July 2013

“Reaching Out Report” the Greene County Extension Newsletter 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65807 Email: greeneco@missouri.edu * Tel: (417) 881-8909

July 2013 * Vol. 5, Issue 7

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Upcoming events … page 2 4-H Report … page 3 Patrick Byers … pages 4-5 Master Gardeners … page 6 Master Naturalists … page 7 Pam Duitsman… page 8-9 Nutrition … pages 10 Jeff Barber … page 11 David Burton … pages 12 Century Farms … pages 13 Districting Law Passed … pages 14 Friends campaign… page 15-17 Sponsors & Partners page 18

Online Event Calendar The most up-to-date list of reported upcoming MU Extension programs in Greene County is available online at extension.missouri.edu/greene

Calendar is visible on right side of page.

Regional Shooting Sports Event in Greene County Greene County 4-H’ers like Tanner Johnson (above) from Fair Grove, exceled at the Regional 4-H Shooting Sports event held July 2 at the shooting range is Bois D’Arc. Tanner won the skeet shooting competition at the regional and in 2012, was the overall Missouri Champion.

Learn more about what this program teachers 4-Hers on page 3.

University of Missouri Extension provides equal opportunity to all participants in extension programs and activities, and for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without discrimination on the basis of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated July 29, 2013

Selected Upcoming Extension Events in Greene County Business Development Classes

Garden Inspired Writing Retreat

Regular business classes are held at the Small Business Development and Technology Center, 405 North Jefferson Ave., Springfield. Register by calling 417-836-5685 or checking online www.ws.missouristate.edu/sbdc.

Experience nature and be creatively inspired by the beauty of the gardens. Let David Burton, MU Extension specialist, journalist, and published author, guide your journey into the natural world with creative writing exercises and in the gardens.

This retreat is for anyone who wants to be more creative whether you like journal writing, poetry, fiction, non-fiction or news writing. No prior writing experience is needed. Bring a lawn chair and your own writing tools. Attend one session, or all four. Meet in the Atrium of the Botanical Center Date: Session1: Thurs. Sept. 5 Session 2: Oct. 3 Session 3: Nov. 7 Session 4: Dec. 5 Time: 9 a.m. to noon Fee: $20 per person, per session Registration available online. Age: All ages

Childcare Provider Training Greene County Extension presents a series trainings designed for foster parents and childcare providers. Pre-registration is required and class size is limited. East meeting room of Botanical Center.

Age: Adults Sept. 21: The Nurtured Heart Sept. 28: Sexuality & Children: What is Normal Oct. 12: Making Secure Attachments and Creating Special Moments with Infants & Toddlers Oct. 19: Meth + Children = Danger Time: 9 a.m. to noon; Fee: $15 per class Registration available online or call 881-8909.

Healthy Lifestyles Expo

Extension presents its first “Healthy Lifestyle Expo” for southwest Missouri from 8:45 a.m. to 3 Stay Strong, Stay Healthy p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 24 at the Springfield-Greene This program is designed to help older adults imCounty Botanical Center in Springfield. Each prove strength, flexibility and balance which will presentation provides information for taking care lead to a healthier, more acof yourself, your home and tive lifestyle. All needed Program Calendar Online your family as well showequipment is provided. Precasing programs that MU registration by Aug. 23 is reThe most up-to-date list of reported Extension can provide to quired and class size is limupcoming MU Extension programs in any business or organizaited. East meeting room of Greene County is available online at tion. More information and Botanical Center. http://extension.missouri.edu/greene registration information Age: Adults 50 and up Calendar visible on right side of page. available online.

Date: Mons.: Sept. 9 to Nov. 18 (not Oct. 28) Time: Session 1: 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

County Residents Reached This Month Session 2: 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Fee: $40 per person Registration available online or call 881-8909.

This is the number of Greene County residents

2,551*

Growing Knowledge at the Farm Series of classes: runs until Aug. 15, always from 6 to 8 p.m. Location: Rutledge Wilson Farm Park, 3825, W Farm Road 146, Springfield. Preregistration required; Cost $10, call 417-837-5949 or online: fogcalendar.com

reached this month by Greene County Extension (based on the unofficial numbers presented in this report). This is direct contact only and includes all Extension program areas, consults, calls for help and advisement. This number does not include indirect contacts like the 6,520 county residents that receive our news email blast each week or those who view our website or information on social media.

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated July 29, 2013

4-H Report for Greene County More photos at from shooting sports event at www.flickr.com/MUExtension417. Read results on our news service blog or under “news” on the 4-H pages at http:// extension.missouri.edu/greene.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

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 4-H 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 such as decision making, communication, social interaction, civic responsibility and physical skills. Children not have to live on a farm to join 4-H. Project 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.

Page 3

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated July 29, 2013

Horticulture Specialist Community Contact: TV and Radio  2 interviews with KOLR10’s Chris Smith  4 radio interviews with Morris Westfall’s “Farm Page of the Air”  On KOLR10 “Ozarks Live” program (7/17) Print media  Contributed to several articles and interviews  Article on Japanese beetle for Greene County SWCD newsletter Requests for information  Telephone contacts – 54 for advisement  Email contacts – 44 contacts  Office visits – 2 for consultation  Farm site visits – 20 for consultation







Future programs 



Programs Presented: 

  

“Nutrition Management for Day Neutral Strawberries,” CNFA-Moldova Project presentation, Chisinau, Moldova (7/13/13) “The Amazing Elderberry,” Springfield Herb Society meeting, Springfield (7/16/13) “All About Pears and Apples,” Growing Knowledge at the Farm, Springfield (7/18/13) “Food Safety for Farmers,” AgriMissouri Conference, Jefferson City (7/23/13)

Coordinated:       

USAID Farmer to Farmer volunteer project, Moldova (7/6/13 – 7/15/13) First Friday display at Webb City Farmers Market (7/5/13) Master Gardeners of Greene County chapter meeting (7/9/13) Master Gardeners of Greene County Hotline Development meeting, Springfield (7/15/13) Springfield Plateau Master Naturalists chapter meeting, Springfield (7/15/13) Vegetable and Fruit judging, Ozark Empire Fair, Springfield (7/24/13) Horticulture soil test reports - recommendations and distribution for SW region – 35 reports during reporting period

Farmers Market of the Ozarks board meeting, Springfield (7/16/13) FOG Butterfly Festival, Springfield (7/20/13) AgriMissouri Conference, Jefferson City (7/23/13)



       

Patrick Byers Horticulture byerspl@missouri.edu

“First Friday at Webb City Farmers Market” booth, Webb City (8/2/13) “Plant Propagation,” Newton County/ McDonald County Master Gardeners program, Neosho (8/6/13) “Basics of Blueberries,” Newton County/ McDonald County Master Gardeners program, Neosho (8/6/13) Horticultural Judging, Missouri State Fair, Sedalia (8/8/13) Tomato Field Day, Mount Vernon (8/9/13) Lawrence County Twilight Horticulture Tour, SWREC, Mount Vernon (8/9/13) Master Naturalist training orientations, Springfield (8/13, 8/20/13) “All About Seed Saving,” Growing Knowledge at the Farm, Springfield (8/15) Master Gardeners of Greene County Hotline Development meeting, Springfield (8/19/13) “Home Fruit Production,” Hickory County Master Gardener Training, Hermitage (8/27) Missouri State Master Gardener Conference, Springfield (9/20/13-9/22/13) Continued on the next page

Participated in: 

Greene County Soil and Water Conservation District board meeting (7/16/13)

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 4

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated July 29, 2013

Horticulture Specialist Webb City Farmers Market Booth Regional Interest: The “First Friday at Webb City Farmers Market,” a cooperative project with Lincoln University and Webb City Farmers Market, is in its second season. The program targets market vendors with science-based production information, and members of the general public with gardening information. The monthly project runs May through October, and assists an average of 25 people per event.

Contacts made at the farmers market have led to farm visits and individual assistance that has impacted profitability for the farmers involved. Pictured here are Shon Bishop (LU), Eileen Nichols (manager of Webb City Farmers Market) and Patrick Byers at the informational display.

Byers Helps Strawberry Farmers in Moldova International Interest: Patrick had the unique opportunity to participate in a USAID-sponsored volunteer opportunity in Moldova, through the Farmer-toFarmer program. Moldova is a largely agricultural country roughly the size of Maryland, located between Rumania and Ukraine.

The country was once part of the Soviet Union, and has the lowest per-capita income of the former Soviet republics. The assignment involved working with 10 Moldovan farmers who are growing dayneutral strawberries, a new crop that these farmers hope to export to Russia. Patrick arranged farm visits, consulted with farmers on specific production challenges, and developed recommendations to help the farmers increase production and build profitability. The 8-day assignment was funded through CNFA, a non-governmental agency. Shown in this photo: Patrick Byers consults with strawberry farmers near Chisinau, Moldova. The farm, owned by Oleg Mereacre, included 7 hectares of strawberries.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 5

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated July 29, 2013

Master Gardeners of Greene County Public Gardens Maintained by Master Gardeners Offer an Educational Oasis The Master Gardeners of Greene County chapter maintains two demonstration gardens.

The Xeriscape Garden: The Xeriscape Demonstration Garden was established in 1992 primarily to demonstrate the efficient use of water in landscaping, while at the same time providing an interesting and attractive area for strolling and relaxing in an urban setting.

The location is at the corner of South National Avenue and Linwood Street.

The Xeriscape Garden is divided into zones: 1. high water use zone which depends on frequent irrigation; 2. 2. moderate water zone which utilizes less irrigation; 3. 3. low water use zone which receives no supplemental irrigation Master Gardener Demonstration Gardens: The Master Gardener Demonstration Gardens were established in 1994 on land provided by the Springfield-Greene County Park Board and includes a mature mixed perennial border, several themed herb beds, ornamental grasses, Missouri natives, eight turf plots, and a vegetable plot in the theme of a European potager. All within about 36,000 square feet. Learn about plants that thrive in the Ozarks at this garden created and maintained by Master Gardeners of Greene County.

The location is at the Springfield Botanical Gardens, Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park, 2400 S. Scenic Ave. Both of our public demonstration gardens are open dawn to dusk for touring Master Gardener Hotline: The Master Gardeners of Greene County’s “Master Gardener Hotline” serves over 2000 clients a year and is staffed by volunteer members of our chapter Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., March-October and part time through the

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

The Master Gardener Program is a popular and successful statewide volunteer communityservice 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 can boast of over 300 members.

off season. Anyone with a home gardening question may call our Master Gardener Hotline at 417.881.8909 ext. 320, or stop by in person to bring in a diseased branch or a pest to get it identified for free. Share this information on this free service with your gardening friends!

Contact information for program Master Gardeners is a program of the University of Missouri Greene County Extension and are headquartered in the west end of the Springfield Botanical Center, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, MO 65807. Questions, call 417.881.8909 ext. 320 or visit www.mggreene.org.

Funds for state conference from Extension: Master Gardeners of Greene County has been granted $1500 to cover the cost of the speaker at the Saturday evening banquet at the state conference. The honorarium is from the MU Extension Leadership Council.

Page 6

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated July 29, 2013

Master Naturalists Master Naturalist Training Class Scheduled for September and October Submitted by Jennifer Ailor If you love the outdoors and natural world, have an innate curiosity about wild critters and native plants and are committed to volunteering, then the Missouri Master Naturalist program may be for you. Here’s how to become a Master Naturalist.

Class Forming The Springfield Plateau Chapter, one of 12 in the state, has an active membership of more than 60. Local training (40 hours) is conducted by MU Extension and Missouri Department of Conservation. Register with Jay Barber at jay.barber@mdc.mo.gov or 417 -895-6881, ext. 269.

Here’s the schedule:  Mandatory orientation Aug. 12 OR Aug. 20 at Missouri Department of Conservation Regional office, 2630 N. Mayfair Drive, Springfield.  Six classroom sessions Sept. 10-Oct. 29 – all Tuesday evenings from 69:30 p.m. in the regional office.  Four field trips Sept. 14 and 28 and Oct. 5 and 19.  Graduation Oct. 29 The sessions and field trips cover such topics as the three levels of conservation, identifying singing insects, basic ecological concepts, eco-regions, watershed and fisheries management, prairie ecology, caves and karst, tree identification, invasive plants and animals, native landscaping, volunteering, educational tools and how to use them.

In addition to the 40 hours of training, each Master Naturalist in training must complete a 20-hour capstone project with a group or done individually. A capstone could be developing a new educational training tool or course, inventorying plants, doing a bird count or helping with a rain garden.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

The Missouri Master Naturalist Program results from a partnership created in 2004 between the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and MU Extension (MUE). These two organizations are the sponsors of the program at the state level. The Missouri Master Naturalist Program is recognized as a “named and branded” educational program within MU Extension. The MU School of Natural Resources is the academic home for the Program.

Learn more www.springfieldmasternaturalist.com.

Overview of Program Missouri Master Naturalists is a community-based, natural resource, education and volunteer program. Its mission is to engage Missourians in the stewardship of our state’s bountiful natural resources through sciencebased education and volunteer community service. The purpose of the program is to develop a corps of wellinformed volunteers to provide education, outreach and service dedicated to that purpose.

Master Naturalists are a hard-working bunch of volunteers. You’ll find them in classrooms, leading field trips, planting native trees and shrubs, building rain gardens, taking plant and animal counts, working on Stream Teams, helping with prescribed burns and attacking invasive plants.

Most projects are local, and each Master Naturalist chooses how to volunteer a minimum of 40 hours a year and get 8 hours of advanced training each year. In 2012, local Master Naturalists had more than 7,000 hours of service and training. The Plateau Chapter averages more hours per member than other chapters.

Some examples of local projects Master Naturalists are involved with are the Butterfly Festival, Young Sprouts, water festivals conducted by James River Basin Partnership, GLADE program, WOLF School, various Stream Teams, tree and shrub plantings at area schools, tree plantings in Joplin, educational trunk presentations at many elementary schools and plant inventory at Valley Water Mill Park.

Page 7

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated July 29, 2013

Nutrition Specialist Chronic Disease Self-Management Two consecutive 6-week series in Springfield: one series each Thursday morning; another each Thursday evening. Classes build quality of life, success at achieving health goals, and confidence for the participants.  Chronic diseases account for nearly 7 out of 10 leading causes of deaths in Missouri; and this increases as baby-boomers age. 91% of older adults have at least one chronic condition, and 73% have at least two.  This six week workshop meets once each week for 2.5 hours, and helps participants to maintain “quality of life” when faced with chronic medical conditions.  Subjects covered include: techniques to deal with problems such as frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation; appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength, flexibility, and endurance; appropriate use of medications; communicating effectively with health professionals; nutrition; and how to evaluate new treatments.

Ozarks Regional Food Policy Council 







Healthy People; Strong Communities; Sustainable Ecosystems; Thriving Local Economies; and Vibrant Farms.

July 22: Pam chaired a working meeting that included a presentation by Mercy Food Systems regarding successes, Duitsman barriers and circumstances surrounding use of local food for Mercy Food Systems. The work was then focused on team preparation of Food System assessment for Greene County.

Food Day activities are a part of this committee. Nutrition Education is offered over a series of several months including Gardening Classes, Cooking Demos, Farm to Table Dinners, and Canning Classes.

Other Programming and Grant work:   

Mt. Vernon Healthy Lifestyle program for Lawrence County.

Healthy Lifestyle Initiative, Christian County AFRI grant work: to assist successful formation and development of Food Policy Councils in the State of Missouri (six-state project).

Goal: increase community food security.

Providing assistance and program support to a team of over 50 community leaders representing diverse organizations Continued on the next page On July 10, the overall council met to discuss progress toward creating a community-wide food system assessment.

Presentations were given on the capacity of the local food system in Greene County. Subcommittee chairs reported on monthly progress of their workgroups: Examples of discussion charts used in Chronic Disease Self-Management.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 8

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated July 29, 2013

Nutrition Specialist 



MU Extension Program Alignment and Integration core team work in the area of Health Systems Community contacts and communication in July: Telephone; e-mail; office visits for consultation and advisement: 38

Trainings and conferences   

MU Extension’s Health Insurance Education Initiative New Market Tax Credits - An Important Financing Tool for Healthy Food Retail Healthy Food Retail in Rural Communities

Upcoming programs in Greene County: Health Insurance Education Initiative Training: Fall 2013  The Affordable Care Act has put into place comprehensive health insurance reforms that that will continue to roll out for four years and beyond.  Pam will provide education to increase knowledge and skills needed to make informed health insurance decisions.

Fall Cookery: “Seasonal and Simple” in October 2013 This will be the first in a series of “seasonal” cooking courses. Nutrition Specialist and Chef led courses will have cooking demonstrations and hands-on class participation. The Nutrition specialist will provide education on research-based nutritional benefits of eating whole foods, and cooking from scratch.  Come learn how easy, fun, and good for your family it is to work with real fall food ingredients. Make your house smell like a home when you learn how to work with all kinds of fall squash and produce. Roast poultry using easy to follow European methods. Learn how to make the best pumpkin pie, starting with fresh pumpkins! You’ll also learn the health benefits of eating this fresh, tasty, flavorful food.

Learn more at Springfield Food Day event: http:// fooddaycelebration.org/harvest-party-vendor-info.

Hy-Vee Partnership: 

Continue work to provide Hy-Vee with seasonal produce publications to promote Greene County MU Extension.

This MU Extension Education Initiative will offer the following as part of the initiative:  Awareness – who is eligible for what, how to obtain insurance, etc.  General health insurance literacy information  Unbiased pre-enrollment education for informed health insurance decision-making  Education on how to use the plan purchased  Connect Missourians with resources

Two more “Stay Strong Stay Healthy” Classes at the Botanical Center: Fall 2013 Two 11-week strength training classes will focus on middle-aged to senior adults. It has been shown that class participants improve strength, flexibility and balance. The class results in health gains for participants, and has been shown to promote a healthier, more active lifestyle; increase bone density; reduce falls; improve arthritis symptoms; and increase flexibility.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Springfield Food Day Celebration is October 26

Page 9

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated July 29, 2013

Family Nutrition Education Program Becky Roark During the month of July:  Well of Life Food Pantry—271 people received information on fruits and vegetables Roark  Fair Grove Farmers’ Market—about 125 people per week have seen 4 different nutrition displays and picked up information and recipes for their produce  Republic WIC clinic—24 clients learned about fruits and vegetables  Central Assembly Food Pantry—118 families viewed the “MyPlate” display

Sherri Hull 



 

Victory Mission Family Ministries Food Pantry – Display & Discussion about “Protein”; 125 Participants Republic WIC Clinic, lessons on “Fruits and VegHull gies: Half Your Plate.” 40 clients Begin series of lessons at Stewart Head Start – 42 students Begin series of lessons at Grant Head Start – 36 students

Jenni Nevatt This month I am working with all three units of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Springfield to teach a series of lessons for 225 children age 5-16. Children are learning how to choose and prepare healthy snacks. The Boys and Girls

Nevatt

Clubs have provided all materials needed for these healthy snacks through their Triple Play grant funds.

Price Cutter classes continued with five participants who learned how to choose protein from plant sources to save time and money and to reduce saturated fat intake.

I will make an appearance on KOLR 10, July 29 at 10am to discuss the Eating Smart Being Active series at Price Cutter.

Marty Wood 



Pregnancy Care Center: taught “Eating Smart, Being Active for Pregnant women,” to 45 supported adults.

Willard WIC: “Eating Smart, Being Active” attended by 15 supported adults.

Wood

Family Nutrition Education Program 2160 W. Chesterfield Blvd. Suite F200 Chesterfield Village, Springfield, Mo. Tel: 417-886-2059 Call the office to inquire about nutrition education.

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

DeFord

Edmondson

Williams Page 10

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated July 29, 2013

Human Development & Urban Housing Development Specialist

“Taking Shelter from the Storm” Media Coverage I hosted and taught, “Taking Shelter from the Storm: Building a Safe Room in Your Home or Business,” on July 1, at the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center.

The program focused on locating and constructing a safe room in a home or small business. A variety of approaches were discussed during the program, focusing on several construction methods that are presented in the FEMA 320 document.

This class got a lot of media attention. I was on the mid-day show at KOLR the day of the class. That evening, KOLR did a live interview one hour before the class was scheduled to begin. The pictures below are screen shots from Barber’s interviews on television.

Efforts for PACE Move Forward After presenting the opportunity to participate in a statewide PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) funding district, the City Council of Lamar Jeff Barber passed the necessary Housing and design participation ordinance. barberj@missouri.edu This step allows commercial properties located in the city limits to pursue this alternative funding and offers another tool for economic development.

Under a Memorandum of Understanding between the Missouri Clean Energy Funding District and MU Extension – Business & Development, specialist are working across the state to get communities to pass the necessary policies that will allow their building owners access to this innovative program.

For more information on PACE in Missouri, check their website http://www.mced.mo.gov

Present two sessions at International Community Development Society Conference in Charleston “Preparing Citizen Scholars for Community Collaboration” focused on setting the stage for creating an environment for study and discussion to better facilitate the community visioning process.

“A Model of Public-Private Educational Collaboration for Community Development” offered a critique of the MU Extension – Drury Center for Community Studies model that has been used to help over 30 communities to develop their Vision while addressing issues that they may not be addressing.

The sessions resulted in interest for networking with colleagues at the University of Delaware and Northern Kentucky University.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 11

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated July 29, 2013

Civic Communication Specialist and County Program Director

BY THE NUMBERS (for the month)  News Service Subscribers: 9,437 weekly  Requests for advisement: 36  Regular weekly news columns: 16  TV/Radio Interviews – 12  Total articles written this month – 41  Also answering office phones and helping collect soil tests in absence of other support staff.

TEAM WORK / PROGRAMS / GRANTS  Edited monthly “Reaching Out Report”  Updates to Greene County extension website  State community development meeting  Coordinating Regional Council and Regional faculty meetings held in Greene County.  Researching three possible grants.

COUNTY PROGRAM DIRECTOR DUTIES  Financial review and oversight, travel authorizations, and budget work.  Attended Park Board’s monthly meeting.  Attending other relevant meetings of partners.  Attending County Commission meetings at the courthouse, budget planning sessions.

PROGRAMS  County Information Days in August (Council)  Century Farms Events in July  Healthy Lifestyles Expo  Writing curriculum for writing retreat in the garden.

COMMUNICATION / DESIGN DUTIES  Working on promotional radio spots with KTWO and KTXR for our corporate sponsors.  Working on adding content to our YouTube account and generating funds.

FUNDRAISING  Ongoing work with new/potential sponsors and volunteers; have now raised $23,000. +  Completed the roll out of our “Donate Your Hunk of Junk” program with AutoWranglers; postcards go out this month. We have received extensive media coverage, over 20 calls about the program, and several confirmed donations.  Planning a fall mailing and other events.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

EXTENSION HISTORY Working to finalize the narrative text for the 100th anniversary of Extension.

Will use some of this information in a presentation to the Downtown Rotary Club on August 27.

David Burton

Civic communication SCHOOL BOOKS burtond@missouri.edu I have transitioned my two books about one-room schools in Greene County and the Ozarks over to format supported by a publisher and sold online through Amazon.com. To learn more about these books and others that I have written visit http://www.amazon.com/author/davidlburton.

RADIO ADS ON KWTO/KTXR Be listening for one of six radio advertisements on KWTO as part of our corporate sponsorship program. One ad promotes the “garden inspired writing retreat” while another promotes the upcoming Healthy Living Expo. The Master Gardeners are using their radio time to promote the upcoming state conference in Springfield.

Other sponsors are using their time to promote our “Donate Your Hunk of Junk” and “Friends of Greene County Extension” campaign.

SOCIAL MEDIA REACH (July 2013) This snapshot of social media reach is from the month of July. These numbers represent the reach during that time period only. In a few cases (noted) it is a monthly number.

Social Media Outlet Name

Number reached

SW Region News Service Blog: MUExtension417 YouTube Videos: Greene County Extension website: Facebook: Greene County Extension Facebook: MU Extension 417 Facebook: Master Gardeners Facebook: Historic Schools Alliance MU Extension 417 Twitter followers: Facebook: Assorted disaster pages: Total of social media reach this week:

6459 8664 6439 2776 1260 14,352 896 65 102,372 143,283

Page 12

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated July 29, 2013

Civic Communication Specialist and County Program Director Three Farms Honored with Century Farm Status at Fair The Missouri Century Farm Program annually recognizes Missouri farms that are still productive and have been in the same family for 100 years or more. This year, the Greene County Extension Council hosted a special ceremony Monday, Lyndal Greer (left) the Breakbill family and Carl Allison (right).

July 29 in the E-Plex at the Ozark Empire Fair to honor three Greene County farms.

Members of the public were invited to view the Century Farm display in the E-Plex set up by Jackie Warfel, a member of the Greene County Historic Sites Board.

David Burton hosted the event with assistance from Lyndal Greer, vicechairman of Greene County Carl Allison (left) the Mays family and Lyndal Greer (right).

Farm Bureau and Carl Allison, chairman of the Greene County Extension Council.

The 2013 Greene County Century Farms:  John and Doris Breakbill of Republic, established 1913  Warren D. Hardy Jr. of Rogersville, established 1912  Robert and Mary Mays of Members of the Hardy Family along with Lyndal Greer and Carl Allison (right).

Ash Grove, established 1890

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 13

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated July 29, 2013

Civic Communication Specialist and County Program Director Gov. Nixon signs MU Extension district option legislation COLUMBIA, Mo.– On July 2, Gov. Jay Nixon signed House Bill 542 into law. This legislation gives University of Missouri Extension county councils the option to work with one or more other county councils to form extension districts.

“The main purpose of the district option is to help counties increase efficiencies and reduce costs by working together,” said Michael Ouart, MU vice provost and director of extension. “By reducing administrative expenses through sharing, councils can redirect savings to programs that directly affect the lives of residents.”

Ouart notes that the legislation does not require councils to form districts.

“This is an option and nothing more,” he said.

“But it’s an important option for many counties that struggle to maintain extension services during times of limited funding.”

Similar legislation exists in 26 other states, including Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky and Tennessee. In these states, Ouart said, districting has helped extension offices remain open and continue to provide residents the extension services they rely on.

“This legislation allows for local solutions,” said H.C. Russell, chair of the University of Missouri Extension State Council. “It provides county councils greater control over how they manage their costs and gives communities more flexibility to dedicate resources to extension programs that best meet their needs.”

County councils in an extension district would appoint representatives to a governing board.

“Forming an extension district would not diminish the role of the county councils,” Russell added. “District boards will report to the councils, not the other way around.”

The legislation also allows districts to ask voters to approve a property tax to fund local programs. A majority of voters in each county of a district must approve the proposed tax for it to go into effect.

“Again, this is an option available to districts and not a requirement. Any proposed tax levies

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

must be approved by voters,” Ouart said. “This is a local issue determined by a local vote. Missourians realize the value of extension, but councils also understand that for some communities, a new tax may not be an appropriate or feasible solution to funding challenges.”

MU Extension serves rural and urban populations in every county and the city of St. Louis, drawing on the knowledge and experience of regional specialists as well as faculty on the four UM System campuses and Lincoln University Cooperative Extension. Specialists and faculty reach diverse audiences through educational programs, publications, websites, social media and one-on-one consultations.

MU Extension delivers programs throughout the state in community development, business, agriculture and natural resources, 4-H youth development, and human environmental sciences.

Extension’s continuing education programs in areas such as law enforcement, fire and rescue training, nursing and other fields draw mid-career professionals from across the U.S. Every year, more than 1.3 million Missourians participate in MU Extension programs, and some 2,000 volunteers serve on county extension councils to identify needs in their communities and work with extension faculty in delivering and evaluating programs.

“The main purpose of the district option is to help counties increase efficiencies and reduce costs by working together. By reducing administrative expenses through sharing, councils can redirect savings to programs that directly affect the lives of residents. ..

This is an option and nothing more.

But it’s an important option for many counties that struggle to maintain extension services during times of limited funding.”

— Michael Ouart, MU vice provost and director of extension Page 14

Contributors to “Friends of Greene County Extension” Corporate Level Sanford & Assoc. CPA

Friends Level

Carl Allison Clydette Alsup Egbers Master Gardeners of Judy Averett Greene County Lisa & John Bakerink The Beauty Shop Meyer Mark & Renae Communications— Bernskoetter KWTO and KTXR Judith Bradley Ramona Burton American Business Donna Carney Systems Carr Stock Farms, LLC Bob Childress Sunshine Valley Farm Robert & Brenda Cirtin — Jan and Debbie & Stephen Michael Wooten Collins Charles Edmonson Billie Sue Fuller Patron Level James Garton Harold Bender Dr. Greenthumb of Major and Marthe Springfield LLC Close David Hall Jack Crabb Marjorie Harris George Deatz Debi Hunget Sharon DeRubis Richard Jarvis Greene County Soil & Joe Jenkins Water Conservation District Board Jeffrey Jones Gaylen and Deborah Jones Sponsor Level Dr. Douglas Jones Anonymous Mary Joplin David & Stacey Burton Ann Kynion David & Nancy Peter Longley Chambers Darlene Nave Home Pride Inc. Dellene Nelson Jack Kaiser Larry Nelson Old Missouri Bank / Nosegay Garden Club Billy Claiborn — Yvette Platz Larry & Nancy O'Reilly Contributor Level Barbara Parker Harold Bengsch Ryan & Kelly Patterson Joyce Brown Carolyn Schirmer Marla Calico Howard Schwartz Linda Deatz Sheryl Shaefer Dalen & Pam Duitsman Jim Shelledy Ann Hall Mike Sidebottom Main Street Feeds Paula Vinson Darrell & Danette David & Glenda Welde Proctor Leslie Wilde Race Brothers Farm Gail Wright Supply

Partner Level Anonymous Dan Cardwell Mr. and Mrs. Rex Conway Fraley Dayle Enderson Rae Ann Feemster Barbara Kipfer James Mauldin Frieda Morris Albert & Nancy Niewald Betty Shook Patsy Spindler Mr. & Mrs. Randy Underwood Paula Vinson Rebecca Willis Wannagetta Pizza

Associate Level Doris Adams Marilyn Anderson Ted Anderson Cynthia Arrowood Jennifer Baldwin Diann Barth Julia Boyce Malia Bucher Wanda Bumgarner Sherry Clifton Steven Counts/DPI Printing Oscar Cross Barbara Dickensheet George Freeman Patsy Fry Rob & Brenda Funkhouser Cindy Garner James Garton Don & Sandy Garoutte Dorothy Hilton Avis Holloway Roberta Jones

Kenny Knauer Sandra Letson Dewayne Long Karen McDonald Fred & Dorothy Miller Lisa Munkatchy Edie Nelson Ruth PenaherreraNorton Stephen & Tana Pulles Crystal Ramos Kathryn Redman Reva Roberson Wanda Simpkins Mike & Dianne Six Jeanie Skibiski Kathryn Steinhoff Carol Stephenson Paul Taylor Gene Thomas Patricia Tursi Charles Wallace Alan & Pat Ware John & Lorri Winters A. Lee Worman Circle B Ranch Echigo Farm Fassnight Creek Farm Farm Road 168 Happy Mouth Foods Katiemade Breads Landers Meats Mockingbird Gardens Ozark Natural Foods Quickley Produce Farm Sunny Lane Farms Sassie Sharons Terrell Creek Farm Urban Roots Farm Yang Family Farm Williams Creek Winery Mother's Brewery Oovvda Winery

An equal opportunity/ADA institution

Total Cash Raised: $27,207 * Total In-Kind Raised: $11,576

FRIENDS OF GREENE COUNTY EXTENSION County of GREENE, State of Missouri GREENE COUNTY COMMISSION 933 N. Robberson Springfield, Mo. 65802 (417) 868-4112

Letter of Support The Greene County Commission recognizes the importance of the Greene County Extension Service and the many valuable outreach programs they make available to our citizens, be they rural or urban, young or old. It is with great regret that the current economic climate has required major reduction in funding of all county operating departments including county support for Extension.

We are confident the Extension Council has done virtually everything within its power to reduce its operating budget — short of closing its doors. For these and many other justifiable reasons, we as a County Commission encourage our community to support the Extension’s new business plan and its fund raising efforts to assure continuation of the current level of excellent program services.

Benefits of becoming a …

“Friend of Greene County Extension” Associate level - $35 … Weekly news releases by email / named in annual report Partner level - $50 … Weekly news releases by email / named in annual report Friend level - $100 … Reaching Out Report monthly email about Extension in Greene County / plus benefits of lower level Contributor level - $250 … complimentary soil test / plus benefits of lower levels Sponsor level - $500 … complimentary annual meeting ticket and recognition at meeting / plus benefits of lower levels Patron level - $1,000 … invitation to special advisory committee luncheon / plus benefits of lower levels Benefactor level - $1,500 … MU Extension tote bag / plus benefits of lower levels Corporate sponsorships - $3,000 ... special benefits. Contact the office for details.

An equal opportunity/ADA institution

Join Friends of Greene County Extension

For more information

Since 1914, Greene County residents have sought help in agriculture, gardening, 4-H youth, nutrition, families, business and community development from Extension. Members of “Friends of Greene County Extension” contribute financially to make it possible for Extension to continue having a positive impact on the quality of life in Greene County. To learn how you can help by contributing go to extension.missouri.edu/greene or call (417) 881-8909.

Greene County Extension Phone: 417-881-8909 Email: greeneco@missouri.edu http://extension.missouri.edu/ greene

FRIENDS OF GREENE COUNTY EXTENSION Clean Up Your Yard or Farm ...

Donate Your Hunk of Junk Does your car look like it's been preserved like one of Missouri's parks, or does it look like it has seen better days? Either way, you can donate your vehicle (car, truck or farm equipment) in Missouri to benefit Greene County Extension. When you donate to this organization, you receive a tax deduction and Greene County Extension gets funds for programming efforts.

The Greene County Extension Council is working with AutoWranglers.com to provide you with fast pickup services that are always free when you make a car donation. The folks at AutoWranglers make sure the proper paperwork is filled out so you are ensured to claim the most IRS allowed tax deduction for your donation. If your vehicle sells for more than the allowed $500 deduction, they will send you a receipt for the actual selling price at the close of the sale.

When you donate, you get rid of a hunk of junk and the Greene County Extension office gets funds to continue operating.

Support the educational programs of Greene County Extension by donating your old car, truck, farming equipment, RVs, boats or ATVs to the Greene County Extension Council. You must have a title for the vehicle unless it is over 25 years old.

Call 1-877-845-7378 or visit www.autowranglers.com/donate/greene-extension for more information or to get a quote.

Will accept‌ old vehicles and farm equipment (running or not), boats, johnboats, boat motors, campers, RVs, ATVs, trailers and more.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 17

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated July 29, 2013

Corporate Sponsors      



Sanford and Associates, CPA, Springfield, Mo.: (417) 886-2220, Master Gardeners of Greene County: http://www.mggreene.org Meyer Communications, KWTO 560 AM / KTXR 101.3 FM: (417) 862-3751, American Business Systems, Springfield, Mo.: (417) 866-5083, www.ambussys.com Sunshine Valley Farm, 8125 E State Highway AD, Rogersville, ph (417) 753-2698 Springfield-Greene County Park Board, 1923 North Weller, Springfield, Mo. 65803, Ph 417-864-1049, www.parkboard.org Greene County Commission, 868-4112

Extension Partner Meetings st

rd

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

Meetings held in Historic Courthouse, Room 212, 940 Boonville, Springfield, at 9:30 a.m.

Park Board Meetings: The Board of Directors meet the second Friday of each month at 8:30 a.m., usually in the Parks Administrative Offices Board Room, 1923 N. Weller, Springfield, MO

Greene County Extension Office located inside the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65807 Tel: (417) 881-8909 Fax (417) 823-4818 Office hours: Monday - Friday * 8 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

65803. Call 417-864-1049 in advance to confirm.

4-H Leader’s Council Meetings: 3rd Thursday of each month (except July) from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2852 S Dayton Ave, Springfield.

Master Gardeners of Greene County— board meeting: First Monday of each month at 4:00 p.m. at the Botanical Center.

Master Naturalists Board Meetings: The board meets at 5:30pm at the MDC regional office, on the second Wednesday of the month.

Master Gardeners of Greene County-membership meeting: Second Tuesday each month at 6:00 p.m. at the Botanical Center.

Can I Help?

Lorri can help customers with material needs, soil tests or program registrations. Contact her at the Greene County Extension Center, (417) 881-8909.

Lorri Winters joined Extension in 2005.

Lorri Winters Office Manager

Videos on YouTube Learn more about MU Extension programs by watching the videos posted to our channel at www.youtube.com/MUExtension417.

On Facebook Become a fan of MUExtension417 and get regular updates about programs and news from MU Extension in southwest Missouri. Find us at facebook.com/MUExtension417.

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 and Greene County Commission. For more about this report contact the editor, David Burton, at (417) 881-8909.

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