Johnsongrass Troubles Have Increased Because of Weather Conditions; Take Simple Steps to Avoid Cattle Deaths

It has been known for years that johnsongrass has the potential to be a livestock killer because of two lethal issues: prussic acid poisoning and nitrate accumulation.

And even though the amount of johnsongrass has been increasing in pastures and along roadsides for a number of years there was minimal concern because veterinarians had not seen a case of prussic acid poisoning in years.

“Even though there has been an abundance of johnsongrass in past years too, cattle seemed to graze it with minimal problems,” said Eldon Cole, a livestock specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

Apparently the summer of 2012 and the accompanying drought has changed that situation with johnsongrass According to Cole, there have been a number of deaths due to grazing johnsongrass reported in southwest Missouri in the last six to eight weeks. In most cases the diagnosis was by circumstantial evidence.

“Most of the reports were simply finding dead cows or yearlings near a patch of johnsongrass after they’d been turned into a field with short johnsongrass in it. As a rule, only a small percentage of the animals in the herd will die,” said Cole.

In a couple of incidents the farmer was hauling a bale of hay into a pasture and a couple of hungry cows beat him through the gate and started eating lush, 12 inch tall johnsongrass along the road.

“The first farmer was fortunate, after the cows went down he contacted a veterinarian and was able to treat and save both cows,” said Cole.

In the other situation the farmer went ahead and unloaded the bale and went back to get the cows back in the pasture. By that time they were shaking and struggling. One died, but the other survived without treatment according to Cole.

The weather stress this year likely contributed to an abnormally high accumulation of prussic acid in the tissue of johnsongrass, grain sorghum, sorghum-sudangrass crosses, forage sorghums and shattercane. Sudan and pearl millet generally have a very low prussic acid potential.

‘The conditions that may enhance the poisoning risk is if the lush plant is damaged by freezing, chewing or traffic running over it. This frees a larger amount of the cyanide which is more lethal,” said Cole.

Symptoms of prussic acid poisoning occur quickly, often within 15 minutes. Farmers who are turning cattle that have not been recently on johnsongrass into a field with lots of johnsongrass in it are advised to only turn a few head in at first.

“It’s also a good idea to check with a veterinarian regarding actions in case cows do have a reaction. Make sure the cattle are full and wait until the johnsongrass is at least 24 inches tall before turning them in,” said Cole.

Cows affected by cyanide will have bright, cherry red blood. It may clot slowly or not at all. Cows tend to bloat quickly.

For more information on grazing high-risk prussic acid plants your veterinarian or one of the MU Extension livestock specialists in southwest Missouri: Eldon Cole in Mt. Vernon, (417) 466-3102, Andy McCorkill in Dallas County at (417) 345-7551 or Dona Goede in Cedar County, (417) 276-3313.

Survey Given During Missouri Beef Tour Tells Serious Story of Drought’s Impact on Cattle Producers

The 2012 Missouri Beef Tour drew a crowd of nearly 300 cattle producers from Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma and Arkansas to Lawrence County.

Tour hosts were Shiloh Land and Cattle Co., Jackie Moore Ranch, Dustin and Scynthia Schnake and Clif and Alice Harrington. In addition, attendees viewed beef and forage research projects at the University of Missouri’s Southwest Research Center just south of Mt. Vernon.

“During the tour guests were asked to complete a survey regarding their plans to cope with the drought,” said Eldon Cole, a livestock specialist with MU Extension. “We learned a lot from the 85 surveys that were filled out and returned.”

The first question asked producers how far into the winter their current forage supply take them. The majority (34.1 percent) felt they could make it until March 1. April 1 received a 25.6 percent vote and 17.1 percent felt they could only make it until January 1. Exactly 17 percent said they would run out of forage by December 1.

The second question asked “will you have more, less or the same number of beef cows next April as you have now?” Forty-nine percent indicated they would have fewer cows. Their average percent reduction in cows was 17.4 percent. The range went from 5 percent to 50 percent less. Only 5 replies (6.1 percent) felt they would increase their cow numbers this winter. Thirty-eight farmers said they would remain the same in beef cow inventory in the next 8 months.

The last question asked, “What management practice will you employ to extend your forage supply?” There were a wide variety of practices suggested. The two top vote-getters were to save forage by various practices and plant emergency pasture species. Saving forage edged out the planting plans by a 25 percent to 24.4 percent vote.

The forage saving ideas included: strip grazing, rotating pastures, limit feeding of hay, buying improved hay rings and restricting time to graze pastures. Planting emergency grazing crops saw wheat, ryegrass, cereal rye and turnips as crops being planted soon.

Selling open cows and those that are less productive came in as the third most popular practice with 14 percent close behind at 11.6 percent was to wean and sell calves early. Just over 9 percent offered supplement feeding of by-products like dried distillers grains or commercial products.

Down the line, and mentioned only by 1 to 3 farmers included: feed silage, corn stalks, ammoniate low quality hay, cut trees, fertilize fescue pastures and buy or rent more pasture.

The annual Missouri Beef Tour is coordinated by University of Missouri Extension Commercial Agriculture with the following sponsors: Missouri Beef Industry Council, Missouri Soybeans, FCS Financial, Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, Missouri Conservation Commission and Missouri Corn Growers.

For more information, contact any of the MU Extension livestock specialists in southwest Missouri: Eldon Cole in Mt. Vernon, (417) 466-3102, Andy McCorkill in Dallas County at (417) 345-7551 or Dona Goede in Cedar County, (417) 276-3313.

Business Plan Doesn’t Need to be Long, Just Convincing

Many people thinking about owning a business or starting a business of their own say getting a business plan written is their most daunting task.

But according to Chrystal Irons, a business development specialist with University of Missouri Extension, a business plan doesn’t have to be long; it should be simple and direct.

“A business plan needs to encompass the vital sections to effectively tell your business idea and story in a convincing fashion,” said Irons.

One way to do that is to add an appendix, show publication clips, pictures, graphs, drawings, principals' resumes, letters of intent from prospective customers, job descriptions, tax returns, contracts, licenses, leases, client testimonies, personal financial statements, credit reports, letters of reference and other such documents that lend credibility to your product or service.

The organization of a business plan is also important according to Irons.

“You will need a cover sheet and a one-page executive summary that captures the reader's attention and serves as a summary for the plan,” said Irons.

According to Irons, accuracy is critical and there are several other sections that every good business plan needs.

First, a basic description of the business, including an explanation of the business concept, a history of the business, if any, a list of growth possibilities and an explanation of why it will be a success.

The marketing plan is another key element of the plan. “The marketing plan should include potential customers and how you plan to attract and hold them, features and benefits of your product/service, pricing strategy, your sales promotion plan and potential, distribution methods, purchasing plan, and don’t forget to address competition,” said Irons.

Other important elements include information describing how the business will be managed, the organizational roles, and personnel needs. The plan must include financial information such as needs, revenue and cost projections as well as a break-even analysis.

“The sections will vary depending upon the readership and type of business. Use those that are relevant to your business and your readers,” said Irons.

For more information or assistance related to a current or future business, contact either of the MU Extension business specialists in the Ozarks: Chrystal Irons at (417) 546-4431, Kathy Macomber at (417) 682-3579 or one of the two Small Business and Technology Development Centers in southwest Missouri: Missouri State University in Springfield at (417) 836-5685 or Missouri Southern University in Joplin at (417) 625-3128.

School Meals Just Got Healthier Says Extension Specialist

Missouri obesity rates are higher than the national average, and childhood obesity rates are on the rise according to current CDC statistics.

According to Dr. Lydia Kaume, a nutrition and health education specialist with University of Missouri Extension, there is evidence that dietary and exercise patterns that lead to obesity are established during childhood.

“There is evidence that 50 percent of currently obese adults were obese as children, and 25 percent of obese adults were overweight as children. In fact, national data shows that one in three children are obese,” said Dr. Kaume.

Numerous studies show that well-nourished kids learn better. Nutritious meals and snacks will help kids stay healthy and reduce their risk for obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and other serious chronic diseases.

“Since our children consume half of their meals in schools, transforming school meals goes a long way in promoting better nutrition and reducing obesity,” said Dr. Kaume.

Improvements to the meals in American schools are as result of the Healthy, Hunger Free kids (HHFK) Act of 2010 School Meals. This law has several components that enable improving school meals and aligning them with the latest nutritional science and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

The following changes made to school meals this year were built on recommendations from the Institute of Medicine.

• Students will be offered and required to have one-half cup of fruits or vegetables on their tray every day of the week.

• There will be increased offerings of whole grain-rich foods.

• Milk offered will be only fat-free or low-fat milk.

• Calories will be limited based on the age of children being served to ensure proper portion size.

• There will be increased focus on reducing the amounts of saturated fat, trans fats, added sugars, and sodium.

Dr. Kaume says it is also a good idea to take an active role in school meals and to encourage your children to eat healthy foods. Here are a few ways that can be done:

• Plan to join your child(ren) for lunch in the school cafeteria.

• Ask “what did you have for lunch? They will know you care about healthy meals.

• Plan and prepare healthy meals at home and empower your child with skills, knowledge, and confidence to prepare healthy meals as adults.

• Let your child(ren) see you enjoying healthy meals and snacks at home or when eating out.

• Use grocery shopping to teach children how to make healthy choices.

• Shop and try new foods at home, include some that are offered in the school cafeteria.

“These changes may be a little intimidating to our kids at the beginning, but parents and guardians have the power to not only encourage children to build a healthy plate at school, but should also to strive at providing an equally healthy plate at home,” said Dr. Kaume.

For more information on nutrition issues, go online to http://extension.missouri.edu or contact one of the nutrition and health education specialists working in the Ozarks: Christeena Haynes, in Dallas County, (417) 345-7551; Dr. Lydia Kaume in Barton County, (417) 682-3579; or Dr. Pam Duitsman, in Springfield, (417) 886-2059.

Johnsongrass Troubles Have Increased Because of Weather Conditions; Take Simple Steps to Avoid Cattle Deaths

It has been known for years that johnsongrass has the potential to be a livestock killer because of two lethal issues: prussic acid poisoning and nitrate accumulation.

And even though the amount of johnsongrass has been increasing in pastures and along roadsides for a number of years there was minimal concern because veterinarians had not seen a case of prussic acid poisoning in years.

“Even though there has been an abundance of johnsongrass in past years too, cattle seemed to graze it with minimal problems,” said Eldon Cole, a livestock specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

Apparently the summer of 2012 and the accompanying drought has changed that situation with johnsongrass According to Cole, there have been a number of deaths due to grazing johnsongrass reported in southwest Missouri in the last six to eight weeks. In most cases the diagnosis was by circumstantial evidence.

“Most of the reports were simply finding dead cows or yearlings near a patch of johnsongrass after they’d been turned into a field with short johnsongrass in it. As a rule, only a small percentage of the animals in the herd will die,” said Cole.

In a couple of incidents the farmer was hauling a bale of hay into a pasture and a couple of hungry cows beat him through the gate and started eating lush, 12 inch tall johnsongrass along the road.

“The first farmer was fortunate, after the cows went down he contacted a veterinarian and was able to treat and save both cows,” said Cole.

In the other situation the farmer went ahead and unloaded the bale and went back to get the cows back in the pasture. By that time they were shaking and struggling. One died, but the other survived without treatment according to Cole.

The weather stress this year likely contributed to an abnormally high accumulation of prussic acid in the tissue of johnsongrass, grain sorghum, sorghum-sudangrass crosses, forage sorghums and shattercane. Sudan and pearl millet generally have a very low prussic acid potential.

‘The conditions that may enhance the poisoning risk is if the lush plant is damaged by freezing, chewing or traffic running over it. This frees a larger amount of the cyanide which is more lethal,” said Cole.

Symptoms of prussic acid poisoning occur quickly, often within 15 minutes. Farmers who are turning cattle that have not been recently on johnsongrass into a field with lots of johnsongrass in it are advised to only turn a few head in at first.

“It’s also a good idea to check with a veterinarian regarding actions in case cows do have a reaction. Make sure the cattle are full and wait until the johnsongrass is at least 24 inches tall before turning them in,” said Cole.

Cows affected by cyanide will have bright, cherry red blood. It may clot slowly or not at all. Cows tend to bloat quickly.

For more information on grazing high-risk prussic acid plants your veterinarian or one of the MU Extension livestock specialists in southwest Missouri: Eldon Cole in Mt. Vernon, (417) 466-3102, Andy McCorkill in Dallas County at (417) 345-7551 or Dona Goede in Cedar County, (417) 276-3313.

Drought Survival Program in Taney County Sept. 18

The drought this summer has created havoc for livestock producers who are preparing to feed cattle this winter with little forage and hay on hand according to Tim Schnakenberg, an agronomy specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

The Taney County Extension Center and Branson Bank are partnering to offer a program starting at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 18, at Rick Turner’s farm near Taneyville, Mo. for farmers who want to gain tips for surviving the drought.

The program will focus on how to deal with high nitrate levels in feeds, precautions for nitrates and prussic acid, how to stretch hay supplies, renovation of pastures, fall forage alternatives, supplementing pasture and hay and ammoniation of low quality hay.

A focus on the tour will be the ammoniation technique used on wheat straw to improve palatability and the use of cereal rye in warm-season grass pastures for winter grazing.

“The drought has taken a major toll on beef and dairy farms in the area,” said Schnakenberg. “High nitrates and short hay supplies will continue to plague these farms as we go into winter. Farmers need to know the precautions to take and take extra steps to stretch their feed supplies.”

Tim Schnakenberg and Eldon Cole, a livestock specialist with University of Missouri Extension, will be on hand for the discussion. The Rick Turner is located on Hwy. 76, east of Forsyth 3.5 miles on the left, or 2 miles west of Taneyville on Hwy. 76 on the right.

The dinner will begin after the tour (at about 6:30 p.m.) and is hosted by Branson Bank. Participants should pre-register by calling Halley Fleming at Branson Bank (417) 334-9696 or email hfleming@bransonbank.com by Wednesday, Sept. 14. Contact the Taney County Extension Center at (417) 546-4431 for more information regarding content of the program.

Fall Gardening Seminar in Christian County Sept. 8

The Christian County Master Gardeners are offering a free gardening seminar, “Gardening Concepts for Fall,” from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Sept. 8 at the Nixa Community Center, 701 N. Taylor Way in Nixa.

Seminar topics will include: “Planting in the Fall” by Oscar Cross from Hilltop Farms; “Alternative Solutions for Lawn Care” by Melissa Bettes, James River Basin Partnership; and “Tough Plants,” by Barbara St. Clair, Greene County Master Gardener.

Pre-registration is required by Wednesday, Sept. 5 and space is limited. To register for the seminar, or for more information about the program, call (417) 581-3558.

Master Gardener Courses Being Offered in Forsyth and Ozark Starting Sept. 25

University of Missouri Extension is offering Master Gardener training courses in Forsyth and Ozark this fall.

“This is a great opportunity for persons interested in horticulture and gardening to learn new skills, volunteer for community educational projects and become associated with other gardeners in the area with similar interests,” said Gordon Carriker, agriculture business specialist with University of Missouri Extension in Christian County.

The intensive multi-week Master Gardener courses begin with orientations on Sept. 25. The trainings will consist of 10 three-hour classes on specific Tuesday and Thursday afternoons in Forsyth and evenings at Ozark. The classes will all occur from Oct. 2 to Nov. 15.

Participants have their choice in classes: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in Forsyth and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Ozark.

According to Tim Schnakenberg, agronomy specialist with University of Missouri Extension in Stone County, the classes are taught by educators from University of Missouri Extension, Master Gardeners, Missouri Department of Conservation and the Missouri Department of Agriculture.

“There is a course fee which covers the 30 hours of instruction and many resource materials including the ‘Missouri Grounds for Gardening’ manual,” said Schnakenberg.

For more information and to pre-register for the Forsyth class, contact Schnakenberg at the Stone County Extension Center, (417) 357-6812. To pre-register for the Ozark class, contact Carriker at the Christian County Extension Center, (417) 581-3558.

A downloadable registration form and class schedule is available at: http://mgozarks.com/

Pre-registration is needed by Sept. 27. It is recommended to attend the orientation for a review of the program. Space is limited, so register early.

“The Master Gardener Program is a popular, successful statewide volunteer community-service organization administered through University of Missouri Extension. The organization’s goal is to train gardeners who are willing to share their knowledge with others,” said Carriker.

Master Gardeners become volunteers of the University of Missouri and donate volunteer hours for community educational projects in horticulture. Participants who complete the course can become a part of one of the Master Gardener groups throughout Missouri.

“A Home of Your Own” Workshop Series Coming to Joplin in September

"A Home of Your Own!" is a series of six workshops that will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays, beginning Sept. 11 and running through Tuesday, Oct. 16 at the Royal Heights United Methodist Church, 1612 Euclid, Joplin.

The workshops are being provided by the Joplin Area Long-Term Recovery’s Unmet Needs Committee and the Joplin Area Fuller Center for Housing.

The free workshops are open to the public. The classes are designed to share information helpful to those interested in becoming first-time homeowners. These classes will also qualify for sweat equity hours for various organizations working to provide new homes in the Joplin area.

“This series is being offered to help new homeowners better understand what’s involved when owning a home,” said Janet LaFon, a family financial education specialist with University of Missouri Extension and a member of the Joplin Area Long-Term Recovery Committee (LTRC). “Topics will include buying a home, home ownership, home maintenance, making the most of your money, protecting your family and family communication.”

Participants can choose to attend one, two or up to all six of the workshops at no cost. Advanced registration is needed within one week prior to the workshop a participant wants to attend. For more information or to register, call the Joplin Area Fuller Center for Housing, 417-553-5383.

“We’re excited to be able to partner with the Joplin Area Long Term Recovery Committee to provide these workshops in the Joplin area. We feel they will be a huge benefit for many of the new homeowners,” said Dixie Starmer, Joplin Area Fuller Center for Housing.

MU Extension Offering “Stay Strong, Stay Healthy” Program in Kimberling City Starting Sept. 4

University of Missouri Extension will be offering the popular, “Stay Strong, Stay Healthy” exercise program designed for older adults starting Sept. 4 at the Kimberling Area Library in Kimberling City.

The first and last class last will start at 10 a.m. and continue until about noon to allow time for a brief orientation to the program and health assessments. The remaining classes start at 10 a.m. and last about an hour.

The program, developed by Tufts University, is designed to help older adults improve strength, flexibility and balance. According to research conducted by Tufts, strength training improves bone density, can help reduce falls, improve arthritis symptoms, increase flexibility in older adults and can lead to a healthier, more active lifestyle.

The exercises are low-impact/low weight. All needed equipment is provided during the class.

“If you have been thinking about signing up for an exercise program this class is a great way for older adults to learn some basics and get develop a routine. Past participants reported that they noted a definite change in their strength, balance and flexibility”, said Renette Wardlow, human development specialist with MU Extension and instructor for the course.

The program is limited to 12 participants and the fee for the 10 session program is $25. The registration deadline is Aug. 31. Some participants may have to obtain their physician’s permission before taking part in the class.

For more details or to register, contact Renette Wardlow at the University of Missouri Extension Center, 417-581-3558 or call the Taney County Extension Center 417-546-4431.

Lack of Hay Makes Every Teachable Hay Management Tip Important Says Extension Specialist

University of Missouri Extension specialists are always looking for a teachable moment. One of those moments came during the “Drought Survival Tour” led by MU Extension on Aug. 14 at a farm in Barry County.

Eldon Cole, a livestock specialist with University of Missouri Extension was giving a presentation on useful practices to follow in short forage years.

“I spoke about doing an inventory on the forage supply. I stressed the importance of counting bales, check-weighing bales and getting a forage analysis. The latter is especially needed if you’ve purchased hay that’s unusual to you,” said Cole.

After his talk, the group visited the farmer’s hay barn. The bales were all neatly stacked three high. Each type of hay was labeled and stored together so there was easy access to it.

“In most cases the hay was easily accessible unlike in some barns or bale yards where the hay you should be feeding to a class of cattle is hard to reach,” said Cole. “An organized hay storage system is an asset whether in a drought or a normal year.”

This farmer had brome hay, ammoniated fescue stubble hay that was either last years or 2012 hay and soybean hay. In another barn there was alfalfa and prairie hay. He also had a stack of wheat straw that had been ammoniated.

All of the lots of hay had been tested at a commercial lab. The owner had noted on each lot the type of hay, source, moisture, crude protein, acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber and total digestible nutrients.

According to Cole, neutral detergent fiber is an item many do not request when testing hay. It is necessary if a farmer wants a relative feed value analysis. NDF may be used to determine whether the hay is a candidate for treating with anhydrous ammonia. Also nitrate levels should be tested in the forages.

“All this information effort will aid cattlemen as they match up the nutrient requirements with the type of hay that’s available,” said Cole. “I heard a lot of talk on our tour about what this farmer had done with his hay. I think there will be several following this farmer’s lead on identifying and testing hay.”

For more information, contact any of these MU Extension agronomy specialists in southwest Missouri: Tim Schnakenberg in Stone County, (417) 357-6812; Jay Chism in Barton County, (417) 682-3579; John Hobbs in McDonald County, (417) 223-4775 or Brie Menjoulet in Hickory County, (417) 745-6767.

“Fall Gardening” Topic of “Live and Learn” Class at Greene County Extension Aug. 29

University of Missouri Extension Horticulture Specialist Patrick Byers will conduct a class on Wednesday, Aug. 29 on the topic of “Planning the Fall Vegetable Garden” as part Greene County Extension’s "live and learn" series of classes.

The 50 minute class will run from noon to 1 p.m. and cost $10 per person. Attendees of any “live and learn” class can bring a lunch or purchase snacks in the Botanical Center bookstore and learn something new each week from a variety of specialists on a variety of topics.

Classes will be held in one of the classrooms at the Greene County Extension, located inside the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center, 2400 S. Scenic, Springfield.

The list of classes is being added updated on a regular basis and is available online at extension.missouri.edu/greene. Other classes planned for the “Live and Learn” series at the time of this release include:

• Aug. 29: “Planning the Fall Vegetable Garden,” taught by Patrick Byers, horticulture specialist with MU Extension.

• Sept 19: “Enhancing & Exercising your Memory,” taught by Dr. Jim Wirth, human development specialist with MU Extension.

• Sept. 26: “Who Gets Grandma's Yellow Pie Plate,” taught by Dr. Jim Wirth, human development specialist with MU Extension.

• Oct. 3: “Mind-Body Relationship and Health,” taught by Dr. Jim Wirth, human development specialist with MU Extension.

• Oct. 10: “World War II Fighter Pilot Stories,” taught by Dr. Jim Wirth, human development specialist with MU Extension.

• Oct. 17: “Managing Emotions under Pressure,” taught by Dr. Jim Wirth, human development specialist with MU Extension.

• Oct 25: “Vegetable Gardening in the Winter,” taught by Patrick Byers, horticulture specialist with MU Extension.

For more information, call the Greene County Extension Center at 417-881-8909. Information and order forms are also available online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene.

Field Day is Sept. 14 at MU Southwest Center in Mt. Vernon

From dealing with drought to beekeeping, the Southwest Research Center Field Day will showcase a breadth of agricultural research and practice from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Friday, Sept. 14.

The Southwest Research Center, which is located four miles west of Mt. Vernon Mo. on Hwy. H, is part of a network of University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (CAFNR) centers across Missouri conducting research benefiting agricultural producers and natural resource managers.

Attendees can learn from tours, which cover dairy, beef, forages, horticulture, vineyards, entomology, agroforestry, vegetable and fruit production, nut trees and beekeeping. Tours will be within walking distance of the headquarters, except for the dairy tour. Wagons for the dairy tour will leave every hour.

More than 30 MU researchers and extension faculty will share research results, offer advice for current growing conditions and answer questions.

Free lunch will be provided for the first 1,000 attendees.

Big producers and backyard gardeners alike can benefit from dozens of presentations, which will provide strategies for attendees to improve production, cut costs, manage pests and deal with drought. Andy Thomas, research assistant professor in plant sciences, will lead two walking tours covering a variety of horticultural research and tips for growing trees and shrubs.

For more information about the field day, contact the Southwest Research Center at 417-466-2148 or Rathmannc@missouri.edu or visit the website: http://aes.missouri.edu/swcenter/
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Greene County Extension Council Meets Aug. 27 to Begin Budget Process for 2013

Members of the Greene County Extension Council will conduct their regular monthly public meeting starting at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, August 27 in the large classroom at the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center, 2400 South Scenic Avenue, Springfield, Mo. The Botanical Center is home to the Greene County Extension Center.

The full agenda for the meeting, as well as minutes from the previous month’s meeting, can be found online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene under the “plans and reports” tab.

This month’s agenda will include discussion of the new Greene County Extension sponsorship program, the new television campaign, various proposals related to challenges being faced due to budget cuts, and the proposed 2013 budget to submit to the Greene County Commission.

The county extension council, comprised of both elected and appointed citizens, is a full partner with Missouri's land-grant universities to deliver high-quality education and research-based information that helps people solve real-world problems and take advantage of opportunities.

Council members work with extension specialists to provide county educational programs, manage finances of local extension operations, provide personnel to carry out extension activities, and elect and organize the local extension council
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Delegating Can Help Your Business Grow

A business owner with tight control over all aspects of their business may actually hamper or prevent business growth according to Kathy Macomber, a business development specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

“When you think about it, if the time available from the business owner is the scarcest resource, it may set the maximum limit on the size of the business. Learning to delegate can empower employees and allow decisions to be made closer to the customer,” said Macomber.

Successful delegation requires five components according to Macomber.

First, a business owner must realize that delegation requires time to plan, train and monitor. “As the business owner, you’ll need to identify the right tasks, the right people, and the timeline for the process,” said Macomber.

Second, the tasks to delegate need to be selected. “Ask yourself whether this will empower an employee and provide a skill-building opportunity. Consider whether it is a recurring task, where the employee will build ability through repetition,” said Macomber.

Third, select the right employee for the task. Likely candidates must have the ability to work and think independently. “You, as the business owner, will want to be sure the employee understands the potential impact of their decisions on profitability, strategy, employees, and customers,’ said Macomber.

Fourth, the business owner must prepare themselves to tolerate some risk. “You’ll need to give guidelines, set expectations for updates, and review the process and progress frequently. Over time you must monitor less frequently,” said Macomber.

Fifth, the entrepreneur must be self-aware. When a business begins, owners tend to do it all and become a ‘jack of all trades and master of none.” Macomber says successful delegation requires tolerance for risk and mistakes as employees learn and practice new skills.

“When you recognize that other people in your business are able to handle more responsibility, you’re on your way to heightened success and accomplishments. The time you save can be more effectively used in driving new business opportunities,” said Macomber.

For more information, Macomber can be reached at the MU Small Business and Technology Development Center in Barton County by telephone at (417) 682-3579.
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Groves Family from Billings Sweeps State 4-H Dairy Judging Contest

Brittany, Grant and Bailey Groves were high individuals in the senior, intermediate and junior divisions respectively of the Missouri State 4-H Dairy Judging Contest held Aug. 18 at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia. All are the children of Todd and Sheila Groves of Billings and they are Lawrence County 4-H members.

“We believe this is a first in the history of our contest,” said Karla Deaver, 4-H youth development specialist. “Having all three division winners coming from the same family is certainly unique, and we know the family is very proud of their accomplishment.”

Brittany Groves was the high individual in the senior division with 377 points. She was first in Ayrshires, third in Guernsey and Holstein and second in oral reasons. Second high individual in the senior division was Steven Nelson of Grovespring. Nelson was first in Jerseys and oral reasons and second in Ayrshires and Holsteins. Rounding out the top five were Tucker Peterson of Mountain Grove, Tricia Kirchdoerfer of Cape Girardeau and Dayne Voelker of Perryville. Peterson was first in Holsteins and Voelker was second in Guernseys and third in oral reasons.

Grant Groves was the high individual in the intermediate division with 354 points. He was second in Brown Swiss. In second was Shaelyn Scoon of Schuyler County. Rounding out the top five were Lauren Whitehead of Conway, Lora Wright of Clever and Ellie Wantland of Niangua.

Bailey Groves of Billings was the high individual in the junior division with 356 points. Second was Kelsie Grimm of Aurora, followed by Whitney Yerina of Conway, Woody Springer of Cass County and Taylor Whitehead of Conway.

The 70 contestants placed six classes and gave two sets of reasons. The top three individuals in each breed received cash prizes sponsored by the Missouri breed associations.

The top ten individuals in each division received rosettes from the Missouri State Fair, and the top three individuals in each division received a plaque from the Missouri State Fair and supporters of the contest.

Contestants, their families, and exhibitors who provided cattle for the event were the guests at a Junior Dairymen’s Barbeque sponsored by Midwest Dairy Association, Missouri State Fair, Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, MFA, Dairy Farmers of America, and Hiland Dairy.

Teams will represent Missouri 4-H at both the National 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest in Madison, Wisconsin in October and North American International Livestock Exposition contest in November.

For more information about the dairy judging program, contact either Ted Probert at the Wright County Extension Center at (417)741-6134, or Karla Deaver at the Lawrence County Extension Center at 417-466-3102.
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PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Photos to illustrate this story are available for download from the MU Extension photo library at www.flickr.com/MUExtension417.

County Budget Cuts Force Move of 4-H Specialist Out of Greene County; Two Extension Assistants Laid Off

The 4-H youth development specialist for Greene County Extension is being moved out of the county and two part-time secretaries are being released in response to local budget challenges.

In addition, a nutrition assistant’s position that recently came open due to a resignation will not be refilled in Greene County according to the leader of the nutrition program.

Velynda Cameron, the 4-H youth specialist in Greene County, is being moved to another county in the region according to Jay Chism, SW Region director for MU Extension. Details are still being worked out with other county extension council so the county cannot be named yet.

“Cameron will be moved next month to a county where the County Commission provides adequate funding for the local office and has requested more 4-H programming,” said Chism.

The fourteen, volunteer led, 4-H clubs in Greene County, which have a total of 271 members, will see training and support for them greatly reduced.

“Greene County has had a growing 4-H program in recent years, especially with the addition of some urban clubs. But, this move makes that continued growth much more difficult and creates a lot of challenges for our volunteer leaders and 4-H members,” said Chism.

PART-TIME ASSISTANTS

Part-time administrative assistants Margo Shull and Cindy Reichert have also been laid off by the Greene County Extension Council, further reducing the staff available at the Greene County Extension office which is located inside the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center.

Eliminating the two assistants (effective Sept. 1) will have a negative impact on all of the remaining Extension programs in the county, including the Master Gardener program, by removing secretarial support for them.

“If the Greene County Extension Center is to maintain any open hours in 2013, we had to make additional staff cuts now,” said Carl Allison, Greene County Extension Council chair. “We are working now on developing some local sponsorships that could salvage 2013 for us.”

NUTRITION PROGRAM

Extension’s nutrition program for southwest Missouri has kept four or five nutrition assistants busy with educational programs in the county for a number of years. A recent resignation means at least one of the positions is going to be moved to another county.

“We have lots of educational opportunities in the county and the need for nutritional education is great here,” said Dr. Pam Duitsman, nutrition specialist for MU Extension and director of the regional nutrition program. “But without the county support we can’t keep providing the same level of programming for our clients, partnering organizations and county residents.”

HISTORY OF FUNDING CUTS

The Greene County Extension Center is maintained as a partnership between the Greene County Commission and the University of Missouri. But in recent years, funding from the Greene County Commission has fallen far below the amount needed to maintain a local office even though the county office provided educational programs for over 25,000 people during 2011.

“The budget reduction by the Greene County Commission to the state minimum of $10,000 for Extension in 2012 has forced the council to make additional, dramatic, changes. We are told the budget for 2013 will not be any better,” said Allison. “This is the type of thing we said would happen when the budget was announced back in January.”

University of Missouri fully funds the salaries, benefits, training, and computer support, for the five specialists headquartered in Greene County. County funds are used to pay administrative assistants and office expenses like the telephone, copies, office supplies, some postage and travel for specialists conducting programs.

“Our best projection is that with this current reduction, the office will have enough money to operate for another 8 to 10 months unless we find some sponsors and regain more than just minimum funding from the county commission,” said Allison. “For three years we have pulled from our reserves to fulfill our mission after the Commission cut our budget. But, we also know we can’t cut ourselves to prosperity, we need additional county funding to survive.”

In 2009, the County allocated $95,000 to the publically elected Greene County Extension Council. The local office also generated about $25,000 as part of an annual office budget of $115,000, which was still a cut from previous years.

In 2010, the County Commission voted to allocate $27,000 to the local office as a savings measure and the local office began to draw heavily from reserve funds, even after making cuts. The Commission repeated the allocation of $27,000 (a 72% percent cut from previous years) with the 2011 budget also. The 2012 budget was a 90% cut to the amount requested by council.

By state law, every first class county funds an Extension office with a minimum of $10,000. That amount was set in 1961 and would need to be $72,000 now to have the same buying power.

CUTTING THE BONE

“The local Greene County Extension Council has instituted many cuts and revenue generating ideas over the past three or four years in an effort to balance the budget,” said Allison. “Those cuts have kept this county office open during that time period but the reserves have run out.”

Educational programs at the Greene County Extension Center draw people from other counties in to Greene County where they spend money and then take what they have learned back home to improve their own communities. The regional specialists in the Greene County office conduct programs that impact the entire region but they also do good work for Greene County.

“From a regional perspective, the Greene County office is one of our flagship so a cut of this magnitude is troubling for our organization, our staff and the people we serve,” said Chism. “The biggest concern is that these changes reduce services to the residents of Greene County.”

More information about the impact of the budget cut is available on the Greene County Extension website, http://extension.missouri.edu/greene.
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Class on “Using Social Media in Disaster Recovery” Kicks off Greene County Extension’s “Live and Learn” Series Aug. 24

A new "live and learn" series of classes at the Greene County Extension Center begins in mid-August according to David Burton, county program director for Greene County Extension.

The 50 minute classes run from noon to 1 p.m. and cost $10 per person. Attendees can bring a lunch or purchase snacks in the Botanical Center bookstore and learn something new each week from a variety of specialists on a variety of topics.

Classes will be held in one of the classrooms at the Greene County Extension, located inside the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center, 2400 S. Scenic, Springfield.

The series kicks off on Friday, Aug. 24 with “Using Social Media in Disaster Recover.” The class will be taught by David Burton, a civic communication specialist with MU Extension who has worked on various disaster related social media pages and has co-written a booklet on the topic. The class provides an overview of how social media has recently been used in disaster recovery along with basic tips on getting started with social media.

The list of classes is being added updated on a regular basis and is available online at extension.missouri.edu/greene. Other classes planned for the “Live and Learn” series at the time of this release include:

• Aug. 29: “Planning the Fall Vegetable Garden,” taught by Patrick Byers, horticulture specialist with MU Extension.

• Sept 19: “Enhancing & Exercising your Memory,” taught by Dr. Jim Wirth, human development specialist with MU Extension.

• Sept. 26: “Who Gets Grandma's Yellow Pie Plate,” taught by Dr. Jim Wirth, human development specialist with MU Extension.

• Oct. 3: “Mind-Body Relationship and Health,” taught by Dr. Jim Wirth, human development specialist with MU Extension.

• Oct. 10: “World War II Fighter Pilot Stories,” taught by Dr. Jim Wirth, human development specialist with MU Extension.

• Oct. 17: “Managing Emotions under Pressure,” taught by Dr. Jim Wirth, human development specialist with MU Extension.

• Oct 25: “Vegetable Gardening in the Winter,” taught by Patrick Byers, horticulture specialist with MU Extension.

This series is part of an ongoing effort to expand the educational offerings by MU Extension in Greene County.

“If you come in for a class, you might as well bring in a soil sample in from your garden for a soil test and save yourself a trip,” said Burton.

For more information, call the Greene County Extension Center at 417-881-8909. Information and order forms are also available online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene.

Families Should Set Guidelines to Ensure Quality Studying

Every family needs to set its own guidelines for studying at home according to Renette Wardlow, human development specialist, University of Missouri Extension.

“Differences in guidelines occur because of the different ages of students,” said Wardlow.

For example, younger children have less homework, but it generally requires more parent supervision. As children grow older, developing the a skill of independently tackling homework without parent help becomes important.

“Children, young and old, both need a good place to study and a specific time to study, with minimal distractions,” said Wardlow.

Developing the proper frame of mind for studying will help reduce distractions and bring about positive results. There are several ways this can be done.

“For example, the night before you know you’ll have to do a lot of studying, be sure to get a good night’s sleep,” said Wardlow.

It is also important to plan ahead, organize studying around a regular schedule and get materials organized. This is important in order to find what is needed when you need it, to get assignments done on time and to not procrastinate.

“Focus on your strong points. Think about the things you do best in school and develop a positive self-image,” said Wardlow.

It is important to study in a comfortable place that has good lighting in order to not strain your eyes and not feel tired. Wardlow also recommends avoiding distracting music during study times.

“It is true that some people study well with background music, and for different people different kinds of music will suit,” said Wardlow.

It is also a good idea to not watch the clock or count the pages you have left while trying to study according to Wardlow. Getting together with friends to study can also be very distracting, especially when everyone is not studying the same topic.

Time to Start Planning Successful Fall Garden

Some of the best quality garden vegetables are produced and harvested during the fall season when warm, sunny days are followed by cool, humid nights.

However, there are also problems with getting a fall garden started according to Patrick Byers, a horticulture specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

“August brings with it high soil temperatures, high light intensity and rapid soil drying. These factors present real problems with getting a uniform stand of plants,” said Byers.

In August, the surface of the soil, when exposed to the summer sun, can become very warm and dry out quickly.

“The weather combined with the fact that vegetable seeds should not be planted any deeper than three times the diameter of the seed, makes planting depth and protection for the seed crucial,” said Byers.

Byers recommends applying a light layer of mulch over the row of newly planted seeds to retain moisture. Gardeners can also try screen wire strips, shade cloth, or boards to cover the row from intense heat.

“This will moderate both soil temperature and soil moisture but you need to remember to remove coverings after seedling emerges,” said Byers.

Byers also offers these quick suggestions that may increase the success rate of fall gardening:

• Seeds left from the spring, if they have been stored in a cool, dry place should be good for planting. Seeds that are stored in the freezer properly should remain viable for several years. Soak seeds overnight before planting (except beans and peas). This will hasten germination and seeding emergence when soil drying is most critical to plant growth.

• Short season warm vegetables like beans can still be planted for a fall harvest. Cool season veggies like beets, turnips, lettuce, spinach, and radish can be direct seeded.

• The average first frost date for the fall in the Springfield area is Oct. 17. Check your seed packet for the days to harvest and count back form the frost date to determine the best time to plant.
• Supplement rain fall with trickle irrigation to get early established growth. Soaker hoses are good sources. Cover seeded rows with mulch to reduce soil temperature and drying.

For additional information on fall planting dates, visit your local University of Missouri Extension center and request Guide 6201, “Vegetable Planting Calendar.” The guide is also available online at extension.missouri.edu.

Good Nutrition and Learning Go Hand-in-Hand

Research shows children who are nutritionally fit are more likely to have the energy, stamina and self-esteem that enhance their ability to learn.

Parents can help ensure that their child is well-nourished and ready-to-learn by considering a few basic nutritional steps according to Dr. Pam Duitsman, nutrition and health education specialist, University of Missouri Extension.

The most important step is to start the day with a healthy breakfast according Duitsman.

"For children and teens, a morning meal is especially important. Studies have shown those who eat a morning meal tend to perform better in school, score higher on tests, have higher school attendance, less tardiness, better concentration and muscle coordination and are less likely to be overweight," said Duitsman.

One way to get a child to eat before going to school is to make breakfast fun. Keep quick-to-fix foods on hand or get breakfast foods ready the night before, such as mixing a pitcher of juice.

“If kids say they are not hungry, start them out with something light like juice or toast and send them off with a nutritious mid-morning snack,” said Duitsman.

Meals served at school contribute significantly to kids overall nutrient and energy needs.

School meals are usually regulated through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and are designed to supply about one-third of a child's nutrition needs.

"Parents can play a role in helping a child choose healthy meals. Keep the school lunch menu in your kitchen, go over it with your child, and talk with your child about making choices in the cafeteria line," said Duitsman.

If a child prefers to take lunch to school, let the child help plan and prepare it.

“When children are involved, chances are they will resist trading their carrots for cookies,” said Duitsman.

Pack meals that are easy to prepare and fun to eat as well as nutritious. A few examples are sandwiches, raw veggies, crackers, string cheese, whole fruit and yogurt or pudding.

For after-school snacks, choose foods that supply needed nutrients. Stock up with ready-to-eat fruits and vegetables, animal crackers, popcorn and cereal. Your child will appreciate the availability of quick healthy snacks.

"Proper nutrition is crucial for social, emotional and psychological development. Teaching children how to eat healthy will enable them to establish a foundation of good nutrition and healthful lifestyle habits that will benefit them for the rest of their lives," said Duitsman.

The goal of University of Missouri Extension’s Family Nutrition Education Program is to assist Missourians with limited resources in achieving lifelong health and fitness. In southwest Missouri, programs for youth and adults provide nutrition, food safety and tasting opportunities that allow participants to learn about healthy food choices and regular physical activity. Partnering with other agencies -- like schools, after-school programs, summer youth programs, WIC, Head Start, Health Departments, Food Stamp offices and a variety of social service agencies providing services to limited–income families -- is a key to FNEP’s success. For more information, contact FNEP coordinator Pam Duitsman at (417) 886-2059.

Forage Nitrate Workshop in Ash Grove Aug. 28

University of Missouri Extension will offer a “Forage Nitrate Workshop” from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 28 in the meeting room at MFA, 300 West Main, Ash Grove.

“The drought this summer has increased the likelihood of nitrate accumulations in several forages and feed sources like johnsongrass, sudangrass, and corn,” said Andy McCorkill, a livestock specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

High nitrate levels are a concern in fresh forages or in hay because it can be fatal to livestock.

During the workshop, participants will learn which forages and feed sources can accumulate nitrates, what conditions promote accumulations, symptoms and treatment of cattle that have consumed high-nitrate feeds, and management options for forages and cattle.

“Testing is the best way to determine whether a forage is safe to feed or not,” said Brie Menjoulet, agronomy specialist with University of Missouri Extension. She will also be instructing at the workshop along with McCorkill.

Participants are welcome to bring fresh forage samples to the workshop for a “quick” nitrate test or to have the sample submitted for quantitative analysis.

“The quick test is used only to indicate whether nitrates are present or not. When we use this type of testing, we don’t know how high the nitrate levels actually are,” said Menjoulet.

Quantitative testing for forage nitrate levels is available through several private laboratories and universities. Materials needed to submit a sample will be available during the workshop or can be picked up at most MU Extension offices.

Participants are also encouraged to bring their test results if they would like help interpreting the results.

There is no cost for the workshop, but pre-registration is required by Monday, Aug. 27.

To pre-register, or to make special arrangements due to a disability, please contact the Dallas County Extension Center at 417-345-7551.

Only 11 Local Businesses or Individuals Can be “Official Sponsors” of the Greene County Extension Program

For the first time in 100 years, Greene County Extension is offering “official sponsorship” opportunities to a limited number of businesses.

“We are selling only 11 of these exclusive marketing opportunities at a price of $6,000,” said David Burton, country program director for Greene County Extension. “This is an excellent marketing opportunity that brings recognition to the sponsor and support to the local extension office.”

Greene County Extension will invest in giving media recognition to official sponsors in a number of different ways. This is a program that might even be expanded with the help of media partners.

In addition to cross-promotional efforts, the Greene County Extension office will also work closely with official sponsors on trainings and other educational events that would benefit their employees.

Sponsors can use the Greene County Extension logo and name (along with the statement “official sponsor of”) in advertisements, store, website, mailers, billboards, store signage, etc. for 12 months. There is no other way to get access to the use of this logo in advertisements.

“This sponsorship effort is necessary because of the 90% budget cut we received from the County Commission,” said Burton. “But, at the same time our office operations budget is being cut, the demand for our services is increasing. We need sponsors in order to continue reaching county residents with our research-based educational programs and information.”

For more information on how you can participate, contact David Burton at (417) 881-8909 or by email at burtond@missouri.edu. Information can also be found on the Greene County Extension website under the “corporate sponsorships” tab.

Fall Television Campaign Presents New Possibilities for MU Extension in Southwest Missouri

A television campaign airing in southwest Missouri, paid for with a statewide grant from University of Missouri Extension, presents an opportunity to reach a new audience and engage more area residents in 2012 and 2013.

“The ad will be seen throughout the region but we are very excited about the potential for Greene County Extension,’ said David Burton, civic communication specialist for MU Extension. “The Greene County office will be the contact for phone calls and catalog requests from the ads.”

The thirty-second ad will air on KOLR and KOZL this fall along with cross-promotional opportunities on OzarksFirst.com. Ads on KOLR will run in conjunction with SEC college football games (pre-show and during the game). A total of 350 ads will air on KOZL over six months, and four long-form two-minute commercials will also air.

Production of the commercials was done by KOLR. This expands the partnership that has existed between KOLR and MU Extension in southwest Missouri for 15 years or more. Extension specialists are on the mid-day show at KOLR every Thursday with gardening advice and every-other Monday with other program and educational information.

The television ad shows the MU Extension logo and visually mentions the educational program areas offered in Greene County and southwest Missouri.

The following voice over text will be used and is based on regional data gathered from the “Day in the Life” project done in 2010 by David Burton: “In southwest Missouri, over 3000 people a day get research-based answers and education from staff at local MU Extension offices or Extension programs. Find out what you have been missing and why MU Extension is so important to your county by calling to request a course catalog or visiting us online for more information. MU Extension is local experts helping local people, every day.”

The ad can also be viewed online at: http://youtu.be/2m3rgXtQ0TQ .

For more information, call the Greene County Extension office at (417) 881-8909 or access the county website and view the course catalog online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene.

Champions 4-cHange Conference in Springfield Sept. 13-15

SRINGFIELD, Mo. – An exciting new University of Missouri Extension and 4-H leadership conference for youth will be held in Springfield, Sept. 13-15 at the Ramada Oasis Hotel and Convention Center, 2546 N Glenstone Ave, Springfield.

The three-day “Champions 4-cHange Conference,” targets 4-H members from southwest Missouri but the conference is open to any area youth between the ages of 13 and 18.

“The Champions 4-cHange Conference is a Southwest 4-H Regional leadership conference targeting youth who are currently serving or want to serve in leadership positions,” said Jeremy Elliot-Engel, a 4-H youth development specialist with MU Extension.

Conference attendees will have a chance to explore communication skills, project planning, teamwork and career opportunities.

“Youth at this conference are going to come away with a greater awareness of potential career opportunities, grow and develop skills as leaders and have an opportunity to have multi-cultural experiences,” said Velynda Cameron, a 4-H youth development specialist with MU Extension.

The Champions 4-cHange Conference is a mix of workshops, guest speakers, hands-on learning opportunities and tours of innovative businesses in Springfield like Executive Coach Builders, Springfield Underground, Red Velvet Dress Shop and the Skinny Improv.

Registration forms for the youth conference are due by Aug. 25 and can be found online at http://extension.missouri.edu/jasper/documents/4H/championforchange.pdf.

For additional information, contact either event coordinator: Velynda Cameron, 4-H youth development specialist, Greene County Extension Center, (417) 881-8909 or cameronv@missouri.edu; or Jeremy Elliott-Engel, Regional 4-H youth development specialist, Newton County Extension Center, (417) 455-9500 or elliottengelj@missouri.edu.

Missouri 4-H, University of Missouri Extension's youth development program, helps to create opportunities for young people to be valued, contributing members of their community. To learn more about 4-H -- the world’s largest youth-serving organization -- visit the nearest University of Missouri Extension Center.

The unique history of the Ash Grove Cemetery

by David Burton
Written 1983 for Local History Class
Ash Grove High School
Cemeteries, a very common sight in the Ozarks, often slip by with the landscape as we drive past. Many people consider a cemetery only a symbol of death with no value to the living. Those of us who choose to accept them in a more realistic manner find them interesting and historical, even intriguing.

During the 1880s, some alert businessmen in Ash Grove, Mo. saw the establishment of a cemetery as a way to make money. They believed "anyone who cares enough for their departed love ones will gladly pay for a lasting monument" according to early writings of this organization. When the Ash Grove Cemetery was established, it was the only large cemetery in the area and came with a promise to be "maintained for years." The founders wrote that they wanted "to provide a burial place for all the citizens of Ash Grove and the vicinity and to properly care of the same in a manner that would benefit their memories."

Those early organizers began a great tradition by detailing a governing body to organize this lasting monument to the area’s dead. An endowment fund was established to keep the cemetery tidy for as long as graves remained there. Today, the citizens of Ash Grove boast of one of the prettiest, best kept, oldest and most financially sound cemeteries in Missouri. All of those facts are due to something that began in Chandler’s General Store more than 115 years ago.

Even though few people knew about it, several of the town’s leaders were meeting that night (Jan. 23, 1883) in Chandler’s General Store. The meeting had been called to discuss the organization of a large public cemetery in Ash Grove. Apparently, the idea was well liked because it took only one meeting — and less than one hour -- to convince these in attendance to start the association. In this time short time the foundation was laid and the officers were appointed: J.L. Perryman, president, W.T. Chandler, secretary-treasurer.

The association’s first business was to apply for a "Certificate of Incorporation." R.L. Goade traveled to Jefferson City and filed the certificate for $50. Michael McGrath, the Secretary of the State of the State of Missouri, approved the incorporation on Feb. 20, 1883. By having this certificate, the Ash Grove Cemetery Association was formed as "a private corporation for manufacturing and business purposes."

Having $2,000 of capital always on hand was the only standing requirement.

The Association began selling company stock on May 4, 1883, at a price of $25 a share. W.T. Chandler, who bought eight shares, purchased the first stock. At the end of the corporations’ existence, over 2,000 shares of stock had been sold. The first dividends were not given until Jan. 2, 1909. Some of the first dividends were awarded to J.F.G. Bentley, who had 200 shares in his possession.

At the next cemetery board meeting July 20, 1883, W.T. Chandler presented the association’s handwritten "by-laws," and "articles of agreement." These documents — which set guidelines for the purchase and sale of burial plots -- were approved Sept. 30, 1883, by the organization and the operations of the cemetery began.

The first land for the "original" cemetery (5.5 acres) was purchased Oct. 23, 1883, from Mary and Jacob Perryman for $700. The board agreed that a stockholder who sold a lot would receive 10 percent of the lot’s price, and the officers would receive a salary of $25 a year, starting Oct. 29, 1883. The first lot was sold to W.T. Chandler at a cost of $40. On Nov. 3, 1883, he purchased Lot 31, Block "C" in the original part of the cemetery. In this area some of the tombstones actually date as far back as the 1820s.

Research indicates that many area citizens’ wished to have their relatives buried at a central and lasting location so they moved graves, bodies and tombstones from area family plots to the Ash Grove cemetery. One example would be that of James Farmer’s three children who died at infancy in 1885. James Farmer buried his children on his own land after their death. When the cemetery was established, he purchased a large lot and moved his children from his farm into Ash Grove to be buried in the town cemetery.

The leadership of the Association agreed to have yearly meetings to discuss stocks and to have new elections. All of these meetings were held in Chandler’s General Store until 1927. The cemetery association then adapted itself to comply with some of the new state laws for cemeteries. The same state laws regulating when and where a cemetery association should meet also specified that "no trees or shrubs are to be planted on a person’s plot" and that "the headstone can be no higher than two inches above the ground but the center stone can be any height, as long as it is confined to the lot that was purchased."

Sometime in 1891 the Ash Grove Cemetery Association hired its first caretaker, or as he was often called, sexton. The first caretaker at the Ash Grove Cemetery was J.W. Swindler, and he worked for $7.50 per year until 1901.

A major road (State Hwy. 160) was built through Ash Grove around 1926 and the cemetery was forced to sell land on its north side for the highway. The association received $175 for the land it sold. The selling of that land was the last major event in the lift of the Ash Grove Cemetery Association as a corporation. From this time on, the corporation struggled to stay in existence and it was only able to remain profitable until 1930. Since the Association was struggling financially when the depression hit the corporation ceased to be a money-make organization. During the 1970s, the Ash Grove Cemetery Association was formed, replacing the "for-profit" stockholder structure, and that system has functioned well, giving Ash Grove one of the finest cemeteries in the area, one with perhaps the most unique history.

What enables a company or organization to remain functional for over 115 years? What does it take to be financially solid through a depression, legal difficulties, organizational changes and the skyrocketing cost of all the things required to keep a cemetery operating?

One way or another, the Ash Grove Cemetery Association has managed to continue improving. The foresight of the groups founding organizers is evident in the fact they purchased of plenty of land to grow, established a functional method of leadership, starting off financially sound and always having responsible people willing to volunteer their time to the association. Each of these facts helped to make the association a long-term success and Ash Grove’s cemetery one of the finest final resting-places in the Ozarks.

Several Lessons Can be Learned from One-Room Schools

Historic one-room schools still dot the landscape in the Ozarks and several fine examples have been restored with others moving toward restoration. The old schools are an icon of America and are historically tied to agriculture in Missouri.

According to David Burton, civic communication specialist with University of Missouri Extension and director of the Ozarks Country School Program, one-room schools are still revealing valuable historical, educational and cultural lessons.

“I’d say there are basically five important lessons we can take away from the one-room school experience,” said Burton.

First, community is important. Many families in the Ozarks worked together to build because they valued education. “These school buildings then served as a center of education for children and, since parents and neighbors were so deeply involved, the school also became a center of community life,” said Burton.

Second, helping others is essential and expected. Children in a one-room school spent their days surrounded by children of all ages. At various times students could find themselves being challenged by a lesson with an older student or mentoring a younger schoolmate. “With just one teacher, cooperation was essential,” said Burton. “It also served to engrain learning in the students, because in order to mentor another child, you must know that material well.”

Third, hard work is required. In addition to having to walk to school, students had to help haul in the water, take care of the coal stove, clean the blackboards and perform a range of other chores essential to the operation and upkeep of the school. “These responsibilities, I think, helped instill pride in their school and offered chances for responsibility,” said Burton.

Fourth, ability, not age, is key. Lessons could be given according to ability and students were permitted to learn ahead or listen in on lessons they needed to catch up on. “I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard a former student say they learned ahead by listening to other lessons,” said Burton.

And finally, stable and caring families are key. Financial support came from the families who sent children but they also instilled in their children respect for the teacher. A national study done a few years ago on one-room schools concluded that stable and supportive families were the number one reason for the success of one-room schools.

To expand the restoration and research of one-room schools in the Ozarks, consider becoming a member of the Ozarks Country School Association. Contact the Greene County Extension Center (or go online to http://extension.missouri.edu/greene) to learn more about the organization.

One-Room School Groups in the Ozarks Continue Efforts to Raise Monies and Renovate Buildings with Family Events

Groups and individuals wanting to maintain one-room schools in the Ozarks are working on projects to benefit their historic buildings like never before, according to David Burton, civic communication specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

“Our membership has grown, there has been increased interest in developing oral histories from former students and teachers, and there are more people involved this year in raising both money and awareness for various one-room schools involved with the Ozarks Country School Association,” said Burton.

The following events related to area one-room schools in the Ozarks are taking place this fall:

Spaghetti Dinner at New Bethel: New Bethel Church will host a spaghetti dinner in their fellowship hall starting at 6 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 18 to benefit New Bethel School. A dessert auction and silent auction will follow along with entertainment by the gospel/bluegrass band “Ozark Mountain Boys.” Proceeds will benefit the ongoing efforts to restore New Bethel School. Built in the early 20's, New Bethel was used as a school until 1945. It is one of the last rural schools still standing in the extreme southwest corner of Missouri. For more information, contact Karen Almeter at 417-845-6855.

Liberty School Fundraiser: A pancake supper from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 25 at Appleby’s, 2430 N. Glenstone, will raise money for the “Move and Restoration Fund” for Liberty School. Tickets for the event cost $5 and proceeds will go toward moving Liberty School from its present location north of Springfield near Fellows Lake to the Gray-Campbell Farmstead inside Nathanael Greene Park. To get tickets, or for more information about getting tickets at the door, contact Norma Tolbert by email at norma_l_tolbert@yahoo.com or phone at 833-2352. To date, this effort has raised $7,800 to use toward moving Liberty School.
Locust Prairie School Days: According to organizer Carol Coble, this annual event at the historic and beautiful one-room Locust Prairie School is a fun event for the entire family. The Locust Prairie School Days and Student Reunion runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Oct. 13.There will be an old car cruise in, and a tractor show, and music most of the day. Chili and vegetable soup, homemade pies and cakes to be served and there will also be a home-made quilt raffle. All proceeds go to the preservation of this one room school in Greene County. For more details call 417-759-2119 or 417-736-3564 and leave a message. The school is located at the intersection of Farm Road 239 and Farm Road 56, between Strafford and Fair Gove.

Schuyler Community Breakfast: The annual Schuyler Community Breakfast and Bake Sale will take place from 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 20. The breakfast will include scrambled eggs, biscuits and sausage gravy, potatoes, juice and coffee for $5. The Schuyler Community Center, located near Fantastic Caverns north of Springfield, not only preserves a former one-room school in Greene County but it also builds a sense of community in this area north of Springfield, Mo. The white building sits at the corner of Farm Roads 94 and 124 and is on the county historic register.

Wooley Creek Bluegrass Festival: The annual Wooley Creek Bluegrass Festival is Oct. 12, 13 and 14. An auction is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 12. Current groups scheduled include: YouTube sensation The Cleverly’s, The Petersen Family Band of Branson, Cedar Hill of Rogers, Arkansas and Missouri Boatride. Admission is $10 for the weekend and Sunday is free. Proceeds from the event go toward the restoration of Historic Wooley Creek School. For updates and a schedule visit http://wooleycreekbluegrassfestival.org/. There is free primitive camping for RVs, Travel Trailers and tents on the site.

More information about the MU Extension community development program known as the Ozarks Country School Association can be found online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene or by calling the Greene County Extension Center, (417) 881-8909.

Second Fiber Daze in Southwest Missouri set for Sept. 21-22

The second “Fiber Daze” event in southwest Missouri is scheduled for Sept. 21-22 at Crowder College in Neosho, Mo.

According to Dr. Jodie Pennington, small ruminant educator with Lincoln University Extension, the event will feature wonderful teachers in all areas of the fiber arts.

“Folks who attend will learn to spin their own yarn, improve their knitting skills, dye different types of fibers, and take their weaving to the next level,” said Pennington.

This is a joint venture with University of Missouri Extension, Lincoln University Cooperative Extension, Crowder College Department of Agriculture, and the Fiber Folks of Southwest Missouri, a local fiber guild.

“Essentially this will be a festival exhibiting uses of fiber, primarily wool, and a craft show for fiber products. Educational programs will teach fiber art topics from spinning to crocheting,” said Pennington.

Additional information about Fiber Daze is at: http://fiberfolks.wordpress.com/fiber-daze/ .

For more information, contact Dr. Pennington at the Newton County Extension Center, (417) 455-9500, or Joi Chupp at (417-592-1378).

Extension Nutrition Program and Price Cutter Grocery Stores Announce Joint Fall Classes

University of Missouri Extension’s Family Nutrition Education Program and Price Cutter grocery stores have expanded their joint effort to help teach customers about nutrition, food safety and food budgeting.

According to Jenni Nevatt, a nutrition program associate with MU Extension who teaches the classes at Price Cutter, the monthly series of classes will teach basic nutrition, food safety, and food budgeting and will begin at 10 a.m., on Thursday, Aug. 16.

Classes will be held in the state-of-the-art Taste Culinary Arts classroom located inside the Price Cutter Store on the corner of Republic Road and Kansas Expressway in Springfield

“When Ms. Nevatt approached me with her partnership proposal I jumped at the opportunity. The topics she will be addressing are of interest to food shoppers and we’re happy to be providing her an ideal space within one of our stores for this community outreach,” said Janet Brooks, Director of Marketing for Price Cutter.

Classes are about 90 minutes and will consist of a lecture, discussion and a food demonstration with samples provided. Upcoming scheduled classes are as follows:

10 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 16: “Smart Nutrition for Families.” A great class for new families, or simply for those who want to eat healthier, this informative session will show you easy, affordable ways to add more fruits and vegetables to your diet.

10 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 19: “Eating Smart: Make Half Your Grains Whole.” Participants will learn how to identify whole grain foods using food labels and how to add a greater variety of whole grains to meals and snacks. The class menu includes No-Bake Breakfast Bar and Zesty Veggie Pasta Salad.

10 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 18: “Eat Smart: Build Strong Bones.” In this lesson, participants will learn how to choose and prepare low-fat and fat free dairy foods that are also a good source of calcium. The class menu includes Stove Top Lasagna and Pumped Up Pudding.

10 a.m., Thursday, Nov. 15: “Eating Smart: Go Lean with Protein.” This class will cover a variety of information related to choosing foods that are an excellent source of protein. Participants will learn about different sources of protein and how to prepare them in ways to reduce fat. Methods for keeping foods safe will also be discussed. Class menu includes Pumpkin and Bean Soup and Peanut Butter Treats.

These scheduled classes are free but pre-registration is required and seating is limited to 18 per session. Anyone interested in attending can sign up on the Price Cutter website at http://www.pricecutteronline.com/blog/topics/events.

"MU Extension aims to educate and empower people in the community, so a partnership between MU Extension’s Family Nutrition Education Program and Price Cutter just makes sense,” said Nevatt. “This will allow us to be able to reach a large audience and make a bigger impact as we work to teach families how to make healthier choices."

Price Cutter is the only supermarket chain both locally and employee owned, operating 13 stores in the greater Springfield area. Its Taste Culinary classroom offers a full schedule of classes tailored for both adults and children, covering topics such as basic food preparation skills, ethnic cuisine and seasonal food favorites.

The goal of FNEP is to assist Missourians with limited resources in achieving lifelong health and fitness. In southwest Missouri, programs for youth and adults provide nutrition, food safety and tasting opportunities that allow participants to learn about healthy food choices and regular physical activity. Partnering with other agencies -- like schools, after-school programs, summer youth programs, WIC, Head Start, Health Departments, Food Stamp offices and a variety of social service agencies providing services to limited–income families -- is a key to FNEP’s success. For more information, contact FNEP coordinator Pam Duitsman at (417) 886-2059.

2012 Missouri Beef Tour in Lawrence County Aug. 25

The 2012 Missouri Beef Tour will be held in Lawrence County near Mt. Vernon on Aug. 25 according to Eldon Cole, a livestock specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

The tour begins at 12:30 p.m. at Shiloh Land and Cattle Company, which is owned by Darrel and Anita Franson. The Fransons run 60 fall-calving beef cows on around 115 acres with some rented pasture.

Their operation features fixed-time artificial insemination, management intensive grazing, novel endophyte fescue, the use of steer feedouts to determine their herd’s post-weaning and carcass performance. Darrel uses an extensive set of computerized records to see how his beef/forage enterprise is faring.

From Shiloh, the tour heads west to Jackie Moore’s farm where he receives and develops lightweight calves to a market weight of 800 pounds. Moore uses various by-product feeds such as distillers and peanut meal. He’s gearing up to feed droughty corn silage this winter. Health protocols for receiving calves will be discussed.

The third stop is north of Stotts City on Missouri 97 at Dustin and Scynthia Schnake’s farm. The Schnakes are a young couple who are working with Clif and Alice Harrington to expand their beef cow operation. “The Harrington’s are slowing down and their place joins the Schnake’s so it’s a natural expansion opportunity,” said Cole.

The final stop on the tour will be the University of Missouri Southwest Research Center on Hwy. H, south of Mt. Vernon. The focus will be on the study of novel endophyte fescue along with endophyte infected Kentucky 31 fescue and the impact on beef cow performance.

“A special part of the program will deal with hair shedding of cows and the genetic implications noted thus far. A stop will be made at the pens where heifers are on the Grow Safe feed system to measure their residual feed intake (RFI),” said Cole.

Following the tour the Southwest Missouri Cattlemen’s Association will serve a complimentary, ribeye steak supper. In addition to the hosts, speakers at the farms will include MU Extension specialists and Missouri Department of Agriculture representatives.

Reservations for the event are not required, but will help in the meal and transportation planning, and can be made by calling 417-466-3102.

Directions to the first stop, Shiloh Land and Cattle: take exit 49 off I-44 just east of Mt. Vernon. Go west on Hwy. 174 about 150 yards to Lawrence County Road 1163. Follow it east and north to Lawrence County 2090 2.4 miles. Go east on 2090 1.2 miles to the ranch. There will be Beef Tour signs along the way.

The Beef Tour is sponsored by the MU Extension Commercial Agriculture Program with assistance from several Gold Sponsors.

For more information, contact any of the MU Extension livestock specialists in southwest Missouri: Eldon Cole in Mt. Vernon, (417) 466-3102, Andy McCorkill in Dallas County at (417) 345-7551 or Dona Goede in Cedar County, (417) 276-3313.

Peaches are so Tasty and Nutritious that August is Named “Peach Month”

August is peach month and now is the season to enjoy this sweet little fruit according to Christeena Haynes, a nutrition and health education specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

“A peach is a nutritious, low-calorie fruit to add to any meal or snack. They are a source of vitamin A, which helps keep your eyes healthy and may lower your risk of heart disease and certain types of cancers, and Vitamin C, which helps heal wounds,” said Haynes.

Peaches also contain potassium, magnesium, and fiber. Potassium helps maintain healthy blood pressure and magnesium assists with building strong bones. Fiber works to lower cholesterol and keep the gut healthy.

SELECTION

When selecting fresh peaches, Haynes says to choose fruit that is firm but soft to the touch. The color depends on the variety of the peach, and it is not an indication of how the fruit will taste.

“They should have a strong, sweet smell. Avoid peaches that are blemished,” said Haynes.

STORAGE

Ripe peaches may be stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for three to five days.
If the fruit needs to ripen, keep the peaches in a paper bag at room temperature for one to three days or until ripe, and then refrigerate.
PREPARATION

Peaches should be rinsed thoroughly before consuming or cooking with them. Peaches can be eaten with or without the peel, but keep in mind that many of the nutrients are contained in the peel according to Haynes.

“If you need to peel peaches for a recipe, it can be done quickly by blanching them in boiling water for a minute and then placing them immediately into ice water to stop the cooking,” said Haynes.

Lemon juice may be used on sliced peaches to maintain their bright color and prevent them from turning brown.

For more information on nutrition issues, go online to http://extension.missouri.edu or contact one of the nutrition and health education specialists working in the Ozarks: Christeena Haynes, in Dallas County, (417) 345-7551; Kaume, Lydia in Barton County, (417) 682-3579; or Dr. Pam Duitsman, in Springfield, (417) 886-2059.

4-H’ers in Greene County Recount Ways Program Has Impacted and Improved Their Young Lives

Jessica Rash says 4-H opened a whole new world of opportunities for her to learn and grow. But this Clever, Mo. resident might not have been in the Jot ‘Em Down 4-H Club if her mother had not also been in 4-H as a youngster.

“I joined 4-H because my mom was in 4-H when she was younger. She signed up my sister and when my sister joined, it seemed really fun so I decided to join too,” said Rash.

According to Rash, she has learned teamwork in 4-H and she has learned to make friends by attending special events like 4-H camp and Teen Congress. Her favorite activity has been the 4-H Photocorps and that experience has helped her decide to use photography in her future career.

“Just all of the opportunities have been great,” said Rash. “This year I was chosen to represent Missouri 4-H at the National 4-H conference. This year I have also been chosen to go to National 4-H Congress to represent Missouri 4-H. I am one of twenty.”

HORSE SENSE

Cara Driskell is a member of the Sac River Stablemates 4-H Club in Willard. In just her second year she is already showing horses, learning about geology and conservation.

“In my conservation project I did a notebook about plants and animals. I learned about a lot of new animals and plants. I had so much fun this year and I know I’m going to have more fun this year,” said Driskell.

Ella O’Connor is a member of the same 4-H club. Her mother started the club when Ella was just nine months old.

“I have been having fun in 4-H since before I was one,” said Ella. “I’ve learned more than just horsemanship. Being in 4-H has helped me learn about different animals and my environment. I think that everyone should be in 4-H because you can learn anything you want in 4-H.”

SPEAKING SKILLS

Mattie Cobban of Fair Grove joined the Sac River Stablemates 4-H Club hoping to improve her animal skills. But she soon discovered that she would have to give demonstrations and public speeches too.

“Through this experience I developed better talking skills and self confidence. I feel comfortable speaking to people now,” said Mattie.

Jessica Cobban of Fair Grove joined her sister in the Sac River Stablemates 4-H Club to work with horses and dogs.

“I was too young for FFA so my mom found out about 4-H and I was hooked from the first meeting. … My club was very welcoming and in the seven years I have been in 4-H I have learned many things,” said Jessica.

Jessica says 4-H has helped her develop friendships with students her age but it has also helped her learn to get along well with adults.

“I respect their authority not just they are older than me but because they are respectful to me and deserve my respect. If 4-H has taught me anything it is the ability respect and be polite to all people,” said Jessica.

CONFIDENCE

Kiana Kerschner of Republic joined the Horsin Around 4H Club to learn more about animals but she has also learned valuable lessons about her community and plants.

“My 4-H experience has helped make me a better person. I’ve learned how to help people with everyday problems and it’s helped me be able to be more confident in myself,” said Kiana.

Blake Wright of Clever is a member of the Lucky Eleven 4H Club and he does projects in dairy and wood working. He says the dairy cow camp at Robthom Farm in Springfield has been a highlight of his learning experience.

“Being a 4-Her has changed my life significantly. You have to be dedicated to do what you say you are going to do,” said Wright.

For information on 4-H contact any of these 4-H youth development specialists in southwest Missouri: Velynda Cameron in Greene County at (417) 881-8909; Bob McNary in Jasper County at (417) 358-2158; Karla Deaver in Lawrence County at (417) 466-3102; or Jeremy Elliott-Engel in Newton County at (417) 455-9500.

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“Eat Well, Be Well with Diabetes” Series Offered in Springfield During September

“Eat Well, Be Well with Diabetes” is a four-class series designed for adults with Type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes. The series will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Thursdays, Sept. 6, Sept. 13, Sept. 20 and Sept. 27 at Greene County Extension Center inside the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo.

The program will be facilitated by Christeena Haynes, nutrition and health education specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

The cost of the program is $25. Contact the Greene County Extension by calling (417) 881-8909 for more information and to pre-register by Friday, Aug. 31. The number of participants is limited to 15.

“Spouses and other family members of those with diabetes will also benefit from the classes,” said Haynes.

“Eat Well, Be Well with Diabetes” provides participants with practical information and skills needed to self-manage diabetes and promote optimal health. The series teaches the many aspects of diabetes self-care with a strong focus on nutrition.

The program includes demonstration and tasting of easy recipes as well as hands-on activities to encourage discussion and sharing among all participants. Participants will also receive copies of all recipes used in class plus many more for home use.

Goalsetting, Drought and 4-H: What do These Have in Common?

Like many others, I have been captivated for the last few days by the Summer Olympics. It is almost overwhelming to watch the myriad of emotions that these athletes are experiencing. It reaches out to us as we watch, and makes us become a part of what we are viewing on the television screen. As each event unfolds, we watch the best of the best in a fierce competition. We have seen hope, success, exhilarating triumph, and also disappointments, and defeat. Whether they win or lose, each of these athletes will go home knowing that they were an Olympic competitor, and they will be better for having the experience.


The commitment that these individuals make to their sport is tremendous. I have been impressed over and over as I have listened to the stories of how some of these people began training for their events at four, five, and six years of age. The many, many hours that they spend practicing are almost incomprehensible. How many of us make that kind of commitment to the important things in our lives? How often do we pursue are goals and dreams with that kind of determination?

Setting goals, making commitments, and practicing to improve our skills are concepts that we are very familiar with in 4-H. Just like the Olympic hopefuls, we invest time in ourselves to improve our skills, and often the first challenge is not to compete against someone else, but to sharpen our own skills and do just a little better than we have before; to “Make the Best Better.”

As this summer begins to wind down and come to an end let’s look back at our efforts through the last year. As always, I have been very pleased and impressed with your projects I have seen at the fairs. Don’t forget to thank your “coaches” (project , club leaders and parents) for their efforts on your behalf. Many of you have had great successes, and many of you have had disappointments. Our first goal must be to learn from the experience, either way.

The drought conditions we are currently experiencing may have a big impact on some of your projects for this year and maybe for next year as well. Let’s remember that even a drought is not a permanent obstacle to our plans and goals, but is another challenge to deal with. Each challenge that we meet makes us stronger.

Written by Bob McNary, 4-H youth development specialist in Newton County, Carthage, Mo.

Take Steps to Avoid Being a Victim of Identity Theft

FORYSTH, Mo. – According to the Federal Trade Commission, identity theft is a serious crime. It occurs when your personal information is stolen and used without your knowledge to commit fraud or other crimes. Identity theft can cost you time and money.

“Identity theft can destroy your credit and ruin your good name,” said Nellie Lamers, family financial education specialist, University of Missouri Extension.

It is important that consumers take identity theft seriously and do some things to detect, deter and defend against it.

“Consumers can detect suspicious activity by routinely monitoring their financial accounts and billing statements. An individual can deter identity thieves by safeguarding their information,” said Lamers. “Consumers can also defend against ID theft as soon as they suspect it.”

Lamers also recommend the following simple steps to help protect you from ID theft:

• Check your bank/credit card statements monthly for possible errors/fraudulent charges, contact the company if you do not receive your statement.

• Don’t carry your Social Security card with you unless you need it.

• Keep your financial information in a safe location where others do not have access to it.

• Use strong, unique passwords for online accounts.

• Shred paperwork with personal information, including free credit card offers.

• If you find a problem, contact the company immediately to correct it, check your credit reports with Equifax, Experian and Trans Union and work with them to correct any misinformation.

Visit the Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft Center at www.ftc.gov to find out more.

University of Missouri Extension programs focus on the high-priority needs of Missourians. Each county extension center, with oversight by locally elected and appointed citizens, is your local link to practical education on almost anything.

Extension’s New “Live and Learn” Series Begins in August

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A new "live and learn" series of classes at the Greene County Extension Center begins in mid-August according to David Burton, county program director for Greene County Extension.

The 50 minute classes run from noon to 1 p.m. and cost $10 per person. Attendees can bring a lunch or purchase snacks in the Botanical Center bookstore and learn something new each week from a variety of specialists on a variety of topics.

Classes will be held in one of the classrooms at the Greene County Extension, located inside the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center, 2400 S. Scenic, Springfield.

The list of classes is being added updated on a regular basis and is available online at extension.missouri.edu/greene. Classes planned for the “Live and Learn” series at the time of this release include:

• Aug 24: “Using Social Media in Disaster Recovery,” taught by David Burton, community development specialist with MU Extension.

• Aug. 29: “Planning the Fall Vegetable Garden,” taught by Patrick Byers, horticulture specialist with MU Extension.

• Sept 19: “Enhancing & Exercising your Memory,” taught by Dr. Jim Wirth, human development specialist with MU Extension.

• Sept. 26: “Who Gets Grandma's Yellow Pie Plate,” taught by Dr. Jim Wirth, human development specialist with MU Extension.

• Oct. 3: “Mind-Body Relationship and Health,” taught by Dr. Jim Wirth, human development specialist with MU Extension.

• Oct. 10: “World War II Fighter Pilot Stories,” taught by Dr. Jim Wirth, human development specialist with MU Extension.

• Oct. 17: “Managing Emotions under Pressure,” taught by Dr. Jim Wirth, human development specialist with MU Extension.

• Oct 25: “Vegetable Gardening in the Winter,” taught by Patrick Byers, horticulture specialist with MU Extension.

Other planned programs that have not yet been assigned a date but cover topics like fall gardening, nutrition, news writing, one-room school history, using social media in disaster recovery, home energy conservation, creating an oral history project, Ozarks history, how to lead a public deliberation and more.

“This series is part of an ongoing effort to expand the educational offerings by MU Extension in Greene County,” said Burton. “If you come in for a class, you might as well bring in a soil sample in from your garden for a soil test and save yourself a trip.”

For more information, call the Greene County Extension Center at 417-881-8909. Information and order forms are also available online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene.

Carcass Event Helps Youth Steer Project Participants Determine Winners

MT. VERNON, Mo. -- The 2012 Lawrence County Missouri Youth Steer Project wrapped up its carcass phase on July 30 with the evaluation of the six steers that began the program on March 3. The six young 4-H and FFA members each fed and cared for their steers. Five of the six head were home-raised.

The project’s goal was to focus attention on the objective and economic measurement side of beef production, post-weaning. Rate of gain, carcass quality and yield grade were evaluated on the July 30. The steers had been shown in early June at the county fair for a subjective evaluation. At that event the exhibitors “sold” their animals during the premium sale.

The steer’s average beginning weight was 758 lbs. One heavy steer was slaughtered early due to his size and finish. The other five were fed for 141 days and had an average daily gain of 3.61 lbs.

The boys and girls conducted their own subjective evaluation of each steer ahead of slaughter. The steers were slaughtered at Cloud’s Meats in Carthage. After a week’s chill, they were graded. The average carcass weight was 702 lbs.

The fat cover averaged .35 in. with a range from .15 to .5 inch. Ribeye area averaged 12.3 square inches with a range from 11.5 to 14.0 square inches. The quality grades ran from Select minus to average Choice. Two steers would qualify for Certified Angus Beef.

No placings were made on the carcasses but a value was established using a current grid price sheet from a major packer. The carcasses were marketed by the youth and their parents. Some did go into their home freezers.

Following the evaluation, hosts Mike and Andy Cloud processed one side of a steer to show how the carcass is broken into the wholesale and retail cuts.

“This was a special treat as many had never seen this done and the Cloud’s made it look so easy,” said Eldon Cole, a livestock specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

The project will conclude in September when each participant reports on their feed costs and other expenses incurred during the year. Based on the steer’s beginning value and their carcass value at the end when expenses are deducted there may not be any profits. However, much was learned and plans are in place to repeat this practical learning experience next year.

“The bottom line is there was not a single winner or champion as all six youth and their parents learned a lot during the project,” said Cole.

The project leader was John Kleiboeker, Stotts City assisted by Eldon Cole, University of Missouri Extension livestock specialist, Mt. Vernon. For additional information contact Cole at 417-466-3102 or colee@missouri.edu.

PHOTOS AVAILABLE: Photos from the carcass event are available for free download and use at www.flickr.com/MUExtension417.