One of my favorite 4-H events is scheduled for later this month! 4-H Club Day is a time for 4-H members to share their presentation skills in a variety of methods.

For our littlest 4-H members, we have Show and Share which is the start to communication skills as they talk to the judge for a few minutes about something they have done or made in 4-H.

Project Talks give younger 4-H members the opportunity to research and share about one of the 33 project areas that are available in Kansas 4-H.

Showing how to do something is a Demonstration and the youth provide a finished product as part of the step-by-step process.

An Illustrated Talk uses posters or other visual aids to show how to do something.

Older 4-H members can also compete in Public Speaking or Extemporaneous Speaking. Public Speaking can be based on any topic and needs to include sources for information. Public Speaking can use visual aids and these can be either a poster or a Power Point-type presentation. Extemporaneous Speaking is probably one of the hardest events and I’m always glad to see 4-H members challenge themselves. They draw three topics and decide which they will present on; they have 15 minutes to prepare and then present their speech. Both Public Speaking and Extemporaneous Speaking challenge youth to hone their research, organization, and overall communication skills. Talk about lessons for a lifetime!

Talking about your steer would be a project talk.&nbsp; Telling how to select a steer using a chart and identifying the points to consider would be an illustrated talk.&nbsp; Making a show halter would be a demonstration.&nbsp; Talking about the total beef industry would be a public speech.

We also offer opportunities for our 4-H members to showcase their piano, instrumental, vocal, and dramatic/comedic skills during 4-H Club Day. Having the opportunity to speak with and receive feedback from the judge is an important step in the learning process.&nbsp;

Application, Resume, and Interview or ARI is a great opportunity for 4-H youth to practice some very real-world skills! Prior to the contest, they complete an application and provide a resume which are provided to the judge. The judge then interviews them, similar to any job interview, and follows up with feedback based on all three parts of the activity.&nbsp;

Those 4-H members receiving top awards in most categories have the opportunity to compete at a Regional Club Day which will be held in March. Members receiving a Purple in Demonstrations, Illustrated Talks, Project Talks, and Readings are eligible to participate in these categories at the Kansas State Fair in September!

&nbsp;Due to our current circumstances, we’ve had to set aside a few important categories. These are Model Meetings, Gavel Games, and club skits. Model meeting is exactly what it sounds like; the 4-H club works together to show their parliamentary skills for a judge. Gavel Games gives a smaller group of youth an opportunity to show their parliamentary skills through a written test and the business portion of a meeting. Many clubs will work together to present a skit. All of these are great group activities that demonstrate planning, communication skills, and teamwork.&nbsp;

I wish that I could invite all of you to attend but we’ll save that for another year when we can get together in person to celebrate growth and learning by our youth! If you know a 4-H member, ask them how they are participating at 4-H Club Day.

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call 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.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>One of my favorite 4-H events is scheduled for later this month! 4-H Club Day is a time for 4-H members to share their presentation skills in a variety of methods.For our littlest 4-H members, we have Show and Share which is the start to communication skills as they talk to the judge for a few minutes about something they have done or made in 4-H.Project Talks give younger 4-H members the opportunity to research and share about one of the 33 project areas that are available in Kansas 4-H.Showing how to do something is a Demonstration and the youth provide a finished product as part of the step-by-step process.An Illustrated Talk uses posters or other visual aids to show how to do something.Older 4-H members can also compete in Public Speaking or Extemporaneous Speaking. Public Speaking can be based on any topic and needs to include sources for information. Public Speaking can use visual aids and these can be either a poster or a Power Point-type presentation. Extemporaneous Speaking is probably one of the hardest events and I’m always glad to see 4-H members challenge themselves. They draw three topics and decide which they will present on; they have 15 minutes to prepare and then present their speech. Both Public Speaking and Extemporaneous Speaking challenge youth to hone their research, organization, and overall communication skills. Talk about lessons for a lifetime!Talking about your steer would be a project talk.&nbsp; Telling how to select a steer using a chart and identifying the points to consider would be an illustrated talk.&nbsp; Making a show halter would be a demonstration.&nbsp; Talking about the total beef industry would be a public speech.We also offer opportunities for our 4-H members to showcase their piano, instrumental, vocal, and dramatic/comedic skills during 4-H Club Day. Having the opportunity to speak with and receive feedback from the judge is an important step in the learning process.&nbsp;Application, Resume, and Interview or ARI is a great opportunity for 4-H youth to practice some very real-world skills! Prior to the contest, they complete an application and provide a resume which are provided to the judge. The judge then interviews them, similar to any job interview, and follows up with feedback based on all three parts of the activity.&nbsp;Those 4-H members receiving top awards in most categories have the opportunity to compete at a Regional Club Day which will be held in March. Members receiving a Purple in Demonstrations, Illustrated Talks, Project Talks, and Readings are eligible to participate in these categories at the Kansas State Fair in September!&nbsp;Due to our current circumstances, we’ve had to set aside a few important categories. These are Model Meetings, Gavel Games, and club skits. Model meeting is exactly what it sounds like; the 4-H club works together to show their parliamentary skills for a judge. Gavel Games gives a smaller group of youth an opportunity to show their parliamentary skills through a written test and the business portion of a meeting. Many clubs will work together to present a skit. All of these are great group activities that demonstrate planning, communication skills, and teamwork.&nbsp;I wish that I could invite all of you to attend but we’ll save that for another year when we can get together in person to celebrate growth and learning by our youth! If you know a 4-H member, ask them how they are participating at 4-H Club Day.Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.

BERAN: 4-H Club Day

A family who practices good communication skills will become a strong, resilient family. It takes practice to develop good communication skills but the benefits are immense. During times of stress and anxiety, it takes patience to be warm and respectful. If positive, respectful communication is practiced it will become a habit.

Family communication is very important and it will determine how well-adjusted and satisfying family life is. “Basic Communication Skills” is an important section of K-State’s Essential Living Skills curriculum. The entire publication can be downloaded at&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/S134E.pdf">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/S134E.pdf</a>&nbsp;There are communication activities so family members can practice sharing their thoughts. In today’s world it is important that there is family discussion about what is happening and how it affects family members.&nbsp;

In addition to teaching children to share how they are feeling, it is also important to teach them to listen. Sometimes as we listen to what a person is saying, we start to think ahead to how we plan to respond. As parents it is so important to take the time to truly listen to what your children have to say. Children need to know that they have someone to trust and someone to listen to them. Ask questions to clarify and let the child know that that you understand. Effective listening does not mean that we agree with what is being said but it is important to be respectful.

Think about the way that you speak to your children. The way we talk can either build up or tear down their self-worth. When others treat us kindly and respectfully, we feel valued and our self-esteem grows. When we treat others negatively, we feel worthless and our self-concept suffers.

&nbsp;The Basic Communication Skills publication outlines how to use “I-messages” instead of “you-messages”. “You-messages” tend to sound blaming and the response might be anger and communication will shut down. An “I-message” has three parts: “When… (state the unacceptable behavior), I feel … (express feeling or behavior) because (describe the effect of the behavior).”&nbsp; An example would be “When I have to make supper without any help, I feel frustrated because I don’t have any extra time to spend with the kids.”

If all family members work on their communication skills, you will be amazed at the positive changes you will see in the family relationships.&nbsp;

Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;&nbsp;She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>A family who practices good communication skills will become a strong, resilient family. It takes practice to develop good communication skills but the benefits are immense. During times of stress and anxiety, it takes patience to be warm and respectful. If positive, respectful communication is practiced it will become a habit.Family communication is very important and it will determine how well-adjusted and satisfying family life is. “Basic Communication Skills” is an important section of K-State’s Essential Living Skills curriculum. The entire publication can be downloaded at&nbsp;<a href="https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/S134E.pdf">https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/S134E.pdf</a>&nbsp;There are communication activities so family members can practice sharing their thoughts. In today’s world it is important that there is family discussion about what is happening and how it affects family members.&nbsp;In addition to teaching children to share how they are feeling, it is also important to teach them to listen. Sometimes as we listen to what a person is saying, we start to think ahead to how we plan to respond. As parents it is so important to take the time to truly listen to what your children have to say. Children need to know that they have someone to trust and someone to listen to them. Ask questions to clarify and let the child know that that you understand. Effective listening does not mean that we agree with what is being said but it is important to be respectful.Think about the way that you speak to your children. The way we talk can either build up or tear down their self-worth. When others treat us kindly and respectfully, we feel valued and our self-esteem grows. When we treat others negatively, we feel worthless and our self-concept suffers.&nbsp;The Basic Communication Skills publication outlines how to use “I-messages” instead of “you-messages”. “You-messages” tend to sound blaming and the response might be anger and communication will shut down. An “I-message” has three parts: “When… (state the unacceptable behavior), I feel … (express feeling or behavior) because (describe the effect of the behavior).”&nbsp; An example would be “When I have to make supper without any help, I feel frustrated because I don’t have any extra time to spend with the kids.”If all family members work on their communication skills, you will be amazed at the positive changes you will see in the family relationships.&nbsp;Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;&nbsp;She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: Be a good communicator

Everyone knows that someone stranded in the ocean should not drink the water. The salt content of that water will make a bad situation worse. &nbsp;What many people don’t realize is that this same principle can harm plants. Fertilizers are salts or are converted to salts before plant take-up. They must be salts in order for the plant roots to absorb them. &nbsp;However, salt levels can build up over time and eventually may harm plant roots leading to scorched leaves and unhealthy plants. Though this can happen under field conditions, especially in low rainfall areas, it is particularly critical with houseplants. Houseplants have a certain soil volume that doesn’t change until a plant is repotted. Salt build-up can be a crucial concern especially if the houseplants are fertilized so heavily that the plants can’t use all the nutrients and fertilizer salts build-up. &nbsp;This is especially common in winter when houseplants do not use much fertilizer due to low levels of light.​Leaching an overabundance of salts can be an important practice to ensure the health of our houseplants.

Leaching is not a complicated or difficult process. It consists of adding enough water to wash out excess salts.How much water is enough? Add the amount of water that would equal twice the volume of the pot. This, of course, would need to be done outside or in a bathtub or sink. Water must be added slowly so that it doesn’t overflow the rim of the pot. If salt has formed a crust on the surface of the soil, remove it but don’t take more than 1/4 inch of the underlying media. This may also be a good time to repot the plant. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Everyone knows that someone stranded in the ocean should not drink the water. The salt content of that water will make a bad situation worse. &nbsp;What many people don’t realize is that this same principle can harm plants. Fertilizers are salts or are converted to salts before plant take-up. They must be salts in order for the plant roots to absorb them. &nbsp;However, salt levels can build up over time and eventually may harm plant roots leading to scorched leaves and unhealthy plants. Though this can happen under field conditions, especially in low rainfall areas, it is particularly critical with houseplants. Houseplants have a certain soil volume that doesn’t change until a plant is repotted. Salt build-up can be a crucial concern especially if the houseplants are fertilized so heavily that the plants can’t use all the nutrients and fertilizer salts build-up. &nbsp;This is especially common in winter when houseplants do not use much fertilizer due to low levels of light.​Leaching an overabundance of salts can be an important practice to ensure the health of our houseplants. Leaching is not a complicated or difficult process. It consists of adding enough water to wash out excess salts.How much water is enough? Add the amount of water that would equal twice the volume of the pot. This, of course, would need to be done outside or in a bathtub or sink. Water must be added slowly so that it doesn’t overflow the rim of the pot. If salt has formed a crust on the surface of the soil, remove it but don’t take more than 1/4 inch of the underlying media. This may also be a good time to repot the plant. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Leaching houseplants 

A Kansas State University beef cattle specialist is urging the state’s producers to continue monitoring their cattle’s condition, especially during periods when Mother Nature sends her winter chill.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Justin Waggoner, a beef systems specialist with K-State Research and Extension, said producers are often ready to deal with heat stress during the summer, but cold stress during the latter stages of winter can also be challenging.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Cattle are very robust creatures; they are able to withstand a wide range of temperatures,” Waggoner said. “But January and February are often our most extreme temperatures in Kansas, and that can certainly have an impact on cattle.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Cattle are most comfortable when they are in what is known as the thermoneutral zone, a range of temperatures where they are not experiencing cold or heat stress. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Waggoner said a cow’s condition going into a cold period will effect how the animal can withstand stress.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“If we have a cow that is in good condition, she is going to be able to withstand colder temperatures better than a cow that is exceptionally thin,” he said. “If we take a cow that is in good condition and has had adequate time to grow that winter hair coat, that animal can withstand some fairly cold temperatures. Typically, they won’t experience cold stress until the ambient temperature (the ‘real-feel’ temperature) reaches 18 degrees Fahrenheit.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rain, snow and wind complicate the situation, Waggoner added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“When you wet that hair down, it reduces its ability to trap air and insulate the cow,” he said. “With a wet coat, a cow can experience cold stress even at 60 degrees F.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Waggoner said cold stress increases the cow’s energy requirement -- not protein which is a common misconception. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“One thing we see producers do when we get a cold weather event is they roll out hay,” Waggoner said. “What I recommend is utilizing hay that is slightly better quality than the forage those cattle currently are grazing. For example, if they had been turned out on milo or corn stalks, then a moderate quality grass hay will be higher quality than those stalks they were on.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Waggoner also suggested other high quality forages, such as alfalfa, may be used as a supplement. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“In some regions of the country, it’s not uncommon for producers to use concentrates such as corn or byproducts as supplements during the winter. Producers might add 1 to 2 pounds of corn or byproduct feedstuffs under conditions of a storm front, in combination with some of the other things I’ve mentioned.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Daily updates on weather conditions – including an animal comfort index – is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Mesonet</a>. That site allows producers to find conditions specific to their location.&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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>A Kansas State University beef cattle specialist is urging the state’s producers to continue monitoring their cattle’s condition, especially during periods when Mother Nature sends her winter chill.&nbsp;&nbsp;Justin Waggoner, a beef systems specialist with K-State Research and Extension, said producers are often ready to deal with heat stress during the summer, but cold stress during the latter stages of winter can also be challenging.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Cattle are very robust creatures; they are able to withstand a wide range of temperatures,” Waggoner said. “But January and February are often our most extreme temperatures in Kansas, and that can certainly have an impact on cattle.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Cattle are most comfortable when they are in what is known as the thermoneutral zone, a range of temperatures where they are not experiencing cold or heat stress. &nbsp;&nbsp;Waggoner said a cow’s condition going into a cold period will effect how the animal can withstand stress.&nbsp;&nbsp;“If we have a cow that is in good condition, she is going to be able to withstand colder temperatures better than a cow that is exceptionally thin,” he said. “If we take a cow that is in good condition and has had adequate time to grow that winter hair coat, that animal can withstand some fairly cold temperatures. Typically, they won’t experience cold stress until the ambient temperature (the ‘real-feel’ temperature) reaches 18 degrees Fahrenheit.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Rain, snow and wind complicate the situation, Waggoner added.&nbsp;&nbsp;“When you wet that hair down, it reduces its ability to trap air and insulate the cow,” he said. “With a wet coat, a cow can experience cold stress even at 60 degrees F.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Waggoner said cold stress increases the cow’s energy requirement -- not protein which is a common misconception. &nbsp;&nbsp;“One thing we see producers do when we get a cold weather event is they roll out hay,” Waggoner said. “What I recommend is utilizing hay that is slightly better quality than the forage those cattle currently are grazing. For example, if they had been turned out on milo or corn stalks, then a moderate quality grass hay will be higher quality than those stalks they were on.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Waggoner also suggested other high quality forages, such as alfalfa, may be used as a supplement. &nbsp;&nbsp;“In some regions of the country, it’s not uncommon for producers to use concentrates such as corn or byproducts as supplements during the winter. Producers might add 1 to 2 pounds of corn or byproduct feedstuffs under conditions of a storm front, in combination with some of the other things I’ve mentioned.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Daily updates on weather conditions – including an animal comfort index – is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/" target="_blank">Kansas Mesonet</a>. That site allows producers to find conditions specific to their location.&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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910&nbsp;

BOOR: Monitor livestock during cold spells

With snow and ice still covering the ground it’s hard to believe that vegetable gardeners are beginning to plan for another growing season. We have hosted successful farmer’s market vendor workshops in the past in the Cottonwood Extension District. This year the Kansas Department of Agriculture and K-State Research and Extension will go virtual with these workshops. Mark your calendars for February 16–19 and register for these learning opportunities designed to assist farmers’ market vendors and managers, and also for those wanting to sell food products directly to consumers.Oh, hey, a reminder, c The workshop series includes three on-line Lunch and Learn sessions, followed by a half-day virtual workshop.

“Over the past year, we’ve seen an increase in people’s enthusiasm for locally sourced food, and these workshops will address common questions and concerns for farmers and small businesses who are embracing these opportunities to reach local consumers,” said Londa Nwadike, food safety specialist with K-State Research and Extension (KSRE) and the University of Missouri. “It’s also important for farmers to understand certain legal, safety and financial parameters before choosing to sell either directly to the consumer or at a farmers’ market.” In 2020, 76 farmers’ markets were registered with KDA’s Central Registration of Farmers’ Markets.

Dates and topics for each Lunch and Learn online session are as follows:

Tuesday, February 16, 2021, noon to 1 p.m.:&nbsp;Food Safety for Value-Added Food Products

Wednesday, February 17, 2021, noon to 1 p.m.:&nbsp;Meat and Poultry Regulations

Thursday, February 18, 2021, noon to 1 p.m.:&nbsp;Taxation and Accepting EBT/SNAP

The half-day virtual workshop on&nbsp;Friday, February 19, 2021, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.&nbsp;will cover topics such as COVID-19 related changes, Double Up Food Bucks program, Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program,&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;program, and resources available from KSRE. Keynote speaker Michael Kilpatrick of the Thriving Farmer podcast will also discuss marketing tips for direct-to-consumer sales.

KDA’s weights and measures program will offer free scale certification with a paid registration to an online workshop. A date for this scale certification will be announced soon at our Hays office, 601 Main.&nbsp;

Registration for the February virtual workshops is now open. The cost is $5 per participant. Register at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fromthelandofkansas.com/FMworkshop">FromtheLandofKansas.com/FMworkshop</a>.

For more information, contact Robin Blume, KDA’s education and events coordinator, at 785-564-6756 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:robin.blume@ks.gov">Robin.Blume@ks.gov</a>. The workshops are funded by the Kansas Center for Sustainable Agriculture and Alternative Crops, the Kansas Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program, and the Kansas Department of Agriculture.

KDA is committed to providing an environment that enhances and encourages economic growth of the agriculture industry and the Kansas economy. Kansas farmers’ markets not only provide a fresh food source, but also stimulate the local economy. The Kansas Ag Growth Strategy has identified training for small companies via workshops as a key growth outcome for the specialty crop sector. The farmers’ market/direct-to-consumer workshops will provide education through partnerships to help make Kansas farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses more successful.

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <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 in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>With snow and ice still covering the ground it’s hard to believe that vegetable gardeners are beginning to plan for another growing season. We have hosted successful farmer’s market vendor workshops in the past in the Cottonwood Extension District. This year the Kansas Department of Agriculture and K-State Research and Extension will go virtual with these workshops. Mark your calendars for February 16–19 and register for these learning opportunities designed to assist farmers’ market vendors and managers, and also for those wanting to sell food products directly to consumers.Oh, hey, a reminder, c The workshop series includes three on-line Lunch and Learn sessions, followed by a half-day virtual workshop.“Over the past year, we’ve seen an increase in people’s enthusiasm for locally sourced food, and these workshops will address common questions and concerns for farmers and small businesses who are embracing these opportunities to reach local consumers,” said Londa Nwadike, food safety specialist with K-State Research and Extension (KSRE) and the University of Missouri. “It’s also important for farmers to understand certain legal, safety and financial parameters before choosing to sell either directly to the consumer or at a farmers’ market.” In 2020, 76 farmers’ markets were registered with KDA’s Central Registration of Farmers’ Markets.Dates and topics for each Lunch and Learn online session are as follows:Tuesday, February 16, 2021, noon to 1 p.m.:&nbsp;Food Safety for Value-Added Food ProductsWednesday, February 17, 2021, noon to 1 p.m.:&nbsp;Meat and Poultry RegulationsThursday, February 18, 2021, noon to 1 p.m.:&nbsp;Taxation and Accepting EBT/SNAPThe half-day virtual workshop on&nbsp;Friday, February 19, 2021, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.&nbsp;will cover topics such as COVID-19 related changes, Double Up Food Bucks program, Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program,&nbsp;From the Land of Kansas&nbsp;program, and resources available from KSRE. Keynote speaker Michael Kilpatrick of the Thriving Farmer podcast will also discuss marketing tips for direct-to-consumer sales.KDA’s weights and measures program will offer free scale certification with a paid registration to an online workshop. A date for this scale certification will be announced soon at our Hays office, 601 Main.&nbsp;Registration for the February virtual workshops is now open. The cost is $5 per participant. Register at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.fromthelandofkansas.com/FMworkshop">FromtheLandofKansas.com/FMworkshop</a>.For more information, contact Robin Blume, KDA’s education and events coordinator, at 785-564-6756 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:robin.blume@ks.gov">Robin.Blume@ks.gov</a>. The workshops are funded by the Kansas Center for Sustainable Agriculture and Alternative Crops, the Kansas Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program, and the Kansas Department of Agriculture.KDA is committed to providing an environment that enhances and encourages economic growth of the agriculture industry and the Kansas economy. Kansas farmers’ markets not only provide a fresh food source, but also stimulate the local economy. The Kansas Ag Growth Strategy has identified training for small companies via workshops as a key growth outcome for the specialty crop sector. The farmers’ market/direct-to-consumer workshops will provide education through partnerships to help make Kansas farmers, ranchers and agribusinesses more successful.Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Virtual workshops set to assist farmer’s market vendors

During one of our training zooms we were asked “What do our young people need from adults?” The list to choose from included: structure, empathy, rules and consequences, curiosity/learning, someone to listen and a couple of other answers? The presenter reminded us there was no incorrect answer. The majority of the participants on the zoom responded that young people need curiosity/learning and someone to listen. Over the last ten months I have heard many discussions of what is needed to help our kids build resiliency skills and it is difficult to pinpoint just one thing.

One source that I encourage parents to search for is “Family Engagement 4H1749F” a publication from Michigan State University. The first activity in the booklet is “Building Encouragement”. The author shares “Social emotional health is a critical component of health development for young children. Social emotional development includes the ability to identify and label or name emotions, and find appropriate ways to express or manage those emotions.”

There are many things that your child does well each day. Recognize the good things that they do and point out what exactly they did right. For example: “I noticed that you hung up your coat and put your boots away!” Look the child in the eye and talk to them on their level. Compliment them often and encourage them often. Be careful about trying to teach them a lesson. “I noticed you helped your brother but you did not put your shoes away like I asked”. Avoid the “but”! The author of “Building Encouragement” suggests, “You helped your brother find his shoes. Let’s see if we can find yours together.”&nbsp;

Parenting is one of the most difficult jobs I ever got myself into! I feel like I am still learning and my youngest is now 25 years old. I know that our children still need encouragement. Start when they are young and build a relationship with them so they know they can come to you no matter what the situation is. Every child has their strengths. Work to build on those strengths and over time they will build the resilience to face what the world throws at them.&nbsp;

This sounds easy and I realize it is not so simple. Parents need support, so find a group of strong parents who will support you in this very important job. Encourage each other and build each other up so you are prepared for your parenting challenges.&nbsp;

Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>During one of our training zooms we were asked “What do our young people need from adults?” The list to choose from included: structure, empathy, rules and consequences, curiosity/learning, someone to listen and a couple of other answers? The presenter reminded us there was no incorrect answer. The majority of the participants on the zoom responded that young people need curiosity/learning and someone to listen. Over the last ten months I have heard many discussions of what is needed to help our kids build resiliency skills and it is difficult to pinpoint just one thing.One source that I encourage parents to search for is “Family Engagement 4H1749F” a publication from Michigan State University. The first activity in the booklet is “Building Encouragement”. The author shares “Social emotional health is a critical component of health development for young children. Social emotional development includes the ability to identify and label or name emotions, and find appropriate ways to express or manage those emotions.”There are many things that your child does well each day. Recognize the good things that they do and point out what exactly they did right. For example: “I noticed that you hung up your coat and put your boots away!” Look the child in the eye and talk to them on their level. Compliment them often and encourage them often. Be careful about trying to teach them a lesson. “I noticed you helped your brother but you did not put your shoes away like I asked”. Avoid the “but”! The author of “Building Encouragement” suggests, “You helped your brother find his shoes. Let’s see if we can find yours together.”&nbsp;Parenting is one of the most difficult jobs I ever got myself into! I feel like I am still learning and my youngest is now 25 years old. I know that our children still need encouragement. Start when they are young and build a relationship with them so they know they can come to you no matter what the situation is. Every child has their strengths. Work to build on those strengths and over time they will build the resilience to face what the world throws at them.&nbsp;This sounds easy and I realize it is not so simple. Parents need support, so find a group of strong parents who will support you in this very important job. Encourage each other and build each other up so you are prepared for your parenting challenges.&nbsp;	Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: Be an encourager

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

NC and NW Extension Districts and counties of K-State Research and Extension are hosting an ONLINE agronomy series, “Crop Talk”, slated to begin Tuesday, February 2 through Tuesday, March 9, which will highlight several topics important to crop producers.&nbsp; These will be on Tuesdays with some Wednesdays as well, and each session will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. CST.

Planned topics of discussion include soil fertility for the 2021 growing season, weed management, corn and sorghum insects along with dryland corn dynamics and alfalfa management. There will also be time for questions between Kansas crop producers and extension specialists.

Register ONLINE at <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a> or call the Cottonwood Extension District at 785-628-9430. Once you register, a link to the ONLINE sessions will be emailed to you.

The ONLINE or virtual meetings include the following schedule:

For more information about the ONLINE KSU Extension NW and NC Agronomy Series, contact your local Extension Office or Cottonwood District 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictNC and NW Extension Districts and counties of K-State Research and Extension are hosting an ONLINE agronomy series, “Crop Talk”, slated to begin Tuesday, February 2 through Tuesday, March 9, which will highlight several topics important to crop producers.&nbsp; These will be on Tuesdays with some Wednesdays as well, and each session will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. CST.Planned topics of discussion include soil fertility for the 2021 growing season, weed management, corn and sorghum insects along with dryland corn dynamics and alfalfa management. There will also be time for questions between Kansas crop producers and extension specialists.Register ONLINE at <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a> or call the Cottonwood Extension District at 785-628-9430. Once you register, a link to the ONLINE sessions will be emailed to you.Optional to use:The ONLINE or virtual meetings include the following schedule:<ol>
 <li>Soil Fertility question from Growers for the 2021 season</li>
 </ol>-February 2: NW focus-February 3: NC focus<ol>
 <li>Weed Management and that pesky Palmer Amaranth (pigweed)</li>
 </ol>-February 9: NW focus-February 10: NC focus<ol>
 <li>Corn Insect Resistance: Rootworm and Western Bean Cutworm</li>
 </ol>-February 16<ol>
 <li>Grain Sorghum Weed Control: Start clean…..Stay clean!</li>
 </ol>-February 23<ol>
 <li>Sorghum Insects: Aphids, Headworms and Chinch bugs…..Oh my!</li>
 </ol>-February 24<ol>
 <li>Alfalfa Management for Insects and Adverse weather</li>
 </ol>-March 2<ol>
 <li>Dryland Corn Dynamics</li>
 </ol>-March 9For more information about the ONLINE KSU Extension NW and NC Agronomy Series, contact your local Extension Office or Cottonwood District 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: New Extension series 'Crop Talk' begins in February

Severe winter weather is not only hard on people but can be a life and death struggle for birds. Though birds also require water and shelter, food is often the resource most lacking during cold weather. Many different bird food mixes are available because various species often prefer different grains. However, there is one seed that has more universal appeal than any other: black oil sunflower. If you are new to the bird-feeding game, make sure there is a high percentage of this seed in your mix. White proso millet is second in popularity and is the favorite of dark-eyed juncos and other sparrows as well as the red-winged blackbird. As you become more interested in bird feeding, you may want to use more than one feeder to attract specific species of birds. Following is a list of bird species with the grains they prefer.&nbsp;

• Cardinal, evening grosbeak, and most finch species – sunflower seeds, all types. • Rufous-sided towhee – white proso millet. • Dark-eyed junco – white and red proso millet, canary seed, finely cracked corn. • Many sparrow species – white and red proso millet. • Bluejay – peanut kernels and sunflower seeds of all types. • Chickadee and tufted titmouse – peanut kernels, oil (black), and black-striped sunflower seeds. • Red-breasted nuthatch – oil (black) and black-striped sunflower seeds. • Brown thrasher – hulled and black-striped sunflower seeds. • Red-winged blackbird – white and red proso millet plus German (golden) millet. • Mourning dove – oil (black) sunflower seeds, white and red proso plus German (golden)millet.

Extended cold periods can also make water unavailable. A heated birdbath can be a tremendous draw for birds during times when all other water is frozen. Energy use is usually less than what most people expect IF the heater has a built-in thermostat. If you would like more information, Chuck Otte, Agriculture Extension Agent for Geary County has a series of backyard birding guides at<a href="http://gearycountyextension.com/NRMW.htm">http://gearycountyextension.com/NRMW.htm</a>

Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Severe winter weather is not only hard on people but can be a life and death struggle for birds. Though birds also require water and shelter, food is often the resource most lacking during cold weather. Many different bird food mixes are available because various species often prefer different grains. However, there is one seed that has more universal appeal than any other: black oil sunflower. If you are new to the bird-feeding game, make sure there is a high percentage of this seed in your mix. White proso millet is second in popularity and is the favorite of dark-eyed juncos and other sparrows as well as the red-winged blackbird. As you become more interested in bird feeding, you may want to use more than one feeder to attract specific species of birds. Following is a list of bird species with the grains they prefer.&nbsp;• Cardinal, evening grosbeak, and most finch species – sunflower seeds, all types. • Rufous-sided towhee – white proso millet. • Dark-eyed junco – white and red proso millet, canary seed, finely cracked corn. • Many sparrow species – white and red proso millet. • Bluejay – peanut kernels and sunflower seeds of all types. • Chickadee and tufted titmouse – peanut kernels, oil (black), and black-striped sunflower seeds. • Red-breasted nuthatch – oil (black) and black-striped sunflower seeds. • Brown thrasher – hulled and black-striped sunflower seeds. • Red-winged blackbird – white and red proso millet plus German (golden) millet. • Mourning dove – oil (black) sunflower seeds, white and red proso plus German (golden)millet.Extended cold periods can also make water unavailable. A heated birdbath can be a tremendous draw for birds during times when all other water is frozen. Energy use is usually less than what most people expect IF the heater has a built-in thermostat. If you would like more information, Chuck Otte, Agriculture Extension Agent for Geary County has a series of backyard birding guides at<a href="http://gearycountyextension.com/NRMW.htm">http://gearycountyextension.com/NRMW.htm</a> Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Bird feeding

Northcentral and northwest extension districts and counties of K-State Research and Extension (KSRE) are hosting an ONLINE agronomy series, “Crop Talk,” slated to begin Tuesday, February 2 through Tuesday, March 9, which will highlight several topics important to crop producers. 

These will be on Tuesdays, with some Wednesdays, and each session will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. CST.

Planned topics of discussion include soil fertility for the 2021 growing season, weed management, corn and sorghum insects along with dryland corn dynamics and alfalfa management. There will also be time for questions between Kansas crop producers and extension specialists. 

Register online at <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a> or call the Cottonwood Extension District in Hays at 785-628-9430. Once you register, a link to the online sessions will be emailed to you.

1. Soil Fertility question from Growers for the 2021 season -February 2: NW focus -February 3: NC focus

2. Weed Management and that pesky Palmer Amaranth (pigweed) -February 9: NW focus -February 10: NC focus

3. Corn Insect Resistance: Rootworm and Western Bean Cutworm -February 16

4. Grain Sorghum Weed Control: Start clean…..Stay clean! -February 23

5. Sorghum Insects: Aphids, Headworms and Chinch bugs…..Oh my! -February 24

6. Alfalfa Management for Insects and Adverse weather -March 2

7. Dryland Corn Dynamics -March 9

For more information about this agronomy series, contact your local Extension Office or Cottonwood District 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579146636611.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Northcentral and northwest extension districts and counties of K-State Research and Extension (KSRE) are hosting an ONLINE agronomy series, “Crop Talk,” slated to begin Tuesday, February 2 through Tuesday, March 9, which will highlight several topics important to crop producers. These will be on Tuesdays, with some Wednesdays, and each session will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. CST.Planned topics of discussion include soil fertility for the 2021 growing season, weed management, corn and sorghum insects along with dryland corn dynamics and alfalfa management. There will also be time for questions between Kansas crop producers and extension specialists. Register online at <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a> or call the Cottonwood Extension District in Hays at 785-628-9430. Once you register, a link to the online sessions will be emailed to you.The ONLINE or virtual meetings include the following schedule:1. Soil Fertility question from Growers for the 2021 season -February 2: NW focus -February 3: NC focus2. Weed Management and that pesky Palmer Amaranth (pigweed) -February 9: NW focus -February 10: NC focus3. Corn Insect Resistance: Rootworm and Western Bean Cutworm -February 164. Grain Sorghum Weed Control: Start clean…..Stay clean! -February 235. Sorghum Insects: Aphids, Headworms and Chinch bugs…..Oh my! -February 246. Alfalfa Management for Insects and Adverse weather -March 27. Dryland Corn Dynamics -March 9For more information about this agronomy series, contact your local Extension Office or Cottonwood District 785-628-9430.

Online 'Crop Talk' series offered by KSRE; registration underway

	I am fascinated by how the brain works and I try to read all the latest books on the subject. We are supposed to get wiser with age, but I have learned that is not always the case. However, studies show that there are some things we can do to improve our mental function. One very important component to a healthy brain is better nutrition. In addition, getting enough sleep and exercising will add brain power. &nbsp;

	The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has identified four types of food that specifically help boost our brain power:

Nutrition plays a major role in brain development. Plan your meals carefully and add brain-rich foods to your plate each day. Eatright.org is an excellent website for additional information on health, nutrition and fitness.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>	I am fascinated by how the brain works and I try to read all the latest books on the subject. We are supposed to get wiser with age, but I have learned that is not always the case. However, studies show that there are some things we can do to improve our mental function. One very important component to a healthy brain is better nutrition. In addition, getting enough sleep and exercising will add brain power. &nbsp;	The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has identified four types of food that specifically help boost our brain power:<ul>
 <li>Vegetables 
Getting adequate veggie-intake, especially cruciferous ones including broccoli, cabbage and dark leafy greens, may help improve memory. Include kale in your salad or substitute collard greens for a tortilla in your next sandwich wrap. Broccoli stir-fry also is an excellent option for lunch or dinner.</li><li>Berries 
Dark berries especially, such as blackberries, blueberries and cherries — are a rich source of anthocyanins and other flavonoids that may boost memory function. Enjoy a handful of berries for a snack, mixed into cereal or baked into an antioxidant-rich dessert. You can reap these benefits from fresh, frozen or dried berries and cherries.</li><li>Omega-3 fatty acids 
Essential for good brain health, omega-3 fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA, in particular, may help improve memory in healthy young adults. Seafood, algae and fatty fish — including salmon, bluefin tuna, sardines and herring — are some of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Substitute fish for meat a couple times each week to get a healthy dose. Grill, bake or broil fish for ultimate flavor and nutrition. If you don't normally eat fish, discuss other food options and supplementation with your doctor or registered dietitian nutritionist. You can get omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, seaweed or microalgae supplements.</li><li>Walnuts 
Walnuts also may improve cognitive function. Snack on a handful of walnuts to satisfy midday hunger, add them to oatmeal or a salad for crunch or mix them into a vegetable stir-fry for extra protein.</li>
 </ul>Nutrition plays a major role in brain development. Plan your meals carefully and add brain-rich foods to your plate each day. Eatright.org is an excellent website for additional information on health, nutrition and fitness.	Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: Food for a better brain

	The agent who mentored me over 30 years ago developed a worksheet titled “Does Your Money Have Wings?”&nbsp; Whenever I pull it out to share with an individual or group I think about the many choices we make every day that cost money. Paying closer attention to whether the item is a want or a need could be helpful as families in today’s world are challenged to make ends meet.

So many news stories these days are centered on the difficulty families across the country are having that are related to money. From home foreclosures to longer than usual lines waiting for public assistance, it is easy to see that the effects of economic problems are everywhere you turn. The good news is K-State Research and Extension has many publications that can guide people through some hard times.

	The “Does Your Money Have Wings?” worksheet has around 25 items listed that money could be spent on. Things like eating out, cell phone charges, snacks and soda, or magazine subscriptions are among the choices. After the participants mark the ones they use they determine how much money is spent each year for each item. Many times, I will hear a gasp from a participant. Then I know that the activity is working; raising their awareness about how money is being spent. My goal is to help participants see the amount of money that is spent on “extras” each year. I like to ask them about what needs they have in their life that they could use the money spent on “extras” for.

	Feel free to call me or drop by the Extension office to pick up your copy of the worksheet. Some of the budgeting materials are available in Spanish as well. Other publications which are also helpful in the area of money management include a four-part series titled, “Making Ends Meet.” If you have children ages 3 – 14 the publication “Helping Children Learn to Manage Money” is well done. All of the publications I have listed are available free of charge. Get your year off to a great start by getting your spending under control.

Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer 
Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her 
at: (620)793-1910 or <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 the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>	The agent who mentored me over 30 years ago developed a worksheet titled “Does Your Money Have Wings?”&nbsp; Whenever I pull it out to share with an individual or group I think about the many choices we make every day that cost money. Paying closer attention to whether the item is a want or a need could be helpful as families in today’s world are challenged to make ends meet.So many news stories these days are centered on the difficulty families across the country are having that are related to money. From home foreclosures to longer than usual lines waiting for public assistance, it is easy to see that the effects of economic problems are everywhere you turn. The good news is K-State Research and Extension has many publications that can guide people through some hard times.	The “Does Your Money Have Wings?” worksheet has around 25 items listed that money could be spent on. Things like eating out, cell phone charges, snacks and soda, or magazine subscriptions are among the choices. After the participants mark the ones they use they determine how much money is spent each year for each item. Many times, I will hear a gasp from a participant. Then I know that the activity is working; raising their awareness about how money is being spent. My goal is to help participants see the amount of money that is spent on “extras” each year. I like to ask them about what needs they have in their life that they could use the money spent on “extras” for.	Feel free to call me or drop by the Extension office to pick up your copy of the worksheet. Some of the budgeting materials are available in Spanish as well. Other publications which are also helpful in the area of money management include a four-part series titled, “Making Ends Meet.” If you have children ages 3 – 14 the publication “Helping Children Learn to Manage Money” is well done. All of the publications I have listed are available free of charge. Get your year off to a great start by getting your spending under control.Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer 
Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her 
at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

KRUG: Does your money have wings?

K-State Research and Extension along with Districts, Cottonwood, Golden Prairie, Midway, Phillips/Rooks, Post Rock and Walnut Creek, are hosting one of the annual KSU Winter Ranch Management seminars ONLINE, slated for January 28, starting at 6 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and will highlight several topics important to beef cattle producers.

This program will feature presentations and comments by K-State Research and Extension educators and faculty in the Department of Animal Sciences and Industry to enhance management strategies employed by cow-calf producers.

The KSU extension team has a breadth of experience in beef cattle management, reproduction, genetics, animal health and nutrition and we’re here to help solve and prevent production problems with reliable information.

Planned topics of discussion include Bull management considerations, Explanation of the Management Minder tool, Cow and replacement heifer nutrition programs for a successful breeding season along with Vaccine and storage management. The meetings will also feature a “town hall” style question-and-answer session between Kansas cattle producers and extension specialists. To register send an email to bwalton@ksu.edu or aboor@ksu.edu and then an email will be sent to you with the “link” for the ONLINE sessions.

For more information about this Winter Ranch Management Seminar, contact any of the K-State Research and Extension Districts listed above or go to KSUBeef.org.

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="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Research and Extension along with Districts, Cottonwood, Golden Prairie, Midway, Phillips/Rooks, Post Rock and Walnut Creek, are hosting one of the annual KSU Winter Ranch Management seminars ONLINE, slated for January 28, starting at 6 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and will highlight several topics important to beef cattle producers.This program will feature presentations and comments by K-State Research and Extension educators and faculty in the Department of Animal Sciences and Industry to enhance management strategies employed by cow-calf producers.The KSU extension team has a breadth of experience in beef cattle management, reproduction, genetics, animal health and nutrition and we’re here to help solve and prevent production problems with reliable information.Planned topics of discussion include Bull management considerations, Explanation of the Management Minder tool, Cow and replacement heifer nutrition programs for a successful breeding season along with Vaccine and storage management. The meetings will also feature a “town hall” style question-and-answer session between Kansas cattle producers and extension specialists. To register send an email to bwalton@ksu.edu or aboor@ksu.edu and then an email will be sent to you with the “link” for the ONLINE sessions.For more information about this Winter Ranch Management Seminar, contact any of the K-State Research and Extension Districts listed above or go to KSUBeef.org.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: Winter Ranch Management seminars are this month

Miniature roses are dwarf versions of roses including the classic hybrid teas. Though they are much smaller (12 to15 inches tall or less), they are surprisingly tough and can be planted outside where they will survive our Kansas winters if mulched. However, many gardeners like to grow the miniatures indoors where they can enjoy them during the drab winter months. Miniature roses grown as houseplants have specific requirements. For long-lasting flowers, air should be moist with a relative humidity of 50 to 60 percent preferred though 40 percent is adequate. Placing the pots on a tray that holds moist pebbles will help provide the humidity needed.Like most plants, roses need a lot of light to flower. Though miniature roses will survive in a south window, many people will supplement available light with fluorescent lamps. Timers can be used to automatically turn the lights on and off. Providing 14 hours of light per day will be plenty for roses to grow and flower. Lights are normally spaced 3 to 4 inches above the tops of the plants.

The most serious pest of these plants indoors is spider mites. These mites are very small but can devastate miniature roses. They like dry, warm conditions. Maintaining adequate relative humidity levels and washing the plants once a week in tepid water will help prevent problems. If mites do develop, try using an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil (2 percent rate) for control. The horticultural oil will be more effective than the soap. Be sure to spray or wash the entire plant including the underside of the leaves so that all mites are contacted.

Miniature roses can be placed outdoors during the summer to take advantage of higher light levels. Do not place the plant in the full sun immediately but gradually grant less light over a period of several weeks. Pots sunk in the ground will not need to be watered as often as those exposed. Turn the pot 180 degrees every couple of weeks to break off any roots that escape the pot and move into the underlying soil.&nbsp;

Miniature roses are not the easiest plants to grow as houseplants but can be well worth the effort required. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910. K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Miniature roses are dwarf versions of roses including the classic hybrid teas. Though they are much smaller (12 to15 inches tall or less), they are surprisingly tough and can be planted outside where they will survive our Kansas winters if mulched. However, many gardeners like to grow the miniatures indoors where they can enjoy them during the drab winter months. Miniature roses grown as houseplants have specific requirements. For long-lasting flowers, air should be moist with a relative humidity of 50 to 60 percent preferred though 40 percent is adequate. Placing the pots on a tray that holds moist pebbles will help provide the humidity needed.Like most plants, roses need a lot of light to flower. Though miniature roses will survive in a south window, many people will supplement available light with fluorescent lamps. Timers can be used to automatically turn the lights on and off. Providing 14 hours of light per day will be plenty for roses to grow and flower. Lights are normally spaced 3 to 4 inches above the tops of the plants.The most serious pest of these plants indoors is spider mites. These mites are very small but can devastate miniature roses. They like dry, warm conditions. Maintaining adequate relative humidity levels and washing the plants once a week in tepid water will help prevent problems. If mites do develop, try using an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil (2 percent rate) for control. The horticultural oil will be more effective than the soap. Be sure to spray or wash the entire plant including the underside of the leaves so that all mites are contacted.Miniature roses can be placed outdoors during the summer to take advantage of higher light levels. Do not place the plant in the full sun immediately but gradually grant less light over a period of several weeks. Pots sunk in the ground will not need to be watered as often as those exposed. Turn the pot 180 degrees every couple of weeks to break off any roots that escape the pot and move into the underlying soil.&nbsp;Miniature roses are not the easiest plants to grow as houseplants but can be well worth the effort required. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910. K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

FICK: Miniature roses

Kansas Corn is partnering with K-State Research and Extension to offer winter learning sessions for Kansas corn farmers. Due to COVID-19 concerns, the Kansas Corn Management Schools will be held virtually in a series of three webinars. Each webinar will start at 7 p.m. and include two presentations with a question-and-answer session. Participants will have the opportunity to hear the latest research and production information and hear updates on markets and corn policy issues. These sessions are free for farmers to attend.

&nbsp;“Despite today’s current challenges with COVID, participating online provides an opportunity for corn farmers to learn the latest research findings on key topics and what challenges to watch out for in agronomy, markets, and policy,” said Kansas Corn V.P. of Market Development and Policy Josh Roe.

The webinars are offered at free for growers thanks to support from premier sponsor Pioneer Seeds, and supporting sponsor Compass Minerals. Participants are asked to pre-register online to receive the information and links to the webinar.

Get more information and register online at <a href="https://kscorn.com/cornschool/">kscorn.com/cornschool</a> or by phone by calling Kansas Corn at 785-410-5009.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611249366992.jpeg" alt="Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictKansas Corn is partnering with K-State Research and Extension to offer winter learning sessions for Kansas corn farmers. Due to COVID-19 concerns, the Kansas Corn Management Schools will be held virtually in a series of three webinars. Each webinar will start at 7 p.m. and include two presentations with a question-and-answer session. Participants will have the opportunity to hear the latest research and production information and hear updates on markets and corn policy issues. These sessions are free for farmers to attend.Webinar dates and presentations:<ul>
 <li>Thursday, January 21, 2021&nbsp;</li><li>Nutrient Management Considerations for Corn in 2021, Dr. Dorivar Ruiz Diaz, K-State</li><li>Management Practices in Corn, Dr. Ignacio Ciampitti, K-State</li><li>Thursday, Feb. 4, 2021&nbsp;</li><li>Weed Control, Dr. Sara Lancaster, K-State</li><li>Planter Technology—Lessons Learned for Corn, Dr. Ajay Sharda, K-State</li><li>Thursday, Feb. 11, 2021&nbsp;</li><li>Markets and Futures Prices, Dr. Dan O’Brien, K-State</li><li>KCGA Policy Achievements and Ambitions – Josh Roe, Kansas Corn</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;“Despite today’s current challenges with COVID, participating online provides an opportunity for corn farmers to learn the latest research findings on key topics and what challenges to watch out for in agronomy, markets, and policy,” said Kansas Corn V.P. of Market Development and Policy Josh Roe.The webinars are offered at free for growers thanks to support from premier sponsor Pioneer Seeds, and supporting sponsor Compass Minerals. Participants are asked to pre-register online to receive the information and links to the webinar.Get more information and register online at <a href="https://kscorn.com/cornschool/">kscorn.com/cornschool</a> or by phone by calling Kansas Corn at 785-410-5009.

2021 Kansas Corn School webinar series begins

If you follow me at all, you know that I have closed each week for the last year with “Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness."

In a world that has grown increasingly hostile and fraught with divisiveness, I have recently seen several social media posts that gave me pause.

The first stated, “Your beliefs don’t make you a better person; your behavior does”. As a youth development professional, I try to model this every day. I have a solid faith and ethics foundation but if I allow my frustration and fear to erode the principles that I believe in, my behavior doesn’t follow. I can be angry and upset at circumstances without taking that out on others by name-calling and undermining.

Another post said, “Be careful not to dehumanize those you disagree with. In our self-righteousness, we can become the very things we criticize in others…..and not even know it.” It is easy to decry those who have different goals and standards than we do but it is harder when the person with different goals or standards is someone we know and care about. I often ask myself about the model that I or others are setting for young people. Are we modeling respectful discourse and conversation with young people? If they see us willing to throw stones, real or metaphorical, how can we expect them to act and speak respectfully?

The final post reads, “Sometimes miracles are simply good people with kind hearts”. In a world that feels weird and off-kilter, there are good people everywhere doing really good things! It is just easy to miss their kindness in the clamor.&nbsp;

Do you see a theme here? Hold open a door; take a deep breath before responding; buy the cup of coffee for someone else, walk away for a minute before hitting send/post. Look for – and BE – one of those showing kindness. The youth in our world deserve our best example. For young people, find a mentor who consistently sets an example of steady beliefs, positive behavior, and kindness.

<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>If you follow me at all, you know that I have closed each week for the last year with “Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness."In a world that has grown increasingly hostile and fraught with divisiveness, I have recently seen several social media posts that gave me pause.The first stated, “Your beliefs don’t make you a better person; your behavior does”. As a youth development professional, I try to model this every day. I have a solid faith and ethics foundation but if I allow my frustration and fear to erode the principles that I believe in, my behavior doesn’t follow. I can be angry and upset at circumstances without taking that out on others by name-calling and undermining.Another post said, “Be careful not to dehumanize those you disagree with. In our self-righteousness, we can become the very things we criticize in others…..and not even know it.” It is easy to decry those who have different goals and standards than we do but it is harder when the person with different goals or standards is someone we know and care about. I often ask myself about the model that I or others are setting for young people. Are we modeling respectful discourse and conversation with young people? If they see us willing to throw stones, real or metaphorical, how can we expect them to act and speak respectfully?The final post reads, “Sometimes miracles are simply good people with kind hearts”. In a world that feels weird and off-kilter, there are good people everywhere doing really good things! It is just easy to miss their kindness in the clamor.&nbsp;Do you see a theme here? Hold open a door; take a deep breath before responding; buy the cup of coffee for someone else, walk away for a minute before hitting send/post. Look for – and BE – one of those showing kindness. The youth in our world deserve our best example. For young people, find a mentor who consistently sets an example of steady beliefs, positive behavior, and kindness.Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness!Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.

BERAN: 'Keep showing grace and kindness'

The Walnut Creek Extension District and the Cottonwood Extension District in conjunction with North Central Extension Risk Management and the Kansas Farm Bureau would like to welcome producers to La Crosse, KS on January 21st&nbsp;for an in depth look at marketing strategies for the 2021 milo crop.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This program will be held at the La Crosse City Auditorium with doors opening at noon and registration starting at 12:30.&nbsp;&nbsp;The program will conclude by 5:00 pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;No lunch will be served but we will break for drinks and snacks.&nbsp;Topics to be covered include Market Outlooks, Effective Planning, and Cost of Production.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Attendees will also develop a Marketing Strategy for a representative farm this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;Presenters for the afternoon are Dan O’Brien, Extension Ag Economist with Kansas State University and Mark Nelson, Director of Commodities for the Kansas Farm Bureau.&nbsp;

Grain markets finished the fiscal 2020 year in unprecedented fashion.&nbsp;&nbsp;Opportunities exist for producers to capitalize on the current markets for 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;Those attending will get see how the futures prices are illustrating the need to have an effective pre-harvest marketing plan for the 2021 crop.&nbsp;

As with many group meetings, Social Distancing will be advised, Masks are required, and attendance is limited.&nbsp;Attendance is free for only those pre-registering&nbsp;by calling the LaCrosse office at (785) 222-2710 or the Great Bend office at (620) 793-1910.&nbsp;&nbsp;Registration can also be taken by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jaredp11@ksu.edu">jaredp11@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;A live stream will also be available thru Zoom and Facebook Live as well as a recording of the afternoons presentations to be posted on the Districts’ websites.&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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Walnut Creek Extension District and the Cottonwood Extension District in conjunction with North Central Extension Risk Management and the Kansas Farm Bureau would like to welcome producers to La Crosse, KS on January 21st&nbsp;for an in depth look at marketing strategies for the 2021 milo crop.&nbsp;&nbsp;This program will be held at the La Crosse City Auditorium with doors opening at noon and registration starting at 12:30.&nbsp;&nbsp;The program will conclude by 5:00 pm.&nbsp;&nbsp;No lunch will be served but we will break for drinks and snacks.&nbsp;Topics to be covered include Market Outlooks, Effective Planning, and Cost of Production.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Attendees will also develop a Marketing Strategy for a representative farm this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;Presenters for the afternoon are Dan O’Brien, Extension Ag Economist with Kansas State University and Mark Nelson, Director of Commodities for the Kansas Farm Bureau.&nbsp;Grain markets finished the fiscal 2020 year in unprecedented fashion.&nbsp;&nbsp;Opportunities exist for producers to capitalize on the current markets for 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;Those attending will get see how the futures prices are illustrating the need to have an effective pre-harvest marketing plan for the 2021 crop.&nbsp;As with many group meetings, Social Distancing will be advised, Masks are required, and attendance is limited.&nbsp;Attendance is free for only those pre-registering&nbsp;by calling the LaCrosse office at (785) 222-2710 or the Great Bend office at (620) 793-1910.&nbsp;&nbsp;Registration can also be taken by emailing&nbsp;<a href="mailto:jaredp11@ksu.edu">jaredp11@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;A live stream will also be available thru Zoom and Facebook Live as well as a recording of the afternoons presentations to be posted on the Districts’ websites.&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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Milo marketing workshop scheduled in La Crosse

K-State Research and Extension will host the 18th annual Cover Your Acres Winter Conference for crop producers and consultants on Tuesday, January 19, from 1 to 5 pm (CST) in an online format.

Cover Your Acres is a producer-driven meeting focused on new ideas and research-based updates in crop production in northwest Kansas and the central High Plains region.

The conference, which typically draws more than 400 attendees from Kansas and other states, highlights the latest technology, methods, and conservation practices to improve crop production in the region. This year it will feature a shorter, half-day format with university specialists discussing the following topics:

The sessions will be streamed live via Zoom and YouTube from 1:00 to 5:00 pm CST.&nbsp; Attendees will be able to submit questions on those platforms and via email.&nbsp; Additionally, locations have been established where attendees can participate in the conference while taking appropriate COVID precautions:

Current Locations to Participate-in-Person (COVID precautions must be followed)

There is no charge for the conference thanks to our sponsors, however attendees do need to register regardless if they are participating at their own home/office or at one of the watch locations.

To view the conference details and for online registration, visit <a href="http://www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres">www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres</a>. &nbsp;For questions, call 785-462-6281.

Premier sponsors of this year’s conference include American Ag Labs, Hoxie Implement, Bayer Crop Science, Lang Diesel, National Sunflower Association, AKRS Equipment Solutions, and SureFire Ag Systems. &nbsp;CCA credits have been applied for.

Stacy Campbell 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 him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610555002704.jpeg" alt="CYA logo.jpg" />
 <figcaption>CYA logo.jpg</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictK-State Research and Extension will host the 18th annual Cover Your Acres Winter Conference for crop producers and consultants on Tuesday, January 19, from 1 to 5 pm (CST) in an online format.Cover Your Acres is a producer-driven meeting focused on new ideas and research-based updates in crop production in northwest Kansas and the central High Plains region.The conference, which typically draws more than 400 attendees from Kansas and other states, highlights the latest technology, methods, and conservation practices to improve crop production in the region. This year it will feature a shorter, half-day format with university specialists discussing the following topics:<ul>
 <li>Water Use of Weeds in Dryland Systems, 
Jourdan Bell, Texas A&amp;M Panhandle Agronomist, Amarillo 
&nbsp;</li><li>Current Weed Control Research in Western Kansas 
Vipan Kumar, Weed Scientist, K-State Ag Research Center, Hays 
&nbsp;</li><li>Managing the Highs and Lows of Soil pH 
Dorivar Ruiz Diaz, Soil Fertility Specialist, K-State Dept. of Agronomy, Manhattan 
&nbsp;</li><li>Economics of Dryland Rotations and Tillage Systems 
Lucas Haag, Area Agronomist, K-State Northwest Research-Extension Center, Colby 
&nbsp;</li><li>New Frontiers in Sorghum Weed Control 
Sarah Lancaster, Weed Management Specialist, K-State Dept. of Agronomy, Manhattan</li>
 </ul>The sessions will be streamed live via Zoom and YouTube from 1:00 to 5:00 pm CST.&nbsp; Attendees will be able to submit questions on those platforms and via email.&nbsp; Additionally, locations have been established where attendees can participate in the conference while taking appropriate COVID precautions:Current Locations to Participate-in-Person (COVID precautions must be followed)<ul>
 <li>Finney County - Fairgrounds, Grandstand Meeting Room</li><li>Ness County - Fairgrounds, 4-H Building</li><li>Norton County - Fairgrounds, 4-H Building</li><li>Scott County - Fairgrounds, Wm. Carpenter 4-H Building</li><li>Stevens County - Extension Office Mtg. Room, 114 East 5th, Hugoton</li>
 </ul>There is no charge for the conference thanks to our sponsors, however attendees do need to register regardless if they are participating at their own home/office or at one of the watch locations.To view the conference details and for online registration, visit <a href="http://www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres">www.northwest.ksu.edu/coveryouracres</a>. &nbsp;For questions, call 785-462-6281.Premier sponsors of this year’s conference include American Ag Labs, Hoxie Implement, Bayer Crop Science, Lang Diesel, National Sunflower Association, AKRS Equipment Solutions, and SureFire Ag Systems. &nbsp;CCA credits have been applied for.Stacy Campbell 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 him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Cover Your Acres Winter Conference goes virtual

As our day to day schedule continues to be affected by the COVID pandemic, my hope is that you are staying well and finding ways to calm your mind and body each day. It is easy to get overloaded with news stories that we have no control over. Taking time each day for what I call “self-care” is more important than ever. Carving out time for whatever brings you peace of mind may look different for you than it does for me. Those of you who know me, can guess that part of my self-care includes a bike ride, &nbsp; every chance I get.

A “Mindful Meditation and Do-In” (pronounced Doe-een) class is set to begin February 2nd at the Great Bend Activity Center. The class meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 – 11 AM through February 18th.&nbsp; A $10 fee paid at the Cottonwood Extension Office in Great Bend will hold your spot.&nbsp; Due to COVID restrictions, class size is limited to ten participants. If you are reading this and have an interest in learning more about meditation and do-in exercises but are not quite comfortable with a face to face class there is an alternative. A link to the recorded session titled, Everyday Mindfulness, can be found on our Cottonwood Extension District web page <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; Click on the Health and Nutrition link on the left side of the front page and you will see the Everyday Mindfulness link.

This was a recording I was asked to do at one of our agent updates. Extension colleagues, Charlotte Shoup-Olsen and Debra Bolton, join me as we share the benefits of taking deep breaths and clearing the many thoughts racing through our minds. About 31 minutes into the recording, my husband, John, a retired chiropractor with extensive training in acupuncture, leads the short meditation and Do-In&nbsp; exercises.

Mindfulness was a hot topic before the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, more than ever, people are hoping to find a way to cope with the feelings of anxiousness and uncertainty. I encourage you to take time to read the “Everyday Mindfulness” fact sheet I helped write a couple of years ago. It highlights the following benefits that come from a regular meditation practice:

If you are interested in checking out the fact sheet and leaders guide, it can be found on the KSRE web site. You can search by the publication title, “Everyday Mindfulness” or publication numbers MF3424 and MF3425.

Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <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 the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>As our day to day schedule continues to be affected by the COVID pandemic, my hope is that you are staying well and finding ways to calm your mind and body each day. It is easy to get overloaded with news stories that we have no control over. Taking time each day for what I call “self-care” is more important than ever. Carving out time for whatever brings you peace of mind may look different for you than it does for me. Those of you who know me, can guess that part of my self-care includes a bike ride, &nbsp; every chance I get.A “Mindful Meditation and Do-In” (pronounced Doe-een) class is set to begin February 2nd at the Great Bend Activity Center. The class meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 – 11 AM through February 18th.&nbsp; A $10 fee paid at the Cottonwood Extension Office in Great Bend will hold your spot.&nbsp; Due to COVID restrictions, class size is limited to ten participants. If you are reading this and have an interest in learning more about meditation and do-in exercises but are not quite comfortable with a face to face class there is an alternative. A link to the recorded session titled, Everyday Mindfulness, can be found on our Cottonwood Extension District web page <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; Click on the Health and Nutrition link on the left side of the front page and you will see the Everyday Mindfulness link.This was a recording I was asked to do at one of our agent updates. Extension colleagues, Charlotte Shoup-Olsen and Debra Bolton, join me as we share the benefits of taking deep breaths and clearing the many thoughts racing through our minds. About 31 minutes into the recording, my husband, John, a retired chiropractor with extensive training in acupuncture, leads the short meditation and Do-In&nbsp; exercises.Mindfulness was a hot topic before the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, more than ever, people are hoping to find a way to cope with the feelings of anxiousness and uncertainty. I encourage you to take time to read the “Everyday Mindfulness” fact sheet I helped write a couple of years ago. It highlights the following benefits that come from a regular meditation practice:<ul>
 <li>Increased ability to relax</li><li>Improved concentration</li><li>Increased energy and enthusiasm for life</li><li>Increased creativity</li><li>Increased self-awareness</li><li>Improved self-esteem</li><li>Improved work/school performance</li>
 </ul>If you are interested in checking out the fact sheet and leaders guide, it can be found on the KSRE web site. You can search by the publication title, “Everyday Mindfulness” or publication numbers MF3424 and MF3425.Donna Krug is the District Director and the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

KRUG: Practice mindfulness every day

The clearance aisles are full and the prices are great, but when is a good deal not a good deal? There are pros and cons to buying things on sale for a great price. I love saving money, but sometimes when I find a good deal, it is easy to overbuy. When you buy more, you are not necessarily saving money. You are just getting more things for the amount you would have spent anyway. By buying more than you need, you may eat more or use more than necessary.&nbsp;

Going to garage sales or the thrift store can save you a lot of money. Have you ever gone to the thrift store and come home with more than you were looking for? Could you have bought one thing you really wanted instead? Is it worth it to sacrifice what you really want for lots of inexpensive stuff? Most people don't realize how much they really spend getting good deals. Keep track of it and you may be surprised.

Another reason not to buy more than you need is the amount of time it takes to care for the things you have. How much is your time really worth? The amount of clothing you have is a good example. How many clothes do you really need? By going through our clothes and cutting back, we may spend less time doing laundry. By having fewer clothes, you not only save money, but you also save time.

The main advantage of getting things on sale is that you can afford luxuries that you couldn't afford at regular price. This might be true with beautiful Christmas decorations that you absolutely love. If you can wait, we all know that Christmas decorations will eventually go on sale. Or maybe you have found a beautiful coat that you would never buy for the full price but if you are patient, it may still be there at the end of the season.&nbsp;

As you go bargain hunting, ask yourself the following questions before making a purchase:

2. Do I really need it or will I really use it?

3. How many do I really need or how many will I really use?

4. What could I do with that money if I didn't buy it?

5. Do I want to have this clutter up my home and be responsible for it?

Is there something you already own that will work instead of adding more to the stash? More stuff means more clutter, more to clean and more to be responsible for. By being wise about purchases, your money can be used to invest in your future or live more comfortable on your income.

The key to avoiding “the good deal dilemma” is to buy only what you need and what you will actually use. Wishing you the best in this new year!&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>The clearance aisles are full and the prices are great, but when is a good deal not a good deal? There are pros and cons to buying things on sale for a great price. I love saving money, but sometimes when I find a good deal, it is easy to overbuy. When you buy more, you are not necessarily saving money. You are just getting more things for the amount you would have spent anyway. By buying more than you need, you may eat more or use more than necessary.&nbsp;Going to garage sales or the thrift store can save you a lot of money. Have you ever gone to the thrift store and come home with more than you were looking for? Could you have bought one thing you really wanted instead? Is it worth it to sacrifice what you really want for lots of inexpensive stuff? Most people don't realize how much they really spend getting good deals. Keep track of it and you may be surprised.Another reason not to buy more than you need is the amount of time it takes to care for the things you have. How much is your time really worth? The amount of clothing you have is a good example. How many clothes do you really need? By going through our clothes and cutting back, we may spend less time doing laundry. By having fewer clothes, you not only save money, but you also save time.The main advantage of getting things on sale is that you can afford luxuries that you couldn't afford at regular price. This might be true with beautiful Christmas decorations that you absolutely love. If you can wait, we all know that Christmas decorations will eventually go on sale. Or maybe you have found a beautiful coat that you would never buy for the full price but if you are patient, it may still be there at the end of the season.&nbsp;As you go bargain hunting, ask yourself the following questions before making a purchase:1. Do I really like it?2. Do I really need it or will I really use it?3. How many do I really need or how many will I really use?4. What could I do with that money if I didn't buy it?5. Do I want to have this clutter up my home and be responsible for it?Is there something you already own that will work instead of adding more to the stash? More stuff means more clutter, more to clean and more to be responsible for. By being wise about purchases, your money can be used to invest in your future or live more comfortable on your income.The key to avoiding “the good deal dilemma” is to buy only what you need and what you will actually use. Wishing you the best in this new year!&nbsp;	Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: Is it a good deal?

Research from K-State’s John C. Pair Horticultural Center has quantified the effect of controlling grasses around newly planted trees. Jason Griffin, William Reid, and Dale Bremer conducted a study to investigate the inhibition of growth of transplanted, seedling trees when lawn grasses could grow up to the trunk. There were five treatments, including three with different species of grass: &nbsp; 1. Bare soil maintained with herbicides.&nbsp; 2. Area under tree mulched 3 inches deep.&nbsp; 3. Tall fescue allowed to grow under tree.&nbsp; 4. Bermudagrass allowed to grow under tree.&nbsp; 5. Kentucky bluegrass allowed to grow under tree. All treatments were applied to Eastern redbud seedlings as well as to pecan seedlings. All trees were fertilized according to recommendations and watered during the growing season with up to 1 inch of water if rainfall was deficient. At the end of two years, trees were measured and harvested. Data was taken on caliper (diameter) 6 inches above the ground, weight of aboveground portions of the tree, leaf area, and leaf weight. There were no differences in any measure between the mulched treatment and the bare soil treatment for either tree species. All measures showed significant growth increases if lawn grasses were controlled around the tree. Results include the following:&nbsp; 1. Caliper: Caliper measures 6 inches above the soil surface were twice as large for plots without grass than for those with either fescue or bluegrass, but only 50% larger when compared to the bermudagrass plots. &nbsp; 2. Top growth weight: Redbuds showed a 300% weight advantage for plots with grasses controlled than those without. Pecans showed a significant 200% increase. &nbsp; 3. Leaf area and leaf weight: Leaf areas were 200% larger in plots without grass competition and leaf weight showed a 300% increase. &nbsp;The obvious conclusion from this study is that grasses must be controlled under a newly transplanted tree to get the best possible growth. Though there were no differences in growth whether mulch was used or not, you may still wish to mulch for aesthetic reasons or to help control weed growth. How far from the trunk should the grasses be controlled? Try a minimum of 3 feet. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Research from K-State’s John C. Pair Horticultural Center has quantified the effect of controlling grasses around newly planted trees. Jason Griffin, William Reid, and Dale Bremer conducted a study to investigate the inhibition of growth of transplanted, seedling trees when lawn grasses could grow up to the trunk. There were five treatments, including three with different species of grass: &nbsp; 1. Bare soil maintained with herbicides.&nbsp; 2. Area under tree mulched 3 inches deep.&nbsp; 3. Tall fescue allowed to grow under tree.&nbsp; 4. Bermudagrass allowed to grow under tree.&nbsp; 5. Kentucky bluegrass allowed to grow under tree. All treatments were applied to Eastern redbud seedlings as well as to pecan seedlings. All trees were fertilized according to recommendations and watered during the growing season with up to 1 inch of water if rainfall was deficient. At the end of two years, trees were measured and harvested. Data was taken on caliper (diameter) 6 inches above the ground, weight of aboveground portions of the tree, leaf area, and leaf weight. There were no differences in any measure between the mulched treatment and the bare soil treatment for either tree species. All measures showed significant growth increases if lawn grasses were controlled around the tree. Results include the following:&nbsp; 1. Caliper: Caliper measures 6 inches above the soil surface were twice as large for plots without grass than for those with either fescue or bluegrass, but only 50% larger when compared to the bermudagrass plots. &nbsp; 2. Top growth weight: Redbuds showed a 300% weight advantage for plots with grasses controlled than those without. Pecans showed a significant 200% increase. &nbsp; 3. Leaf area and leaf weight: Leaf areas were 200% larger in plots without grass competition and leaf weight showed a 300% increase. &nbsp;The obvious conclusion from this study is that grasses must be controlled under a newly transplanted tree to get the best possible growth. Though there were no differences in growth whether mulch was used or not, you may still wish to mulch for aesthetic reasons or to help control weed growth. How far from the trunk should the grasses be controlled? Try a minimum of 3 feet. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Start trees off right 

One of the many effects of the pandemic is as there may not be as many occasions to learn in an on sight forum, there are many online learning opportunities to take advantage of than ever before. My online presence has increased in the last year and I have also taken advantage of a good number of courses available to learn myself. This year, I will highlight online meetings that I will be hosting, as well as share meetings that are being held throughout the state that may be of interest. The first meeting I would like to highlight is from Chuck Otte in Geary County. Any given year there are always a good number of questions regarding leasing arrangements, and the Geary County program should be beneficial to anyone that leases ground or is looking to do so.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Agricultural Lease Meeting, Virtual Presentation&nbsp;

The Geary County Extension Office is hosting a video conference on agricultural leases on&nbsp;Wednesday, January 13th.&nbsp;&nbsp;The meeting will start at 7:00 p.m. and last 1 – 1½ hours.&nbsp;&nbsp;In order to participate you will need a computer, tablet or smart phone to join on the Zoom presentation. Geary County Extension Agent, Chuck Otte, will discuss various topics on agricultural leases including: the impact of the Kansas ag lease law, crop share leases, cash leases and the importance of communication. There is no charge for the session but, participants must email Otte to register so that the connection information and Zoom password can be provided. To sign up email Chuck at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cotte@ksu.edu">cotte@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;and he will respond with the needed information. This virtual presentation will be recorded and will be made available for later viewing. K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>One of the many effects of the pandemic is as there may not be as many occasions to learn in an on sight forum, there are many online learning opportunities to take advantage of than ever before. My online presence has increased in the last year and I have also taken advantage of a good number of courses available to learn myself. This year, I will highlight online meetings that I will be hosting, as well as share meetings that are being held throughout the state that may be of interest. The first meeting I would like to highlight is from Chuck Otte in Geary County. Any given year there are always a good number of questions regarding leasing arrangements, and the Geary County program should be beneficial to anyone that leases ground or is looking to do so.&nbsp;&nbsp;Agricultural Lease Meeting, Virtual Presentation&nbsp;The Geary County Extension Office is hosting a video conference on agricultural leases on&nbsp;Wednesday, January 13th.&nbsp;&nbsp;The meeting will start at 7:00 p.m. and last 1 – 1½ hours.&nbsp;&nbsp;In order to participate you will need a computer, tablet or smart phone to join on the Zoom presentation. Geary County Extension Agent, Chuck Otte, will discuss various topics on agricultural leases including: the impact of the Kansas ag lease law, crop share leases, cash leases and the importance of communication. There is no charge for the session but, participants must email Otte to register so that the connection information and Zoom password can be provided. To sign up email Chuck at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cotte@ksu.edu">cotte@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;and he will respond with the needed information. This virtual presentation will be recorded and will be made available for later viewing. K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.&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&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910&nbsp;

BOOR: Virtual session will focus on ag leases

With this year quickly wrapping up, it is definitely time to start talking about agricultural leases for the coming year. For the most part, there is speculation within the agriculture community that tenants and landlords may not talk to each other enough. This then leads to the number one problem that some of us in Extension run into with ag leases, lack of communication.&nbsp;

I know of situations where leases have been in existence between families, and non-family members for over 30 years. In many cases, the terms of those leases haven’t changed much in those three decades. Yet, if you look at agriculture over that same time frame, there has been significant changes.&nbsp;

It is imperative that landlords and tenants get together and talk. Talk about how the crops did this year. Talk about cropping plans for next year if you need to, talk about the uncomfortable stuff.&nbsp;

When you start getting down to the nitty gritty and talk about cash rental rates, shares or what expenses the landlord is going to share, it can get uncomfortable. This is why far too many landlord/tenant discussions don’t get that deep and that is a shame.&nbsp;

Frustration can build up with either party, or the tenant simply can’t afford to continue with a current lease. At this time the tenant may let go of a lease or the landlord decides it’s easier to find a different tenant than to negotiate new terms.&nbsp;

We can easily look at what crop production expenses are shared and figure out how the crop should be shared. But sometimes landlords come into the lease and state what share of the crop they want, and what expenses they are willing to share. Without even seeing if the crop expenses share is equitable to the amount of the crop they want. This process seems to be backwards of what it should be.

Then ideally the discussion can take an even deeper track. Let’s talk about all the things that come up that are never talked about. Can the tenant double crop after corn or soybeans? Can the tenant graze the crop residue after harvest? Can the tenant fall or spring graze the wheat crop or cover crops if cover crops are planted? Actually, if it’s a verbal lease, a tenant has a right to do all of these things. Their lease may not be renewed if it wasn’t discussed, but in the eyes of the law, they have the right. This is why communication is so vitally important.&nbsp;

For many years now it has been talked about at Extension programs that written leases vs. verbal leases are important in spelling out the specifics, which should help to alleviate problems later on.&nbsp;

A K-State Research &amp; Extension, County and District Extension office is in every county of Kansas and will have simple and more complex written leases available and other info. on leasing laws and arrangements.

Stacy Campbell 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 him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430, if after hours please leave a voice-mail for a return call.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609860170277.jpeg" alt="Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictWith this year quickly wrapping up, it is definitely time to start talking about agricultural leases for the coming year. For the most part, there is speculation within the agriculture community that tenants and landlords may not talk to each other enough. This then leads to the number one problem that some of us in Extension run into with ag leases, lack of communication.&nbsp;I know of situations where leases have been in existence between families, and non-family members for over 30 years. In many cases, the terms of those leases haven’t changed much in those three decades. Yet, if you look at agriculture over that same time frame, there has been significant changes.&nbsp;It is imperative that landlords and tenants get together and talk. Talk about how the crops did this year. Talk about cropping plans for next year if you need to, talk about the uncomfortable stuff.&nbsp;When you start getting down to the nitty gritty and talk about cash rental rates, shares or what expenses the landlord is going to share, it can get uncomfortable. This is why far too many landlord/tenant discussions don’t get that deep and that is a shame.&nbsp;Frustration can build up with either party, or the tenant simply can’t afford to continue with a current lease. At this time the tenant may let go of a lease or the landlord decides it’s easier to find a different tenant than to negotiate new terms.&nbsp;We can easily look at what crop production expenses are shared and figure out how the crop should be shared. But sometimes landlords come into the lease and state what share of the crop they want, and what expenses they are willing to share. Without even seeing if the crop expenses share is equitable to the amount of the crop they want. This process seems to be backwards of what it should be.Then ideally the discussion can take an even deeper track. Let’s talk about all the things that come up that are never talked about. Can the tenant double crop after corn or soybeans? Can the tenant graze the crop residue after harvest? Can the tenant fall or spring graze the wheat crop or cover crops if cover crops are planted? Actually, if it’s a verbal lease, a tenant has a right to do all of these things. Their lease may not be renewed if it wasn’t discussed, but in the eyes of the law, they have the right. This is why communication is so vitally important.&nbsp;For many years now it has been talked about at Extension programs that written leases vs. verbal leases are important in spelling out the specifics, which should help to alleviate problems later on.&nbsp;A K-State Research &amp; Extension, County and District Extension office is in every county of Kansas and will have simple and more complex written leases available and other info. on leasing laws and arrangements.Stacy Campbell 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 him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430, if after hours please leave a voice-mail for a return call.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="Campbell" />
 <figcaption>Campbell</figcaption>
 </figure>

CAMPBELL: Time to start talking about ag leases

If you are considering purchasing fruit trees this spring, there are certain factors that should be considered for some of our fruit tree species. &nbsp;Spring in Kansas is often unsettled with apricot and peach tree flowers being very vulnerable to late frosts that can kill fruit buds. Of course, the tree itself will be fine but there will be little to no fruit for that year. 

Other species of trees can also be affected but apricots and peaches are by far the most sensitive. &nbsp;Also, the closer a tree is to full bloom, the more sensitive it becomes to frost.

Apricots are more likely to have frost kill flowers than peaches because they bloom a bit earlier. Though there are late-blooming apricot varieties, the differences between full bloom on early and late-blooming varieties appear to be slight. Research at Virginia Tech in the '90s showed a maximum of a 4-day difference between early and late varieties. However, in some years that may be all that is needed. The trees in the study that were considered late blooming included Hungarian Rose, Tilton, and Harlayne. Harglow was not included in the study but is also considered late-blooming. 

See&nbsp;<a href="https://pubs.ext.vt.edu/422/422-761/422-761.html">https://pubs.ext.vt.edu/422/422-761/422-761.html</a>for more info.​Peaches are next on the list for being likely to be caught by a late frost. With peaches, two characteristics become important when considering whether they will be damaged. Like apricots, bloom time is very important but fruit bud hardiness should also be considered. In this case, fruit bud hardiness refers to hardiness to late frosts rather than the ability to survive extremely low temperatures during the winter. Late bloomers included ‘China Pearl’, ‘Encore’, ‘Intrepid’, and ‘Risingstar.’ See&nbsp;<a href="http://aces.nmsu.edu/pubs/research/horticulture/RR782.pdf">http://aces.nmsu.edu/pubs/research/horticulture/RR782.pdf</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;. The ‘Intrepid’ cultivar also has shown excellent cold hardiness when in flower. See&nbsp;<a href="http://www.google.com/patents/USPP12357">http://www.google.com/patents/USPP12357</a>

<a href="http://www.google.com/patents/USPP12357"></a> So, are there other considerations when looking at frost damage? Location can be very important. Planting on a hill that allows cold air to drain to lower elevations can help. &nbsp;Also, a location in town will be more likely to have a warmer micro-climate than an exposed location. Some gardeners will add a heat source under a tree during cold nights if they are close to a building. Heat lamps and charcoal briquettes are sometimes used but safety should be the first consideration. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>If you are considering purchasing fruit trees this spring, there are certain factors that should be considered for some of our fruit tree species. &nbsp;Spring in Kansas is often unsettled with apricot and peach tree flowers being very vulnerable to late frosts that can kill fruit buds. Of course, the tree itself will be fine but there will be little to no fruit for that year. Other species of trees can also be affected but apricots and peaches are by far the most sensitive. &nbsp;Also, the closer a tree is to full bloom, the more sensitive it becomes to frost.Apricots are more likely to have frost kill flowers than peaches because they bloom a bit earlier. Though there are late-blooming apricot varieties, the differences between full bloom on early and late-blooming varieties appear to be slight. Research at Virginia Tech in the '90s showed a maximum of a 4-day difference between early and late varieties. However, in some years that may be all that is needed. The trees in the study that were considered late blooming included Hungarian Rose, Tilton, and Harlayne. Harglow was not included in the study but is also considered late-blooming. See&nbsp;<a href="https://pubs.ext.vt.edu/422/422-761/422-761.html">https://pubs.ext.vt.edu/422/422-761/422-761.html</a>for more info.​Peaches are next on the list for being likely to be caught by a late frost. With peaches, two characteristics become important when considering whether they will be damaged. Like apricots, bloom time is very important but fruit bud hardiness should also be considered. In this case, fruit bud hardiness refers to hardiness to late frosts rather than the ability to survive extremely low temperatures during the winter. Late bloomers included ‘China Pearl’, ‘Encore’, ‘Intrepid’, and ‘Risingstar.’ See&nbsp;<a href="http://aces.nmsu.edu/pubs/research/horticulture/RR782.pdf">http://aces.nmsu.edu/pubs/research/horticulture/RR782.pdf</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;. The ‘Intrepid’ cultivar also has shown excellent cold hardiness when in flower. See&nbsp;<a href="http://www.google.com/patents/USPP12357">http://www.google.com/patents/USPP12357</a><a href="http://www.google.com/patents/USPP12357"></a> So, are there other considerations when looking at frost damage? Location can be very important. Planting on a hill that allows cold air to drain to lower elevations can help. &nbsp;Also, a location in town will be more likely to have a warmer micro-climate than an exposed location. Some gardeners will add a heat source under a tree during cold nights if they are close to a building. Heat lamps and charcoal briquettes are sometimes used but safety should be the first consideration. Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions, she can be contacted by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:lfick@k-state.edu">lfick@k-state.edu</a>&nbsp;or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;