Most people do what they can to keep themselves and their families healthy and safe. We bundle up in warm clothes during cold weather, buckle seat belts and change smoke alarm batteries periodically. One potential danger which is often overlooked is the exposure to radon in homes...

New Year's resolutions --they're easy to make, but easier to break. Why is it so hard to make the healthy changes that we know can help us feel better and live longer? And why is it so hard to make them last? Some of the most common New Year's resolutions are losing weight, getting more physical activity, eating more nutritious foods, quitting cigarettes, reducing stress and sleeping better. ...

The holidays are a time to celebrate, give thanks, and reflect. They are also a time to pay special attention to your health. So while Santa Claus is making his list and checking it twice, take a few minutes to check the following tips for keeping your family safe and healthy during the holiday season...

The calendar keeps reminding us that we are getting into the holiday season. Over the next several weeks, most of us will be busier than usual. And when the holidays are over, we'll breathe a sigh of relief that schedules can get back to normal. But, in our busyness, it is easy to miss some of the real joys of the season...

There's nothing like a tailgate party ahead of a big game to bring people together for good food and fun, and a few simple tips can help keep the event safe. Karen Blakeslee, K-State Research and Extension food scientist, offers some reminders on how to keep food safe while tailgating, picnicking and during other outdoor events...

Tornadoes, flooding, ice storms and more. In Kansas, if it's not one thing it's another. What we call a disaster can take many forms. It could be individual, as in a fire to one's home, or local, as in a tornado that hits a community. It could also be regional, such as a flood that follows the trail of a river, or even statewide, such as an ice storm that knocks out power to a large percentage of residents. ...

Family time is important and there's no better place for the family to gather than around the kitchen table. The following article says it well. The Family Dinner Table I cut out my wedding dress at the same place where I memorized my spelling words. ...

Technology -- computers, television, cell phones, mp3 players and such -- make information and entertainment readily available. However, too much of a good thing may not be good for personal relationships. With parents and children vying for time on the computer or children each tuned in to their own music, interaction between family members may be nil. ...

An important part of a county fair is good food to eat. Fairgoers at the Bourbon County Fair will have an opportunity to choose from a variety of delicious home-cooked foods at the 4-H concession stand inside the air-conditioned 4-H Building. Food will be served 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Friday of fair week...

Fairgoers will notice a difference in the way ribbon placings are awarded to the exhibits in the 4-H Building and in open class. Open class exhibits are judged using the American system. Not all exhibits receive a ribbon. All entries within a class are compared and a blue, red, and white ribbon is awarded for first, second and third places. Purple ribbons are awarded for champion exhibits...

It's summertime and the hot weather seems to be here to stay for a while. Hot weather is not only uncomfortable, it can be deadly. When temperatures rise, people need to take extra precautions. The human body reacts to excessive heat in three ways -- heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke...

As summer weather heats up, our bodies can quickly become dehydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids -- especially water -- is important. The human body is about two-thirds water. Dehydration occurs when a person loses more water than he takes in -- by sweating, for example. Playing outdoors, working in the heat or just being in a warmer temperature increases the need for more water...

The start of the summer season is a good time to be reminded of the importance of being safe in the sun. Summer's arrival means it's time for picnics, trips to the pool and a spike in the number of sunburns. While a bronzed skin used to be desirable, we now know that exposure to the sun can cause skin cancer. Harmful rays from the sun -- and from sunlamps and tanning beds -- may also cause eye problems, weaken the immune system and cause skin spots, wrinkles or "leathery" skin...

If you know something's bad for you, why can't you just stop? About 70 percent of smokers say they would like to quit. Drug and alcohol abusers struggle to give up addictions that hurt their bodies and tear apart families and friendships. And many of us have unhealthy excess weight that we could lose if only we would eat right and exercise more. So why don't we do it?...

The Walk Kansas program is in full swing across the state with 3,100 teams and 18,600 participants. In the Southwind Extension District, 118 teams involving over 700 individuals are in the fifth week of the eight week program. Several teams have already logged 423 miles, the distance across the state. Some teams opted for a more difficult challenge of logging 1,200 miles, or the distance around the perimeter of the state...

As with other stages of life, there is a positive side to aging -- more time to explore new interests, choices and opportunities. Aging also presents a different set of challenges -- how to access health care, community support services, and long-term care services; how to manage retirement income and finances to support health care costs and living longer; how to make lifestyle choices to improve quality of life...

Spring can bring severe weather, and recent storms in the area are a reminder that they can strike anytime without much warning. One way homeowners and renters can be better prepared is to make or update a household inventory. A household inventory is an itemized list of your personal belongings. ...

You might see ads on TV, in magazines, in direct mail, in unsolicited emails or on the Internet that make a lot of promises about a new health product. Words like "scientific breakthrough" or "quick fix" or "new discovery" may fool some people into buying health products that sound great but are really fakes...

We often expect our bodies to do more than they should, so some trouble-shooting tips might be in order. An article by Alice Henneman, of the University of Nebraska Lincoln Extension in Lancaster County, provides some tips to prevent your body from "crashing."...

It's January . . . that wonderfully hopeful time of year when we resolve to do better. We vow to get in shape, to lose weight and to ditch all the other bad habits we have been accumulating for decades. If you're like many folks, you may be looking at the exact same list of resolutions that you had last year. Lifestyle changes are hard to make...

Whether or not you're one who makes New Year's resolutions, here are some things to think about to make 2012 a healthier one for you and your family. H -- Health. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, "The first wealth is health." Make your own health a priority this year. Health should be more than the absence of disease. Read on for tips to help you really feel good...

Holiday meals just wouldn't be the same without those favorite dishes made by aunts, grandmas and other family and friends. It's a time-honored tradition for people to bring food to gatherings. How do you decide who brings what or how to travel with food if you're asked to bring something?...

The time from Halloween until the end of play at the Super Bowl is sometimes referred to as "the eating season." Celebrating with family and friends usually involves plenty of good food. Adding a few extra pounds is too easy to do. Healthy holidays are not about giving up favorite foods of the season, nor are they about pigging out. It's good to be aware of what holiday eating can do to even the best of intentions...

Modern lifestyles and technology have taken much physical activity and movement out of our lives. We sit for breakfast, sit in a car to drive to work, and sit at a desk. There's little need to get up to go to the file cabinet, because the files are all right in front of us on the screen. ...

Washing hands seems like such a simple act, yet the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says handwashing is the single most important thing we can do to keep from getting sick and spreading illness to others. And in developing countries, handwashing with soap is the most effective and inexpensive way to prevent diarrheal and acute respiratory infections, which take the lives of millions of children every year...

You may barely notice the changes at first. Maybe you've found yourself reaching more often for your glasses to see up close. You might have trouble adjusting to glaring lights or reading when the light is dim. You may even have put on blue socks thinking they were black. These are some of the normal changes to eyes and vision as we age...

There's nothing more American than tailgating and football. Like other food preparation and serving situations, tailgating requires safe food handling practices. Ignoring food safety can spoil the fun of a tailgate party. It takes a good defense to keep harmful foodborne bacteria from sending guests to the sidelines. Here are some tips to make certain bacteria don't have a sporting chance at your football tailgate gatherings...

Students and teachers will soon be starting another school year. It may seem that summer was too short and school days are long. But if you think about it, school does not really take up very much of a child's time. The average school year in the United States is 180 days. In other countries, the school year can last up to 240 days and students are often in school more hours per day than American students. Clearly, the hours and days that a child is not in school are important for learning too...

Summer is here and temperatures are soaring. Excessive heat can not only be uncomfortable; it can also be dangerous -- even deadly. When the temperature rises, our bodies can quickly become dehydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids -- especially water -- is important. The human body is about two-thirds water...

Some people have trouble drinking milk and digesting dairy products. The condition is known as lactose intolerance. Being lactose intolerant means you cannot digest lactose -- the natural sugar found in milk and other dairy products. People who cannot digest lactose have a shortage of an enzyme called lactase, which is produced in the small intestine. Lactase breaks down milk sugar into two simpler forms of sugar, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream...

The average American home is brimming with consumer electronics and appliances, such as televisions, DVD players, stereos and kitchen gadgets. These products account for approximately 15 percent of a home's utility usage. What you may not realize is that these modern conveniences can add to the cost of the electric bill when they are turned off but still plugged in...

Recently, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) unveiled a new food icon to help consumers make healthier food choices. MyPlate is a replacement for the MyPyramid icon and reflects the recommendations of the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans...

Odors in kitchen appliances can happen from normal use, from malfunctioning appliances or as the result of a lengthy power outage. Most appliance odors can be removed using common products found in kitchens. Here are some tips for removing those stubborn odors...

Magic diet pill! Melt your fat away! Diet and exercise not required! Messages like these on weight-loss products might sound appealing to consumers looking for a quick and easy way to shed pounds. But these products don't live up to their claims. Even worse, they can cause serious harm -- even death...

We know that eating smart and moving more are important lifestyle habits for people of all ages. There are many health benefits to good nutrition and physical activity -- maintaining a healthy weight, feeling better and having more energy. For children, as well as adults, screen time often takes the place of physical activity. ...

The days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer and Memorial Day is fast approaching -- all signs that the summer grilling season is nearly upon us. Although more than half of Americans say they cook outdoors all year, this is the time of year when the aroma of meat being grilled is often noticed when driving through a neighborhood in the evening...

The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans encourage us to eat more fruits and vegetables. But frequently the comment is heard that healthy foods are too expensive to afford. The latest statistics from the Economic Research Service in 2008 showed food prices increased over 6 percent. With the strain of current economic conditions, it is hard for many families to put food on the table. But buying less nutritious foods won't help the situation...

Weather conditions have prevented vegetable garden planting, but my herb garden is certainly enjoying the cool weather. A couple of weeks ago, extension sponsored a program on herbs and spices, which inspired me to plant more herbs which I will use in cooking...

Whether it's from cows, goats, sheep or another mammal, milk and milk products are an important source of calcium throughout a person's life. Most of the milk sold in the United States is pasteurized, a process during which the milk is heated to 161 degrees and kept there for 15 seconds. ...

Today I'm sharing some tidbits of information which have come across my desk. I hope you find some information which will help you put healthy meals on your table. Asparagus, thick or thin? It's a sure sign of spring -- fresh asparagus from the garden. Some spears are thick and some are thin, and both can be tender. Thick spears are a result of older plants and the variety of asparagus...

Many of us spend a large portion of our waking day sitting behind a desk, in front of a computer, or behind the wheel. Opportunities to be physically active in our daily routines have diminished over the years. We drive, rather than walk or bicycle. Our homes and workplaces are automated. We have labor-saving devices at work and home and we spend a lot of time in sedentary activities, such as computer and television use. Children, too, are less active...

March is Bake and Take Month, an annual observance sponsored by the Kansas Wheat Commission and the Home Baking Association. It's a great way to show someone you care about them, or appreciate them, by baking something homemade and delivering it to their doorstep. ...

Each March, the American Dietetic Association sponsors National Nutrition Month. The campaign focuses attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing healthy eating and physical activity habits. This year's theme is Eat Right with Color. Consumers are encouraged to include a colorful variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, proteins and dairy on their plates every day...

New year's resolutions, which are now two months old, often include a goal to get in shape, lose weight, or add some healthier habits to our lifestyle. Even if you've had trouble sticking to your resolutions due to hectic schedules and all the winter weather we've had, it's not too late to get back on track. Here are some tips that might help you...

The warmer temperatures and sunshine last week were a welcome relief after several weeks of real winter weather! And, the calendar says it's less than a month until spring will officially arrive. Warmer weather means it will be more pleasant to be outdoors. Cleaning up flower beds, planting gardens, washing the car and taking part in outdoor sports and other activities will give us all incentives to enjoy the outdoors and be physically active...

Last week, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services announced the 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. The guidelines are the federal government's research-based nutritional guidance to promote health, reduce risk of chronic diseases and reduce overweight and obesity through improved nutrition and physical activity...

We continually learn more about the relationship between regular exercise, good nutrition and good health. Deaths from such causes as heart disease and stroke to colon cancer and diabetes could be greatly reduced if people were physically active and ate a nutritious diet...

Last week I shared some ideas for adding variety to meals with new foods, or foods that maybe are not common ones for you and your family. Going for a variety of kinds, colors and textures assures that our bodies get all the nutrients we need. Because no single food has everything a body needs to function properly, choosing lots of different foods to include in our diets not only provides nutrients, but provides a variety of tastes and textures to enjoy...

"Variety is the spice of life" is an often-repeated saying which could also be applied to the foods we choose to eat. Variety in foods adds interest to our plates. Including a wide variety of different foods in our diets also helps ensure that we get all the nutrients needed. But, sometimes in the rush of daily life, it's easier to prepare the same familiar foods which we know our family enjoys...

One snowy day last week a group of individuals who help in planning the Walk Kansas program met with me to make plans for the 10th annual fitness challenge sponsored by Kansas State University Research and Extension. While the weather hasn't been good for outdoor activity, planning for Walk Kansas means spring can't be far away...

Market watchers estimate that grocery shoppers spend about $2.17 per minute during the first 30 minutes of a shopping trip. After 30 minutes, the cost goes up 50 cents a minute. So getting into the store, making your selections and getting out quickly not only saves time, but money as well...

The end of the holiday season and the prospect of cold winter weather may have some wondering how they will keep themselves and their families entertained indoors. Rather than more movies and video games, think about turning off the television and getting out a game...

New Year's resolutions --they're easy to make but easier to break. Why is it so hard to make the healthy changes that we know can help us feel better and live longer? And why is it so hard to make them last? "Change is always possible," says Dr. Linda Nebeling, an expert in behavioral change and nutrition at the National Institutes of Health. You're never too out-of-shape, too overweight or too old to make healthy changes...

It's the season for eggnog, holiday baking, and leftovers! The last thing anyone wants this time of year is to be sick -- especially if it could have been avoided. Food borne illness is often disguised "a tummy ache" or "a bug." And often it's caused by careless actions on the part of people. Still, it can disrupt holiday plans and enjoyment of spending time with family and friends...

Here a nibble, there a nibble, everywhere a nibble ... From Halloween until the end of play at the Super Bowl is often referred to as "the eating season." Adding a few extra pounds is easy to do. Spending time with family and friends is enjoyable, but most activities include seasonal foods that often are high in calories, sugar and fat...

With so many good things to do during the holiday season, no one wants to be sick. But viruses, the flu and winter bugs are more likely to get us down during the winter months. This is due in large part to people spending more time indoors with others when the weather gets cold...

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) operates a hotline to answer consumers' questions about food preparation and food safety. On weekdays, including Thanksgiving Day, callers will be connected to a real person who can answer their questions. At other times, recorded messages will answer most questions which might be asked. The Meat and Poultry Hotline number is (888) MPHotline (674-6854)...

Thanksgiving is only days away. For those who will be cooking the turkey, it's time to be making some plans. If the turkey is frozen, there are several ways to thaw it. Thawing on the kitchen counter is not one of them. To thaw in the refrigerator, allow approximately 24 hours for every four to five pounds. ...

The calendar tells us that the holidays are not far away. While shopping for decorations and gifts may be on the minds of many shoppers, it's also a good time to be thinking about shopping for holiday foods that will be served for those special meals and parties...

We know that the best sources of dietary fiber and vitamins are fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Yet these are foods that frequently come up short in our diets. Processed, fortified, packaged "junk" foods seem to scream for our attention. Food marketers tweak the truth in many ways to get our food dollars. Be aware of three major ways, described below...

Halloween costumes seem to have become more sophisticated since my childhood. I remember being a scarecrow in a pair of Dad's old overalls and one of his worn-out plaid shirts. Years ago it was fun to dress up in one of Grandma's cotton print dresses and a pair of too-large high heeled shoes. Costumes were old clothes we found in the closet or something made at home...

The end of summer can mean an abundance of produce. At home we have apples, pears and green peppers needing my attention. I've found that freezing is a quick and easy way to preserve them for enjoying during the winter months. Apples can be made into applesauce for freezer storage. ...

This week is National 4-H Week. One may think of 4-H as green clovers and county fairs. These are important parts of the 4-H program, but there's much more. As one of the largest youth programs in the United States with more than 6.5 million young people, 4-H provides many activities in which youth can grow and learn. In Bourbon County 186 youth are currently 4-H members...

Living on a farm, tailgating isn't always seen as a "party." However, when our daughters were small, taking a noon lunch to the field did give us a short opportunity to spend some family time together. We've even celebrated birthdays on a blanket spread in the grass at the edge of the field...

September is National Food Safety Education Month. It's a time to call attention to the importance of handling our food safely to prevent illness. This year's promotion highlights four myths that are common among consumers. Myth: Leftovers are safe to eat until they smell bad...

Communities and governments routinely plan and prepare for disasters which might happen. Families also need to have a plan for dealing with anything from a spring tornado, winter ice storm, an extended power outage, or a fire. September is National Preparedness Month, designated by the U.S. ...

The recent egg recalls have gotten a lot of attention in the media. While any foodborne illness is cause for concern, the egg recall does not mean consumers should shy away from eating eggs. Rather, this can be a "teachable moment" for consumers to think about how eggs should always be safely handled...

Reusable shopping bags can be a great way to help the environment. But, reusable bags, which go from the shopping cart to the trunk of the car to the kitchen counter, can be a source of cross contamination. Cross contamination is one of the top reasons linked to food borne illness in the home. ...

Gone are the days of getting your fiber from only bran flakes and prunes. Now manufacturers are adding fiber to yogurt, ice cream, snack bars, muffin mixes, water and juice. But are all fibers equal? Experts recommend that consumers consider more than the amount of fiber listed on the Nutrition Facts panel and the words printed on the box...

A new school year requires transitions for children and their parents. Charles "Chuck" Smith, Kansas State University Research and Extension child development specialist, says that the age of the child will influence how parents help kids make the transition...

Last Sunday was Parents' Day. Always the fourth Sunday of July, the day is the result of a Congressional resolution that was signed into law in 1994 by President Bill Clinton. The day was created to recognize, uplift and support the role of parents in the rearing of children. In addition to being a day for honoring parents, it's also a good time for some self-reflection on parents' roles...

The Bourbon County Fair is in full swing this week. If you haven't already been to the fair, I hope you plan to spend some time there. For 4-H families, the fair is the culmination of a year's work. It is a showcase of what 4-H members have learned and the skills they have developed through project work. ...

It's summer time and air conditioning certainly feels good. Paying the energy bill may not feel so good. There are steps that can be taken to make homes more energy efficient and reduce cooling costs. Some require investing time and money in your home, such as adding insulation, but other steps can easily be taken without much effort...

It's summer time and when children are around, there's always the question "What is there to eat?" Snacks are an important part of a healthy diet for kids --and adults. But high-fat and sugary snack foods are giving those between meal bites a bad rap...

Add fruits and veggies to the grill for a complete meal Who doesn't love a juicy steak or hamburger fresh from the grill? Add some fresh vegetables or fruits to the grill and you'll have a complete meal and keep your kitchen cooler, too. Grilling fruits and veggies enhances their flavors. Cooking without added sauces also lets you enjoy the flavors without added calories. Here are some tips for grilling fruits and vegetables...

Walk Kansas participants gathered to celebrate the end of another successful program last week. Recognition was given to individuals and teams for their success during the eight-week program. Walk Kansas is an annual health and wellness program conducted by Kansas State Research and Extension. ...

The Walk Kansas program is over for another year. 298 Bourbon County residents have been on a mission for the past eight weeks to make some healthy lifestyle changes by being more physically active and increasing fruits and vegetables in their diets...

Do you ever waste time looking for things because you didn't put them away where they belong? Is your closet overflowing, but you can't find the item you want? Have you missed paying a bill on time because you lost it? Clutter can easily get out of control and waste space, time and energy...

It's definitely spring time and great weather to be outdoors! But the screens in our homes -- television, computer, video games, and cell phone -- can sometimes tempt us to spend too much time in front of them. Health experts say screen time at home should be limited to two hours or less a day, unless it's work- or homework-related. The time spent in front of the screen could be better spent being more physically active and setting a good example for our families...

Nutrients in fruits and vegetables start to break down after harvest. This loss of nutrients can be minimized by proper storage and cooking. Frozen, canned, dried, and 100% juice products are processed just after harvesting to "lock in" the freshness of just-picked produce. ...

The Walk Kansas program started last week. 300 individuals in Bourbon County are using the eight-week program to help them start or continue making some healthy lifestyle changes by getting more physical activity and eating more fruits and vegetables. The individuals are not expected to make big changes to their lifestyle, but to take some small steps that can help them live a healthier life...

A key to healthy eating is choosing foods lower in salt and sodium. Most Americans consume more salt than they need. Many people frequently eat meals on-the-go and do very little cooking from scratch, making it difficult to control the amount of sodium in their diets. As a result our taste buds have grown accustomed to a higher level of salt than is needed for good health. In fact, some scientists believe that some of us are almost "addicted" to the pleasurable effect of salt...

If you are getting a federal tax refund from the Internal Revenue Service, you can choose to use that money to purchase U.S. savings bonds. A refund may seem like extra money to spend as you wish. But, it's also a good opportunity to put some dollars away for future major purchases, unexpected expenses, or a college education. Everyone can use an "emergency" cushion for auto repairs, medical bills, or unexpected events...

Personal relationships take hard work. They don't just happen; they require attention. Couples seem to take center stage in February, but all relationships can benefit from a little extra attention. People often think that being married for a long time, or having a life-long friend, means little effort and work goes into that relationship. ...

The Walk Kansas program will be starting in a few weeks, which means spring must be just around the corner! In the meantime, winter weather has made it difficult to be outside for the physical activity we all need. Hectic schedules also make it hard to find time to get those recommended 30 minutes a day of activity...

Most people do what they can to keep themselves and their families healthy and safe. We bundle up in warm clothes during cold weather, buckle seat belts, and change the smoke alarm batteries periodically. There's a potential danger that exists in some homes that often goes undetected. ...

It's January...that wonderfully hopeful time of year when we resolve to do better. We vow to get in shape, to lose weight, and to ditch all the other bad habits we have been accumulating for decades. If you're like many folks, you may be looking at the exact same list of resolutions that you had last year...

As we gathered with family and friends during the holidays, we probably gave little thought to how the food, fabrics, and holiday décor came to be. But, research and scientists have a large role in the food, fiber, and plants we've been enjoying. We can thank science and technology -- and American farmers -- for providing the cheapest, most abundant food supply in the world. ...

At our house, we've done a lot of baking the past couple of weeks, turning out some tasty treats. Sometimes taking shortcuts and making substitutions in baking can lead to less than desirable results. While time may be saved, quality can be sacrificed. Here are some tips to remember for successful baking:...

You've planned the holiday gathering, decorated the table and prepared the food. Then some or all of the guests are delayed or weather cancels the whole gathering. Holiday meals and other celebrations require careful planning to ensure that everything goes "just right." When guests encounter emergencies and the meal must be delayed or cancelled, food must be handled "just right" to remain safe...

In the holiday rush, parents can miss opportunities to build memories with their children and family. Adults know that it can be easier to say "I'll do that,'' rather than to encourage children to get involved in preparing foods and getting ready for gatherings during the holidays...

I really enjoy preparing for a family Thanksgiving dinner, but there's a lot to be done before the meal is on the table. Some planning and preparation ahead of time can make the process go more smoothly. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) food safety specialists offer the following countdown to help ensure a safe and successful holiday celebration...

Holidays can generate many enduring memories. They can also be stressful and tiring times when calendars fill with many activities and time for work, family, community and self must all be balanced. Discussing the expectations and sharing responsibilities for a gathering or other event can lighten the load for hosts, as well as share the expense and the pride in a successful event when all goes well...

With the holidays approaching and the economy struggling it's important to be watchful of spending. Families can budget their money, monitor spending and avoid getting in too deep with credit card debt, and still have a happy and memorable holiday season...

The winter holiday season is a time when grandparents and grandchildren may have more opportunities to spend time with one another. Intergenerational activities can do a lot to bring families closer together. The national Legacy Project is a community service initiative that offers grandparents and parents information, activities and contests to bring the generations in a family closer together. Here are some ideas for bridging the generations...

We baby boomers are aging! My birthday this week is a reminder of that fact. With the oldest members of that baby boom group (not me!) now approaching their 65th birthday, the need to understand how we grow older is becoming more important to both individuals and society...

More than a decade of research by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University has consistently found that the more often kids eat dinner with their families, the less likely they are to smoke, drink or use drugs...

Ice cream rates as America's favorite dessert and leading comfort food in 2009, according to The Food Channel. Ninety-eight percent of all households purchase ice cream -- vanilla being the most popular flavor and chocolate syrup the favorite topping...

Don't lose your loose change We all have some--in a jar on the dresser, in a desk drawer, in the car, maybe even in the cushions of the couch. Loose change accumulates in various locations of our household. It's money saved, but it is not working for us...

It is possible to save money shopping for groceries without cooking everything from scratch, packing your purse with coupons, or purchasing foods in season. Alice Henneman, an Extension educator with the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, figured the savings consumers can make just by changing some of their consumer habits. ...

The 2009 Walk Kansas community fitness challenge began last week with 51 teams participating. More than 300 individuals in our community are taking important steps to improving their health and well-being by becoming more physically active and improving their diets by eating more fruits and vegetables. More than an eight-week program, the goal of Walk Kansas is that people will be motivated to make some life-long healthy lifestyle changes...

We only have to go to the grocery store and notice where our food comes from, or look at the "made in..." label on products we purchase to know that we do live in a global society. When my husband and I visit our daughters in Washington DC it is very evident that America really is a melting pot. The variety of ethnic restaurants, the different languages one hears spoken, and the diversity within neighborhoods reflect the many different nationalities and cultures that call the city their home...

Waking in the morning feeling refreshed, renewed and invigorated is a good indicator of having had enough good quality sleep. For some people, however, adequate sleep is selSleep is an important part of good health for all ages of persons. It is both restorative and protective. Individuals who do not have adequate sleep are more likely to experience attention and memory difficulties, daytime sleepiness, lack of energy, and are at higher risk of falling or having a traffic accident...

On Jan. 15, 14 Starlight F.C.E. members joined 21 ladies from Cavalry Crossing for a lesson called, "Sleep: Want It, Need It, Get It." This lesson was presented by Nancy Schuster, Anderson County Home Extension Agent, while dressed in her stylish nightwear...

Consumers have more options when shopping for light bulbs for their home. Switching from traditional light bulbs (incandescent) to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) is an effective, simple change everyone can make right now. Making this change will help to use less electricity at home and prevent greenhouse gas emissions that lead to global climate change. Lighting accounts for close to 20 percent of the average home's electric bill...

Whether or no you're one who makes new year's resolutions, here are some things to think about to make the new year a healthier one for you and your family. H -- Health. Ralph Waldo Emerson said "The first wealth is health." Make your own health a priority this year. Health should be more than the absence of disease. Read on for tips to help you really feel good...

PAWNEE 4-H held their monthly club meeting on Oct. 24 at the home of club members Michaela and Caden Webb. The Webbs hosted a Halloween party and Hayride for the club. Members played games, roasted hotdogs, enjoyed refreshments and were scared silly on the spooky hayride through the countryside...

The Internet has become a popular place to shop. While it may be a convenient way to shop, there are precautions consumers should follow when shopping online. The Federal Trade Commission encourages taking the following steps to make sure transactions are secure and personal information is protected...

Halloween usually involves lots of candy and sugary treats -- more than children need. All the sweet treats can be especially hard for children who have food allergies or have food limitations because of a chronic health condition, such as diabetes...

Starlite Family and Community Education (F.C.E.) met Oct. 16, at the home of Betty Ruddick. Lois Williams was the co-hostess. Special guest, Ann Ludlum, Bourbon County Extension Agent, presented the lesson, "Everybody at the Table, It's Time to Eat!" Routines and rituals of mealtimes were discussed by several members. ...

Washing your hands seems like such a simple thing to do, yet the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says hand washing is the single most important thing we can do to keep from getting sick and spreading illness to others. Proper handwashing has been promoted heavily in recent years. ...

The monthly meeting for Thursday Nite Live FCE was held at the home of Jeanne Kalm Refreshments were served by hostess Jeanne Kalm. Joyce Davenport, president, presided over the meeting. Officers were elected for the coming year and will take office in January 2009. Joyce Davenport will remain as president, Teri Campbell will serve another year as treasurer, and Alice Helton will serve again as secretary. Joyce Sinn and Sally Brock will serve on the Bourbon County Council...

Next week will be National 4-H Week. As the largest youth development program, aside from public schools, 4-H involves 6 million youth nationwide. In Bourbon County, 160 youth participate in 4-H activities. Youth between the ages of 7 and 19 may join 4-H anytime, but October is a good time to get started, since it is the start of a new 4-H year. ...

Family meals provide much more than the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients children need to grow up healthy. Research by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University consistently finds that the more often children eat dinner with their families, the less likely they are to smoke, drink or use drugs. ...

As the end of summer nears, many gardens are still producing abundant supplies of vegetables. The following information may help you preserve some of that produce for later use. Raw tomatoes can be quickly frozen without blanching them first. They may be frozen without their skins or frozen whole with their skins. Frozen tomatoes are best used in cooked foods such as soups, sauces and stews as they become mushy when thawed...

All of the children, grand-children and great grand children were at the farm to help their mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Beverly Geiger celebrate her August 17 birthday. Becky Brown made lasagna and chicken Tetrazinni for the main course, while others brought carry in dishes. ...

Children of all ages have many opportunities to participate in community and school activities. For families, deciding which activities to participate in can be a difficult decision. Charlotte Shoup Olsen, Kansas State University Research and Extension family systems specialist, suggests that reclaiming some family time can strengthen the family and add value to family life...

Using a shopping list can be an easy way to save some money. The average shopper spends 40 percent more on impulse purchases when shopping without a list. If that's the case, for $70 spent at the grocery store, there's a good chance that $20 of those purchases are unplanned. That adds up over a year's time! A shopper is also likely to spend 50 cents more for every minute in the grocery store beyond the first 30 minutes. The saying "time is money" may well be true...

Make laundry tasks environmentally friendly. Many liquid laundry detergent containers -- as well as dishwashing detergent containers -- are smaller than they used to be. These "ultra" detergents are concentrated, so they come in smaller packages, yet offer the same cleaning power as similar products in larger packages...

Skipping breakfast to save a few minutes, or a few calories, isn't likely to do either. Food and nutrition researchers have observed that people who skip breakfast usually consume more calories in a mid-morning snack and during meals later in the day. Breakfast is essential because it breaks the fast after a good night's sleep and provides the energy needed to begin the day...

Beverly Davis, Lavone Page, Dora Page, Clara Brewer and Pastor Mary Akins enjoyed attending a brunch at the Farlington W.M.C., on July 10. Judy Tripp gave a birthday offering and Joe and Ann Ludlum and Mabel and Elmer Miller gave anniversary offering at worship July 13. Pastor Mary's sermon was titled "Knock knock." Scripture was read from Psalm 37 and Samuel 3:1-20...

Summer is here and the temperature is rising, which must mean it's time for the county fair! Kansas weather in July and August tends to be on the hot side. Heat can not only be uncomfortable; it can be deadly. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), each year more people die from "excessive heat events" than from hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined...

It's hard to believe that it's almost fair time. Dates for the Bourbon County Fair are July 20-26. A volunteer fair board of community members organizes the fair. The Extension office is involved with the 4-H activities of fair week. While 4-H exhibits are a large part of the fair, anyone may exhibit in open class...

Beverage choices are plentiful. Just as with the foods we eat, making healthy choices in beverages is also important. Many people drink too many high-calorie, nutrient-poor beverages, such as soft drinks, sweetened teas and fruit drinks, sports drinks, and so-called "energy" drinks. Over-consumption of these sugary beverages may contribute to weight problems, since liquid calories don't seem to register very well in our brains...

Last week I watched several of the television specials about the life of Tim Russert, moderator of Meet the Press. While he was acknowledged to be a great journalist, everyone also mentioned his attitude toward life and his constant smile. Most of the stories which were told were not about his interviews with famous people, but about his concern for and interest in other people and his positive attitude...

Faith Heaton of Holly Springs, N.C., recently spent some time in the area visiting with friends. John Slater took four 4-H kids to Lawrence June 8, to a sheep show. Ann Ludlum accompanied 12 4-Hers to Manhattan, last week, for Discovery Days. Visitors at church, June 9, were Shayma and Alyssa Meisenheimer, Emma Vender, The Kevin Davis family, Austin, Christopher, and Aubrey. ...

Nine Bourbon County 4-H members attended county 4-H camp at Rock Springs 4-H Center June 11-14. Almost 300 youth, along with 70 teen and adult counselors and Extension agents from 10 counties, attended the camp south of Junction City. Amanda Brown, a member of the Hiattville 4-H Club, was recognized as one of six distinguished counselors who will have the opportunity to attend Buckeye Leadership Workshop in Ohio next March. Amanda was the counselor for a group of 8 girls at the camp...

The recent outbreak of Salmonella in fresh tomatoes should be a reminder that government agencies are doing a good job of protecting our food supply. Fresh produce, including tomatoes, can become contaminated at any point along the supply chain, from the field or greenhouse where it is grown to distribution points to food preparation in restaurants and homes...

The recent outbreak of Salmonella in fresh tomatoes should be a reminder that government agencies are doing a good job of protecting our food supply. Fresh produce, including tomatoes, can become contaminated at any point along the supply chain, from the field or greenhouse where it is grown to distribution points to food preparation in restaurants and homes...

Nine Bourbon County 4-H members attended county 4-H camp at Rock Springs 4-H Center June 11-14. Almost 300 youth, along with 70 teen and adult counselors and Extension agents from 10 counties, attended the camp south of Junction City. Amanda Brown, a member of the Hiattville 4-H Club, was recognized as one of six distinguished counselors who will have the opportunity to attend Buckeye Leadership Workshop in Ohio next March. Amanda was the counselor for a group of 8 girls at the camp...

We used to talk about the amount of time children spent watching television, but now the concern has spread beyond the television screen. Screen time now also includes non-school or non-work-related computer and Internet use, video games, and DVD use. Time spent in front of a screen is time when children are not being physically active. It's not just children who need to get away from the screen. A sedentary lifestyle is not healthy for adults either...

It can be difficult to feed a family on a budget. Even with rising food costs, it is possible to trim food costs and still eat well. Mary Meck Higgins, an Associate Professor of Human Nutrition in the College of Human Ecology at K-State offers some tips to make the most of food dollars...

The cold, sweet taste of ice cream is a summertime favorite. A fun activity for 4-H camp for many years has been making ice cream in a coffee can or a plastic bag. Whether you shake a bag, roll a can, or crank an ice cream maker, nothing beats the taste of homemade ice cream. Here are some tips for making ice cream with a smooth, creamy texture...

The United States is nearing the start of a huge shift in the age of its citizens. It's being referred to as the "silver tsunami." This year the first of the baby boomers are turning 62. With 78 million baby boomers (people born between l946 and l964) in our country, the number of elderly people in the United States will be increasing for some time...

Mothers are busy people with multiple respomsibilities for their families, their jobs, and their communities. One of moms' most important roles is as front line health educators for their families. Just think of all the important health advice we learn from mothers, or have given as a mother -- "Hold hands and look both ways when you cross the street. Wash your hands after using the bathroom. Eat some breakfast--it's the most important meal of the day. Drink your milk. Eat your veggies…."...

Many people are anxiously waiting for their economic stimulus payment. More than 130 million households will begin receiving their payments this month. The amount people will receive depends on the information contained in their tax returns. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has a plan to issue the payments based on the last two digits of Social Security numbers. ...

The latest data show that more than two-thirds of all American adults are overweight or obese. The fact that we consume 21% of our calories from beverages may be a major factor in the creeping incidence of obesity. Not only are we drinking more servings per day of sweetened beverages, but the portion sizes of these beverages have increased over the years...

Vitamin D has been recognized for a long time as being very important, along with calcium, for healthy bones. Known as the "sunshine vitamin," it is made in the body after sunlight, or ultraviolet light, hits the skin. Vitamin D helps with calcium absorption. Only 10-15 percent of the calcium taken into our bodies is absorbed without Vitamin D...

Acne, cough due to a cold, athlete's foot, hemorrhoids, itching from insect bites, and minor aches and pains of muscles and joints -- these are among the conditions that people treat by applying over-the-counter (OTC) creams and ointments to their skin. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) urges consumers to keep safety in mind when using such treatments...

I want to apologize to everyone whose name was misspelled in my last bunch of items, I promise I will try to do better. Easter Sunday was a busy time for the Hiattville Methodist Church. Cindy Schwalm was in charge of the early sunrise service. She had decorated the church using various sizes of crosses, also 2 beautiful lilies graced the Altar...

At the Regular meeting of the Hiattville 4-H club, Tanner Howard shared his expeiences about his trip to the CIA. That is Citizens in Action, trip to Topeka on Feb. 17 and 18. Mr. Howard said, "I enjoyed meeting new people from other clubs the most." He also enjoyed his very first formal dinner with State Representative Shirley Palmer and Extension Agent Ann Ludlum...

People say that "an apple a day keeps the doctor away"--but that's only part of the story. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which are the most current recommendations for what we should eat to be healthy, recommend consuming a variety of different fruits, as well as vegetables, whole-grains, low-fat or fat-free milk products, and lean meat and beans...

March is National Nutrition Month, a nutrition education and information campaign created by the American Dietetic Association. Each year, the campaign focuses on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits...

Thursday Nite Live FCE met recently at UMB Bank conference room for the monthly meeting. President Joyce Davenport conducted the meeting, Secretary Alice Helton read the minutes of the last meeting and Treasurer Teri Campbell reported the financial status of the unit. There were two guests attending Arlene Koester and Margaret Needham. They were given a friendly welcome and encouraged to attend again...

In some parts of the world, people eat to satisfy hunger. Most Americans, however, do not stop eating when their stomachs are satisfied. Each day we make more than 200 food-related decisions, according to Brian Wansink, PHD, director of the Cornell University Food and Brand Lab and author of Mindless Eating: Why We Eat More Than We Think. ...

A new report published by the American Institute for Cancer Research and the World Cancer Research Fund International offers some recommendations to reduce the risk of cancer. A panel of the world's leading scientists reviewed over 7,000 studies to develop a list of ten recommendations of diet and lifestyle habits people should follow to lower their chances of getting cancer...

This week is America Saves Week, to focus on the importance for consumers saving part of their income. Whether saving to repay debt, to be prepared for emergencies, for home ownership, education or retirement, those families that have a plan are more likely to be able to save...

Visitors at Hiattville United Methodist Church on Feb. 3 were Jonathan Gauthier and Judy Tripp and great grandchildren, Makenzie, Nicholas and Austin. Pastor Andy Smith's sermon was titled "Listen to Him." Scripture was read from Exodus 24:12-18 and Matthew 17: 1-9. Joe Ludlum assisted the pastor in serving communion. The altar candles were lighted by Hannah and Gavin Fry...

Call it cabin fever, winter blues, or holiday let -- down--the effect is the same. Some people will experience fatigue, apathy, and irritability during the winter months. There is a medical term to describe those feelings -- Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD...

"Going green" is a topic discussed from the local level to national politics. There are many things we can do daily to promote a "greener," more environmentally friendly household. Following are some steps consumers can take with the routine task of grocery shopping. Besides helping the environment, you will also save some money, adding a little extra green to the wallet!...

Researchers are continually learning more about the relationship between regular exercise, good nutrition and good health. They tell us that deaths from such causes as heart disease and stroke to colon cancer and diabetes could be greatly reduced if people were physically active and ate a nutritious diet...

Retta Smith was again the speaker at worship Jan. 20 at the Hiattville United Methodist Church in the absence of pastor Andy Smith. Her sermon was titled "Discouraged But Not Defeated." Scripture was read from John 1:29-42 and Isaiah 49:1-7. She encouraged the congregation to keep on pushing, "praying until something happen." Her husband was a welcome visitor...

Identity theft is a crime which is on the rise. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in the U.S., more than 10 million people experienced identity theft in 2005. I recently was at a workshop led by Marilyn Bischoff, Extension family economics specialist at the University of Idaho, Boise. She stated that nearly 30 million people have been affected by identity theft in the last five years...

The start of a new year is a good time to take stock of all the papers and documents which are a part of our lives. Canceled checks, receipts, insurance policies, deeds…the list goes on and on. And as years pass, storing all those papers takes up a lot of space in our homes...

Tips can make healthy resolutions a reality New Year's resolutions may have been made with good intentions, but they often do not last long. Over time, it may just be too difficult to actually carry through on what seemed like a good idea. Weight loss and eating more healthy foods are common resolutions made at the start of a new year. Sandy Proctor, Kansas State University Research and Extension nutrition specialist, encourages making change gradually to build on those good intentions...

The early round of wintry weather in our area was a reminder of the need to plan ahead to handle emergencies that may occur without much warning in our state. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers some tips to help people prepare for bad weather...

The extra calories sometimes sneak up on us over the winter holidays. They don't always arrive in the form of large portions of calorie-laden food. Rather, they may tiptoe in through many tiny tastes throughout the day. Here's how those bites can add up during the day. Calories are approximate...

Payton Vogelbacher spent the weekend with her grandparents Charles and Paula Brewer. The 4-H club presented a Christmas program of music and reading at the Fire Station Wednesday evening, Dec. 12. Thursday Dec. 13, the ladies of the church served lunch at the church for the family of Goldie Koppa...

Television and magazines depict the holiday season as a time when everything is perfect and everyone is happy. We tend to try to make this "the best holiday ever." But in reality, things don't always turn out as picture-perfect as we might hope. Planning ahead can help make the holidays more enjoyable and happier. ...

Online shopping continues to be popular and experts predict that consumers will spend more online this holiday season than ever. But, shoppers won't be the only ones online--scammers will be there too. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) offer the following tips to make online shopping as safe as possible...

Turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie -- all are essential parts of a holiday meal. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about preparing these traditional favorites. Can a turkey be cooked overnight? The method of cooking a turkey overnight at a low (200-250 degree) temperature, then holding it until serving time later in the day can result in two problems...

Last week I wrote about the importance of healthy, strong families in our communities and in society. For many years researchers in the field of family studies have asked "What makes a strong family?" "What are the qualities that make for success in families?"...

Nov. 18-24 is National Family Week. It is a week to call attention to the important role families play in communities and society. I recently heard a researcher, Dr. John DeFrain, speak at an extension conference about the importance of strong families in a society...

The Family and Community Education (FCE) Council and the Bourbon County Extension office will sponsor the annual Fall Follies at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday starting in Tom Armstrong Hall, Community Christian Church, 1919 S. Horton, Fort Scott. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.  There is no cost to attend and no pre-registration is needed. ...

The Thanksgiving Day menu -- turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans--typically stays pretty much the same. But some of the recommendations for preparing the meal have changed this year. The United States Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service has eliminated the recommendation for washing raw meat and poultry, including raw turkey, before placing it in the oven. ...

Busy schedules often do not leave time for preparing meals. We often don' t even have time to think about what we' ll eat until we feel hungry. According to a recent survey, about 70 percent of adults in the United States don' t decide what to eat that night until 4 p.m. or later...

The survival rate among women who have had breast cancer is now up to 96 percent with an early diagnosis and five years of remission. Regular annual mammograms, improving lifestyles, and advancements in cancer care, medications and treatment have contributed to the rise in survival rates...

The Bourbon County Family and Community Education Council met Sept. 26 to plan future educational programs for FCE members and the public. A note from Mercy Health Center thanked the Council for coordinating and assisting with the cardio risk assessment and the blood pressure screenings at the 2007 Bourbon County Fair...

For some students, the enthusiasm about a new school year may be tempered by fear of the school bully. A bully can make life miserable for another student in face to face encounters. Now, in the age of technology, harassment can continue long after the school day has ended...

Next week, Oct. 7-13, is National 4-H Week. One may think of 4-H as green clovers and county fairs. These are important parts of the 4-H program, but there's much more. As one of the largest youth programs in the United States, 4-H provides many activities in which youth can grow and learn...

Growing children need regular meals for growth and development. But family meals provide much more than the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients children need to grow up healthy. Research continues to show that the more often teenagers eat meals with their families, the less likely they are to smoke, drink, or use illegal drugs. ...

It's fun to be out in the sun. But the sun can be dangerous to skin.

Wet weather, such as we've been experiencing recently, provides a good opportunity for mold to grow in homes. Molds are part of the natural environment. Outdoors, molds break down dead organic matter such as fallen leaves and dead trees, but indoors, mold growth should be avoided. ...

For several years health professionals have advised that we should eat less fat, sugar, and salt, and eat more fiber. The 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the new food pyramid, MyPyramid, reflect those recommendations. Many recipes today are targeted towards healthier eating. Some recipes in magazines and cookbooks now include nutrition information, which is helpful. Family favorite recipes can often be modified to make them more nutritious...

For several years health professionals have advised that we should eat less fat, sugar, and salt, and eat more fiber. The 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the new food pyramid, MyPyramid, reflect those recommendations. Many recipes today are targeted towards healthier eating. Some recipes in magazines and cookbooks now include nutrition information, which is helpful. Family favorite recipes can often be modified to make them more nutritious...

Eggs are a popular food item in the spring. Whether it's colored Easter eggs, deviled eggs for a picnic, or the first homemade ice cream of the season, eggs must be handled carefully to prevent foodborne illness. Even eggs with clean, uncracked shells may occasionally contain Salmonella bacteria that can cause an intestinal infection. ...