January 2017

“Reaching Out Report” the Greene County Extension Newsletter

2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65807 Email: greeneco@missouri.edu * Tel: (417) 881-8909

January 2017 *

Vol. 10, Issue 1

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Each month read updates and reports on these University of Missouri Extension programs in Greene County:  Nutrition  Community and Human Development  Horticulture  Agriculture  4-H Youth  Local Foods  Local Programs Each “Reaching Out Report” is used by Greene County Extension specialists to concisely communicate activities, contacts and events to members of the Greene County Extension Council, Greene County Commission and residents of Greene County. For more about this report contact David Burton, civic communication specialist, at (417) 881-8909.

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Specific Goals Are Key to Successful New Year’s Resolutions —Page 3

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Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated January 4, 2017

Great Game of Business for Government/Non-Profits

Income

2017

2017

2017

YTD #s

Budget #

DIFF

2017

2016

Total % Actuals

2015

Monthly Actuals Goal

Student Fees

$0.00

$22,000.00 $22,000.00

0% $22,340.93

$14,818.26

County Appropriations

$0.00

$44,000.00 $44,000.00

0% $38,250.00

$26,410.00

Gifts/Grants/Contracts

$0.00

$15,000.00 $15,000.00

0% $22,371.83

$26,703.00

$1,500.00

Resales/Fees/Soil Tests

$0.00

$10,000.00 $10,000.00

0% $11,720.55

$10,759.44

$850.00

$6,035.00

$7,350.00

$7,350.00

Program Support Fund Total Income

$7,350.00

$7,350.00

Expense

YTD #s

Budget #

$0.00

Personnel Wages/Benefits

$7,350.00

$98,350.00 $98,350.00

DIFF

$43,000.00 $43,000.00

100%

7%

$2,080.00 $96,763.31

Total % Actuals

$750.00

$84,725.70 $10,450.00

Actuals

Goal

0% $37,012.66

$38,280.94

$3,775.00

Travel for programs in county

$0.00

$7,000.00

$7,000.00

0%

$6,270.49

$6,054.02

$415.00

Office operations

$0.00

$8,750.00

$5,650.00

0%

$7,875.50

$6,711.97

$260.00

$6,072.93

$4,079.71

$275.00

Marketing & Printing

$0.00

$15,100.00 $15,100.00

0%

Supplies/Services/Repairs

$0.00

$13,100.00 $13,100.00

0% $14,908.14

$12,062.37

$225.00

Extension Council

$0.00

$655.91

$1,100.00

$0.00

Fee/Revenue Generation - MU

$0.00

$10,800.00 $10,800.00

0% $10,861.22

$8,804.70

$100.00

$0.00

$98,350.00 $98,350.00

0% $83,656.85

$77,093.71

$5,050.00

7% $13,106.46

$7,631.99

$5,400.00

2015 332 660 102

2014

Total Expense NET INCOME

$

7,350.00

$600.00

$

-

$600.00

-$7,350.00

0%

DRIVERS FOR 2017 Actual Goal DIFF Soil tests 0 400 400 Total Paid Registrations 0 750 750 Total Donors 0 80 80

2016 378 744 68

306

541 115

Great Game of Business “Higher Laws of Business” In The Great Game of Business, Jack Stack outlines his “Higher Laws of Business.”

Rule #1: You get what you give.

Great Game of Business Testimonial

“Having the single responsibility of running a business is the most stressful demand. The Great Game of Business takes that sole responsibility and gives you an opportunity to share responsibilities; that’s why it’s exciting for me. My one regret is that I didn’t embrace The Great Game of Business earlier.”

Tom Hornbuckle, Two Men and a Truck Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 2

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated January 4, 2017

Cover Story

Make New Year’s Resolution to Update Linkedin Profile

Setting Specific Goals Key to New Year’s Resolutions

One New Year’s or holiday resolution to consider that could impact your career and networking ability is to create or update your LinkedIn.com profile according to David Burton, civic communication specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

“The best thing you can to is to use your LinkedIn presence to showcase who you are versus what you do,” said Burton. “That makes this a great time of year to update your profile. Add recognition you have received along with new topics or abilities related to your work.”

Burton also recommends adding links to online content that demonstrates your value or knowledge.

Link to blog posts, news articles or videos that include you or your organization.

“One recommendation that I’m going to try myself this year is to make sure your LinkedIn profile doesn’t read like a resume,” said Burton.

“The other recommendation was to use your profile to tell your story by weaving it into a listing of your skills and leadership you Resolve to keep your want to information current showcase.” during this coming It is also important to use year and treat your words in your LinkedIn profile as an profile that make opportunity instead of it easy for people a chore. to find you.

“Be sure to complete the volunteer portion,” said Burton.

“LinkedIn places a lot of weight with search in this section.”

Resolve to keep your information current during this coming year and treat LinkedIn as an opportunity instead of a chore. Complete your profile and keep things updated and appropriate.

Then take the time to request recommendations from current and former colleagues and customers.

These testimonials send a powerful message about your work or organization.

Research shows that about 50 percent of all American’s resolve to make some change or improvement when a new year begins.

The most common New Year’s resolution is to lose weight while the second most common is to pay down or get out of debt.

According to research, people who set a specific goal (I will walk 30 minutes most days) have a much better chance at being successful than people who set a general goal (I’m going to get in shape.)

“People who make one or two changes at a time are also more likely to be successful than those who try to change everything all at once,” said according to David Burton, civic communication specialist, University of Missouri Extension.

Burton has made changes in his life and has lost 40 pounds in the last seven months. He has focused on eating high protein breakfasts, drinking low-calorie almond milk, eliminating all soda, decreasing sodium, drinking a gallon of water per day, reducing his Research shows it may overall calories and increasing take as little as 21 days the amount and to establish a new intensity of his habit, but it can take cardio exercise. much longer to make Research shows it may sure a person will take as little as sustain that new habit.

21 days to establish a new habit, The key is making two or three small changes. but it can take much longer to make sure a person will sustain that new habit.

The key is making two or three small changes and sticking to them.

Small change number one: pay attention to the calories in your drinks.

Small change number two: fill up on a variety of fruits and vegetables.

Small change number three: be physically active. Exercise can help burn calories and contribute to an overall feeling of well-being. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity most days.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 3

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated January 4, 2017

Extension Council Election

Council Election Candidate Biographies

A public election will be held January 16-20, 2017. Citizens of voting age in Greene County can vote and elect eight new members to the University of Missouri Extension Council for Greene County. Full candidate bios can be found at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene. (Bios shown here are abbreviated.) An online ballot will be available starting Jan. 16 online or can be picked up at the offices of Greene County Extension.

Tony Ahart, Springfield, MO. Tony is a Missouri native. His family owned and operated a large dairy farm during his teenage through young adult years. The family used MU Extension information and programs extensively. He is a retired Master Electrician & is now an active Master Gardeners.

Peter Longley, Springfield, MO. Peter moved to the area in 1999. His career includes: estate manager in mixed farming in Ireland, Cruise Director 1978-2003, owned a small horse farm & extensive gardens outside Seymour 1999-2012 & has been with Springfield Botanical Gardens 2003 to present.

Lisa Bakerink, Springfield, MO. Lisa was raised on a Century farm in Iowa and was active in 4-H. She served on the local extension council ((2013-14) and is now Executive Director of Friends of the Garden.

Samantha Mosier, Willard, MO. Samantha is an Asst Professor of Political Science at MSU where she teaches classes on American government, public policy & environmental politics. Her research focuses on local environmental sustainability policies & US alternative/sustainability food policy.

Catherine Banks, Springfield, MO. Catherine has lived in Greene County most of her life. She is a Master Gardener, chairing the Plant Sale. She was a registered nurse for 27 years before retiring in 2010.

Jim Garton, Springfield, MO. Jim grew up on a farm with dairy cows, hogs & chickens also producing grain and hay. He served in the US Navy during the Vietnam War. He has an accounting degree from SMS and is now retired. Jim is Master Gardener (Class of 2011).

Tyler Gunlock, Ash Grove, MO. Tyler is a graduate of Ash Grove High School & is a University of Missouri alumni. He returned to Greene County in 2011 to help with the family farm & start one of his own. He was formerly in the insurance industry.

Kent John, Springfield, MO. Kent was born & raised on a farm in northern Utah. He was a department head for 8 years with a farm co-op. He served 8 years on the board of directors for Universal Co-op Automotive Division. He moved to Springfield to be closer to his grandchildren.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Bobbi Ream, Springfield, Mo. Bobbi Ream is a Master Gardener (Class of 2009) and recently served as secretary of the local Master Gardener chapter.

Kathy Rapp, Willard, MO. Kathy is an active Emeritus Master Gardener of 17 years. She has served most of those years in the Hotline room & has been chairperson for Hotline, Fairs & Shows.

Jason Whitesell, Ash Grove, MO. Jason has been the Vice-President for Old Missouri Bank since June 2014. Prior to this he was Vice-President at First Independent Bank in Aurora for 13 years. He is involved with agricultural lending on a daily basis. His family’s farm was recognized as a Century Farm in 2015.

Ballot available online at http:// extension.missouri.edu/greene starting Jan. 16, 2017 Page 4

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated January 4, 2017

Family Nutrition Education Program Becky Roark

Nutrition Program Associate 





Family Nutrition Education Program

I have been teaching at 2 Springfield Schools this month: McGregor Elementary—52 Kindergarteners; Bingham Elementary—263 Kindergarten—3rd graders Well of Life Food Pantry— 300+ people observed the “Healthy Celebrations” poster, took nutrition information and recipes Republic Senior Center— Fossett Follow up with Renette Wardlow’s class, I taught the “Plan, Shop, Save” class for the nutrition component

2160 W. Chesterfield Blvd. Suite F200 Chesterfield Village, Springfield, Mo. Tel: 417-886-2059 * http://missourifamilies.org

Nevatt

Edmondson

Williams

Sherri Hull

Nutrition Program Associate 

 

Victory Mission Family Ministries – Display and Discussion on Protein - 185 Adults Hovey House – Healthy Change Workshops - 8 Adults Willard South Elementary School – 437 Students

A couple of ladies were attending an Eating Smart Being Active class series at Jordan Valley Health Clinic. They said they were reading the Nutrition Fact Panel each time they went to the store. Learning how to read labels was helping them make better food decisions for their health. Both wanted to make sure to attend the next class. They mentioned how they really enjoyed the classes and appreciated how we made the class “more like a conversation about nutrition, than a lecture.”

Roark

Wood

Hull

Marty Wood

Nutrition Program Associate

Find event photos, news and program announcements on the Greene County Extension Council Facebook page

Jennifer Nevatt Program Manager

facebook.com/GreeneCountyExtension facebook.com/MUExtension417

Planning for a busy 2017.

Sharing Via Twitter

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

We welcome your feedback, event pictures and comments about what you learned at an event on Twitter @MUExtension417 or #MUExtension417 Page 5

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated January 4, 2017

Agriculture

“Calving Workshop” Set for Jan. 16 in Springfield Get registered now for a University of Missouri Extension “Calving Workshop” planned for 6 p.m. on Jan. 16 at the Springfield Livestock Marketing Center, 6821 W Independence Drive, Springfield. There is a $10 per person registration fee but a meal will be provided to attendees thanks to a sponsorship from Macs Vet Supply.

Scott Poock, state MU Extension vet, will discuss topics related to assisting the cow and calf during calving time. Wesley Tucker, ag business specialist with MU Extension, will discuss the economics associated with spring and fall calving. Andy McCorkill, a livestock specialist with MU Extension, will discuss the nutritional needs of the cow before and after calving.

Registration is needed by Jan. 14. The preferred method is to register and pay online at http:// extension.missouri.edu/greene. Registrations can also be made by mailing a check to Greene County Extension, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65807.

Report from Agronomy Specialist Tim Schnakenberg Programs conducted during December in Greene County. 

 





Commercial Pesticide Certification and Recertification Training – Scheduled to teach crop insect management and scouting in Springfield over these two-day sessions on Jan. 5 and 6.

Farm Visits / Consultations – Did two farm visits and answered several phone calls and emails from Greene County producers.

Greene County Ag Tour – Assisted extension staff and the county commission in Greene County in a farm tour in Greene County on November 14.

2017 Spring Forage Conference Committee – Planning meeting Dec. 7. I am chairing the committee this year which will be held February 28, 2017.

Greene County Program Planning – Attended a meeting Dec. 2 to help plan out programs for Greene County in 2017.

Master Beekeeper Course in Springfield Jan. 14 “Introduction to Bees and Beekeeping” WHERE: Botanical Center, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. WHEN: 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Jan. 14 COSTS: $61 per person for book and class REGISTER: Held at the Gr eene County MU Extension office, by telephone or online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene TEACHER: Dan Cropper, certified beekeeper from West Plains, Mo. Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

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Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated January 4, 2017

Civic Communication Specialist & County Program Director Great Game of Business/Non-Profits

Media Reach

A visible scorecard is now in Maggie’s office.

Staff will hold our weekly stand-up huddles there.

The scoreboard provides a visible and public reminder of what we are trying to accomplish as a team. I have simplified the 2017 scorecard and we are developing information to help both the staff and our council with financial education.

Based on my intensive media tracking, these numbers apply to the Southwest Region News Service for this month:  Traditional media views: 2.36 million  Facebook views I administer: 144,782  Total social and tradiDavid Burton tional media impresCivic communication sions created in 2016: burtond@missouri.edu 7.82 million  Wrote/edited 42 media releases and 14 newspaper and magazine columns.  Adding a weekly column for newspaper in Neosho to go with the four I currently write.

CPD Meetings and More 









  

In an effort to build relations with important partners, I regularly attend a number of meetings including the County Commission’s monthly meeting where I share this newsletter and report on our finances.

I participated in a number of meetings related to our Master Gardener program, its leadership and the future of the group.

I organized/conducted our annual staff retreat.

We had several goals for the meeting. One was to help staff establish priorities for our program and their calendars. As part of that process we developed a calendar of programs for 2017.

The goal was to have at least one featured program each month that requires paid registration. We will invest our marketing and promotional efforts on that program each month.

Beekeeping classes will continue in 2017 under my leadership. I am establishing dates for a Supervisory Leadership Series and two or three food preservation classes.

Annual Report is being written and edited.

Staff has until Jan. 15 to update their content and it is sent to the printer for distribution to the County Commission on Feb. 1 and then at our annual meeting.

Working on year-end financial reports.

Preparing year-end tax receipts to donors.

Wrote and mailed a New Year’s letter expressing our theme of “help” for 2017.

Feedback on Recent Programs and Efforts “I wasn’t a believer at first in the Great Game of Business. Now I have to admit that my not being a believer had a lot to do with me not understanding what was being done. I also didn’t realize the potential of the game to develop teams.”

“I have been involved with a lot of volunteer opportunities in the past but I think that this role is probably the most positive and pleasant so far. I know every organization has its down times and conflict of some sort, but I feel like the Extension accomplishes positive functions in our local community. It is refreshing and inspiring.”

“I receive the southwest region news by email which I enjoy immensely. I appreciate its science-based approach to the various issues. I also forward information to a young couple I know that are learning about gardening and farming.

Keep up the good work.”

David Burton’s focus of work as civic communication specialist: Community engagement thr ough communication and media relations, leading and moderating focus groups, non-profit education, social media in support of disaster recovery, marketing extension regionally, heritage tourism; and engaging council members with media relations efforts like the Southwest Region News Service.

As county program director: David also works with the elected council to operate, fund and administer the local Greene County Extension office and to plan local programs, to engage council members in this and other work, and to generate local revenue to support programs in Greene County.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

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Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated January 4, 2017

Civic Communication Specialist & County Program Director Feedback on Recent Programs and Efforts “Your New Year’s letter was the best thing I’ve read in a very long time. I am making a commitment now to #HelpDoMore. I will admit that the letter stepped on my toes a bit. I’ve been satisfied to sit and watch you and others do the work. Like other people, I’m busy and you have really taken on so much of this for us. But when I read the letter I realized that I have not been fully helping and we can do so much more of the entire team works together in 2017. I think the letter was inspired!”

Greene County Extension 2017 Mini-Games New mini-games for 2017 have been developed by staff who are also developing the prizes for each game. We are discussing how to incorporate council into those games this year as opposed to a separate game for the council. New this year, we don’t distribute prizes until a staff member attends a hud-

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

dle and explains what they did to help reach our game goals. Staff is also being challenged to do more to lead and record data in each game.

“Where’s the Beef?” (Game 1- Schnakenberg) This game is underway and it involves staff and the speakers at this program because of their involvement in planning the calving workshop planned for January 16. The scorecard is focused on attendance with goals with a maximum of 40.

“Triple Crown Contest” (Game 2– Burton) This horse race focuses on meeting goals set for 1) paid registrations to classes, 2) number of donors in the year, and 3) number of soil tests. This game requires a year-long commitment from staff (and council members that choose to participate) and success is tied to many things that

specialists and staff do collectively in 2017.

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Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated January 4, 2017

Civic Communication Specialist & County Program Director Other future games 





We will focus on our ag tours and tomato festival with a Twilight themed game that can involve staff and council in promotion and successful implementation of the events.

A “grow your rolodex” game will focus on building newsletter and email subscribers and our Facebook followers.

A fall “campaign” game will focus on growing our donations during the Friends campaign.

This also can involve staff and council.

Give Ozarks and Endowment Proposal I want to share an idea with the Greene County 4-H Foundation, Greene County 4-H Leader’s Council and the Greene County Extension Council regarding a change in our Give Ozarks fundraiser. It is a recommendation designed to move forward in supporting the 4-H program in Greene County. This has to do with moving away from fundraising for the office and instead fundraising to build endowments. My proposal is going to be that we use the Give Ozarks campaign, and a possibility that I

have to get our endowment funds matched, to build a Greene County 4-H endowment. The ultimate goal would be for council to fund a 4-H position with the endowment. Council would still do the spring MU alumni fundraiser and the fall friends campaign. But all of us working together could result in strong community support and award dollars for a 4-H endowment effort as part of the Give Ozarks campaign. Council could incorporate a dinner event too. (We created an endowment with the Community Foundation of the Ozarks three years ago when council first discussed its desire to build a 4-H endowment). This would be something we could all work together on and all be very proud of in the end. In the process, I hope it helps to build/improve relations between the Greene County 4-H community and the Greene County Extension Council and office. I should add that this idea is dependent on the County Commission meeting our funding request which is $44,000 – the amount it takes to fund our office manager, her benefits, and 4-hour per month book keeper and a temp for two weeks out of the year in order to provide our office the needed support and with coverage and regular hours.

Donating to Greene County Extension is as Easy As: 1. Donate online at extension.missouri.edu/greene by mail or in person.

2. Stay connected with

Greene County Extension on social media, by email and/ or in service as a volunteer.

3. Enjoy making a difference in the lives of 45,000 county residents annually.

Helping Greene County Extension Do More, Reach More, Be More!

University of Missouri Extension in Greene County

Located inside the Botanical Center at 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65807 Tel: (417) 881-8909 | Email: greeneco@missouri.edu | Online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

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Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated January 4, 2017

Horticulture Specialist Community Contact: TV and Radio  5 live interviews with KOLR10’s John Ziegler  Interview with KKOZ radio, Ava (12.20.16) Print media  Contributed to articles and interviews Requests for information  Telephone contacts – 24 for advisement  Email contacts – 11 contacts  Office visits, professional contacts – 1 for consultation and advisement  Farm site visits – 5 for consultation Programs Presented:  “Preparing the vegetable garden for spring”, Heirloom Seed Library gardening series, Springfield (11.28.16)  "Caring for your Christmas Plants - Christmas Cactus, Amaryllis and Poinsettia."

Hillbilly Garden club meeting, Springfield (12.7.16)  “Home Fruit Production” core training (x 2), Master Gardeners of Christian County and Master Gardeners of the Ozarks (12.13.16)  “Home Vegetable Production” core training, Master Gardeners of McDonald County (12.15.16)  “Vegetable Production in High Tunnels”, High Tunnel Production workshop, Alton (12.16.16) Coordinated:  Master Gardeners of Greene County board meeting, Springfield (12.5.16)  Master Gardeners of Greene County chapter meeting, Springfield (12.13.16)  Springfield Plateau Master Naturalists board meeting, Springfield (12.14.16)  Springfield Plateau Master Naturalists chapter meeting, Springfield (12.9.16)  Horticulture soil test reports - recommendations and distribution for SW region – 41 reports during reporting period

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Participated in:  Greene County Soil and Water Conservation District board meeting, Springfield (12.13.16)

Upcoming programming and events  Garlic study activiPatrick Byers ties Horticulture  Hops study activibyerspl@missouri.edu ties  Blackberry study activities  Planning meeting with Ozarks Food Harvest (1.9.17)  Wright County IDA gardening project site visits (1.10.17)  “Updates in the 2017 Midwest Fruit Spray Guide”, Great Plains Growers Conference, St Joseph (1.12.17)  “Elderberry Research in Missouri”, Great Plains Growers Conference, St Joseph (1.13.17)

Program Calendar Online

The most up-to-date list of reported upcoming MU Extension programs in Greene County is available online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene Calendar visible on right side of page.

Space for Rent

The Botanical Center offers meeting space for social gatherings and business functions.

Contact us for your needs!

Springfield Botanical Gardens at Nathanael Greene Close Memorial Park.

417-891-1515 | www.botanicalcenter.org

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Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

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Horticulture Educator and Master Gardeners

Master Gardener Core Training Begins Feb. 16 in Greene County University of Missouri Extension’s Master Gardener core training sessions in Greene County will be held Tuesday and Thursday afternoons from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., starting Feb. 16 and running through April 6. Most of the classes will be held at the Botanical Center, 2400 South Scenic, Springfield.

A total of 13 three-hour sessions taught by trained professionals and will cover horticulture principles and practices. Ornamentals, turf, vegetables, fruit crops and landscape design are some of the subjects covered through this course.

The cost to attend the classes is $150 per person or $255 for couples sharing a textbook. If interested in the training, contact Kelly McGowan, horticulture educator with MU Extension, at 874-2965 or by email at mcgowank@missouri.edu.

Master Gardeners become University of Missouri Extension volunteers and assist with horticulture education in the community.

Thirty volunteer hours from participants are required the first year after training. Following that, 20 volunteer service hours and six continuing education hours are required each year to remain an active Master Gardener.

Individuals interested in becoming a Master Gardener in Greene County must also attend one of MU Extension’s mandatory orientation sessions at the Botanical Center.

Media  12/5/16-KSPR interview on live Christmas trees  12/12/16-417 Magazine; article on ‘Preparing your Garden for Spring’ Individual Consultations Phone Calls, office visits, site visits -14 Programs Presented 11/29/16- ‘Establishment and Care of Herbaceous Ornamental Plants’ core training at Crowder College in Neosho for Hill and Hollow Master Gardeners of McDonald County

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Programs, Meetings and Activities  12/5/16-Master Gardeners of Greene County December Board Meeting  12/13/16-Master Gardeners of Greene County December Chapter Meeting and Holiday Party  December 2016-Fall Coursework for MSKelly McGowan ‘Agroforestry for WaterHorticulture Educator shed Restoration’ and mcgowank@missouri.edu thesis research for ‘Elderberry Flower Production in Missouri’ project Upcoming Programming 1/26/17-8th Annual Agroforestry Symposium; Columbia, MO  1/31/17 and 2/2/17-Master Gardeners of Greene County 2017 Core Training orientation sessions 

McGowan Named Coordinator

Effective Jan. 1, 2017, Kelly McGowan is the University of Missouri Extension coordinator of the Master Gardeners of Greene County.

The Master Gardener Program is a popular and successful statewide volunteer community-service organization administered through University of Missouri Extension. The organization’s goal is to train gardeners who are willing to share their knowledge with others. Master Gardeners become volunteers of University of Missouri Extension and donate hours for community educational projects in horticulture. Volunteer activities include working with non-profit organizations, maintaining community gardens, conducting workshops, participating in a Master Gardener speakers’ bureau and staffing the Master Gardener “Hotline.” The Master Gardeners of Greene County boasts of over 275 members. For more information visit the chapter website at http://www.mggreene.org.

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Horticulture Educator and Master Gardeners

Great Circle Project Consultation

In 2016, Kelly McGowan had the pleasure of consulting on a new project at the Great Circle, formerly known as the Boys and Girls Town of Springfield. This organization works with local youth who are going through mental health issues, behavioral issues and other serious problems that often require interventions above and beyond basic medical services.

John Deere Reman, a local company specializing in rebuilding engines, adopted the Great Circle as a community outreach project this year and wanted to put in raised When asked to beds for the youth who used the services of this organization. I worked with them evaluate their on soil recommendations and plant sefavorite projects lections that would be easy and producin 2016, the kids tive for first time gardeners. said this was The project was successful and the kids enjoyed getting outdoors and tendtheir favorite! ing the gardens. They also used the food that they grew in some cooking classes.

When asked to evaluate their favorite projects in 2016, the kids said this was their favorite! In 2017, thanks to continued support from John Deere Reman, the project will be expanded with more raised beds. Cool season vegetables will be added to extend the growing season. I will continue to work with them consulting on soil, disease and insect issues and crop selection.

Potting Shed University Master Gardeners of Greene County are hosting seven diverse classes this spring as part of their annual Potting Shed University program.

Date/Time: Mondays, March 6 - April 24 | 6:007:00 p.m.

Location: SpringfieldGreene County Botanical Center, 2400 S Scenic, Springfield, MO 65807 Tel: 417-891-1515 ext 2 Cost: $5/per son per class | Pay at the Door registration starts at 5:30 March 6 – Composting made Simple – Melissa Sanford, Master Gardener of Greene County Join us as we discuss composting at home and how we can each make a difference in the waste we generate.

March 20 – Native Butterflies and Moths of MO - Kelly McGowan, Horticulture Educator, MU Extension Learn how to identify these creatures and things you can to do attract them to your yard.

March 27 – Garlic – Patrick Byers - MU Horticulture Specialist Choosing the right garlic strain, planting the crop, nurturing garlic, harvesting, and storing garlic for use.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

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Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated January 4, 2017

Housing and Urban Development Specialist Barber partners with Drury University, Project Core and the Ozarks Greene Building Coalition for a majority of his programs and projects. He is available to provide programs or presentations on these topics:  Sustainability  Smart Growth  Alternative / Renewable Energy  Energy Efficiency  Low Cost, No Cost Energy Savers  LEED & Performance based buildings  Building Technology - Conventional, Emerging, Natural & Indigenous  ICF’s (Insulated Concrete Form) Design & Construction  Disaster Resistant Building Design  RentSmart - Landlord / Tenant Training

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Disaster Readiness & Prep Universal Design - Aging-in-Place CoHousing MultiGenerational Senior Eco Villages Increasing public value for sustainJeff Barber able human enviHousing and design ronments and barberj@missouri.edu global impact Community Development - Building capacity for Sustainable Change

Jeff Barber is working with leaders in area communities and students at Drury to develop projects and visioning documents that improve living and expand economic options.

Information about his work can be found on the Greene County Extension website or contact him at (417) 881-8909 or barberj@missouri.edu.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

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Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated January 4, 2017

4-H Report for Greene County

Wright, Bippes Among 20 Missouri Students at National 4-H Congress Nora Wright of Verona, Mo., and Matthew Bippes of Nixa, MO, were among the nearly 900 youth delegates from 43 states and Puerto Rico attending the 2016 National 4-H Congress, November 25-29 in Atlanta, Georgia.

The National 4H Congress experience allows 4-H members from the across the country to learn new skills through workshops, hear from nationally recognized speakers and experience Southern culture.

“This trip is really a capstone experience for 4-H members,” said Karla Deaver, 4-H youth development specialist. “Lora and Matthew were in a group of 20 representing the state of Missouri at this national event.”

Selection for this trip combines scores from a written recognition form and interview. Attendance at National 4-H Congress is a culminating event for many 4-H’ers and a highly sought after award.

Both Bippes and Wright are members of the Lucky 11 4-H Club in Greene County.

During National 4-H Congress, youth participated in a wide range of educational workshops and heard from speakers such as the current Miss America. Delegates also participated in a morning of service around Atlanta. Activities included, working in classrooms, cleaning up parks, preparing meals for homeless and shut-ins, sorting books to send to Africa and much more. Youth had the opportunity to tour some of Atlanta’s landmarks such as Coca-Cola, CNN, the Martin Luther King, Jr, visitor center and others.

As a part of the community service activity, Wright taught elementary students in the Atlanta area about cotton production and its importance to the Georgia economy.

Bippes attended a different elementary school, reading to students and assisting teachers.

More About 4-H

As the largest out-of-school youth organization in the world, 4-H is open to all boys and girls, ages 5 to18. Children who are five to seven years old are eligible for 4H Clover Kids, an introductory program. Youths who are 8 to 18 years of age can select from a variety of 4-H projects and activities that stress social and life skills in areas like decision making, communication, social interaction, civic responsibility and physical skills. Children do not have to live on a farm to join 4-H. Pr oject opportunities include computers, robotics, foods and nutrition, horticulture, large and small animals and more. Missouri 4-H is University of Missouri Extension's youth development program.

Learn more online.

Contact 4-H Youth Development Specialist Karla Deaver at the Lawrence County Extension office by telephone at 417/466-3102 or by email at deaverk@missouri.edu.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

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Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated January 4, 2017

Nutrition and Food Policy

A New Year, A Healthier You

may work or worship with;  Learn what your limits are, and set boundaries for what you plan to be involved in.

When overwhelmed, say no. Restructure your priorities to Pam Duitsman simplify your Nutrition Specialist life. Evaluate duitsmanp@missouri.edu what is most important, and focus on those things. As you are able, you can always add things back in to your schedule;  Get some type of physical activity every day. Make it something you love to do.

Exercise can mean walking the dogs, dancing, gardening, a brisk walk, golfing, shopping with a friend, or a host of more structured activities; and  Breathing exercises, prayer and meditation, and volunteering have also been shown to be beneficial in reducing stress.

Realize that quick fixes, such as eating, drug use or alcohol use may make us feel better for a time, but rarely reduce any stress long term.

Remember that success in developing healthy habits means starting small and build from there, taking it a day at a time.

Fueled by Holiday remorse, millions of Americans will make a New Year’s resolution to lose weight. The New Year finds many starting fad diets and extreme exercise plans, even though experts agree that the best and safest way to lose weight and keep it off is a slow, steady approach.

One that doesn’t hurt your wallet or your health.

Adopting healthy eating habits and exercising more does not have to be extreme. If you incorporate good habits that you enjoy, you can continue these to first lose the weight, and then keep it off.

Here’s three simple tips: One, bring on the veggies. The majority of us don’t eat the daily recommended servings of vegetables. If you are a believer that veggies don’t taste good, try them roasted. Mix up a bunch of vegetables together – get creative! You can use eggplant, zucchini, carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, winter squash, tomatoes, bell peppers – the list is almost endless. Cut them up, or not.

Throw in a little minced garlic if you like. Toss everything with extra virgin olive oil until they are well coated. Pile in a baking dish and roast for 45 minutes to an hour on 375 degrees. Turn lower if the veggies start to brown too much. The roasting will bring out the sweetness of the veggies, and the browning will cause a little caramelization of the natural sugars in the veggies. You will soon be addicted, and won’t even want the junk food!

Two, begin building lean body mass. Start with some basic strength training. You will not only burn calories and build muscle, but you will also benefit your physical and mental health. Also, for many people, strength training tends to suppress appetite and cravings.

Three, pay attention to your mental and spiritual health. This can pay big dividends with weight control, since you won’t be reaching for food to combat anxiety. Some suggestions that have been proven effective for reducing stress, anxiety or fear include:  Begin keeping a gratitude journal by capturing what you are grateful for each day;  Develop a support system that includes people you trust. Cultivate friendships with those who have similar values and goals.

Sign up for a class, or reach out to those you A recent team photo at an international event.

Contact Nutrition and Health Education Specialist Dr. Pam Duitsman at (417) 881-8909 or by email at duitsmanp@missouri.edu.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

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Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated January 4, 2017

New Historic Schools Book for Sale at Greene County Extension Center 8.5" x 11" * Black & White * About 130 pages * $15 each

This book profiles the best historic and one-room schools that are still standing in Missouri. Preference in the book is given to those schools that are historic and restored or in the process of being restored. There are several African-American schools that are profiled as well as many schools in rural communities that have restored schools as part of a community historic site or district. This is a must read for any historian interested in one-room schools.

Extension Council Election is Jan. 16 — Jan. 20

A public election will be held January 16-20, 2017. Citizens of voting age in Greene County, pursuant to the provisions of Sec. 262-577, R. S. Mo. 1969, can vote and elect eight new members to the University of Missouri Extension Council for Greene County. Candidate bios can be found at http:// extension.missouri.edu/greene. An online ballot will be available starting Jan. 16 on that same website or can be picked up at the offices of Greene County Extension or by calling (417) 881-8909.

Financial Education Training in the County On Dec 5 in Battlefield, Nellie Lamers, our family financial education specialist, taught a one hour session to 34 participants on how to get to and use the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Link & Learn training site and practice lab, and how to prepare for and access the volunteer certification tests.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

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Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated January 4, 2017

Human Development Specialist Stay Strong, Healthy a Success at Greene County Senior Centers

senior citizens is going up and down stairs and falling. A workshop was held at the Republic Senior Center on Dec. 22 to address fears of falling and ways to prevent falls.

If additional Senior Citizen’s Service grant Renette Wardlow funds are secured Human Development more Stay Strong, wardlowr@missouri.edu Stay Healthy classes will be held in Greene County. The plan is to offer the advanced class in Republic and the basic class Rogersville and Strafford. These classes will begin in February.

I also participated in two trainings this month to teach a curriculum called Skills Up and the other is Helping People Cope with Grief and Loss. One day per week will be dedicated to the Skills Up program. Workshops on grief and loss are being planned.

Four Stay Strong, Stay Healthy courses funded by the Greene County Senior Citizen's Grant Fund have come to a close. Sixty-one, Greene County, senior citizen, residents at the Republic, Ash Grove, Northview and Southside senior citizen's centers benefitted by participating in the sixteen session program.

All participants were assessed at the beginning of each program and reassessed at the end of the program. All participants showed some improvement in strength, balance and flexibility.

Ninety-Seven percent of those who completed the post survey said that they feel physically stronger; ninety-one percent said that they now have more energy.

When asked how the program improved their life, one participant said, "It allowed me to socialize with other people and I learned new skills." Another person said, "Great program and instructor."

Another shared, "I can now walk up steps and carry things." Some of the other direct quotes by participants include: "I have more strength and better balance," "I'm more flexible and I enjoyed the interaction with others, "I have a better attitude about exercise," "I am moving better, not so many aches and pains in my arms and legs." "This is a great program and I'm glad that it was available at the Republic Senior Center, “I like to exercise with others and I feel much better." "The leader was great." "I can now turn my head enough to look behind me when in backing my car," "I can clean my floors now; I couldn't do that before taking this class."

When asked what could be improved about the program many said, "I wish it would never end." The post survey showed that the areas of Four ladies from the Northview Senior Center making exercise greatest concern among fun with Stay Strong, Stay Healthy.

To learn more about local programs impacting children and families, contact Human Development Specialist Renette Wardlow at (417) 881-8909 or by email at wardlowr@missouri.edu.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

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Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Can I Help You? Maggie Black can help customers with material needs, soil tests and program registrations. Contact her at the Greene County Extension Center or email her direct at Maggie Black blackmag@missouri.edu. Maggie Black joined Greene County Extension in 2015.

Last Updated January 4, 2017

Get Social with Greene County Extension Facebook.com/GreeneCountyExtension Follow us on Twitter @MUExtension417 Follow us on YouTube: /MUExtension417 Subscribe to our email blasts on our website

Extension Council Officers

The following individuals are officers during 2016  Matthew Simpson, chairman  Kip Thompson, vice-chairman  Randy Bakerink, treasurer  Morgan Ash, secretary See our website (http://extension.missouri.edu/greene) for a complete listing of council members.

Direct Phone Lines for Extension Staff

Corporate Sponsors Greene County Commission 933 N. Robberson Ave., Springfield, MO http://www.greenecountymo.org/ Springfield-Greene County Park Board, Ph 417-864-1049, www.parkboard.org Greene County Soil and Water Conservation District, Ph.417-831-5246 http://swcd.mo.gov/greene/index.html.

Greene County Extension Office located inside the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center

2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65807 Tel: (417) 881-8909 greeneco@missouri.edu Office hours: Monday - Friday * 8 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Maggie Black, Office Manager - 874-2953 David Burton, Civic Communication/CPD - 874-2954 Jeff Barber, Housing & Environ. Design -- 874-2955 Patrick Byers, Horticulture Specialist -- 874-2956 Dr. Pam Duitsman, Nutrition Specialist -- 874-2957 Kelly McGowan, Horticulture Educator -- 874-2965 Renette Wardlow, Human Development -- 874-2966 Master Gardeners Hotline -- 874-2963 Family Nutrition Education Program-417-886-2059

Extension/Partner Meetings

County Commission Meetings: 1st and 3rd Mondays of month; confirm agenda and meeting at http://www.greenecountymo.org/commission.

Commission building, Springfield, at 9:30 a.m.

Park Board Meetings: Second Fr iday of each month, 8:30 a.m. Call 864-1049 to confirm.

4-H Leader’s Council Meetings: 3r d Thur sday of the month (except July),7 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2852 S Dayton Ave, Springfield.

Greene County 4-H Foundation: meets 3r d Thursday of each month at Panera Bread on Battlefield (across from the Mall) starting at 6 p.m.

Master Gardeners of Greene County—board meeting: Fir st Monday of each month at 4:30 p.m. at the Botanical Center.

Master Naturalists Board Meetings: The boar d meets at 5:30 p.m. at the MDC regional office, on the second Wednesday of the month.

Greene County Farm Bureau: Second Monday of the month at Farm Bureau 2530 S Campbell Ave, Springfield. Starts at 7:30 p.m.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene