Spencer,&nbsp;NRCS;&nbsp;and a Market Outlook and Update from K-State specialist, Dr. Glynn Tonsor.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition to the speakers, the program will offer breakout sessions where attendees can pick and choose which topics apply to them. This year’s topics will be an Introduction of the Office of Farm and Ranch Transition by Ashlee Westerhold, KSU, Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) &amp; Pasture, Rangeland, and Forage (PRF) policy by Dr. Jennifer Ifft, KSU, and Blue Green Algae by Dr. Jow Gerken, KSU.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;We will end the program with our Crisis Management panel. Hear from&nbsp;livestock&nbsp;producers impacted by 2021&nbsp;fires, industry representatives, and media personnel speak on&nbsp;topics relating to crisis management, emergency preparedness, and utilizing your resources in times of need.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The field day, held&nbsp;in&nbsp;Salina, Kansas&nbsp;at the Saline&nbsp;Co Livestock &amp; Expo Center 4H Building, will be a collaboration among&nbsp;numerous&nbsp;K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;districts and&nbsp;will give producers a better chance to&nbsp;not only hear from industry leaders, but to also take part in&nbsp;conversation with one another.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;RSVP today to make sure you get a plate&nbsp;of delicious lunch.&nbsp;The cost&nbsp;to attend is $10 if you register by&nbsp;November 22nd,&nbsp;otherwise late registration is $15.&nbsp;For more information, or to register, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu/livestock/programs" target="_blank">https://www.centralkansas.k-state.edu/livestock/programs</a>&nbsp;or call Alicia Boor at 620-793-1910 or by email at aboor@ksu.edu.&nbsp;This event has been generously sponsored by several agribusinesses in collaboration with K-State Research and Extension Districts, Central KS, Cottonwood, Midway,&nbsp;River Valley,&nbsp;Phillips/Rooks,&nbsp;and&nbsp;Post&nbsp;Rock.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Please direct any questions to Alicia Boor at 620-793-1910. We look forward to having you there!&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;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.

BOOR: Central Kansas Beef Summit to be held in Salina

With cooler temperatures here to stay, no doubt you will be&nbsp;switching on&nbsp;your furnace. Now is a good time to provide a reminder about the dangers of Carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is of greatest concern because it can be fatal. Hundreds of people are killed each year in the United States by CO in their homes.

Carbon monoxide can build up in an enclosed space. The gas is odorless and colorless, so you may not sense what is making you sick. CO reduces the ability of hemoglobin in the blood to carry oxygen. Health effects or symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can be similar to other illnesses, such as flu and allergies.&nbsp;The Symptoms of exposure to low doses of CO include nausea, dizziness, weakness, and muscle aches. Higher doses of CO can cause impaired judgement, paralysis, coma and death.

So how does a buildup of carbon monoxide typically occur? There are several ways, so keep reading for the answer.

•Flues or chimneys from combustion equipment become blocked (such as by a bird’s nest) disconnected, rusted or broken.Thuspollutants from combustion equipment, high in CO, cannot be exhausted to the outside. •A fuel burning appliance, such as a furnace has a cracked heat exchanger, allowing combustion gases into the living spaces instead of being exhausted up a chimney or flue. •Unvented fuel-burning (such as kerosene or gas) heaters are operated in the home without adequate ventilation. •Charcoal cookers, grills, or hibachis are operated in the home. •Gas ovens improperly used for space heating.

Last year the carbon monoxide detector we had plugged in in our basement family room made quite a screeching noise. Detectors do have a life span so make sure yours is operating properly. Once we replaced it with a new detector everything returned to normal. Remember though, that installing a CO detector does not replace regular maintenance, inspection and safe operation of combustion equipment.&nbsp;

Here’s hoping you stay safe and stay warm this winter!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>With cooler temperatures here to stay, no doubt you will be&nbsp;switching on&nbsp;your furnace. Now is a good time to provide a reminder about the dangers of Carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is of greatest concern because it can be fatal. Hundreds of people are killed each year in the United States by CO in their homes.Carbon monoxide can build up in an enclosed space. The gas is odorless and colorless, so you may not sense what is making you sick. CO reduces the ability of hemoglobin in the blood to carry oxygen. Health effects or symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can be similar to other illnesses, such as flu and allergies.&nbsp;The Symptoms of exposure to low doses of CO include nausea, dizziness, weakness, and muscle aches. Higher doses of CO can cause impaired judgement, paralysis, coma and death.So how does a buildup of carbon monoxide typically occur? There are several ways, so keep reading for the answer.•Flues or chimneys from combustion equipment become blocked (such as by a bird’s nest) disconnected, rusted or broken.Thuspollutants from combustion equipment, high in CO, cannot be exhausted to the outside. •A fuel burning appliance, such as a furnace has a cracked heat exchanger, allowing combustion gases into the living spaces instead of being exhausted up a chimney or flue. •Unvented fuel-burning (such as kerosene or gas) heaters are operated in the home without adequate ventilation. •Charcoal cookers, grills, or hibachis are operated in the home. •Gas ovens improperly used for space heating.Last year the carbon monoxide detector we had plugged in in our basement family room made quite a screeching noise. Detectors do have a life span so make sure yours is operating properly. Once we replaced it with a new detector everything returned to normal. Remember though, that installing a CO detector does not replace regular maintenance, inspection and safe operation of combustion equipment.&nbsp;Here’s hoping you stay safe and stay warm this winter!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Indoor air quality reminders

Changing&nbsp;diapers, making&nbsp;lunch, or getting&nbsp;backpacks ready for the next day can seem like mundane chores for parents. &nbsp;However, these can be opportunities&nbsp;in our daily routines&nbsp;that&nbsp;gives parents not only&nbsp;time to spend&nbsp;with their children but also use&nbsp;as a chance&nbsp;to bond and have fun. &nbsp;

Families are busy, I get that! &nbsp;Slowing down and taking the opportunity to do a chore with a child not only can help the child bond with the parent or caregiver but the child also learns valuable skills during the process. &nbsp;For example, changing a diaper can&nbsp;be a&nbsp;boring&nbsp;and messy task. &nbsp;However, a parent can take this opportunity to have fun with the child. &nbsp;Singing a song or a&nbsp;saying a&nbsp;fun rhyme can help distract the child from the task but also gives the&nbsp;child&nbsp;an opportunity to engage with their parent or caregiver and learn social emotional skills.

Being responsive to children is a&nbsp;key element of bonding with a child. &nbsp;Being responsive means we look at, touch, or talk to our children when they try to get our attention. &nbsp;Children learn to trust us when respond to them and&nbsp;we&nbsp;meet their needs. &nbsp;&nbsp;Dr. Bradford Wiles, K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;Specialist and&nbsp;Associate Professor states,&nbsp;“That bond is really around forming trust between each other (and) having an emotional connection. That feeling of security that is a foundation. Children know that their primary caregiver is a secure base from which they can explore their world. They can always turn back to that secure base.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

When a baby is born they want to be near their mother or parent most of the time. &nbsp;This is their safe place and the natural habitat of a newborn. &nbsp;However, as the baby becomes more mobile(crawling)&nbsp;and explores&nbsp;their environment they will move farther away from their mother or primary caregiver. &nbsp;They usually come back and check in on a fairly regular basis&nbsp;with mom or&nbsp;primary c<a></a>aregiver. &nbsp;This shows secure attachment of the child&nbsp;to the primary caregiver&nbsp;which is important for their entire life and the relationships they&nbsp;will have.

As children get older, they form&nbsp;more&nbsp;relationships with family, friends, and&nbsp;the&nbsp;community. &nbsp;The parent still plays an important role though as the child grows so that is why using routine opportunities throughout the day to check in is a great way to continue that relationship.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658934620122.png" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>Changing&nbsp;diapers, making&nbsp;lunch, or getting&nbsp;backpacks ready for the next day can seem like mundane chores for parents. &nbsp;However, these can be opportunities&nbsp;in our daily routines&nbsp;that&nbsp;gives parents not only&nbsp;time to spend&nbsp;with their children but also use&nbsp;as a chance&nbsp;to bond and have fun. &nbsp;Families are busy, I get that! &nbsp;Slowing down and taking the opportunity to do a chore with a child not only can help the child bond with the parent or caregiver but the child also learns valuable skills during the process. &nbsp;For example, changing a diaper can&nbsp;be a&nbsp;boring&nbsp;and messy task. &nbsp;However, a parent can take this opportunity to have fun with the child. &nbsp;Singing a song or a&nbsp;saying a&nbsp;fun rhyme can help distract the child from the task but also gives the&nbsp;child&nbsp;an opportunity to engage with their parent or caregiver and learn social emotional skills.Being responsive to children is a&nbsp;key element of bonding with a child. &nbsp;Being responsive means we look at, touch, or talk to our children when they try to get our attention. &nbsp;Children learn to trust us when respond to them and&nbsp;we&nbsp;meet their needs. &nbsp;&nbsp;Dr. Bradford Wiles, K-State Research and Extension&nbsp;Specialist and&nbsp;Associate Professor states,&nbsp;“That bond is really around forming trust between each other (and) having an emotional connection. That feeling of security that is a foundation. Children know that their primary caregiver is a secure base from which they can explore their world. They can always turn back to that secure base.”&nbsp;&nbsp;When a baby is born they want to be near their mother or parent most of the time. &nbsp;This is their safe place and the natural habitat of a newborn. &nbsp;However, as the baby becomes more mobile(crawling)&nbsp;and explores&nbsp;their environment they will move farther away from their mother or primary caregiver. &nbsp;They usually come back and check in on a fairly regular basis&nbsp;with mom or&nbsp;primary c<a></a>aregiver. &nbsp;This shows secure attachment of the child&nbsp;to the primary caregiver&nbsp;which is important for their entire life and the relationships they&nbsp;will have.As children get older, they form&nbsp;more&nbsp;relationships with family, friends, and&nbsp;the&nbsp;community. &nbsp;The parent still plays an important role though as the child grows so that is why using routine opportunities throughout the day to check in is a great way to continue that relationship.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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>

KOERNER: Responsive parenting​

While we often think of 4-H in terms of events such as the county fair or club days, the formula for youth development as 4-H is so much more!

Like all other Research and Extension information, positive youth development is based on considerable documentation including the research of Lerner and Lerner in the “Comprehensive Findings of 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development (Tufts University 2013)” and Brendtro, Brokenleg, and Van Bockern in “Reclaiming Youth at Risk: Our Hope for the Future”,&nbsp;among others.

Based on this research, the WHY for 4-H includes developing a sense of belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity. Each of our activities and events include facets of these. Working on a project&nbsp;helps youth to find and develop skills, work independently as they progress, and learn to share their skills and knowledge with others. A fair entry&nbsp;is the result of project learning&nbsp;and provides feedback for appropriate level of mastery, working independently, and working together for learning and sharing.

Kansas 4-H offers 40 different project areas grouped into STEM and Agriculture, Communication and the Arts, Healthy Living, and Community Vitality which offers leadership and civic engagement. Each of these project areas have research-based curriculum to provide opportunities for learning and growth. Each project area also includes opportunities for youth to practice communication, leadership, and civic engagement skills.

One focus of the 4-H Formula is to have an impact on youth by developing life-long learners with an&nbsp;empathetic and curious view of the world. Another is to develop youth with good communication skills which are crucial no matter your job or career. Providing opportunities to understand how to collaborate with peers and adults in a positive manner is another goal.&nbsp;

One of my favorite goals of the 4-H Formula brings all of these pieces together by developing youth who have the skills and knowledge to contribute to their communities. I often say that 4-H is important to develop the next generation of leaders so that our rural communities don’t just survive but thrive!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579114162620.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>While we often think of 4-H in terms of events such as the county fair or club days, the formula for youth development as 4-H is so much more!Like all other Research and Extension information, positive youth development is based on considerable documentation including the research of Lerner and Lerner in the “Comprehensive Findings of 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development (Tufts University 2013)” and Brendtro, Brokenleg, and Van Bockern in “Reclaiming Youth at Risk: Our Hope for the Future”,&nbsp;among others.Based on this research, the WHY for 4-H includes developing a sense of belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity. Each of our activities and events include facets of these. Working on a project&nbsp;helps youth to find and develop skills, work independently as they progress, and learn to share their skills and knowledge with others. A fair entry&nbsp;is the result of project learning&nbsp;and provides feedback for appropriate level of mastery, working independently, and working together for learning and sharing.Kansas 4-H offers 40 different project areas grouped into STEM and Agriculture, Communication and the Arts, Healthy Living, and Community Vitality which offers leadership and civic engagement. Each of these project areas have research-based curriculum to provide opportunities for learning and growth. Each project area also includes opportunities for youth to practice communication, leadership, and civic engagement skills.One focus of the 4-H Formula is to have an impact on youth by developing life-long learners with an&nbsp;empathetic and curious view of the world. Another is to develop youth with good communication skills which are crucial no matter your job or career. Providing opportunities to understand how to collaborate with peers and adults in a positive manner is another goal.&nbsp;One of my favorite goals of the 4-H Formula brings all of these pieces together by developing youth who have the skills and knowledge to contribute to their communities. I often say that 4-H is important to develop the next generation of leaders so that our rural communities don’t just survive but thrive!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call&nbsp;Cottonwood&nbsp;Extension District&nbsp;– Barton&nbsp;Office at&nbsp;620-793-1910.

BERAN: The 4-H Formula

By DONNA KRUG Cottonwood Extension District

I am excited about the future here in the Cottonwood Extension District. As I have announced my retirement date of February 3, 2023, it is time to begin the search for a new District Director.

The Cottonwood Extension District Executive Board&nbsp;is looking for an energetic person with managerial and leadership skills to fill the District Director position. The Director serves as the administrative leader of budget and fiscal operations as well as personnel management of local staff&nbsp;of seven agents and several support staff.&nbsp;This position will also have programming responsibilities for community vitality.

The Director&nbsp;will lead the development, implementation and evaluation of research-based educational programming to&nbsp;help our communities become a better place for people in the Cottonwood District to live, work, and play.&nbsp;Programming may include: First Impressions; Kansas PRIDE; community health promotion; leadership development; entrepreneurship; grant writing and management; and local food systems.

The primary office is negotiable between Great Bend and Hays. Applications will be accepted through November 15th. A position description and online application is available at:&nbsp;ksre.ksu.edu/jobs&nbsp;If&nbsp;you or someone you know is interested in this position encourage them to apply.

The Cottonwood District has an exciting future with opportunities to become engaged in community partnerships. Come and make a difference alongside us!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666964910087.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By DONNA KRUG Cottonwood Extension DistrictI am excited about the future here in the Cottonwood Extension District. As I have announced my retirement date of February 3, 2023, it is time to begin the search for a new District Director.The Cottonwood Extension District Executive Board&nbsp;is looking for an energetic person with managerial and leadership skills to fill the District Director position. The Director serves as the administrative leader of budget and fiscal operations as well as personnel management of local staff&nbsp;of seven agents and several support staff.&nbsp;This position will also have programming responsibilities for community vitality.The Director&nbsp;will lead the development, implementation and evaluation of research-based educational programming to&nbsp;help our communities become a better place for people in the Cottonwood District to live, work, and play.&nbsp;Programming may include: First Impressions; Kansas PRIDE; community health promotion; leadership development; entrepreneurship; grant writing and management; and local food systems.The primary office is negotiable between Great Bend and Hays. Applications will be accepted through November 15th. A position description and online application is available at:&nbsp;ksre.ksu.edu/jobs&nbsp;If&nbsp;you or someone you know is interested in this position encourage them to apply.The Cottonwood District has an exciting future with opportunities to become engaged in community partnerships. Come and make a difference alongside us!

CAMPBELL: 2022 Kansas Soybean Yield and Value Contests

We all have stress. &nbsp;Did you know there are different kinds of stress? &nbsp;There are good kinds of stress that help us meet deadlines or get where we need to be.&nbsp;It is typically short term and subsides after the event.&nbsp;There is also stress that lasts for long periods of time or is severe, such as a divorce or a move. &nbsp;This is called chronic or toxic stress. &nbsp;Toxic stress can affect not only our mental health but also our physical health&nbsp;because that stress response stays elevated and wears out the body. &nbsp;This may leave a person feeling overwhelmed&nbsp;and affect their bodily systems.

Stress management starts with identifying the sources of life’s stressors.&nbsp;This may not be as easy as it sounds as sometimes the sources of stress may not be so obvious. For example, it might be your time management that causes stress—NOT the demands of your duty! To identify true sources of stress, it is important to look at your habits, attitude and excuses. Then, ask yourself: Can I eliminate the source of my stress? What are some healthier methods of managing and coping with my stress? You can either change your reaction or change the situation. In addition to a take-charge approach and positive attitude, you can reduce stress by nurturing yourself with a healthy lifestyle and by making time for fun and relaxation. This will help you be in a better place when life’s stressors come knocking.

Taking time for yourself and doing something you enjoy everyday can also be important in not only stress reduction but just taking care of yourself both mentally and physically. &nbsp;What do you enjoy doing? &nbsp;Some people enjoy taking a walk every day. &nbsp;Some people may find any form of exercise a stress reliever. &nbsp;Other people may find that doing some sort of art or craft relaxing. &nbsp;The important thing is finding something that works for you and makes you feel happy&nbsp;or makes you laugh. &nbsp;Laughing can be a huge stress reliever.

If you would like more information on stress relief, feel free to contact the office to obtain the fact sheet on Stress Management.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658934620122.png" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>We all have stress. &nbsp;Did you know there are different kinds of stress? &nbsp;There are good kinds of stress that help us meet deadlines or get where we need to be.&nbsp;It is typically short term and subsides after the event.&nbsp;There is also stress that lasts for long periods of time or is severe, such as a divorce or a move. &nbsp;This is called chronic or toxic stress. &nbsp;Toxic stress can affect not only our mental health but also our physical health&nbsp;because that stress response stays elevated and wears out the body. &nbsp;This may leave a person feeling overwhelmed&nbsp;and affect their bodily systems.Stress management starts with identifying the sources of life’s stressors.&nbsp;This may not be as easy as it sounds as sometimes the sources of stress may not be so obvious. For example, it might be your time management that causes stress—NOT the demands of your duty! To identify true sources of stress, it is important to look at your habits, attitude and excuses. Then, ask yourself: Can I eliminate the source of my stress? What are some healthier methods of managing and coping with my stress? You can either change your reaction or change the situation. In addition to a take-charge approach and positive attitude, you can reduce stress by nurturing yourself with a healthy lifestyle and by making time for fun and relaxation. This will help you be in a better place when life’s stressors come knocking.Taking time for yourself and doing something you enjoy everyday can also be important in not only stress reduction but just taking care of yourself both mentally and physically. &nbsp;What do you enjoy doing? &nbsp;Some people enjoy taking a walk every day. &nbsp;Some people may find any form of exercise a stress reliever. &nbsp;Other people may find that doing some sort of art or craft relaxing. &nbsp;The important thing is finding something that works for you and makes you feel happy&nbsp;or makes you laugh. &nbsp;Laughing can be a huge stress reliever.If you would like more information on stress relief, feel free to contact the office to obtain the fact sheet on Stress Management.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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>

KOERNER: Tips on dealing with stress

Community service and citizenship are hallmarks of the 4-H program! 48Hours of 4-H is a state-wide service challenge. This challenge encourages 4-H clubs and families to see how many hours of community service can be completed across the state during the second weekend of National 4-H Week.

Cottonwood-Barton 4-H families took on several projects last weekend and watching their teamwork to serve others is heartwarming! A large group gathered at the Cottonwood Extension Office to bake cookies, complete with hand-drawn Thank You cards, to local police and fire departments, city offices, and our Barton County Dispatch office. From the parents who guided small helpers with rolling cookie dough or managing the hot pans to the guys who handled the dishes, it was so much fun to hear their laughter and teamwork to do something nice for others.

Another group of great volunteers gathered at the 4-H Educational Buildings to pick up trash, spread a pile of gravel, and complete several general cleanup projects! It was neat to see families jump into action to see what they could help with and how they could accomplish tasks together!

One of our 4-H project areas is Civic Engagement and, while this means learning about how our communities function and can include governmental functions, a big part of this project is learning how each youth can have an impact on their community! Helping young people understand that they can help their communities not just survive but thrive is an exciting part of this project. It reinforces that each of us have a responsibility to help our communities be better and stronger.&nbsp;

How can you set an example of positive community involvement or community service? Be sure you share that experience with a young person in your world

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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call Cottonwood Extension District&nbsp;–Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579114162620.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>Community service and citizenship are hallmarks of the 4-H program! 48Hours of 4-H is a state-wide service challenge. This challenge encourages 4-H clubs and families to see how many hours of community service can be completed across the state during the second weekend of National 4-H Week.Cottonwood-Barton 4-H families took on several projects last weekend and watching their teamwork to serve others is heartwarming! A large group gathered at the Cottonwood Extension Office to bake cookies, complete with hand-drawn Thank You cards, to local police and fire departments, city offices, and our Barton County Dispatch office. From the parents who guided small helpers with rolling cookie dough or managing the hot pans to the guys who handled the dishes, it was so much fun to hear their laughter and teamwork to do something nice for others.Another group of great volunteers gathered at the 4-H Educational Buildings to pick up trash, spread a pile of gravel, and complete several general cleanup projects! It was neat to see families jump into action to see what they could help with and how they could accomplish tasks together!One of our 4-H project areas is Civic Engagement and, while this means learning about how our communities function and can include governmental functions, a big part of this project is learning how each youth can have an impact on their community! Helping young people understand that they can help their communities not just survive but thrive is an exciting part of this project. It reinforces that each of us have a responsibility to help our communities be better and stronger.&nbsp;How can you set an example of positive community involvement or community service? Be sure you share that experience with a young person in your worldKeep 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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call Cottonwood Extension District&nbsp;–Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: 48Hours of 4-H and community service

We all age. We can’t avoid the&nbsp;in<a></a>evitable. Aging&nbsp;is individualized and&nbsp;affects everyone differently. People are living longer today than ever before but how can we age well and maintain as much quality of life as we can? &nbsp;Did you know there has been research done to help us understand what makes aging better? &nbsp;

Keys to Embracing Aging&nbsp;is&nbsp;an evidenced-based&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;Research and Extension&nbsp;program&nbsp;to help people better understand aging and help people understand important lifestyle choices to help us age. &nbsp;

Keys to Embracing Aging introduces 12 healthy behavior practices that encourage optimal aging throughout the life span. The 12 keys of optimal aging include: 1. Positive Attitude 2. Eating Smart and Healthy 3. Physical Activity 4. Brain Activity 5. Social Activity 6. Tuning-in to the times 7. Safety 8. Know Your Health Numbers 9. Stress Management 10. Financial Affairs 11. Sleep 12. Taking Time for You.

Aging brings on many changes as a person develops throughout the lifespan. The way in which you take care of yourself through the years both physically and mentally will impact the way in which you age. Many of our lifestyle behaviors and choices are integrated, thus there is a strong association between healthy lifestyles, prevention and longevity.&nbsp;

Keys to Embracing Aging is information that can be shared with a wide variety of audiences of any age.&nbsp;&nbsp;This program can be adapted and made fun for people of all ages and professions. For adolescents and young adults, this is a powerful lesson that can&nbsp;reinforce healthy behaviors and lifestyles over time to live longer and healthier lives. Middle aged adults may resonate with the information because they are today’s primary caregivers to aging parents. Middle aged adults are also facing increasing changes and challenges associated with their own aging process. Older adults will benefit because it is never too late to adapt healthy lifestyle behaviors. Groups of different generations may provide for some powerful discussion.

Please let me know if you would be interested in having a presentation on any or all of the twelve topics listed above. &nbsp;They can be delivered all together or we can do one or two topics at a time.&nbsp;If individuals are interested we have fact sheets or I am available to visit.&nbsp;If you are interested in more information, please contact me. &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658934620122.png" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>We all age. We can’t avoid the&nbsp;in<a></a>evitable. Aging&nbsp;is individualized and&nbsp;affects everyone differently. People are living longer today than ever before but how can we age well and maintain as much quality of life as we can? &nbsp;Did you know there has been research done to help us understand what makes aging better? &nbsp;Keys to Embracing Aging&nbsp;is&nbsp;an evidenced-based&nbsp;K-State&nbsp;Research and Extension&nbsp;program&nbsp;to help people better understand aging and help people understand important lifestyle choices to help us age. &nbsp;Keys to Embracing Aging introduces 12 healthy behavior practices that encourage optimal aging throughout the life span. The 12 keys of optimal aging include: 1. Positive Attitude 2. Eating Smart and Healthy 3. Physical Activity 4. Brain Activity 5. Social Activity 6. Tuning-in to the times 7. Safety 8. Know Your Health Numbers 9. Stress Management 10. Financial Affairs 11. Sleep 12. Taking Time for You.Aging brings on many changes as a person develops throughout the lifespan. The way in which you take care of yourself through the years both physically and mentally will impact the way in which you age. Many of our lifestyle behaviors and choices are integrated, thus there is a strong association between healthy lifestyles, prevention and longevity.&nbsp;<div><iframe title="Cottonwood extension district offers tips for healthy aging" allowtransparency="true" height="300" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=e57j2-12e9112-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>Keys to Embracing Aging is information that can be shared with a wide variety of audiences of any age.&nbsp;&nbsp;This program can be adapted and made fun for people of all ages and professions. For adolescents and young adults, this is a powerful lesson that can&nbsp;reinforce healthy behaviors and lifestyles over time to live longer and healthier lives. Middle aged adults may resonate with the information because they are today’s primary caregivers to aging parents. Middle aged adults are also facing increasing changes and challenges associated with their own aging process. Older adults will benefit because it is never too late to adapt healthy lifestyle behaviors. Groups of different generations may provide for some powerful discussion.Please let me know if you would be interested in having a presentation on any or all of the twelve topics listed above. &nbsp;They can be delivered all together or we can do one or two topics at a time.&nbsp;If individuals are interested we have fact sheets or I am available to visit.&nbsp;If you are interested in more information, please contact me. &nbsp;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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>

KOERNER: Keys to embracing aging

On this episode of the Post Podcast Cottonwood Extension District Family and Community Wellness agent, Monique Koerner shares information about the Keys to Aging program.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e72721bf-17fe-43d1-a428-8eb7c32185ff">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

On this episode of the Post Podcast Cottonwood Extension District Family and Community Wellness agent, Monique Koerner shares information about the Keys to Aging program.<div><iframe title="Cottonwood extension district offers tips for healthy aging" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=e57j2-12e9112-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e72721bf-17fe-43d1-a428-8eb7c32185ff">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Cottonwood extension district offers tips for healthy aging

As the calendar turns over to October it&nbsp;reminds me of&nbsp;Breast Cancer Awareness month&nbsp;and cooler weather!&nbsp;It is very likely that you or someone you know has been affected by breast cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 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. &nbsp;One in every four deaths is due to cancer. &nbsp;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. &nbsp;I know! &nbsp;Easier said than done. &nbsp;This is especially important as we get older. &nbsp;Two other choices that can help lower risk for breast cancer,&nbsp;as well as achieve a healthy weight,&nbsp;is to eat a diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables,&nbsp;and whole grains and get plenty of exercise. &nbsp;Avoiding alcohol or consuming one drink or less per day will also lower your risk of breast cancer.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sometimes making healthy choices can seem overwhelming, especially when life gets stressful. &nbsp;Start small and build on&nbsp;what you are able to accomplish. &nbsp;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&nbsp;and<a></a>&nbsp;those over age 50 are at increased risk, there are some things that younger&nbsp;women can do in addition to healthy lifestyle choices listed above. &nbsp;Having children and breastfeeding can help protect yourself from breast cancer. &nbsp;When women are pregnant and breastfeeding their&nbsp;hormone&nbsp;levels are&nbsp;different&nbsp;which can reduce risk of breast cancer later on in life. &nbsp;There is a dose response effect as well, the longer you breastfeed, the lower your risk&nbsp;of breast cancer. &nbsp;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. &nbsp;Remembering that there are benefits for you mom,&nbsp;may help you stay strong and not give up. &nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658934620122.png" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>As the calendar turns over to October it&nbsp;reminds me of&nbsp;Breast Cancer Awareness month&nbsp;and cooler weather!&nbsp;It is very likely that you or someone you know has been affected by breast cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 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. &nbsp;One in every four deaths is due to cancer. &nbsp;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. &nbsp;I know! &nbsp;Easier said than done. &nbsp;This is especially important as we get older. &nbsp;Two other choices that can help lower risk for breast cancer,&nbsp;as well as achieve a healthy weight,&nbsp;is to eat a diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables,&nbsp;and whole grains and get plenty of exercise. &nbsp;Avoiding alcohol or consuming one drink or less per day will also lower your risk of breast cancer.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sometimes making healthy choices can seem overwhelming, especially when life gets stressful. &nbsp;Start small and build on&nbsp;what you are able to accomplish. &nbsp;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&nbsp;and<a></a>&nbsp;those over age 50 are at increased risk, there are some things that younger&nbsp;women can do in addition to healthy lifestyle choices listed above. &nbsp;Having children and breastfeeding can help protect yourself from breast cancer. &nbsp;When women are pregnant and breastfeeding their&nbsp;hormone&nbsp;levels are&nbsp;different&nbsp;which can reduce risk of breast cancer later on in life. &nbsp;There is a dose response effect as well, the longer you breastfeed, the lower your risk&nbsp;of breast cancer. &nbsp;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. &nbsp;Remembering that there are benefits for you mom,&nbsp;may help you stay strong and not give up. &nbsp;Here at the Cottonwood Extension District we want to give you the education and tools to help you lead a better, healthier life. &nbsp;We have resources and tools to share with&nbsp;you. We are your partner to a healthier lifestyle.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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>

KOERNER: Breast cancer — lower your risk

Happy Fall! The past few mornings my bike commute has been so enjoyable. The cool crisp air reminds us that fall is here. In our world of Extension, October signals the beginning of a new program year. It is the perfect time to enroll kids in 4-H for the first time or re-enroll members through the online process.&nbsp;

Speaking of 4-H I want to remind you that we are looking for someone to join our team as the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Hays office. You can find more information about the application process on our Cottonwood Extension website. I hope you will share this information with someone who is passionate about working with youth in our area and encourage them to apply.&nbsp;

Since my retirement date is just four short months away, our Cottonwood District Board will be conducting a search for a District Director with community vitality programming responsibilities. That position description and application process will be advertised&nbsp;beginning October&nbsp;18th&nbsp;with interviews set for early December. The District Director serves as the administrative leader of the Cottonwood District’s budget and fiscal operations; personnel management of local staff; and overall program development and delivery.&nbsp;If you know someone with these skills encourage them to apply.&nbsp;

A couple of weeks ago I highlighted the upcoming open enrollment period for individuals with Medicare coverage. Appointments will be available in both our Great Bend and Hays offices, so just give me a call to set up a time. There is no charge for this service, and it really is a good idea to review your prescription drug plan each year. That way there are fewer surprises after the first of the year.&nbsp;

Another upcoming workshop that I will be leading&nbsp;is a&nbsp;ServSafe&nbsp;class&nbsp;for Food Handlers.&nbsp;This workshop is set for Wednesday, November 2nd, from 1:00 – 4:30 at the Great Bend office meeting room, 3007 10th&nbsp;Street. A $15 registration fee holds your spot and participants will receive an up-to-date manual and refreshments. Whether you are an occasional food handler at your churches’ soup supper, or you work in a food service-related job, this class is excellent. Participants will receive a certificate of completion to share with their employer.&nbsp;Class size is limited so call our office at (620)793-1910 to sign up.&nbsp;

Take a look&nbsp;at all of the upcoming activities in the Cottonwood District in our electronic newsletter on our website and on our&nbsp;FaceBook&nbsp;page and join us when you can!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Happy Fall! The past few mornings my bike commute has been so enjoyable. The cool crisp air reminds us that fall is here. In our world of Extension, October signals the beginning of a new program year. It is the perfect time to enroll kids in 4-H for the first time or re-enroll members through the online process.&nbsp;Speaking of 4-H I want to remind you that we are looking for someone to join our team as the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Hays office. You can find more information about the application process on our Cottonwood Extension website. I hope you will share this information with someone who is passionate about working with youth in our area and encourage them to apply.&nbsp;Since my retirement date is just four short months away, our Cottonwood District Board will be conducting a search for a District Director with community vitality programming responsibilities. That position description and application process will be advertised&nbsp;beginning October&nbsp;18th&nbsp;with interviews set for early December. The District Director serves as the administrative leader of the Cottonwood District’s budget and fiscal operations; personnel management of local staff; and overall program development and delivery.&nbsp;If you know someone with these skills encourage them to apply.&nbsp;A couple of weeks ago I highlighted the upcoming open enrollment period for individuals with Medicare coverage. Appointments will be available in both our Great Bend and Hays offices, so just give me a call to set up a time. There is no charge for this service, and it really is a good idea to review your prescription drug plan each year. That way there are fewer surprises after the first of the year.&nbsp;Another upcoming workshop that I will be leading&nbsp;is a&nbsp;ServSafe&nbsp;class&nbsp;for Food Handlers.&nbsp;This workshop is set for Wednesday, November 2nd, from 1:00 – 4:30 at the Great Bend office meeting room, 3007 10th&nbsp;Street. A $15 registration fee holds your spot and participants will receive an up-to-date manual and refreshments. Whether you are an occasional food handler at your churches’ soup supper, or you work in a food service-related job, this class is excellent. Participants will receive a certificate of completion to share with their employer.&nbsp;Class size is limited so call our office at (620)793-1910 to sign up.&nbsp;Take a look&nbsp;at all of the upcoming activities in the Cottonwood District in our electronic newsletter on our website and on our&nbsp;FaceBook&nbsp;page and join us when you can!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

KRUG: Fall Extension programming in full swing​

It is important to check corn and sorghum fields for stalk rot diseases prior to harvest. The two most common types of stalk rot in grain sorghum and corn are charcoal rot and Fusarium stalk rot. Both diseases are known to survive in crop residue and can survive in the soil for many years. Stalk rots have somewhat similar symptoms so it is useful to be able to tell them apart.

Even in fields where lodging has not yet occurred, producers should be prepared to deal with stalk rot issues, especially in drier years.&nbsp;Stalk rot can be more problematic in sorghum than in corn due to generally thinner stalks in sorghum.&nbsp;

Annual losses are difficult to determine because, unless lodging occurs, the disease mostly goes unnoticed. The best estimates are that at least 5% of the sorghum crop is lost each year to stalk rot. The incidence of stalk rot in individual fields may reach 90 to 100% with yield losses of 50%.&nbsp;

Symptoms generally appear several weeks after pollination when the plant appears to prematurely ripen. The leaves become dry, taking on a grayish-green appearance similar to frost injury. The stalk usually dies a few weeks later. Diseased stalks can be easily crushed when squeezed between the thumb and finger and are more susceptible to lodging during wind or rainstorms. The most characteristic symptom of stalk rot is the shredding of the internal tissue in the lowest internodes of the stalk, which can be observed when the stalk is split. This shredded tissue may be tan colored (Fusarium stalk rots); red or salmon, (Fusarium and&nbsp;Gibberella&nbsp;stalk rots); or grayish-black (charcoal rot).

General considerations&nbsp;- stalk rot is a stress-related disease. Any stress on a crop can increase both the incidence and severity of stalk rot. Research has indicated that when the carbohydrates used to fill the grain become unavailable due to nutrient shortage, drought stress, leaf damage from insects, hail, disease or reduced sunlight, the plant uses nitrogen and carbohydrate reserves stored in the stalk to complete grain fill.&nbsp;

Other than irrigation or rain, there is little that can be done to prevent stalk rot by late summer. No hybrid has complete immunity to the stalk rotting pathogens. When choosing a hybrid, a grower should select a hybrid that is not only a high yielder, but one that has good standability and “stay-green” characteristics. This will help assure that if stalk rot does occur, losses due to lodging&nbsp;can be reduced.&nbsp;A balanced nutrition program based on soil tests should be used. Overall fertility levels should be adjusted to fit the hybrid, plant population, soil type, environmental&nbsp;conditions and management program. An excess, as well as a shortage, of nitrogen can lead to increased stalk rot problems.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664199213239.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictIt is important to check corn and sorghum fields for stalk rot diseases prior to harvest. The two most common types of stalk rot in grain sorghum and corn are charcoal rot and Fusarium stalk rot. Both diseases are known to survive in crop residue and can survive in the soil for many years. Stalk rots have somewhat similar symptoms so it is useful to be able to tell them apart.Even in fields where lodging has not yet occurred, producers should be prepared to deal with stalk rot issues, especially in drier years.&nbsp;Stalk rot can be more problematic in sorghum than in corn due to generally thinner stalks in sorghum.&nbsp;Annual losses are difficult to determine because, unless lodging occurs, the disease mostly goes unnoticed. The best estimates are that at least 5% of the sorghum crop is lost each year to stalk rot. The incidence of stalk rot in individual fields may reach 90 to 100% with yield losses of 50%.&nbsp;Symptoms generally appear several weeks after pollination when the plant appears to prematurely ripen. The leaves become dry, taking on a grayish-green appearance similar to frost injury. The stalk usually dies a few weeks later. Diseased stalks can be easily crushed when squeezed between the thumb and finger and are more susceptible to lodging during wind or rainstorms. The most characteristic symptom of stalk rot is the shredding of the internal tissue in the lowest internodes of the stalk, which can be observed when the stalk is split. This shredded tissue may be tan colored (Fusarium stalk rots); red or salmon, (Fusarium and&nbsp;Gibberella&nbsp;stalk rots); or grayish-black (charcoal rot).General considerations&nbsp;- stalk rot is a stress-related disease. Any stress on a crop can increase both the incidence and severity of stalk rot. Research has indicated that when the carbohydrates used to fill the grain become unavailable due to nutrient shortage, drought stress, leaf damage from insects, hail, disease or reduced sunlight, the plant uses nitrogen and carbohydrate reserves stored in the stalk to complete grain fill.&nbsp;Other than irrigation or rain, there is little that can be done to prevent stalk rot by late summer. No hybrid has complete immunity to the stalk rotting pathogens. When choosing a hybrid, a grower should select a hybrid that is not only a high yielder, but one that has good standability and “stay-green” characteristics. This will help assure that if stalk rot does occur, losses due to lodging&nbsp;can be reduced.&nbsp;A balanced nutrition program based on soil tests should be used. Overall fertility levels should be adjusted to fit the hybrid, plant population, soil type, environmental&nbsp;conditions and management program. An excess, as well as a shortage, of nitrogen can lead to increased stalk rot problems.Producers can check their sorghum for stalk rots by squeezing the lower stem with their thumb and fingers. If the stalks crush easily, they are probably infected with one of the stalk rot organisms and may lodge at any time. Check 100 plants across the field to determine the percent of affected plants. If the percentage of stalk-rot-infected plants is high, sorghum should be harvested as soon as possible, even if it hasn’t dried down adequately in the field. If the stalks are firm, the plants will probably be able to stand just fine in the field for several more weeks.For more information, see “Stalk Rots of Corn and Sorghum,” K-State publication L-741, at:&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/</a>