On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, 94.3/1400 KAYS The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker speaks with <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">Cottonwood Extension District</a> Family and Community Wellness Agent Monique Koerner about cooking turkey safely.

<div><iframe title="Stay safe this Thanksgiving with these turkey cooking tips from the Cottonwood Extension District" allowtransparency="true" height="600" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:600px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=mi5dn-14fb16a-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=600" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/category/post-podcast" target="_blank">Post Podcast</a>, 94.3/1400 KAYS The Morning Blend host Jeff Leiker speaks with <a href="https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/">Cottonwood Extension District</a> Family and Community Wellness Agent Monique Koerner about cooking turkey safely.

🎙 Post Podcast: Stay safe this Thanksgiving with these turkey cooking tips from the Cottonwood Extension District

In early childhood, we teach routines to help children feel safe. When children know what is happening next in their world, they are less likely to feel anxious or worried. 

Brush, Book, Bed is a routine and structure you can create for children to help them prepare for bed. 

Brush, Book, Bed is a program by the American Academy of Pediatrics to educate families with children to combine oral health and bedtime routines. This program has been implemented by safety net clinics, Parents as Teachers, and Healthy families in Kansas.

Brush: Each night assist your child in brushing their teeth. If teeth haven’t come in use a soft washcloth to wipe your baby’s gums before bed. This helps them get used to the sensory experience of having something put into their mouth, which will hopefully make brushing teeth easier when those pearly whites pop through. Be gentle, make it a game, smile and help your baby feel comfortable. It’s okay to let your child practice brushing, but they need your help to do the best job. Until they can write in cursive or tie their own shoes, they do not have the fine motor skills to be able to properly brush their teeth on their own.

Book: After you have helped them brush their teeth, it is time to read. Let your child pick a book. Let them be in charge, follow their lead. You don’t have to read word for word for them to have fun. Ask them questions about the pictures. Even as kids get older and can read on their own, this may be a good time to connect with your child at the end of the day. Many parents have fond memories of reading a chapter or two of longer novels with their children in the evening.

Bed: After brushing teeth and reading together, it’s time to go to bed. Make daytime playtime! Play and exercise during the day will help your children sleep at night. To prevent tooth decay, avoid putting babies in bed with a bottle of milk or juice. Breastfeeding at night is okay, since breastmilk alone does not cause cavities, according to Kansas Cavity Free Kids.

Try to start this routine at about the same time every night, about 30 minutes before bedtime, so that you have enough time to brush teeth, read together, and go to sleep. For more tips visit: <a href="https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/oral-health/Pages/Brush-Book-Bed.aspx">www.healthychildren.org/brushbookbed</a>

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>In early childhood, we teach routines to help children feel safe. When children know what is happening next in their world, they are less likely to feel anxious or worried. Brush, Book, Bed is a routine and structure you can create for children to help them prepare for bed. Brush, Book, Bed is a program by the American Academy of Pediatrics to educate families with children to combine oral health and bedtime routines. This program has been implemented by safety net clinics, Parents as Teachers, and Healthy families in Kansas.Brush: Each night assist your child in brushing their teeth. If teeth haven’t come in use a soft washcloth to wipe your baby’s gums before bed. This helps them get used to the sensory experience of having something put into their mouth, which will hopefully make brushing teeth easier when those pearly whites pop through. Be gentle, make it a game, smile and help your baby feel comfortable. It’s okay to let your child practice brushing, but they need your help to do the best job. Until they can write in cursive or tie their own shoes, they do not have the fine motor skills to be able to properly brush their teeth on their own.Book: After you have helped them brush their teeth, it is time to read. Let your child pick a book. Let them be in charge, follow their lead. You don’t have to read word for word for them to have fun. Ask them questions about the pictures. Even as kids get older and can read on their own, this may be a good time to connect with your child at the end of the day. Many parents have fond memories of reading a chapter or two of longer novels with their children in the evening.Bed: After brushing teeth and reading together, it’s time to go to bed. Make daytime playtime! Play and exercise during the day will help your children sleep at night. To prevent tooth decay, avoid putting babies in bed with a bottle of milk or juice. Breastfeeding at night is okay, since breastmilk alone does not cause cavities, according to Kansas Cavity Free Kids.Try to start this routine at about the same time every night, about 30 minutes before bedtime, so that you have enough time to brush teeth, read together, and go to sleep. For more tips visit: <a href="https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/oral-health/Pages/Brush-Book-Bed.aspx">www.healthychildren.org/brushbookbed</a>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Brush, book, bed

The holiday season is around the corner, and this means that the kitchen will likely become a busy place as we prepare meals to gather around. As you prepare tasty dishes to share, be conscious of the possibility of sharing illness too. 

I found these tips from K-State food scientist, Karen Blakeslee, especially helpful for preventing cross-contamination:&nbsp;

“We use the kitchen sink for food preparation and more,” Blakeslee said. “The possibility exists for foodborne illness-causing bacteria to hang out in the sink too. These bacteria could cross-contaminate your food and make you sick.”&nbsp;

Blakeslee added that a recent USDA study tested surfaces where participants prepared a breakfast meal with raw sausage, shell eggs, and a fruit salad made with cut-up cantaloupe. Test results showed that 34% of the sinks were contaminated after preparing the meal.&nbsp;

Even more scary, 26% of the samples of cut-up cantaloupe from the fruit salad were contaminated after breakfast prep.&nbsp;

“The bacteria in the sink or on your hands can cross-contaminate from the sink to other items, including those you normally eat raw. This means you’ll be eating that bacteria too,” Blakeslee said.&nbsp;

After using your sink to wash or prepare food, clean and sanitize the sink:&nbsp;

1) Use warm, soapy water to wash the sink. Wipe it clean with paper towels.&nbsp;

2) Use a sanitizer and let air dry. Sanitizers can be homemade (1 tablespoon of liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water) or use a commercial sanitizer or sanitizing wipe.&nbsp;

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 620-793-1910 or <a href="mailto:krwinkel@ksu.edu" target="_blank">krwinkel@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The holiday season is around the corner, and this means that the kitchen will likely become a busy place as we prepare meals to gather around. As you prepare tasty dishes to share, be conscious of the possibility of sharing illness too. I found these tips from K-State food scientist, Karen Blakeslee, especially helpful for preventing cross-contamination:&nbsp;“We use the kitchen sink for food preparation and more,” Blakeslee said. “The possibility exists for foodborne illness-causing bacteria to hang out in the sink too. These bacteria could cross-contaminate your food and make you sick.”&nbsp;Blakeslee added that a recent USDA study tested surfaces where participants prepared a breakfast meal with raw sausage, shell eggs, and a fruit salad made with cut-up cantaloupe. Test results showed that 34% of the sinks were contaminated after preparing the meal.&nbsp;Even more scary, 26% of the samples of cut-up cantaloupe from the fruit salad were contaminated after breakfast prep.&nbsp;“The bacteria in the sink or on your hands can cross-contaminate from the sink to other items, including those you normally eat raw. This means you’ll be eating that bacteria too,” Blakeslee said.&nbsp;After using your sink to wash or prepare food, clean and sanitize the sink:&nbsp;1) Use warm, soapy water to wash the sink. Wipe it clean with paper towels.&nbsp;2) Use a sanitizer and let air dry. Sanitizers can be homemade (1 tablespoon of liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water) or use a commercial sanitizer or sanitizing wipe.&nbsp;Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 620-793-1910 or <a href="mailto:krwinkel@ksu.edu" target="_blank">krwinkel@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

WINKEL: Food Safety Tip: Clean the kitchen sink 

Mustard plants such as field pennycress, bushy wallflower, flixweed, tansy mustard, and blue mustard in wheat fields often are not noticed until the mustards start to bloom in the spring. As a result, farmers often do not think about control until that time. Although it is possible to get some control with spring herbicide applications, mustards are much more difficult to control once they have flowered and often have already reduced wheat yields by then.

To minimize yield losses, mustards should be controlled by late winter or very early spring before the stems begin to elongate or bolt. If mustards are present in the fall, they can be controlled by various active ingredients. You can look for products containing Group 2 ALS-inhibiting herbicides.

Most ALS-inhibiting herbicides control winter annual mustards very well. However, there are populations of bushy wall flower (treacle mustard) and flixweed in Kansas that are ALS-resistant and cannot be controlled by these products. Alternative herbicides will be needed to control these populations. Also, be aware that some of the Group 2 herbicides have long rotation intervals to other crops.

Group 27 herbicides can control ALS-resistant mustards. Other options to control ALS-resistant mustards are Group 4 herbicides.

Group 27 and Group 4 herbicides have little to no residual activity, thus will only control weeds that have emerged and are actively growing. Applying them with fertilizer in January or February when weeds are dormant will not provide good mustard control. In addition, special care should be taken to ensure wheat is fully tillered when 2,4-D is applied to avoid reducing tillering.

In the late winter or early spring, blue mustard is perhaps the most difficult of the winter annual broadleaf weeds to control because it bolts very early. To be effective on blue mustard, herbicides typically need to be applied in late February or early March. Blue mustard is more difficult to control than tansy mustard with 2,4-D because blue mustard has often already bolted by the time 2,4-D can be safely applied to wheat. Thus, 2,4-D is often applied too late to be effective on blue mustard.

Flixweed and tansy mustard should be treated when they are no larger than two to three inches across and two to three inches tall. As these plants become larger, control decreases dramatically. Ester formulations of 2,4-D and MCPA are more effective on tansy mustard and flixweed than amine formulations. Field pennycress is easier to control than tansy mustard or flixweed. Herbicide applications made before the pennycress bolts are usually effective.

Crop rotation with corn, grain sorghum, soybeans, or sunflowers is a good way of managing mustards as long as they are controlled in the spring before producing seeds. Crop rotation will usually result in a gradual reduction of mustard populations in the future as the seedbank in the soil decreases.

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

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Mustard plants such as field pennycress, bushy wallflower, flixweed, tansy mustard, and blue mustard in wheat fields often are not noticed until the mustards start to bloom in the spring. As a result, farmers often do not think about control until that time. Although it is possible to get some control with spring herbicide applications, mustards are much more difficult to control once they have flowered and often have already reduced wheat yields by then.To minimize yield losses, mustards should be controlled by late winter or very early spring before the stems begin to elongate or bolt. If mustards are present in the fall, they can be controlled by various active ingredients. You can look for products containing Group 2 ALS-inhibiting herbicides.Most ALS-inhibiting herbicides control winter annual mustards very well. However, there are populations of bushy wall flower (treacle mustard) and flixweed in Kansas that are ALS-resistant and cannot be controlled by these products. Alternative herbicides will be needed to control these populations. Also, be aware that some of the Group 2 herbicides have long rotation intervals to other crops.Group 27 herbicides can control ALS-resistant mustards. Other options to control ALS-resistant mustards are Group 4 herbicides.Group 27 and Group 4 herbicides have little to no residual activity, thus will only control weeds that have emerged and are actively growing. Applying them with fertilizer in January or February when weeds are dormant will not provide good mustard control. In addition, special care should be taken to ensure wheat is fully tillered when 2,4-D is applied to avoid reducing tillering.In the late winter or early spring, blue mustard is perhaps the most difficult of the winter annual broadleaf weeds to control because it bolts very early. To be effective on blue mustard, herbicides typically need to be applied in late February or early March. Blue mustard is more difficult to control than tansy mustard with 2,4-D because blue mustard has often already bolted by the time 2,4-D can be safely applied to wheat. Thus, 2,4-D is often applied too late to be effective on blue mustard.Flixweed and tansy mustard should be treated when they are no larger than two to three inches across and two to three inches tall. As these plants become larger, control decreases dramatically. Ester formulations of 2,4-D and MCPA are more effective on tansy mustard and flixweed than amine formulations. Field pennycress is easier to control than tansy mustard or flixweed. Herbicide applications made before the pennycress bolts are usually effective.Crop rotation with corn, grain sorghum, soybeans, or sunflowers is a good way of managing mustards as long as they are controlled in the spring before producing seeds. Crop rotation will usually result in a gradual reduction of mustard populations in the future as the seedbank in the soil decreases.Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.

CAMPBELL: Control of mustards in wheat, timely treatment is important

The words “holiday” and “healthy” usually aren’t found together, especially when it comes to food. Indulgent treats and drinks are a tradition for the holiday season, and they should be enjoyed! People are brought together around meals to celebrate, create lasting memories, and connect with others. 

However, the holiday season can be a difficult time to maintain good health, and many find weight management a challenge during the winter months. 

Many assume this is because of high-calorie foods, but many other factors play into winter weight gain. People are less active, tend to drink more alcohol, and some have irregular circadian rhythms. All these obstacles can result in unwanted weight gain, and this is why it’s important to learn how to make a health plan for the winter months.

One of the most important ways to stick to your health plan is to get into a routine before the gatherings begin. 

Creating a healthy eating plan, exercise regimen, and sleep schedule are all important to start before you relax for the holidays. Once a healthy lifestyle is a habit, it is much easier to get back on track after the holiday season.

If you are looking for more tips related to holiday health, the Great Bend Activity Center will host an event called "Focus on the ‘Stars’: Cooking Healthy for the Holidays" on November 15 at noon. Key topics will include ingredient substitutions, indoor physical activity, and leftovers. Finally, those who join will get to sample a healthy take on a holiday treat!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The words “holiday” and “healthy” usually aren’t found together, especially when it comes to food. Indulgent treats and drinks are a tradition for the holiday season, and they should be enjoyed! People are brought together around meals to celebrate, create lasting memories, and connect with others. However, the holiday season can be a difficult time to maintain good health, and many find weight management a challenge during the winter months. Many assume this is because of high-calorie foods, but many other factors play into winter weight gain. People are less active, tend to drink more alcohol, and some have irregular circadian rhythms. All these obstacles can result in unwanted weight gain, and this is why it’s important to learn how to make a health plan for the winter months.One of the most important ways to stick to your health plan is to get into a routine before the gatherings begin. Creating a healthy eating plan, exercise regimen, and sleep schedule are all important to start before you relax for the holidays. Once a healthy lifestyle is a habit, it is much easier to get back on track after the holiday season.If you are looking for more tips related to holiday health, the Great Bend Activity Center will host an event called "Focus on the ‘Stars’: Cooking Healthy for the Holidays" on November 15 at noon. Key topics will include ingredient substitutions, indoor physical activity, and leftovers. Finally, those who join will get to sample a healthy take on a holiday treat!Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

WINKEL: Health management during the holidays

Two 4-year terms; One 2-year term&nbsp; Kelly Ancar —1,083 (15.42%) *Reese E Barrick —1,362 (19.40%) *Alaina Cunningham —1,878 (26.74%) Diana F Pantle —479 (6.82%) *Mason Ruder —2,199 (31.32%) write-ins — 21 (.30%)

4 at large positions David Clingan —1,196 (9.45%) James Feyerherm —1,133 (8.95%) *Jayme Goetz —1,486 (11.74%) Lori Hertel —869 (6.86%) *Craig Pallister —1,486 (11.74%) *Allen Park —1,657 (13.09%) *Ruth A Ruder —1,571 (12.41%) Duff Watson —411 (3.25%) Dennis Wilkie —1,105 (8.73%) *Derek Yarmer —1.,735 (13.70%) write-ins — 12 (.09%) Jayme Goetz and Craig Pallister finished with the exact same number of votes.

1 position *David R McDaniel —264 (83.81%) write-ins — 51 (16.19%)

1 position Faith Scheck —337 (99.12%) write-ins — 3 (.88%)

3 positions *Devin D Henderson —279 (28.97%) Brady A Richards —154 (15.99%) *John A Walz —246 (25.55%) *Terry G Zerfas —268 (27.83%) write-ins — 16 (1.66%)

1 position *Kevin Bieker —31 (100%) write-ins —&nbsp; 0

5 positions *Frederick H Follmer — 22 (20%) *Kyle Zimmerman —31 (28.18%) write-ins —&nbsp; 57 (51.82%)

1 position *John Schulte —232 (93.93%) write-ins — 15 (6.07%)

2 positions *Joe Leroux — 174 (60.63%) write-ins — 113 (39.37%)

4 at-large positions *Cindy Hertel —296 (20.60%) *Aaron Honas —335 (23.31%) *Marty Hollern — 288 (20.04%) Stephanie Johnson —146 (10.16%) *Brian J Shannon —244 (16.98%) write-ins — 128

USD 388 - 1 unexpired position *Randall S Honas —364 ,(93.60%) write-ins — 14 (3.70%)

4 district at-large positions Janea Dinkel — 132 (8.97%) *Terry Dinkel — 155 (10.54%) *Haley Gagnon — 168 (11.42%) *Brenton Hoffman —184 (12.51%) Jacob Hunter —114 (7.75%) Douglas A Kuhn —109 (7.41%) Tammy Lichter —111 (7.55%) *Matthew K Orr —188 (12.78%) Morgan Pfeifer —71 (4.83%) Gregory Sander —121 (8.23%) Tammy Lee Schumacher — 97 (6.59%) write-ins —&nbsp; 21 (1.43%)

3 director positions Casey F Herrman —22 (14.67%) *Duane Kuhn — 35 (23.33%) *Larry D Leiker — 31 (20.67%) *Keith Schmidt — 32 (21.33%) Duff Watson —28 (18.67%) write-ins —&nbsp; 2 (1.33%)

3 director positions write-ins — 7 (100%)

3 director positions *Shane Gregg —17 (16.67%) *William T Wierman —29 (28.43%) *Kevin Zimmer —36 (35.29%) write-ins —&nbsp; 20 (19.61%)

3 director positions write-ins — 18 (100%)

2 board positions&nbsp; Diana F Pantle —1,322 (25.22%) *Allen P Roth —2,343 (44.70%) *Tatum Sprague-Kimzey — 1,552 (29.61%) write-ins —&nbsp; 25 (.48%)

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/11/1699030405883.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>* denotes winner<h2>Hays City Commission</h2>Two 4-year terms; One 2-year term&nbsp; Kelly Ancar —1,083 (15.42%) *Reese E Barrick —1,362 (19.40%) *Alaina Cunningham —1,878 (26.74%) Diana F Pantle —479 (6.82%) *Mason Ruder —2,199 (31.32%) write-ins — 21 (.30%)<h2>Hays USD 489 school board</h2>4 at large positions David Clingan —1,196 (9.45%) James Feyerherm —1,133 (8.95%) *Jayme Goetz —1,486 (11.74%) Lori Hertel —869 (6.86%) *Craig Pallister —1,486 (11.74%) *Allen Park —1,657 (13.09%) *Ruth A Ruder —1,571 (12.41%) Duff Watson —411 (3.25%) Dennis Wilkie —1,105 (8.73%) *Derek Yarmer —1.,735 (13.70%) write-ins — 12 (.09%) Jayme Goetz and Craig Pallister finished with the exact same number of votes.<h2>Ellis mayor </h2>1 position *David R McDaniel —264 (83.81%) write-ins — 51 (16.19%) <h2>Ellis City treasurer</h2>1 position Faith Scheck —337 (99.12%) write-ins — 3 (.88%) <h2>Ellis City Council</h2>3 positions *Devin D Henderson —279 (28.97%) Brady A Richards —154 (15.99%) *John A Walz —246 (25.55%) *Terry G Zerfas —268 (27.83%) write-ins — 16 (1.66%) <h2>Schoenchen mayor</h2>1 position *Kevin Bieker —31 (100%) write-ins —&nbsp; 0<h2>Schoenchen City Council</h2>5 positions *Frederick H Follmer — 22 (20%) *Kyle Zimmerman —31 (28.18%) write-ins —&nbsp; 57 (51.82%)<h2>Victoria mayor</h2>1 position *John Schulte —232 (93.93%) write-ins — 15 (6.07%) <h2>Victoria City Council</h2>2 positions *Joe Leroux — 174 (60.63%) write-ins — 113 (39.37%) <h2>Ellis USD 388 school board</h2>4 at-large positions *Cindy Hertel —296 (20.60%) *Aaron Honas —335 (23.31%) *Marty Hollern — 288 (20.04%) Stephanie Johnson —146 (10.16%) *Brian J Shannon —244 (16.98%) write-ins — 128 USD 388 - 1 unexpired position *Randall S Honas —364 ,(93.60%) write-ins — 14 (3.70%) <h2> Victoria USD 432 school board</h2>4 district at-large positions Janea Dinkel — 132 (8.97%) *Terry Dinkel — 155 (10.54%) *Haley Gagnon — 168 (11.42%) *Brenton Hoffman —184 (12.51%) Jacob Hunter —114 (7.75%) Douglas A Kuhn —109 (7.41%) Tammy Lichter —111 (7.55%) *Matthew K Orr —188 (12.78%) Morgan Pfeifer —71 (4.83%) Gregory Sander —121 (8.23%) Tammy Lee Schumacher — 97 (6.59%) write-ins —&nbsp; 21 (1.43%)<h2>Big Creek Improvement District</h2>3 director positions Casey F Herrman —22 (14.67%) *Duane Kuhn — 35 (23.33%) *Larry D Leiker — 31 (20.67%) *Keith Schmidt — 32 (21.33%) Duff Watson —28 (18.67%) write-ins —&nbsp; 2 (1.33%)<h2>Munjor Improvement District</h2>3 director positions write-ins — 7 (100%) <h2>Prairie Acres Improvement District</h2>3 director positions *Shane Gregg —17 (16.67%) *William T Wierman —29 (28.43%) *Kevin Zimmer —36 (35.29%) write-ins —&nbsp; 20 (19.61%)<h2>Suburban Estates Improvement District</h2>3 director positions write-ins — 18 (100%) <h2>Cottonwood Extension District No. 17 </h2>2 board positions&nbsp; Diana F Pantle —1,322 (25.22%) *Allen P Roth —2,343 (44.70%) *Tatum Sprague-Kimzey — 1,552 (29.61%) write-ins —&nbsp; 25 (.48%)

2023 Ellis County election results

The Central Kansas Beef Summit program will be held in Beloit on Tuesday, November 14, from 9:00 a.m.–3:15 p.m. 

The event will be highlighted by a presentation on marketing strategies for beef cattle by Lynn Langvardt of JCCC Livestock Sales and a market outlook and update from K-State specialist, Dr. Glynn Tonsor. 

In addition to the speakers, the program will offer breakout sessions where attendees can pick and choose which topics apply to them. 

This year’s topics will include a presentation and demonstration of the Ag Manager decision tools by Robin Reid with the KSU Agricultural Economics Department, Rob Paxson with 701x will present on the company’s record keeping system and products, and Will Boyer with KSU will discuss utilizing drones as a way to manage your pasture. 

We will end the program with a Q&amp;A panel where we’ll hear from local livestock producers and industry professionals discuss technologies and strategies that are being implemented in the beef industry. 

The summit will be held in Beloit at the Beloit Methodist Church, 801 N. Bell St. 

This program will be a collaboration among numerous K-State Research and Extension districts and will give producers a better chance to not only hear from industry leaders, but to also take part in conversation with one another. 

Make sure to RSVP by November 7th to reserve a meal. The cost to attend is $10 or late registration will be $15 at the door. 

For more information on the event, or to register, visit our Post Rock Extension website or call Livestock Production Agent, Blaire Todd, at 785-738-3597. 

This event has been generously sponsored by several agribusinesses in collaboration with K-State Research and Extension Districts, Central KS, Cottonwood, Midway, River Valley, Phillips/Rooks, and Post Rock.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682262753.jpeg" alt="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. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>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. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Central Kansas Beef Summit program will be held in Beloit on Tuesday, November 14, from 9:00 a.m.–3:15 p.m. The event will be highlighted by a presentation on marketing strategies for beef cattle by Lynn Langvardt of JCCC Livestock Sales and a market outlook and update from K-State specialist, Dr. Glynn Tonsor. In addition to the speakers, the program will offer breakout sessions where attendees can pick and choose which topics apply to them. This year’s topics will include a presentation and demonstration of the Ag Manager decision tools by Robin Reid with the KSU Agricultural Economics Department, Rob Paxson with 701x will present on the company’s record keeping system and products, and Will Boyer with KSU will discuss utilizing drones as a way to manage your pasture. We will end the program with a Q&amp;A panel where we’ll hear from local livestock producers and industry professionals discuss technologies and strategies that are being implemented in the beef industry. The summit will be held in Beloit at the Beloit Methodist Church, 801 N. Bell St. This program will be a collaboration among numerous K-State Research and Extension districts and will give producers a better chance to not only hear from industry leaders, but to also take part in conversation with one another. Make sure to RSVP by November 7th to reserve a meal. The cost to attend is $10 or late registration will be $15 at the door. For more information on the event, or to register, visit our Post Rock Extension website or call Livestock Production Agent, Blaire Todd, at 785-738-3597. This event has been generously sponsored by several agribusinesses in collaboration with K-State Research and Extension Districts, Central KS, Cottonwood, Midway, River Valley, Phillips/Rooks, and Post Rock.We look forward to you joining us!Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698682095659.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

BOOR: Central Kansas Beef Summit program to be held Nov. 14 in Beloit; RSVP by Tuesday

Do you like water conservation and really want to convey the message to the public?&nbsp; Well, have I got the position for you!&nbsp; 4-H Water Ambassadors are a group of teens in Barton and Ellis counties that focus on the importance of water quality, water conservation, and water careers.

My name is Jonas Kern and I’m a sophomore at Ellinwood High School.&nbsp; 

I have been a 4-H20 ambassador for two years.&nbsp; My favorite part of being an ambassador with this program is the opportunity to learn and present.&nbsp; I am heavily involved in the wildlife project within 4-H.&nbsp; Teaching about the importance of water as a natural resource helped me reach my project goals.

To be a water ambassador, teens must apply to join and then attend two training sessions where they learn about different leadership and presentation skills.&nbsp; After training in Hays, the ambassador team gets to tour the municipal water treatment plant, and the wastewater treatment plant.&nbsp; There are a lot of steps to ensure we have clean and safe drinking water!&nbsp; 

The other training is held at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, and we get to tour the Cheyenne Bottoms wetland and learn how water acts and affects the environment.&nbsp; 

During the training, we learn to lead activities to teach others about water.&nbsp; I personally like to lead the “Incredible Journey.”&nbsp; It is an activity where you become a water molecule and travel through the water cycle.&nbsp; You might end up in an animal, a cloud, or an ocean.&nbsp; Students create a bracelet with beads to remind them of their trip through the hydrosphere.&nbsp; I led the activity at the state 4-H Discovery Days and at the Barton County Fair.

And that is what water ambassadors is all about.&nbsp; After we learn how to do cool activities, we go out and lead presentations at a variety of places, like the Hays Public Library, Sternberg Museum, or the Kansas Wetlands Education Center.&nbsp; We are always looking for opportunities to present for other organizations.

If you are interested in being an ambassador or want the ambassadors to present at your event, contact the Cottonwood District Extension Office.&nbsp; Michelle Beran in Barton County at 620-793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:BT@listserv.ksu.edu">BT@listserv.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;and Tamara Robertson in Ellis County at 785-628-9430 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:el@listserv.ksu.edu">el@listserv.ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp; Applications for the 2023-2024 team will be due December 1.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698420858900.jpeg" alt="4-H20 Ambassador Jonas Kern, Ellinwood, at the Fort Hays State University Kansas Wetlands Education Center in Cheyenne Bottoms near Great Bend. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>4-H20 Ambassador Jonas Kern, Ellinwood, at the Fort Hays State University Kansas Wetlands Education Center in Cheyenne Bottoms near Great Bend. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Do you like water conservation and really want to convey the message to the public?&nbsp; Well, have I got the position for you!&nbsp; 4-H Water Ambassadors are a group of teens in Barton and Ellis counties that focus on the importance of water quality, water conservation, and water careers.My name is Jonas Kern and I’m a sophomore at Ellinwood High School.&nbsp; I have been a 4-H20 ambassador for two years.&nbsp; My favorite part of being an ambassador with this program is the opportunity to learn and present.&nbsp; I am heavily involved in the wildlife project within 4-H.&nbsp; Teaching about the importance of water as a natural resource helped me reach my project goals.To be a water ambassador, teens must apply to join and then attend two training sessions where they learn about different leadership and presentation skills.&nbsp; After training in Hays, the ambassador team gets to tour the municipal water treatment plant, and the wastewater treatment plant.&nbsp; There are a lot of steps to ensure we have clean and safe drinking water!&nbsp; The other training is held at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, and we get to tour the Cheyenne Bottoms wetland and learn how water acts and affects the environment.&nbsp; During the training, we learn to lead activities to teach others about water.&nbsp; I personally like to lead the “Incredible Journey.”&nbsp; It is an activity where you become a water molecule and travel through the water cycle.&nbsp; You might end up in an animal, a cloud, or an ocean.&nbsp; Students create a bracelet with beads to remind them of their trip through the hydrosphere.&nbsp; I led the activity at the state 4-H Discovery Days and at the Barton County Fair.And that is what water ambassadors is all about.&nbsp; After we learn how to do cool activities, we go out and lead presentations at a variety of places, like the Hays Public Library, Sternberg Museum, or the Kansas Wetlands Education Center.&nbsp; We are always looking for opportunities to present for other organizations.If you are interested in being an ambassador or want the ambassadors to present at your event, contact the Cottonwood District Extension Office.&nbsp; Michelle Beran in Barton County at 620-793-1910 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:BT@listserv.ksu.edu">BT@listserv.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;and Tamara Robertson in Ellis County at 785-628-9430 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:el@listserv.ksu.edu">el@listserv.ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp; Applications for the 2023-2024 team will be due December 1.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:mberan@ksu.edu">mberan@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or call Cottonwood Extension District, Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: 4-H Water Ambassadors program looking for new members

The weeks between harvest and when snow flies can be a good time to evaluate and perform maintenance on terraces. 

In Kansas, over 9 million acres of land is protected by more than 290,000 miles of terraces, making Kansas number two in the U.S. for this soil and water conservation practice. 

To accomplish the goal of erosion control and water savings, terraces must have adequate capacity, ridge height, and channel width.&nbsp;

Without adequate capacity to carry water, terraces will be overtopped by runoff in a heavy storm. Overtopping causes erosion of the terrace ridge, terrace back slope, and lower terraces and may result in severe gullies. 

Terraces are typically designed to handle runoff from a 1-in-10-year storm. The rainfall amounts for such a storm are approximately five inches for eastern Kansas, four inches for central, and three inches for western Kansas during a 24-hour period.&nbsp;

Terraces need regular maintenance to function for a long life. 

Erosion by water, wind, and tillage wears the ridge down and deposits sediment in the channel, decreasing the effective ridge height, and channel capacity. The amount of capacity loss depends on the type and number of tillage operations, topography, soil properties, crop residue, and precipitation. Terrace maintenance restores capacity by removing sediment from the channel and rebuilding ridge height.&nbsp;

Typically, more frequent maintenance is required for steep slopes and/or highly erodible soils. Annual maintenance is necessary for intense tillage operations and heavy rainfall runoff. Less frequent maintenance is often adequate with high residue levels or where lower rainfall occurs and runoff intensity is low.&nbsp;

Check for needed repairs; terraces degrade naturally by erosion and sediment, and can be damaged by machinery, animals, settling, and erosion. Check terraces and terrace outlets regularly (at least annually) for needed repairs. 

The best time to check is after rains, when erosion, sedimentation, and unevenness in elevation are easiest to spot. Specific items to note are overtopping, low or narrow terrace ridges, water ponding in the channel, terrace outlets, erosion, and sediment clogging near waterway or pipe outlets.&nbsp;

Terraces should be considered only a part of an overall erosion control plan. Use of conservation farming methods, especially residue maintenance, compliments erosion control structures and has been shown to be both economically and environmentally sound.&nbsp;

Information provided by DeAnn Presley, K-State Soil Management Specialist. Additional sources for technical information include local USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service and county conservation district offices.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The weeks between harvest and when snow flies can be a good time to evaluate and perform maintenance on terraces. In Kansas, over 9 million acres of land is protected by more than 290,000 miles of terraces, making Kansas number two in the U.S. for this soil and water conservation practice. To accomplish the goal of erosion control and water savings, terraces must have adequate capacity, ridge height, and channel width.&nbsp;Without adequate capacity to carry water, terraces will be overtopped by runoff in a heavy storm. Overtopping causes erosion of the terrace ridge, terrace back slope, and lower terraces and may result in severe gullies. Terraces are typically designed to handle runoff from a 1-in-10-year storm. The rainfall amounts for such a storm are approximately five inches for eastern Kansas, four inches for central, and three inches for western Kansas during a 24-hour period.&nbsp;Terraces need regular maintenance to function for a long life. Erosion by water, wind, and tillage wears the ridge down and deposits sediment in the channel, decreasing the effective ridge height, and channel capacity. The amount of capacity loss depends on the type and number of tillage operations, topography, soil properties, crop residue, and precipitation. Terrace maintenance restores capacity by removing sediment from the channel and rebuilding ridge height.&nbsp;Typically, more frequent maintenance is required for steep slopes and/or highly erodible soils. Annual maintenance is necessary for intense tillage operations and heavy rainfall runoff. Less frequent maintenance is often adequate with high residue levels or where lower rainfall occurs and runoff intensity is low.&nbsp;Check for needed repairs; terraces degrade naturally by erosion and sediment, and can be damaged by machinery, animals, settling, and erosion. Check terraces and terrace outlets regularly (at least annually) for needed repairs. The best time to check is after rains, when erosion, sedimentation, and unevenness in elevation are easiest to spot. Specific items to note are overtopping, low or narrow terrace ridges, water ponding in the channel, terrace outlets, erosion, and sediment clogging near waterway or pipe outlets.&nbsp;Terraces should be considered only a part of an overall erosion control plan. Use of conservation farming methods, especially residue maintenance, compliments erosion control structures and has been shown to be both economically and environmentally sound.&nbsp;Information provided by DeAnn Presley, K-State Soil Management Specialist. Additional sources for technical information include local USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service and county conservation district offices.&nbsp;Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.

CAMPBELL: Check terraces now for needed repairs and maintenance 

Most of us know that physical activity is key to a healthy lifestyle. But did you know that exercise in the fall and winter is particularly important? Studies show that exercise can ward off seasonal depression, keep illness at bay, and keep holiday calories in check.

As the days get shorter and the chance to soak up vitamin D from the sun dwindles, seasonal depression is a major issue for Americans. It’s harder to find time to get outside, schedules get busier, and stress increases. Motivation to exercise may be a challenge due to these reasons, but exercise can make a complete difference in how you feel! Regular workouts release endorphins that boost mood, increase energy levels, and reduce stress which can combat the seasonal depression of winter.

Regular moderate-intensity exercise also plays an important role in immune health. This can decrease your chances of getting sick during the cold and flu season. However, it is important to note that regular activity is key because exercise improves overall health which boosts immune function. This is because it increases the circulation of immune cells, acts as a natural sleep aid, and reduces inflammation. So, continue hitting the gym a few times a week and you might see your overall health and immune health improve!

Finally, we all know that holiday treats are the culprit of excess weight gain most of us struggle with every year. Although it is important to enjoy family gatherings and indulge occasionally, it is just as important to get back on track. When working out is a habit, this is a lot easier. In fact, regular exercise helps to manage the hunger hormones that often lead to overeating. Regular exercisers also feel more encouraged to eat mindfully and drink more water which can help control weight fluctuation.

The change in seasons may have shifted your routine. This can make it hard to find time to exercise, so here are a few tips to stay active as the weather cools down:

· Make time for an outdoor workout during the day's warmer parts. You might find it more appealing to go for a walk over your lunch hour as opposed to chilly mornings. Prepping your lunch ahead of time can help you squeeze in a quick brain break.

· Join a fitness class or sports league. Having accountability from others may be the motivation you need. Plus, socialization always makes exercise more fun! There are multiple options for group fitness options. Most local recreation commissions offer basketball, volleyball, and other various sports.&nbsp;Classes offered by K-State Research and Extension will also gear up in January. These include Walk with Ease in Hoisington and Stay Strong, Stay Healthy in Hays. Contact your local extension office to learn more!

· Keep moving throughout your day. Maybe you don’t have the time to make it to the gym, but setting daily activity goals can still improve your health. A daily step goal is a common one that many people reap benefits from. Getting more movement in can include parking at the back of the lot, taking the stairs, deep cleaning the house, or using a standing desk.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="Karissa Winkel&nbsp;is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel&nbsp;is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Most of us know that physical activity is key to a healthy lifestyle. But did you know that exercise in the fall and winter is particularly important? Studies show that exercise can ward off seasonal depression, keep illness at bay, and keep holiday calories in check.As the days get shorter and the chance to soak up vitamin D from the sun dwindles, seasonal depression is a major issue for Americans. It’s harder to find time to get outside, schedules get busier, and stress increases. Motivation to exercise may be a challenge due to these reasons, but exercise can make a complete difference in how you feel! Regular workouts release endorphins that boost mood, increase energy levels, and reduce stress which can combat the seasonal depression of winter.Regular moderate-intensity exercise also plays an important role in immune health. This can decrease your chances of getting sick during the cold and flu season. However, it is important to note that regular activity is key because exercise improves overall health which boosts immune function. This is because it increases the circulation of immune cells, acts as a natural sleep aid, and reduces inflammation. So, continue hitting the gym a few times a week and you might see your overall health and immune health improve!Finally, we all know that holiday treats are the culprit of excess weight gain most of us struggle with every year. Although it is important to enjoy family gatherings and indulge occasionally, it is just as important to get back on track. When working out is a habit, this is a lot easier. In fact, regular exercise helps to manage the hunger hormones that often lead to overeating. Regular exercisers also feel more encouraged to eat mindfully and drink more water which can help control weight fluctuation.The change in seasons may have shifted your routine. This can make it hard to find time to exercise, so here are a few tips to stay active as the weather cools down:· Make time for an outdoor workout during the day's warmer parts. You might find it more appealing to go for a walk over your lunch hour as opposed to chilly mornings. Prepping your lunch ahead of time can help you squeeze in a quick brain break.· Join a fitness class or sports league. Having accountability from others may be the motivation you need. Plus, socialization always makes exercise more fun! There are multiple options for group fitness options. Most local recreation commissions offer basketball, volleyball, and other various sports.&nbsp;Classes offered by K-State Research and Extension will also gear up in January. These include Walk with Ease in Hoisington and Stay Strong, Stay Healthy in Hays. Contact your local extension office to learn more!· Keep moving throughout your day. Maybe you don’t have the time to make it to the gym, but setting daily activity goals can still improve your health. A daily step goal is a common one that many people reap benefits from. Getting more movement in can include parking at the back of the lot, taking the stairs, deep cleaning the house, or using a standing desk.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

WINKEL: Activity in the autumn: It's essential!

Hearing loss doesn’t just mean an older adult needs to turn up the TV. It’s been linked to a range of health problems, including dementia.

The latest aging research not only shows the two are connected, it’s also leading scientists to believe that hearing loss may actually be a cause of dementia.

This emerging area of research has huge implications, says Frank Lin, MD, PhD, director of the Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health. at the Bloomberg School. Some 37.5 million Americans have trouble hearing, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders.

A key question researchers have: Could hearing aids reduce the risk of a person developing dementia?

Lin explains the connection between the two conditions and where the science is headed.

If you have hearing loss, you have a greater chance of developing dementia, according to a 2020 Lancet commission report that lists hearing loss as one of the top risk factors for dementia.

Hearing loss can make the brain work harder, forcing it to strain to hear and fill in the gaps. That comes at the expense of other thinking and memory systems. Another possibility: Hearing loss causes the aging brain to shrink more quickly. A third possibility is that hearing loss leads people to be less socially engaged, which is hugely important to remaining intellectually stimulated. If you can't hear very well, you may not go out as much, so the brain is less engaged and active.

Quantifying hearing loss’s impact

According to the World Health Organization, hearing loss is estimated to account for 8% of dementia cases. This means that hearing loss may be responsible for 800,000 of the nearly 10 million new cases of dementia diagnosed each year.

Johns Hopkins is leading a large National Institute on Aging study to see if hearing aids can safeguard seniors’ mental processes. The study has multiple locations and has recruited nearly 1,000 people ages 70–84 with hearing loss. One group is provided hearing aids, while another group receives aging education. In July, Public Health on Call interviewed Dr. Frank Lin about his research using a randomized control study. Everyone was followed for three years with cognitive skills test every 6 months. Hearing interventions were shown to slow down cognitive decline in those with more risk factors for cognitive decline. A hearing aid is a low risk intervention that can help prevent cognitive decline in those with other risk factors.

Hearing loss has long-term effects on health. It’s believed to increase the risk for falls and depression. It also leads to higher health care costs: People with hearing loss have an increased rate of hospitalization.

Please encourage your loved ones to go get their hearing checked and find hearing aids if they have hearing loss. October is also National Protect Your Hearing Month so remember your ear plugs or earmuffs when you are around loud sounds. Prevention is important.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Hearing loss doesn’t just mean an older adult needs to turn up the TV. It’s been linked to a range of health problems, including dementia.The latest aging research not only shows the two are connected, it’s also leading scientists to believe that hearing loss may actually be a cause of dementia.This emerging area of research has huge implications, says Frank Lin, MD, PhD, director of the Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health. at the Bloomberg School. Some 37.5 million Americans have trouble hearing, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders.A key question researchers have: Could hearing aids reduce the risk of a person developing dementia?Lin explains the connection between the two conditions and where the science is headed.Hearing loss and the brainIf you have hearing loss, you have a greater chance of developing dementia, according to a 2020 Lancet commission report that lists hearing loss as one of the top risk factors for dementia.Brain strain and social isolationHearing loss can make the brain work harder, forcing it to strain to hear and fill in the gaps. That comes at the expense of other thinking and memory systems. Another possibility: Hearing loss causes the aging brain to shrink more quickly. A third possibility is that hearing loss leads people to be less socially engaged, which is hugely important to remaining intellectually stimulated. If you can't hear very well, you may not go out as much, so the brain is less engaged and active.Quantifying hearing loss’s impactAccording to the World Health Organization, hearing loss is estimated to account for 8% of dementia cases. This means that hearing loss may be responsible for 800,000 of the nearly 10 million new cases of dementia diagnosed each year.Reducing the risk of dementiaJohns Hopkins is leading a large National Institute on Aging study to see if hearing aids can safeguard seniors’ mental processes. The study has multiple locations and has recruited nearly 1,000 people ages 70–84 with hearing loss. One group is provided hearing aids, while another group receives aging education. In July, Public Health on Call interviewed Dr. Frank Lin about his research using a randomized control study. Everyone was followed for three years with cognitive skills test every 6 months. Hearing interventions were shown to slow down cognitive decline in those with more risk factors for cognitive decline. A hearing aid is a low risk intervention that can help prevent cognitive decline in those with other risk factors.Other effects on healthHearing loss has long-term effects on health. It’s believed to increase the risk for falls and depression. It also leads to higher health care costs: People with hearing loss have an increased rate of hospitalization.Please encourage your loved ones to go get their hearing checked and find hearing aids if they have hearing loss. October is also National Protect Your Hearing Month so remember your ear plugs or earmuffs when you are around loud sounds. Prevention is important.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Hearing loss linked to health problems, including dementia

From chilling tales to creepy costumes, lots of things can be scary on Halloween night. 

But the real danger for children is walking in the dark. On average, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than any other day of the year, according to Safe Kids Worldwide. And the leading cause of injury is falls. Make sure children know the rules of the road and are as visible as possible at night.

• Travel together. Avoid letting children walk alone and walk in large groups with a responsible adult.

• Brighten up. Fasten reflective tape to kids’ costumes and treat bags so drivers can see them at night. Brightly colored costumes are better for kids.

• Look both ways. Tell your children to look both ways before crossing the street and to use crosswalks

• Stay on sidewalks. Walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.

• See and be seen. Give children a flashlight or glow stick to hold while trick or treating to help them see, and to hope others see them while they walk and never run from house to house.

• Costumes should allow your child to see and move safely while they’re out and about.

• Use make-up instead of masks to children can see better. Test make-up for sensitivity and remove before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.

• Make sure costumes and shoes are well fitted so they are less likely to fall.

• Use battery-operated lights instead of candles.

• Feed your trick-or-treaters dinner or a snack before going out so they can resist the temptation to open a piece of candy before it’s inspected.

• Check candy when you get home and look for evidence of tampering. Throw away homemade treats and check labels if your child has any allergies.

• Put electronic devices down, keep heads up. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.

Halloween is about making memories. Keeping children safe throughout the festivities depends on everyone-- parents and kids, drivers and pedestrians-- being thoughtful, attentive and careful.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>From chilling tales to creepy costumes, lots of things can be scary on Halloween night. But the real danger for children is walking in the dark. On average, children are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car and killed on Halloween than any other day of the year, according to Safe Kids Worldwide. And the leading cause of injury is falls. Make sure children know the rules of the road and are as visible as possible at night.Here are some tips to help you prepare:• Travel together. Avoid letting children walk alone and walk in large groups with a responsible adult.• Brighten up. Fasten reflective tape to kids’ costumes and treat bags so drivers can see them at night. Brightly colored costumes are better for kids.• Look both ways. Tell your children to look both ways before crossing the street and to use crosswalks• Stay on sidewalks. Walk on sidewalks whenever possible, or on the far edge of the road facing traffic to stay safe.• See and be seen. Give children a flashlight or glow stick to hold while trick or treating to help them see, and to hope others see them while they walk and never run from house to house.• Costumes should allow your child to see and move safely while they’re out and about.• Use make-up instead of masks to children can see better. Test make-up for sensitivity and remove before bedtime to prevent possible skin and eye irritation.• Make sure costumes and shoes are well fitted so they are less likely to fall.• Use battery-operated lights instead of candles.• Feed your trick-or-treaters dinner or a snack before going out so they can resist the temptation to open a piece of candy before it’s inspected.• Check candy when you get home and look for evidence of tampering. Throw away homemade treats and check labels if your child has any allergies.• Put electronic devices down, keep heads up. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of them.Halloween is about making memories. Keeping children safe throughout the festivities depends on everyone-- parents and kids, drivers and pedestrians-- being thoughtful, attentive and careful.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Halloween safety

Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, can damage several important Kansas crops as well as pasture, turf, and home landscaping. This insect does not overwinter in Kansas. Rather, it is native to the tropical regions of the western hemisphere and is active year-round along the Gulf Coast and southern Florida, migrating in from these locations each year. Two full generations are possible in Kansas, with defoliation and grain damage being the biggest concerns.

While reports of fall armyworm caterpillar damage have not been received so far this fall, it is a good idea to keep an eye out for this insect, especially where newly seeded crops or grasses have been planted.

Fall armyworm caterpillars can be distinguished from other Lepidopterans by markings on the head that resemble an inverted “Y” and four spots on the last abdominal segment that form a square. Once caterpillars are ½ to ¾ inch, they can do considerable damage in a few days. Because of this it is important to scout newly planted fields or hay meadows, in order to spot them when they are small.

A reasonable treatment threshold is finding three or more caterpillars per square foot within a newly planted field. 

There are several insecticides labeled to control this insect including Mustang Maxx, Besiege and Sevin. For forage crops, be sure to check the grazing restriction and post-harvest interval. When considering a chemical treatment option, keep in mind caterpillars ¾-inch or longer are close to maturity and can be harder to control with an insecticide.

Fall armyworm feeding declines with cooler temperatures and the adult moths eventually migrate south. In the meantime, be sure to keep an eye on any newly seeded grain or hay fields.

K-State Research &amp; Extension has crop insect pest management information available at your finger-tips, simply type into your internet browser “<a href="https://entomology.k-state.edu/extension/publications/">crop pest guides, KSU</a>”.

If you ever need any assistance in looking at your fields or have any questions, please give me a call at the Cottonwood Extension Office in Hays at 785-628-9430.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, can damage several important Kansas crops as well as pasture, turf, and home landscaping. This insect does not overwinter in Kansas. Rather, it is native to the tropical regions of the western hemisphere and is active year-round along the Gulf Coast and southern Florida, migrating in from these locations each year. Two full generations are possible in Kansas, with defoliation and grain damage being the biggest concerns.While reports of fall armyworm caterpillar damage have not been received so far this fall, it is a good idea to keep an eye out for this insect, especially where newly seeded crops or grasses have been planted.Fall armyworm caterpillars can be distinguished from other Lepidopterans by markings on the head that resemble an inverted “Y” and four spots on the last abdominal segment that form a square. Once caterpillars are ½ to ¾ inch, they can do considerable damage in a few days. Because of this it is important to scout newly planted fields or hay meadows, in order to spot them when they are small.A reasonable treatment threshold is finding three or more caterpillars per square foot within a newly planted field. There are several insecticides labeled to control this insect including Mustang Maxx, Besiege and Sevin. For forage crops, be sure to check the grazing restriction and post-harvest interval. When considering a chemical treatment option, keep in mind caterpillars ¾-inch or longer are close to maturity and can be harder to control with an insecticide.Fall armyworm feeding declines with cooler temperatures and the adult moths eventually migrate south. In the meantime, be sure to keep an eye on any newly seeded grain or hay fields.K-State Research &amp; Extension has crop insect pest management information available at your finger-tips, simply type into your internet browser “<a href="https://entomology.k-state.edu/extension/publications/">crop pest guides, KSU</a>”.If you ever need any assistance in looking at your fields or have any questions, please give me a call at the Cottonwood Extension Office in Hays at 785-628-9430.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Fall armyworm awareness

This past Wednesday, K-State’s Living Well Wednesday series kicked off with caution against e-cigarettes. This topic has become extremely prevalent since I began as the Family and Community Wellness agent in June, so I am excited to share the great insight of Donna Gerstner who gave this past week’s Live Well Wednesday presentation.

· 60.4% of students who use e-cigarettes – also known as vaping – on a regular basis have reported symptoms of depression, compared to 29.1% of those who have never used e-cigarettes.

· 42.5% of those who use e-cigarettes are more likely to self-harm; 42% plan on it; 37.5% will attempt self-harm.

· 8 out of 10 youth who use e-cigarettes reported additional substance abuse, including alcohol and marijuana.

“So you see that it’s really scary that youth are using vapes because it causes suicidal behavior,” said Gerstner, who coordinates grants aimed at chronic disease risk reduction and e-cigarette prevention.

In Kansas, more than 48% of high school students have tried e-cigarettes and 22% are currently users, according to the state’s Division of Public Health surveys.

Health officials say tobacco use among youth, including vaping, has negative consequences that ultimately cause more than 60,000 Kansans under age 18 to die prematurely from smoking.

“The tobacco industry is creating vaping products that appeal to young people,” Gerstner said. “This includes vaping pens that look like USB drives, ballpoint pens, watches and even vape wear, such as a hoodie where the vape comes out of the drawstrings.”

Vaping gained popularity in part because youth believed it was less harmful than smoking, was less expensive and many e-cigarettes came in various flavors.

But, Gerstner says, don’t be fooled by the lack of smoke produced from e-cigarettes. The cloud produced by e-cigarettes may appear to be water vapor, but in actuality it is a harmful aerosol of poisons that actually sticks to surfaces and creates a phenomenon known as third-hand smoke.

“Think of hairspray…what does it do? It doesn’t go away when you spray it on your hair,” Gerstner said.

“When somebody is vaping in an area, they leave chemicals on nearby surfaces, then dust reacts to other chemicals in the environment to form toxic chemicals. That’s third-hand smoke. These are potentially harmful chemicals that people and animals can be exposed to through the respiratory system. Small children are especially at-risk for third-hand smoke exposure because they always put everything in their mouth.”

In Garden City, Gerstner has been involved in efforts to pass a city and county ordinance that banned the sale of vaping products to teens. Currently, a group is working to change a school policy to eliminate a first-offense suspension for youth caught with vaping products, which only serves to give the opportunity for youth to stay home and vape there.

“Instead,” she said, “we need to give those youth the tools that they can use to help themselves.”

“We also have a statewide youth program called RESIST to fight against the tobacco industry’s manipulative marketing tactics,” Gerstner said. “Local chapters work to educate their peers and advocate for local policies that restrict access to tobacco products.”

Gerstner spoke at length on the topic during the K-State Research and Extension online series, Living Well Wednesday. Her presentation, titled ‘It’s Not So Kool to JUUL,’ is available to view online.

The Living Well Wednesday series continues Nov. 1 with a presentation titled "Teen Stress and Anxiety: How Worried do Parents Need to Be?" The series is free, but those interested are required to register online to receive a link where the session can be accessed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697546908793.jpeg" alt="Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>This past Wednesday, K-State’s Living Well Wednesday series kicked off with caution against e-cigarettes. This topic has become extremely prevalent since I began as the Family and Community Wellness agent in June, so I am excited to share the great insight of Donna Gerstner who gave this past week’s Live Well Wednesday presentation. Consider:· 60.4% of students who use e-cigarettes – also known as vaping – on a regular basis have reported symptoms of depression, compared to 29.1% of those who have never used e-cigarettes.· 42.5% of those who use e-cigarettes are more likely to self-harm; 42% plan on it; 37.5% will attempt self-harm.· 8 out of 10 youth who use e-cigarettes reported additional substance abuse, including alcohol and marijuana.“So you see that it’s really scary that youth are using vapes because it causes suicidal behavior,” said Gerstner, who coordinates grants aimed at chronic disease risk reduction and e-cigarette prevention.In Kansas, more than 48% of high school students have tried e-cigarettes and 22% are currently users, according to the state’s Division of Public Health surveys.Health officials say tobacco use among youth, including vaping, has negative consequences that ultimately cause more than 60,000 Kansans under age 18 to die prematurely from smoking.“The tobacco industry is creating vaping products that appeal to young people,” Gerstner said. “This includes vaping pens that look like USB drives, ballpoint pens, watches and even vape wear, such as a hoodie where the vape comes out of the drawstrings.”Vaping gained popularity in part because youth believed it was less harmful than smoking, was less expensive and many e-cigarettes came in various flavors.But, Gerstner says, don’t be fooled by the lack of smoke produced from e-cigarettes. The cloud produced by e-cigarettes may appear to be water vapor, but in actuality it is a harmful aerosol of poisons that actually sticks to surfaces and creates a phenomenon known as third-hand smoke.“Think of hairspray…what does it do? It doesn’t go away when you spray it on your hair,” Gerstner said.“When somebody is vaping in an area, they leave chemicals on nearby surfaces, then dust reacts to other chemicals in the environment to form toxic chemicals. That’s third-hand smoke. These are potentially harmful chemicals that people and animals can be exposed to through the respiratory system. Small children are especially at-risk for third-hand smoke exposure because they always put everything in their mouth.”In Garden City, Gerstner has been involved in efforts to pass a city and county ordinance that banned the sale of vaping products to teens. Currently, a group is working to change a school policy to eliminate a first-offense suspension for youth caught with vaping products, which only serves to give the opportunity for youth to stay home and vape there.“Instead,” she said, “we need to give those youth the tools that they can use to help themselves.”“We also have a statewide youth program called RESIST to fight against the tobacco industry’s manipulative marketing tactics,” Gerstner said. “Local chapters work to educate their peers and advocate for local policies that restrict access to tobacco products.”Gerstner spoke at length on the topic during the K-State Research and Extension online series, Living Well Wednesday. Her presentation, titled ‘It’s Not So Kool to JUUL,’ is available to view online.The Living Well Wednesday series continues Nov. 1 with a presentation titled "Teen Stress and Anxiety: How Worried do Parents Need to Be?" The series is free, but those interested are required to register online to receive a link where the session can be accessed.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension, Cottonwood District. You may reach her at 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu.&nbsp;

WINKEL: ‘It’s not Kool to JUUL’: Expert warns of vaping use among teens

Courtesy of the&nbsp;Cottonwood Extension District

The Cottonwood Extension District (Ellis and Barton counties) has two executive board positions in Ellis County with elections this year. There are three candidates that have filed for these positions. Here are short bios on the candidates. The Cottonwood Extension Board, as with any board, is tasked with both planning and implementation of district activities as well as oversight.

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 7. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.&nbsp;

To find your polling location,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/432/Polling-Site-Locations">click here</a>.

Tatum is a longtime extension member, volunteer, and 4-H leader. She served on the Ellis County Extension board prior to the formation of the Cottonwood District. She has served the last four years on the Cottonwood Extension District as treasurer.

She enjoys being a part of the important work that the Cottonwood Extension District is doing.

As an Ellis County taxpayer and a CPA she strives to be fiscally responsible with the direction of the extension district. She looks forward to continuing as a board member.

Allen has served on the Cottonwood Extension executive board since 2017 when the district was formed. He has been involved in agricultural activities in Ellis County his entire life. He operates a small farm in southern Ellis County with wheat, milo, and stocker cattle. Allen has BS and MS degrees from K-State.

Diana is a resident of Hays. She is an Ellis County Master Gardener, where she serves on the Advisory Council. She is the former secretary of the Friends of Barr Lake (Colorado) board and is a current member of the Hays Public Library Foundation board.

She has a BS degree in Animal Science from Colorado State. Diana is a lifelong gardener. Diana believes that the Cottonwood Extension District is an important part of the Barton and Ellis county communities.

As, by definition, it's a local arm of Kansas State Research and Extension, and the various districts help to improve the lives of Kansans through education and research.

She feels that her background in education, experience and public interactions through numerous activities would benefit the board as it works through the various demands on the district. Through her current Master Gardener affiliation, she has been involved with the district and understands its inner workings. As a co-leader of a local 4H group, she is also aware of the commitment to the youth of the area.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1617728198283.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Courtesy of the&nbsp;Cottonwood Extension DistrictThe Cottonwood Extension District (Ellis and Barton counties) has two executive board positions in Ellis County with elections this year. There are three candidates that have filed for these positions. Here are short bios on the candidates. The Cottonwood Extension Board, as with any board, is tasked with both planning and implementation of district activities as well as oversight.Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 7. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.&nbsp;To find your polling location,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ellisco.net/432/Polling-Site-Locations">click here</a>.<h2>Tatum Kimzey - incumbent</h2>Tatum is a longtime extension member, volunteer, and 4-H leader. She served on the Ellis County Extension board prior to the formation of the Cottonwood District. She has served the last four years on the Cottonwood Extension District as treasurer.She enjoys being a part of the important work that the Cottonwood Extension District is doing.As an Ellis County taxpayer and a CPA she strives to be fiscally responsible with the direction of the extension district. She looks forward to continuing as a board member.<h2>Allen Roth - incumbent</h2>Allen has served on the Cottonwood Extension executive board since 2017 when the district was formed. He has been involved in agricultural activities in Ellis County his entire life. He operates a small farm in southern Ellis County with wheat, milo, and stocker cattle. Allen has BS and MS degrees from K-State.<h2>Diana F Pantle</h2>Diana is a resident of Hays. She is an Ellis County Master Gardener, where she serves on the Advisory Council. She is the former secretary of the Friends of Barr Lake (Colorado) board and is a current member of the Hays Public Library Foundation board.She has a BS degree in Animal Science from Colorado State. Diana is a lifelong gardener. Diana believes that the Cottonwood Extension District is an important part of the Barton and Ellis county communities.As, by definition, it's a local arm of Kansas State Research and Extension, and the various districts help to improve the lives of Kansans through education and research.She feels that her background in education, experience and public interactions through numerous activities would benefit the board as it works through the various demands on the district. Through her current Master Gardener affiliation, she has been involved with the district and understands its inner workings. As a co-leader of a local 4H group, she is also aware of the commitment to the youth of the area.

3 candidates vie for 2 Ellis County seats on Cottonwood Extension District board

With row crop harvest well underway, it is time to start planning fall herbicide applications. 

Herbicide applications in late October through November can improve control of difficult winter annual weeds. Fall weed control is associated with warmer soils and easier planting in the spring, however, it is important to remember that fall-applied herbicides may limit your crop options in the spring. Also remember that herbicides should not be applied to frozen ground.

Some of the key herbicides to consider for fall herbicide applications include chlorimuron (Classic, others), flumioxazin (Valor, others), suflentrazone (Spartan, others), and Autumn Super, for residual activity. One thing to keep in mind about residual activity from fall herbicide applications is that weather conditions will influence the length of residual control and the weed emergence patterns. So, even though they provide some residual activity, additional spring application pre-emergence herbicides will likely be needed for season-long weed control.

For burndown activity, glyphosate, 2,4-D or dicamba are good options to consider. Alternatives for grass control include Group 1 herbicides like clethodim (Select, others) or quizalofop (Assure II, others). Alternatives for controlling broadleaf weeds include paraquat (Gramoxone, others) or saflufenacil (Sharpen).

Some key weeds to target with fall herbicide applications are marestail, henbit, dandelion, prickly lettuce, pepperweed, field pansy, and recently-emerged cool-season grasses. When higher rates of herbicides are used in the fall some suppression of early spring-germinating summer annual broadleaf weeds such as kochia, common lambsquarters, wild buckwheat, and Pennsylvania smartweed can be achieved, according to recent research in Kansas.

Marestail is a problem that merits special attention. This weed is classified as a winter annual, but it germinates well into spring and summer, making it even more difficult to manage. Marestail is much easier to control in fall or early spring while it is still in the rosette growth stage.

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

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

For more information on weed control refer to the 2023 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland. You can find it by typing into your internet browser&nbsp;“<a href="http://v">Chemical Weed Control Guide, KSU</a>.” Or stop by your local county or district extension office for a paper copy.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>With row crop harvest well underway, it is time to start planning fall herbicide applications. Herbicide applications in late October through November can improve control of difficult winter annual weeds. Fall weed control is associated with warmer soils and easier planting in the spring, however, it is important to remember that fall-applied herbicides may limit your crop options in the spring. Also remember that herbicides should not be applied to frozen ground.Some of the key herbicides to consider for fall herbicide applications include chlorimuron (Classic, others), flumioxazin (Valor, others), suflentrazone (Spartan, others), and Autumn Super, for residual activity. One thing to keep in mind about residual activity from fall herbicide applications is that weather conditions will influence the length of residual control and the weed emergence patterns. So, even though they provide some residual activity, additional spring application pre-emergence herbicides will likely be needed for season-long weed control.For burndown activity, glyphosate, 2,4-D or dicamba are good options to consider. Alternatives for grass control include Group 1 herbicides like clethodim (Select, others) or quizalofop (Assure II, others). Alternatives for controlling broadleaf weeds include paraquat (Gramoxone, others) or saflufenacil (Sharpen).Some key weeds to target with fall herbicide applications are marestail, henbit, dandelion, prickly lettuce, pepperweed, field pansy, and recently-emerged cool-season grasses. When higher rates of herbicides are used in the fall some suppression of early spring-germinating summer annual broadleaf weeds such as kochia, common lambsquarters, wild buckwheat, and Pennsylvania smartweed can be achieved, according to recent research in Kansas.Marestail is a problem that merits special attention. This weed is classified as a winter annual, but it germinates well into spring and summer, making it even more difficult to manage. Marestail is much easier to control in fall or early spring while it is still in the rosette growth stage.The use of trade names is for clarity to readers and does not imply endorsement of a particular product, nor does exclusion imply non-approval. Always consult the herbicide label for the most current use requirements. For more information on weed control refer to the 2023 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland. You can find it by typing into your internet browser&nbsp;“<a href="http://v">Chemical Weed Control Guide, KSU</a>.” Or stop by your local county or district extension office for a paper copy.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Control annual weeds with fall-applied herbicides ahead of corn, sorghum

Extension could not do the work we do without community partners! 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179445671.jpeg" alt="Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. Courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Extension could not do the work we do without community partners! For myself with 4-H work, partnerships with our local recreation centers, libraries, and school districts are invaluable. Our Family and Community Wellness agents also partner with health departments, medical providers, and day care facilities to provide a wide variety of services. Our ag and natural resources agents work with ag cooperatives, livestock producers and facilities, and many others in the ag service industries. We partner to provide programming for a wide audience across the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;Extension is literally the extension of research from and for the land-grant university. As our community, you have an opportunity&nbsp;to participate in regional community visits with administration from Kansas State University. From the press release information provided, Kansas State University is gearing up for the second year of presidential community visits across Kansas. The regional community visit initiative focuses on the people of Kansas and their communities. K-State is visiting multiple communities throughout the state to listen to and learn from the Kansans who live here.&nbsp;Visits for the Cottonwood Extension District include a community open forum on Tuesday, November 7th, from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Great Bend Events Center. On Wednesday, November 8th, a water management session will be held at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center from 9-10 a.m. Also on Wednesday, November 8, child-care partnerships will be a focus of a discussion in Hays from 11:30-1. Following that event,&nbsp;prospective students and their families are invited to attend an event at The Strand in Hays from 6-7:15 pm. All of these events are open to the public and more information, including registration, can be found at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits" target="_blank">https://www.k-state.edu/president/initiatives/regional-community-visits</a>. You can also call either of our offices for more information. We look forward to seeing you at one of these community events!&nbsp;&nbsp;Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at&nbsp;mberan@ksu.edu&nbsp;or call Cottonwood Extension District, Barton Office at 620-793-1910.