[Masthead] Overcast ~ 33°F  
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Thursday, Feb. 9, 2012
Avoid 'error' messages; treat your body like a computer (02/07/12)
We often expect our bodies to do more than they should, so some trouble-shooting tips might be in order. An article by Alice Henneman, of the University of Nebraska Lincoln Extension in Lancaster County, provides some tips to prevent your body from "crashing."...
Walk Kansas fitness program starts soon (01/24/12)
It's January . . . that wonderfully hopeful time of year when we resolve to do better. We vow to get in shape, to lose weight and to ditch all the other bad habits we have been accumulating for decades. If you're like many folks, you may be looking at the exact same list of resolutions that you had last year. Lifestyle changes are hard to make...
Wishing you a healthy Happy New Year (01/05/12)
Whether or not you're one who makes New Year's resolutions, here are some things to think about to make 2012 a healthier one for you and your family. H -- Health. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "The first wealth is health." Make your own health a priority this year. Health should be more than the absence of disease. Read on for tips to help you really feel good...
Tips for traveling with food (12/13/11)
Holiday meals just wouldn't be the same without those favorite dishes made by aunts, grandmas and other family and friends. It's a time-honored tradition for people to bring food to gatherings. How do you decide who brings what or how to travel with food if you're asked to bring something?...
Enjoy holidays with healthy eating (11/22/11)
The time from Halloween until the end of play at the Super Bowl is sometimes referred to as "the eating season." Celebrating with family and friends usually involves plenty of good food. Adding a few extra pounds is too easy to do. Healthy holidays are not about giving up favorite foods of the season, nor are they about pigging out. It's good to be aware of what holiday eating can do to even the best of intentions...
Less sitting and more movement important for good health (11/02/11)
Modern lifestyles and technology have taken much physical activity and movement out of our lives. We sit for breakfast, sit in a car to drive to work, and sit at a desk. There's little need to get up to go to the file cabinet, because the files are all right in front of us on the screen. ...
Wash hands well and often to keep from getting sick (10/11/11)
Washing hands seems like such a simple act, yet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says handwashing is the single most important thing we can do to keep from getting sick and spreading illness to others. And in developing countries, handwashing with soap is the most effective and inexpensive way to prevent diarrheal and acute respiratory infections, which take the lives of millions of children every year...
Protecting your eyes as time goes by (09/20/11)
You may barely notice the changes at first. Maybe you've found yourself reaching more often for your glasses to see up close. You might have trouble adjusting to glaring lights or reading when the light is dim. You may even have put on blue socks thinking they were black. These are some of the normal changes to eyes and vision as we age...
Plan a good defense for safe food at tailgate parties (08/30/11)
There's nothing more American than tailgating and football. Like other food preparation and serving situations, tailgating requires safe food handling practices. Ignoring food safety can spoil the fun of a tailgate party. It takes a good defense to keep harmful foodborne bacteria from sending guests to the sidelines. Here are some tips to make certain bacteria don't have a sporting chance at your football tailgate gatherings...
Parents can help prepare kids for return to school (08/09/11)
Students and teachers will soon be starting another school year. It may seem that summer was too short and school days are long. But if you think about it, school does not really take up very much of a child's time. The average school year in the United States is 180 days. In other countries, the school year can last up to 240 days and students are often in school more hours per day than American students. Clearly, the hours and days that a child is not in school are important for learning too...
When it's too hot, take precautions (07/19/11)
Summer is here and temperatures are soaring. Excessive heat can not only be uncomfortable; it can also be dangerous -- even deadly. When the temperature rises, our bodies can quickly become dehydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids -- especially water -- is important. The human body is about two-thirds water...
Problems with dairy products may be lactose intolerance (06/28/11)
Some people have trouble drinking milk and digesting dairy products. The condition is known as lactose intolerance. Being lactose intolerant means you cannot digest lactose -- the natural sugar found in milk and other dairy products. People who cannot digest lactose have a shortage of an enzyme called lactase, which is produced in the small intestine. Lactase breaks down milk sugar into two simpler forms of sugar, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream...
Reduce phantom and standby energy use to reduce electric bill (06/21/11)
The average American home is brimming with consumer electronics and appliances, such as televisions, DVD players, stereos and kitchen gadgets. These products account for approximately 15 percent of a home's utility usage. What you may not realize is that these modern conveniences can add to the cost of the electric bill when they are turned off but still plugged in...
Introducing MyPlate, the new food icon (06/14/11)
Recently, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) unveiled a new food icon to help consumers make healthier food choices. MyPlate is a replacement for the MyPyramid icon and reflects the recommendations of the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans...
Removing odors from kitchen appliances (06/07/11)
Odors in kitchen appliances can happen from normal use, from malfunctioning appliances or as the result of a lengthy power outage. Most appliance odors can be removed using common products found in kitchens. Here are some tips for removing those stubborn odors...
Beware of magic weight-loss supplements (06/02/11)
Magic diet pill! Melt your fat away! Diet and exercise not required! Messages like these on weight-loss products might sound appealing to consumers looking for a quick and easy way to shed pounds. But these products don't live up to their claims. Even worse, they can cause serious harm -- even death...
Children need less screen time and more physical activity (05/24/11)
We know that eating smart and moving more are important lifestyle habits for people of all ages. There are many health benefits to good nutrition and physical activity -- maintaining a healthy weight, feeling better and having more energy. For children, as well as adults, screen time often takes the place of physical activity. ...
Tips for a successful summer grilling season (05/18/11)
The days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer and Memorial Day is fast approaching -- all signs that the summer grilling season is nearly upon us. Although more than half of Americans say they cook outdoors all year, this is the time of year when the aroma of meat being grilled is often noticed when driving through a neighborhood in the evening...
Buying healthy food doesn't have to be expensive (05/10/11)
The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans encourage us to eat more fruits and vegetables. But frequently the comment is heard that healthy foods are too expensive to afford. The latest statistics from the Economic Research Service in 2008 showed food prices increased over 6 percent. With the strain of current economic conditions, it is hard for many families to put food on the table. But buying less nutritious foods won't help the situation...
Herbs and spices improve flavor and make food healthier (05/03/11)
Weather conditions have prevented vegetable garden planting, but my herb garden is certainly enjoying the cool weather. A couple of weeks ago, extension sponsored a program on herbs and spices, which inspired me to plant more herbs which I will use in cooking...
Raw milk may pose health risk; risk; pasteurize to be safe (04/26/11)
Whether it's from cows, goats, sheep or another mammal, milk and milk products are an important source of calcium throughout a person's life. Most of the milk sold in the United States is pasteurized, a process during which the milk is heated to 161 degrees and kept there for 15 seconds. ...
From asparagus to yogurt: Tips for the spring kitchen (04/19/11)
Today I'm sharing some tidbits of information which have come across my desk. I hope you find some information which will help you put healthy meals on your table. Asparagus, thick or thin? It's a sure sign of spring -- fresh asparagus from the garden. Some spears are thick and some are thin, and both can be tender. Thick spears are a result of older plants and the variety of asparagus...
Every move matters for healthy bodies (04/12/11)
Many of us spend a large portion of our waking day sitting behind a desk, in front of a computer, or behind the wheel. Opportunities to be physically active in our daily routines have diminished over the years. We drive, rather than walk or bicycle. Our homes and workplaces are automated. We have labor-saving devices at work and home and we spend a lot of time in sedentary activities, such as computer and television use. Children, too, are less active...
Bake and Take month continues tradition of sharing (03/15/11)
March is Bake and Take Month, an annual observance sponsored by the Kansas Wheat Commission and the Home Baking Association. It's a great way to show someone you care about them, or appreciate them, by baking something homemade and delivering it to their doorstep. ...
March is National Nutrition Month (03/08/11)
Each March, the American Dietetic Association sponsors National Nutrition Month. The campaign focuses attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing healthy eating and physical activity habits. This year's theme is Eat Right with Color. Consumers are encouraged to include a colorful variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins and dairy on their plates every day...
It's still too early to give up on your New Year's resolutions (03/01/11)
New year's resolutions, which are now two months old, often include a goal to get in shape, lose weight, or add some healthier habits to our lifestyle. Even if you've had trouble sticking to your resolutions due to hectic schedules and all the winter weather we've had, it's not too late to get back on track. Here are some tips that might help you...
Enjoy the outdoors (02/22/11)
The warmer temperatures and sunshine last week were a welcome relief after several weeks of real winter weather! And, the calendar says it's less than a month until spring will officially arrive. Warmer weather means it will be more pleasant to be outdoors. Cleaning up flower beds, planting gardens, washing the car and taking part in outdoor sports and other activities will give us all incentives to enjoy the outdoors and be physically active...
New dietary guidelines help us make healthier choices (02/15/11)
Last week, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services announced the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The guidelines are the federal government's research-based nutritional guidance to promote health, reduce risk of chronic diseases and reduce overweight and obesity through improved nutrition and physical activity...
Walk Kansas program encourages a healthier lifestyle (02/08/11)
We continually learn more about the relationship between regular exercise, good nutrition and good health. Deaths from such causes as heart disease and stroke to colon cancer and diabetes could be greatly reduced if people were physically active and ate a nutritious diet...
Add variety, interest to your diet by discovering new tastes (01/31/11)
Last week I shared some ideas for adding variety to meals with new foods, or foods that maybe are not common ones for you and your family. Going for a variety of kinds, colors and textures assures that our bodies get all the nutrients we need. Because no single food has everything a body needs to function properly, choosing lots of different foods to include in our diets not only provides nutrients, but provides a variety of tastes and textures to enjoy...
Discover new foods in the new year (01/25/11)
"Variety is the spice of life" is an often-repeated saying which could also be applied to the foods we choose to eat. Variety in foods adds interest to our plates. Including a wide variety of different foods in our diets also helps ensure that we get all the nutrients needed. But, sometimes in the rush of daily life, it's easier to prepare the same familiar foods which we know our family enjoys...
Walk Kansas to mark 10th anniversary this year (01/18/11)
One snowy day last week a group of individuals who help in planning the Walk Kansas program met with me to make plans for the 10th annual fitness challenge sponsored by Kansas State University Research and Extension. While the weather hasn't been good for outdoor activity, planning for Walk Kansas means spring can't be far away...
Grocery shopping tips to save time, money (01/11/11)
Market watchers estimate that grocery shoppers spend about $2.17 per minute during the first 30 minutes of a shopping trip. After 30 minutes, the cost goes up 50 cents a minute. So getting into the store, making your selections and getting out quickly not only saves time, but money as well...
Game playing is good family fun (01/04/11)
The end of the holiday season and the prospect of cold winter weather may have some wondering how they will keep themselves and their families entertained indoors. Rather than more movies and video games, think about turning off the television and getting out a game...
How to make your New Year's resolutions stick (12/28/10)
New Year's resolutions --they're easy to make but easier to break. Why is it so hard to make the healthy changes that we know can help us feel better and live longer? And why is it so hard to make them last? "Change is always possible," says Dr. Linda Nebeling, an expert in behavioral change and nutrition at the National Institutes of Health. You're never too out-of-shape, too overweight or too old to make healthy changes...
How to plan for a happy, healthy holiday (12/21/10)
It's the season for eggnog, holiday baking, and leftovers! The last thing anyone wants this time of year is to be sick -- especially if it could have been avoided. Food borne illness is often disguised "a tummy ache" or "a bug." And often it's caused by careless actions on the part of people. Still, it can disrupt holiday plans and enjoyment of spending time with family and friends...
Enjoy holiday foods without adding extra pounds (12/07/10)
Here a nibble, there a nibble, everywhere a nibble ... From Halloween until the end of play at the Super Bowl is often referred to as "the eating season." Adding a few extra pounds is easy to do. Spending time with family and friends is enjoyable, but most activities include seasonal foods that often are high in calories, sugar and fat...
Stay healthy during winter illness season (11/30/10)
With so many good things to do during the holiday season, no one wants to be sick. But viruses, the flu and winter bugs are more likely to get us down during the winter months. This is due in large part to people spending more time indoors with others when the weather gets cold...
Answers to holiday cooking questions available (11/23/10)
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) operates a hotline to answer consumers' questions about food preparation and food safety. On weekdays, including Thanksgiving Day, callers will be connected to a real person who can answer their questions. At other times, recorded messages will answer most questions which might be asked. The Meat and Poultry Hotline number is (888) MPHotline (674-6854)...
Countdown to the Thanksgiving holiday begins (11/16/10)
Thanksgiving is only days away. For those who will be cooking the turkey, it's time to be making some plans. If the turkey is frozen, there are several ways to thaw it. Thawing on the kitchen counter is not one of them. To thaw in the refrigerator, allow approximately 24 hours for every four to five pounds. ...
Shop now to save on foods for the holidays (11/09/10)
The calendar tells us that the holidays are not far away. While shopping for decorations and gifts may be on the minds of many shoppers, it's also a good time to be thinking about shopping for holiday foods that will be served for those special meals and parties...
Processing 'Processed Food' Labels (11/02/10)
We know that the best sources of dietary fiber and vitamins are fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Yet these are foods that frequently come up short in our diets. Processed, fortified, packaged "junk" foods seem to scream for our attention. Food marketers tweak the truth in many ways to get our food dollars. Be aware of three major ways, described below...
How to make safe choices for a happy Halloween (10/26/10)
Halloween costumes seem to have become more sophisticated since my childhood. I remember being a scarecrow in a pair of Dad's old overalls and one of his worn-out plaid shirts. Years ago it was fun to dress up in one of Grandma's cotton print dresses and a pair of too-large high heeled shoes. Costumes were old clothes we found in the closet or something made at home...
Tips for preserving end of summer produce (10/12/10)
The end of summer can mean an abundance of produce. At home we have apples, pears and green peppers needing my attention. I've found that freezing is a quick and easy way to preserve them for enjoying during the winter months. Apples can be made into applesauce for freezer storage. ...
4-H gives kids chance to learn and achieve (10/05/10)
This week is National 4-H Week. One may think of 4-H as green clovers and county fairs. These are important parts of the 4-H program, but there's much more. As one of the largest youth programs in the United States with more than 6.5 million young people, 4-H provides many activities in which youth can grow and learn. In Bourbon County 186 youth are currently 4-H members...
Tailgating ... keep the party safe (09/28/10)
Living on a farm, tailgating isn't always seen as a "party." However, when our daughters were small, taking a noon lunch to the field did give us a short opportunity to spend some family time together. We've even celebrated birthdays on a blanket spread in the grass at the edge of the field...
September is National Food Safety Education month (09/21/10)
September is National Food Safety Education Month. It's a time to call attention to the importance of handling our food safely to prevent illness. This year's promotion highlights four myths that are common among consumers. Myth: Leftovers are safe to eat until they smell bad...
September is National Preparedness Month, help your family prepare (09/14/10)
Communities and governments routinely plan and prepare for disasters which might happen. Families also need to have a plan for dealing with anything from a spring tornado, winter ice storm, an extended power outage, or a fire. September is National Preparedness Month, designated by the U.S. ...
Egg safety: What consumers need to know (08/31/10)
The recent egg recalls have gotten a lot of attention in the media. While any foodborne illness is cause for concern, the egg recall does not mean consumers should shy away from eating eggs. Rather, this can be a "teachable moment" for consumers to think about how eggs should always be safely handled...
Wash reusable shopping bags (08/20/10)
Reusable shopping bags can be a great way to help the environment. But, reusable bags, which go from the shopping cart to the trunk of the car to the kitchen counter, can be a source of cross contamination. Cross contamination is one of the top reasons linked to food borne illness in the home. ...
All sources of fiber are not created equal (08/10/10)
Gone are the days of getting your fiber from only bran flakes and prunes. Now manufacturers are adding fiber to yogurt, ice cream, snack bars, muffin mixes, water and juice. But are all fibers equal? Experts recommend that consumers consider more than the amount of fiber listed on the Nutrition Facts panel and the words printed on the box...
Parents can help kids start school year right (08/03/10)
A new school year requires transitions for children and their parents. Charles "Chuck" Smith, Kansas State University Research and Extension child development specialist, says that the age of the child will influence how parents help kids make the transition...
Teaching life skills to children (07/27/10)
Last Sunday was Parents' Day. Always the fourth Sunday of July, the day is the result of a Congressional resolution that was signed into law in 1994 by President Bill Clinton. The day was created to recognize, uplift and support the role of parents in the rearing of children. In addition to being a day for honoring parents, it's also a good time for some self-reflection on parents' roles...
County Fair offers opportunities for all (07/20/10)
The Bourbon County Fair is in full swing this week. If you haven't already been to the fair, I hope you plan to spend some time there. For 4-H families, the fair is the culmination of a year's work. It is a showcase of what 4-H members have learned and the skills they have developed through project work. ...
Helpful tips for reducing summer air-conditioning costs (06/22/10)
It's summer time and air conditioning certainly feels good. Paying the energy bill may not feel so good. There are steps that can be taken to make homes more energy efficient and reduce cooling costs. Some require investing time and money in your home, such as adding insulation, but other steps can easily be taken without much effort...
Tips for encouraging smart snacking (06/08/10)
It's summer time and when children are around, there's always the question "What is there to eat?" Snacks are an important part of a healthy diet for kids --and adults. But high-fat and sugary snack foods are giving those between meal bites a bad rap...
Add fruits, veggies to the grill for a complete meal (06/02/10)
Add fruits and veggies to the grill for a complete meal Who doesn't love a juicy steak or hamburger fresh from the grill? Add some fresh vegetables or fruits to the grill and you'll have a complete meal and keep your kitchen cooler, too. Grilling fruits and veggies enhances their flavors. Cooking without added sauces also lets you enjoy the flavors without added calories. Here are some tips for grilling fruits and vegetables...
Walk Kansas celebrates end of program (05/18/10)
Walk Kansas participants gathered to celebrate the end of another successful program last week. Recognition was given to individuals and teams for their success during the eight-week program. Walk Kansas is an annual health and wellness program conducted by Kansas State Research and Extension. ...
Make wise choices in food selections (05/04/10)
The Walk Kansas program is over for another year. 298 Bourbon County residents have been on a mission for the past eight weeks to make some healthy lifestyle changes by being more physically active and increasing fruits and vegetables in their diets...
Tips for managing household clutter (04/27/10)
Do you ever waste time looking for things because you didn't put them away where they belong? Is your closet overflowing, but you can't find the item you want? Have you missed paying a bill on time because you lost it? Clutter can easily get out of control and waste space, time and energy...
Less screen time benefits kids and adults (04/20/10)
It's definitely spring time and great weather to be outdoors! But the screens in our homes -- television, computer, video games, and cell phone -- can sometimes tempt us to spend too much time in front of them. Health experts say screen time at home should be limited to two hours or less a day, unless it's work- or homework-related. The time spent in front of the screen could be better spent being more physically active and setting a good example for our families...
Handle and cook properly to save nutrients in fruits and vegetables (04/14/10)
Nutrients in fruits and vegetables start to break down after harvest. This loss of nutrients can be minimized by proper storage and cooking. Frozen, canned, dried, and 100% juice products are processed just after harvesting to "lock in" the freshness of just-picked produce. ...
Improvements in food, physical activity yield big benefits (03/17/10)
The Walk Kansas program started last week. 300 individuals in Bourbon County are using the eight-week program to help them start or continue making some healthy lifestyle changes by getting more physical activity and eating more fruits and vegetables. The individuals are not expected to make big changes to their lifestyle, but to take some small steps that can help them live a healthier life...
Just a pinch of salt -- less salt in diet advised (03/09/10)
A key to healthy eating is choosing foods lower in salt and sodium. Most Americans consume more salt than they need. Many people frequently eat meals on-the-go and do very little cooking from scratch, making it difficult to control the amount of sodium in their diets. As a result our taste buds have grown accustomed to a higher level of salt than is needed for good health. In fact, some scientists believe that some of us are almost "addicted" to the pleasurable effect of salt...
Getting a tax refund? Buy a savings bond (03/02/10)
If you are getting a federal tax refund from the Internal Revenue Service, you can choose to use that money to purchase U.S. savings bonds. A refund may seem like extra money to spend as you wish. But, it's also a good opportunity to put some dollars away for future major purchases, unexpected expenses, or a college education. Everyone can use an "emergency" cushion for auto repairs, medical bills, or unexpected events...
Good relationships need attention (02/09/10)
Personal relationships take hard work. They don't just happen; they require attention. Couples seem to take center stage in February, but all relationships can benefit from a little extra attention. People often think that being married for a long time, or having a life-long friend, means little effort and work goes into that relationship. ...
Walk Kansas program encourages healthy lifestyle habits (02/04/10)
The Walk Kansas program will be starting in a few weeks, which means spring must be just around the corner! In the meantime, winter weather has made it difficult to be outside for the physical activity we all need. Hectic schedules also make it hard to find time to get those recommended 30 minutes a day of activity...
Radon in the home poses health risk, free test kits offered to the public (01/19/10)
Most people do what they can to keep themselves and their families healthy and safe. We bundle up in warm clothes during cold weather, buckle seat belts, and change the smoke alarm batteries periodically. There's a potential danger that exists in some homes that often goes undetected. ...
Make a smart start on the new year (01/12/10)
It's January...that wonderfully hopeful time of year when we resolve to do better. We vow to get in shape, to lose weight, and to ditch all the other bad habits we have been accumulating for decades. If you're like many folks, you may be looking at the exact same list of resolutions that you had last year...
Scientists and farmers make food supply affordable and plentiful (01/05/10)
As we gathered with family and friends during the holidays, we probably gave little thought to how the food, fabrics, and holiday décor came to be. But, research and scientists have a large role in the food, fiber, and plants we've been enjoying. We can thank science and technology -- and American farmers -- for providing the cheapest, most abundant food supply in the world. ...
Good techniques lead to successful baking (12/29/09)
At our house, we've done a lot of baking the past couple of weeks, turning out some tasty treats. Sometimes taking shortcuts and making substitutions in baking can lead to less than desirable results. While time may be saved, quality can be sacrificed. Here are some tips to remember for successful baking:...
What to do with the food when guests don't show (12/22/09)
You've planned the holiday gathering, decorated the table and prepared the food. Then some or all of the guests are delayed or weather cancels the whole gathering. Holiday meals and other celebrations require careful planning to ensure that everything goes "just right." When guests encounter emergencies and the meal must be delayed or cancelled, food must be handled "just right" to remain safe...
Involve all the family in holiday preparations (12/01/09)
In the holiday rush, parents can miss opportunities to build memories with their children and family. Adults know that it can be easier to say "I'll do that,'' rather than to encourage children to get involved in preparing foods and getting ready for gatherings during the holidays...
Start the countdown to a safe and easy Thanksgiving dinner (11/17/09)
I really enjoy preparing for a family Thanksgiving dinner, but there's a lot to be done before the meal is on the table. Some planning and preparation ahead of time can make the process go more smoothly. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) food safety specialists offer the following countdown to help ensure a safe and successful holiday celebration...
Take time to enjoy family during the holidays (11/10/09)
Holidays can generate many enduring memories. They can also be stressful and tiring times when calendars fill with many activities and time for work, family, community and self must all be balanced. Discussing the expectations and sharing responsibilities for a gathering or other event can lighten the load for hosts, as well as share the expense and the pride in a successful event when all goes well...
Tips on holiday spending (11/03/09)
With the holidays approaching and the economy struggling it's important to be watchful of spending. Families can budget their money, monitor spending and avoid getting in too deep with credit card debt, and still have a happy and memorable holiday season...
Bring the generations in family together with activities, rituals (10/21/09)
The winter holiday season is a time when grandparents and grandchildren may have more opportunities to spend time with one another. Intergenerational activities can do a lot to bring families closer together. The national Legacy Project is a community service initiative that offers grandparents and parents information, activities and contests to bring the generations in a family closer together. Here are some ideas for bridging the generations...
Helpful tips to stay healthy as you grow older (09/29/09)
We baby boomers are aging! My birthday this week is a reminder of that fact. With the oldest members of that baby boom group (not me!) now approaching their 65th birthday, the need to understand how we grow older is becoming more important to both individuals and society...
Kids who eat with family less likely to smoke, drink, use drugs (09/22/09)
More than a decade of research by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University has consistently found that the more often kids eat dinner with their families, the less likely they are to smoke, drink or use drugs...
The Icecream scoop: America's favorite dessert (08/04/09)
Ice cream rates as America's favorite dessert and leading comfort food in 2009, according to The Food Channel. Ninety-eight percent of all households purchase ice cream -- vanilla being the most popular flavor and chocolate syrup the favorite topping...
Gather up all that loose change and use it (05/05/09)
Don't lose your loose change We all have some--in a jar on the dresser, in a desk drawer, in the car, maybe even in the cushions of the couch. Loose change accumulates in various locations of our household. It's money saved, but it is not working for us...
Save money at supermarket by changing habits (04/21/09)
It is possible to save money shopping for groceries without cooking everything from scratch, packing your purse with coupons, or purchasing foods in season. Alice Henneman, an Extension educator with the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, figured the savings consumers can make just by changing some of their consumer habits. ...
Area residents take steps to improve health, wellness (03/17/09)
The 2009 Walk Kansas community fitness challenge began last week with 51 teams participating. More than 300 individuals in our community are taking important steps to improving their health and well-being by becoming more physically active and improving their diets by eating more fruits and vegetables. More than an eight-week program, the goal of Walk Kansas is that people will be motivated to make some life-long healthy lifestyle changes...
Prepare to live in a global world (03/10/09)
We only have to go to the grocery store and notice where our food comes from, or look at the "made in..." label on products we purchase to know that we do live in a global society. When my husband and I visit our daughters in Washington DC it is very evident that America really is a melting pot. The variety of ethnic restaurants, the different languages one hears spoken, and the diversity within neighborhoods reflect the many different nationalities and cultures that call the city their home...
Getting enough good sleep (02/10/09)
Waking in the morning feeling refreshed, renewed and invigorated is a good indicator of having had enough good quality sleep. For some people, however, adequate sleep is selSleep is an important part of good health for all ages of persons. It is both restorative and protective. Individuals who do not have adequate sleep are more likely to experience attention and memory difficulties, daytime sleepiness, lack of energy, and are at higher risk of falling or having a traffic accident...
Starlite F.C.E. Club learns about sleep (01/21/09)
On Jan. 15, 14 Starlight F.C.E. members joined 21 ladies from Cavalry Crossing for a lesson called, "Sleep: Want It, Need It, Get It." This lesson was presented by Nancy Schuster, Anderson County Home Extension Agent, while dressed in her stylish nightwear...
Energy saving light bulbs (01/20/09)
Consumers have more options when shopping for light bulbs for their home. Switching from traditional light bulbs (incandescent) to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) is an effective, simple change everyone can make right now. Making this change will help to use less electricity at home and prevent greenhouse gas emissions that lead to global climate change. Lighting accounts for close to 20 percent of the average home's electric bill...
Advice on a healthier New Year for you, your family (12/24/08)
Whether or no you're one who makes new year's resolutions, here are some things to think about to make the new year a healthier one for you and your family. H -- Health. Ralph Waldo Emerson said "The first wealth is health." Make your own health a priority this year. Health should be more than the absence of disease. Read on for tips to help you really feel good...
Pawnee 4-H Club has meetings, Fall celebrations held (11/20/08)
PAWNEE 4-H held their monthly club meeting on Oct. 24 at the home of club members Michaela and Caden Webb. The Webbs hosted a Halloween party and Hayride for the club. Members played games, roasted hotdogs, enjoyed refreshments and were scared silly on the spooky hayride through the countryside...
How-To's on safe online shopping (11/12/08)
The Internet has become a popular place to shop. While it may be a convenient way to shop, there are precautions consumers should follow when shopping online. The Federal Trade Commission encourages taking the following steps to make sure transactions are secure and personal information is protected...
Healthier alternatives for Halloween trick-or-treaters (10/22/08)
Halloween usually involves lots of candy and sugary treats -- more than children need. All the sweet treats can be especially hard for children who have food allergies or have food limitations because of a chronic health condition, such as diabetes...
FCE studies meal rituals, elects officers (10/21/08)
Starlite Family and Community Education (F.C.E.) met Oct. 16, at the home of Betty Ruddick. Lois Williams was the co-hostess. Special guest, Ann Ludlum, Bourbon County Extension Agent, presented the lesson, "Everybody at the Table, It's Time to Eat!" Routines and rituals of mealtimes were discussed by several members. ...
Global Handwashing Day Oct. 15 (10/15/08)
Washing your hands seems like such a simple thing to do, yet the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says hand washing is the single most important thing we can do to keep from getting sick and spreading illness to others. Proper handwashing has been promoted heavily in recent years. ...
Think pink, tell a friend lesson for FCE (10/15/08)
The monthly meeting for Thursday Nite Live FCE was held at the home of Jeanne Kalm Refreshments were served by hostess Jeanne Kalm. Joyce Davenport, president, presided over the meeting. Officers were elected for the coming year and will take office in January 2009. Joyce Davenport will remain as president, Teri Campbell will serve another year as treasurer, and Alice Helton will serve again as secretary. Joyce Sinn and Sally Brock will serve on the Bourbon County Council...
4-H offers numerous activities for youth to participate in (10/01/08)
Next week will be National 4-H Week. As the largest youth development program, aside from public schools, 4-H involves 6 million youth nationwide. In Bourbon County, 160 youth participate in 4-H activities. Youth between the ages of 7 and 19 may join 4-H anytime, but October is a good time to get started, since it is the start of a new 4-H year. ...
Family meals provide much more than just nourishment (09/17/08)
Family meals provide much more than the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients children need to grow up healthy. Research by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University consistently finds that the more often children eat dinner with their families, the less likely they are to smoke, drink or use drugs. ...
Freeze extra garden produce for later use (09/10/08)
As the end of summer nears, many gardens are still producing abundant supplies of vegetables. The following information may help you preserve some of that produce for later use. Raw tomatoes can be quickly frozen without blanching them first. They may be frozen without their skins or frozen whole with their skins. Frozen tomatoes are best used in cooked foods such as soups, sauces and stews as they become mushy when thawed...
birthday celebration with family (09/04/08)
All of the children, grand-children and great grand children were at the farm to help their mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Beverly Geiger celebrate her August 17 birthday. Becky Brown made lasagna and chicken Tetrazinni for the main course, while others brought carry in dishes. ...
Balance school, family time (09/04/08)
Children of all ages have many opportunities to participate in community and school activities. For families, deciding which activities to participate in can be a difficult decision. Charlotte Shoup Olsen, Kansas State University Research and Extension family systems specialist, suggests that reclaiming some family time can strengthen the family and add value to family life...
Use shopping list to save time, money (08/27/08)
Using a shopping list can be an easy way to save some money. The average shopper spends 40 percent more on impulse purchases when shopping without a list. If that's the case, for $70 spent at the grocery store, there's a good chance that $20 of those purchases are unplanned. That adds up over a year's time! A shopper is also likely to spend 50 cents more for every minute in the grocery store beyond the first 30 minutes. The saying "time is money" may well be true...
Ann Ludlum
FCS Agent, Southwind District
Editor's Note: Ann Ludlum is a K-State Research and Extension family and consumer sciences and 4-H extension agent assigned to Southwind District -- Fort Scott office. She may be reached at (620) 223-3720 or aludlum@ksu.edu.