Download - April 2014
“Reaching Out Report” the Greene County Extension Newsletter
2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65807
Email: [email protected] * Tel: (417) 881-8909
April 2014 * Vol. 6, Issue 4
Upcoming events …
page 2
Council letter …
page 3
David Burton …
page 4
Agriculture …
page 5
Patrick Byers …
pages 6-7
Master Naturalists …
page 7
Master Gardeners …
pages 8-9
4-H Report …
page 10
Pam Duitsman…
page 11
Nutrition program…
Pages 12-13
Jeff Barber …
page 14
2014 Friends list …
page 15
Sponsors & Partners
page 16
University of Missouri Extension provides equal opportunity to all participants in extension programs and activities, and for all
employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without discrimination on
the basis of their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability or status as a protected veteran.
Online Event Calendar The most up-to-date list of re-
ported upcoming MU Extension
programs in Greene County is
available online at
extension.missouri.edu/greene
Calendar is visible on right
side of page.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Debate of
Candidates
for
Presiding
Commissioner April 29, 2014
6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Executive Conference Center
910 W Battlefield Rd, Springfield
Hosted and funded by members of the
Greene County Extension Council
Moderated by Extension Council member Matthew Simpson
Event program available online
at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene
Bob Cirtin
(Republican) Steve Helms
(Republican) Jerry Fenstermaker
(Republican)
Donna
Bergen
(Democrat)
Benjamin
Brixey
(Liberterian)
Selected Upcoming Extension Events in Greene County
Business Development Classes Regular business classes are held at the Small
Business Development and Technology Center,
405 North Jefferson Ave., Springfield. Assorted
dates and topics. Register by calling 417-836-5685
or check online www.ws.missouristate.edu/sbdc.
Organic Gardening Academy Topics will help you balance your garden with nat-
urally occurring products and practices. All classes
are at 6 p.m. Call MU Extension 881-8909
May 1 -- Preparing Garden Soil
May 6 -- Basic Plant Nutrition/ Organic Fertilizers
Jun 12 -- Growing Organic Vegetables at Home
Jun 19 -- Disease Scouting and Treatments
Jul 16 -- Organic Pest Control
Jul 31 -- Organic Weed Control
Aug 7 -- Organic Gardening for Pollinators and
Beneficial Insects
Aug 21 -- Garden Planning for the Next Season
Sep 18 -- Composting
Sep 30 -- Sustainable Gardening
Botanical Camps Kids (age 7-11) are invited to spend the morning
with Botanical staff, Extension specialists and vol-
unteers to connect with gardens. Call 891-1515
Date: June 2-6 and July 7-11 Gardening
June 9-13 and July 14-18 Arts in the Garden
June 16-20 and July 21-25 Bugs & Butterflies
Time: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Fee: $75/week; FOG members $50/week
Young Sprouts in the Garden Explore child-oriented displays, crafts, and activi-
ties designed to nurture an appreciation for garden-
ing and nature. Visit the Plant Zoo, climb a tree,
“pollinate” flowers, observe ladybugs and more.
Call 881-8909 or visit www.mggreene.org.
Age: All ages Fee: Free
Date: May 17 Time: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Salute to Century Farms To be a sponsor or purchase tickets call Greene
County Extension at 417-881-8909
Sept. 30, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Fee: $25 per person
Held at the Round Barn Event Center between
Ash Grove and Willard
Get tickets at our office or order tickets online
at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene.
Put on your jeans and
boots and come celebrate
our agricultural heritage
in an historical setting
and help honor the Cen-
tury Farms in Greene
County. Our guest
speaker will be David
Baker, Assistant Dean of Agriculture Extension at
the University of Missouri. He will discuss the
100 year history of Cooperative Extension and the
specific challenges facing family farms in the
coming 15-20 years. We will honor those being
named “Century Farms” this year and have musi-
cal entertainment provided by Acoustic Essays, a
traditional bluegrass and classic country band
based in Springfield. Over 110 farms in Greene
County have
been owned
and farmed
by the same
family for
over 100
years. That
is a great
example of
successful
family farm-
ing and a
good reason to celebrate. All proceeds from the
event will benefit the Greene County Extension
Council.
Program Calendar Online The most up-to-date list of reported upcoming MU Extension programs in Greene County
is available online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene
Calendar visible on right side of page.
Greene County “Reaching Out” Report Last Updated April 24, 2014
Round Barn Event Cnt.
Acoustic Essays
Online at http://extension.missouri.edu Page 3
Greene County “Reaching Out” Report Last Updated April 24, 2014
A Word from the Extension Council
members for organizations like Master Gardeners
of Greene County, Master Naturalists, Friends of
the Garden, Greater Ozarks Hosta Society,
Friends of the Gray-Campbell Farmstead, Ozark
Daylily Society, Federated Garden Clubs, other
park partners and friends. Additional park visi-
tors will mean more rentals of park facilities and
park volunteers. Of course with the increased
visits and conversation the park will become rec-
ognized even sooner as a “must see” location for
regional residents and beyond. You can help us
spread the message
Please join Friends of
Greene County Extension,
which is now working to
provide Extension needed
financial support due to
reduced funding from the
Greene County Commis-
sion. Again, over the last
few years the Extension
office’s operating income
has been reduced to the
state mandated minimum
of $10,000, this is not
enough to sustain ongoing
operations. There is more
information plus a Giving
Form link at http://extension.missouri.edu/
greene/giving.aspx that can be used to join
"Friends" helping support MU Extension opera-
tions in Greene County.
Make your tax deductible check out to Uni-
versity of Missouri and just write “Friends of
Greene County Extension” on the memo line of
your check and the front of the Giving Form.
Please mail or deliver the check to Greene Coun-
ty Extension Center, 2400 S. Scenic Ave.,
Springfield, Mo. 65807. For more infor-
mation call (417) 881-8909 or visit http://
extension.missouri.edu/greene/
Thank you for your continued support.
George Deatz
Greene County Extension Council
Greene County Extension's value
to the Springfield Botanical
Gardens and county residents
Why is Greene County Extension important to
the residents of Greene County? That is a great
question. The reason is simple, the University of
Missouri Extension is more than just a resident of
the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center
building at 2400 S. Scenic Ave. It is the “heart” of
university research based information available to
residents of Greene County
plus others from outside the
county. For example, there
are many people calling and
coming into the Master Gar-
deners of Greene County
Hotline service (nearly 2000
last year alone) looking for
answers to the many hun-
dreds of questions that come
up regarding horticulture.
Other contacts with the Ex-
tension offices deal with 4-
H, agriculture and other is-
sues. The Extension office is
where people who want a
soil test or to have a plant analyzed for disease
come to leave their samples for processing.
In addition to horticulture and agriculture other
main MU Extension programs focus on nutrition,
parenting, entrepreneurship, personal finance, fire
and rescue training plus more. The Botanical Cen-
ter meeting rooms are used to present many topics
of interest to the public, all of which bring large
number of visitors to the Springfield Botanical
Gardens.
Once visitors are exposed to the Master Gar-
dener Hotline service, meeting rooms, etc. at the
Botanical Center they will either be spending some
time exploring the grounds or return to visit the
114 acres with its 36 gardens and other features
later. Word of mouth will then bring their many
contacts to the Springfield Botanical Gardens if
they enjoyed what they saw and the way they were
treated by Extension and other staff members.
All of this activity leads to more potential
Would you consider joining
“Friends of Greene County
Extension” and help provide
the financial support
needed to keep Extension
meeting its vital role in the
county and at the
Botanical Center?
Online at http://extension.missouri.edu Page 4
Greene County “Reaching Out” Report Last Updated April 24, 2014
Civic Communication Specialist and County Program Director
GARDEN WRITING:
Conducting this program
again on May 1. Working
to expand the audience
and get additional help
from Springfield Writer’s
Guild members so pro-
gram can be ongoing.
County Presiding
Commissioner Debate Members of the
Greene County Extension
Council hosted a debate for candidates running
for Greene County Presiding Commissioner on
April 29 at the Executive Conference Center,
910 W Battlefield Rd, Springfield. In advance of
the event we had coverage in all county newspa-
pers and on most television and radio stations
which helped to draw a crowd. There was also
great media coverage of the event itself.
Council member Matthew Simpson was
moderator for the debate, and other council mem-
bers took on assignments along with Savannah
Fitzgerald, a semester intern with Greene County
Extension from Missouri State.
Debate participants included: Bob Cirtin
(Republican), Steve Helms (Republican), Jerry
Fenstermaker (Republican) and Benjamin T
Brixey (Liberterian). Donna Bergen (Democrat)
was unable to attend.
KEY PROGRAMS OR EVENTS
Internal reporting known as webapps.
CPD phone conference on upcoming training.
Southwest Regional Council meeting
KOLR TV Spot
I submit three special newspaper columns each
week. These are provided free-of-charge as
part of our mission in public education.
BY THE NUMBERS (for the month)
News Service Subscribers: 9,667 weekly
Requests for advisement: 34
Regular weekly news columns: 16
TV/Radio Interviews – 3
Total articles written this month – 44
COUNTY PROGRAM DIRECTOR DUTIES
Financial oversight, travel authorizations.
Park Board and County Commission mtgs.
Friends of Greene County Extension.
Edited monthly “Reaching Out Report”
Regular updates to county extension website
Coordinating meetings of council committees
Working on funding options to place a part-
time Youth Program Assistant in Greene
County to support local 4-H programs.
Working on funding options to expand the po-
sition of Horticulture Educator to full-time.
Grant proposals declined by Gannett Founda-
tion, Mercy and County Senior Citizens Board.
SOCIAL MEDIA REACH (March 2014) Indi-
viduals reached during this month via the regional
extension social media tools: 187,486.
ANNIE’S PROJECT: This program for women in
farming has concluded. We had 24 in attendance
for six Monday nights.
ONGOING PROJECTS National conference for historic schools group
in St. Joe and expansion of Missouri group.
Marketing of Extension programs to local busi-
nesses for local specialists.
Ongoing fundraising efforts and mailings, in-
cluded contact with 2013 donors that have not
yet given in 2014.
Work on a Taney County program grant.
David Burton Civic communication
www.botanicalcenter.org
Online at http://extension.missouri.edu Page 5
Greene County “Reaching Out” Report Last Updated April 24, 2014
Agriculture
for an average of $2600.
Julius Fraley, Houston
paid $3000 to claim the
high price for the Charo-
lais.
Cork Cattle Company,
Wentworth had the lone
SimAngus. Jacob Da-
vison, Aurora paid $3700
to take him home.
According to Cole, the
bulls in the sale had to
meet some strict standards
for calving ease, weaning
and yearling weight, milk
and intramuscular fat ex-
pected progeny difference
(EPD) values. “They also
must weigh 1100 pounds
or more and have a frame
score of 5 or more at 365
days of age,” said Cole.
The SW Missouri BCIA
welcomes prospective con-
signors for their next sale,
Oct. 27. Details on the
process are available from
University Extension live-
stock specialists or contact
sales manager Pam
Naylor, Buffalo 417-345-
8330. Also, check for in-
formation on the website
at www.swmobcia.com.
The 83rd Southwest
Missouri Beef Cattle Im-
provement Association’s
bull sale March 31 at Spring-
field Livestock Marketing
Center followed the current
beef market trend with a rec-
ord average price of $4389.
The 37 successful bid-
ders on the bulls shattered
the association’s previous
high of $3393, set at the Oc-
tober, 2013 sale according to
Eldon Cole, livestock spe-
cialist with University of
Missouri Extension.
The top seller and new
record price was $6800 on
an Angus, October, 2012
son of SAV Bismarck 5682
consigned by Naylor’s An-
gus, Buffalo. The success-
ful bidder was Joshua Ma-
han, Strafford. The 6.8
frame bull ranked in the top
30 percentile or better on
calving ease direct, weaning
weight, yearling weight,
intramuscular fat, ribeye
area and $Wean.
A herdmate, and also a
Bismarck son was the sec-
ond high seller at $6500.
The six Naylor bulls aver-
aged $5467. The 31 Angus
bulls averaged $4598.
Three Polled Hereford
bulls, all consigned by
Bonebrake Herefords,
Springfield, averaged
$3650. Their top seller
brought $4500 form Charles
Harris, Taneyville.
Bebout Charolais, Theo-
dosia sold the two Charolais
A bull waits patiently to see where he’ll go as
the large crowd looks on.
Auctioneer, Jerry Lehmann works the crowd
for another $100 or $250 bid.
Lot #27, sale topper at $6800 from Naylor’s
Angus, Buffalo
Prices at Bull Sale in Springfield Shatters Previous Records
Online at http://extension.missouri.edu Page 6
Greene County “Reaching Out” Report Last Updated April 24, 2014
Horticulture Specialist
“Elderberry Research
and Development in
Missouri,” Elderber-
ry Mentoring Meet-
ing, Redbud, IL
(4/23/14)
“Elderberry Culti-
vars,” Elderberry
Mentoring Meeting,
Redbud, IL (4/23/14)
“Elderberry Pest
Management,” Elder-
berry Mentoring
Meeting, Redbud, IL
(4/23/14)
Coordinated: Master Gardeners of Greene County Potting
Shed University classes, Botanical Center,
Springfield (3/31, 4/7, 4/14, 4/21)
LU/MU Composting workshop, Mount
Vernon (3/27/14)
Master Gardeners of Greene County board
meeting, Springfield (3/31/14)
Master Gardeners of Greene County core
training (4/1/14)
OTC – TLM advisory board meeting,
Springfield (4/8/14)
Master Gardeners of Greene County chapter
meeting, Springfield (4/8/14)
Beginning Farmers workshop and tour,
FMO/KRAFT series, Springfield (4/9/14)
Springfield Plateau Master Naturalist Board
meeting, Springfield (4/9/14)
Apple tree planting event, Farmers Park de-
velopment, Springfield (4/10/14)
Grafting Demonstration, Botanical Center,
Springfield (4/11/14)
Master Gardeners of Greene County Hotline
Development meeting, Springfield (4/21/14)
Springfield Plateau Master Naturalist chapter
meeting, Springfield (4/21/14)
Horticulture soil test reports - recommenda-
tions and distribution for SW region – 166
reports during reporting period
Community Contact: TV and Radio
5 live interviews with KOLR10’s Chris
Smith
4 radio interviews with Morris Westfall’s
“Farm Page of the Air”
2 interviews with KSMU on freeze damage to
fruit crops
1 interview with KY3 on freeze damage to
fruit crops
1 interview with KOLR10 “Ozarks Live” pro-
gram
I interview with KSPR on freeze damage to
fruit crops
Print media
Contributed to several articles and interviews
Requests for information
Telephone contacts – 77 for advisement
Email contacts – 49 contacts
Office visits, professional contacts – 10 for
consultation and advisement
Farm site visits – 10 for consultation and ad-
visement
Programs Presented: “Plant Diseases,” Master Gardeners of
Greene County core training, Springfield
(3/27/14)
“Seed Saving,” Springfield Herb Society seed
swap, Springfield (3/29/14)
“Food Safety From Farm to Fork,” Carthage
(4/1/14)
“Herbaceous Flowers,” Jasper County Mas-
ter Gardeners core training, Carthage (4/1/14)
“Home Fruit Production,” Master Gardeners
of Greene County core training, Springfield
(4/1/14)
“Getting Started in Produce Farming,” Begin-
ning Farmers workshop and tour, FMO/
KRAFT series, Springfield (4/9/14)
“Home Fruit Production,” Cedar County
Master Gardener core training, Stockton
(4/10/14)
“Overview of Organic Gardening,” Organic
Gardening Academy, Springfield (4/17/14)
“Developing Issues,” Master Gardeners of
Greene County Hotline Development meet-
ing, Springfield (4/21/14)
Patrick Byers Horticulture
Online at http://extension.missouri.edu Page 7
Greene County “Reaching Out” Report Last Updated April 24, 2014
Horticulture Specialist
Participated in: Metropolitan Food Systems team meeting, Colum-
bia (3/28/14)
Global Food Systems Thematic Team meeting,
Columbia (3/31/14)
SW Regional Faculty meeting, Springfield
(4/15/14)
SW Regional AG Category meeting, Springfield
(4/15/14)
Grand Opening, Webb City Farmers Market,
Webb City (4/15/14)
Regional horticulture specialist search committee
meeting (4/16/14)
UMEA quarterly Adobe Connect meeting
(4/23/14)
Upcoming programming Master Gardeners of Greene County annual plant
sale, Springfield (4/26/14)
“Soil management for organic gardeners,” Organ-
ic Gardening Academy, Springfield (5/1/14)
First Thursday informational display, Farmers
Market of the Ozarks, Springfield (5/1/14)
First Friday informational display, Webb City
Farmers Market, Webb City (5/2/14)
Master Gardeners of Greene County spring ban-
quet,
Springfield
(5/4/14)
“Plant nutri-
tion and
organic fer-
tilizers,”
Organic
Gardening
Academy,
Springfield
(5/6/14)
Young
Sprouts in
the Garden,
Botanical
Center,
Springfield
(5/17/14) Shown above: Royal Raindrops Crabap-
ple in Master Gardener’s Demonstration
Garden in Nathanael Greene Park.
The Missouri Master Naturalist Program
results from a partnership created in 2004
between the Missouri Department of
Conservation (MDC) and MU Extension
(MUE). The Missouri Master Naturalist
Program is recognized as a “named and
branded” program within MU Extension.
The MU School of Natural Resources is
the academic home for the Program. See
www.springfieldmasternaturalist.com or
springfieldmn.blogspot.com/
Attracting Bluebirds to
your Yard Eastern bluebirds (Sialia sialis) are a
popular species and recognized as Missouri's
state bird (Figure 1). Bluebirds, often re-
ferred to as harbingers of spring, are year-
round residents in many locations across the
state, although populations from northern
areas commonly move to southern parts of
the state and beyond in winter. Fortunately,
these birds can be easily attracted to home
and farm landscapes with correctly construct-
ed nesting structures in appropriate locations.
University of Missouri Extension has a
publication on this topic available online at
http://extension.missouri.edu/p/G9429.
Online at http://extension.missouri.edu Page 8
Greene County “Reaching Out” Report Last Updated April 24, 2014
Master Gardeners of Greene County
The Master Gardener Program is a popular and
successful statewide volunteer community-service
organization administered through University of
Missouri Extension. The organization’s goal is to
train gardeners who are willing to share their
knowledge with others. Master Gardeners become
volunteers of University of Missouri Extension and
donate hours for community educational projects in
horticulture. Volunteer activities include working
with non-profit organizations, maintaining commu-
nity gardens, conducting workshops, participating
in a Master Gardener speakers’ bureau and staffing
the Master Gardener “Hotline.” The Master Gar-
deners of Greene County can boast of over 300
members. For more information visit the chapters
website at http://www.mggreene.org.
Kelly McGowan Horticulture Educator
University of Missouri
Extension
usually found on
stone fruit trees
the caterpillars
will eventually
become moths and
complete one life
cycle per year
the shiny egg
masses overwinter
on the tips of
branches. Watch
for these and re-
move before they
have a change to
hatch in spring.
after hatching, the larvae spin a web for
protection; the web can be removed by
hand.
to escape predators, the caterpillars come
out at night to feed; the best time to remove
the web is in the evening before they come
out. Bt spray can also be used.
Young Sprouts May 17
It’s that time again: Saturday, May 17 from 9
a.m. to 1 p.m.
is the Master
Gardeners of
Greene Coun-
ty’s annual
Young Sprouts
in the Garden
event. It will
be held at the
Springfield -
Greene County
Botanical Cen-
ter grounds and the admission is free.
This is a fun opportunity for kids to learn
about nature and gardening. For more infor-
mation visit the Master Gardener website at
www.mggreene.org or call 417-881-8909.
Master Gardener Hotline in
Full Swing
Just a reminder that the Master Gardener
hotline is open to the public for the 2014 sea-
son. Calls, emails, and walk ins are welcome.
The volunteers in the hotline are available
to answer all of your gardening questions from
9-4:30 Monday through Friday and Saturdays
from 9– a.m. to noon.
They are located inside the Springfield -
Greene County Botanical Center at 2400 S.
Scenic Ave. Springfield. The phone # is 417-
881-8909 ext. 320 and the email address is
Beware of the Tent Caterpillar
The Master Gardener Hotline is beginning
to receive calls on tent caterpillar. Here are
some of the most frequently asked questions:
Online at http://extension.missouri.edu Page 9
Greene County “Reaching Out” Report Last Updated April 24, 2014
Master Gardeners of Greene County
Master Gardener Events:
5/4/14 - 4 p.m.— Spring Banquet
4/13/14 - 6:30 p.m.—Monthly Chapter
Meeting
5/17/14 - 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.—Young Sprouts
in the Garden
6/7/14 - Annual Master Gardener garden
tour
6/26/14 - Road trip
to Linnaeus Garden
in Tulsa, OK
Member Spotlight:
Minuen Odom
Q: When did you join Master Gardener’s
and why?
I joined MG in 2013. I wanted to learn more
about gardening correctly by using compost,
mulches, and appropriate plants.
Q: What kind of gardening background do
you have?
I was raised on a farm and always worked in
several gardens. We planted at least three
large vegetable gardens and sometimes had a
“hidden” watermelon patch. I did not garden
during my working years.
Q: What is your favorite thing about Master
Gardeners of Greene County?
My favorite thing is meeting other gardeners
and the rich resources of knowledge available
to us.
Q: What is one of your favorite growing tips
that you would like to share?
A lawn can’t have too many tulips or daffodils!
Q: What are your favorite plants?
Basil, Dutchman’s Breeches (Dicentra cucul-
laria), Wild Ginger
Q: Anything else you would like to share
about yourself?
I enjoy cooking the fresh vegetables from our
gardens; I particularly like to can and freeze for
the winter. I’m a retired RN and educator; I
have 4 sons scattered from the east to west
coast; I am married to a geologist who works
for Environmental Works, Inc.
Online at http://extension.missouri.edu Page 10
Greene County “Reaching Out” Report Last Updated April 24, 2014
4-H Report for Greene County
More About 4-H As the largest out-of-school
youth organization in the world,
4-H is open to all boys and
girls, ages 5 to18. Children who
are five to seven years old are eligible for 4-H
Clover Kids, an introductory program. Youths
who are 8 to 18 years of age can select from a
variety of 4-H projects and activities that stress
social and life skills in areas like decision mak-
ing, communication, social interaction, civic
responsibility and physical skills. Children do
not have to live on a farm to join 4-H. Pro-
ject opportunities include computers, robotics,
foods and nutrition, horticulture, large and
small animals and more. Missouri 4-H is Uni-
versity of Missouri Extension's youth develop-
ment program. Learn more online.
Personal Presentations Day 4-H Clubs in Greene County participated in a “Personal
Presentations Day” on April 13 at the Springfield Livestock
Market meeting room.
As seen in the picture above, nine-year old Jack gave an
illustrated talk during Personal Presentation Day.
Teen Council Conference Above is the official photo of the Greene County delegates
for State 4-H Teen Conference. The 4-H youth specialist,
Karla Deaver, is on the back row center.
Contact 4-H Youth Development Specialist Karla Deaver at the Lawrence County Extension office
by telephone at 417/466-3102 or by email at [email protected].
MU Extension 4-H program
deserves support By Lynn Neidigh, Willard
Please support University of Mis-
souri Extension’s 4-H program. My son
has a developmental disability, and 4-H is
one of the few youth organizations that
has the innate structure to provide him
with priceless opportunities and support.
Children interact and learn from
adults and peers in a structured yet self-
paced man-ner. It is a safe environment
for youths to be able to explore their in-
terest and discover themselves.
Invest in a program that has the
structure and capability to make a huge
difference in the lives of all youths in the
county. Give a financial gift to Friends of
Missouri Extension.
Nutrition Specialist
Online at http://extension.missouri.edu Page 11
Greene County “Reaching Out” Report Last Updated April 24, 2014
Duitsman
separate key recommendations
focused on building our Food Sys-
tem, and providing practical solu-
tions for issues such as food pro-
duction, processing, distribution,
consumption, and waste disposal.
Economic Development
through Local Food This “Seeds of Prosperity” team is working to
strengthen the local Food system in Greene County
with a focus to increase Economic Development
for the county. This team met in April to plan
workshops to reach out to producers and large sys-
tems.
Regional Food Solutions; Food CORE; and the
Ozark Regional Food Policy Council.
Greene County Food Day committee Pam is a member of the planning team for the
implementation of Food Day Activities for 2014.
Greene County Extension will be a sponsoring or-
ganization this year, with educational events be-
ginning July 1, and running into November, The
objective for Food Day events are to promote safe,
healthier diets; support sustainable farms; and end
hunger. A 2014 marketing and implementation
plan was developed in April.
MU Extension Program Integration Pam is a member of the Health Systems team,
working to: develop health-related programs that
integrate research from the MU system, and bring
evidence-based education out to communities
through Regional Specialists. This team met twice
during April.
USDA Agriculture and Food Research In-
itiative (AFRI) Grant: This “Voices for Food” six-state project is
the focus of Pam’s position. In April, a six-state
team met for a week in Wilmington, North Caro-
lina to finalize community tools that will assist
rural communities to reduce Food Insecurity
through work with local Food Policy Councils
and Food Pantries. Pam has begun recruitment
of communities in the SW region of Missouri,
and is working on development of a Coaching
Guide for Extension Faculty to use.
Chronic Disease Self-Management Pam held fourteen (14) sessions of this 21/2
hour class during the month of April, with 173
participants. This six-week series covers sub-
jects such as: techniques to deal with problems
such as frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation;
appropriate exercise for maintaining and improv-
ing strength, flexibility, and endurance; appropri-
ate use of medications; communicating effective-
ly with health professionals; nutrition; and how
to evaluate new treatments.
Outcomes of this class include: Improvement
of health outcomes and reduction of health care
use; Decreased activity limitations and depres-
sion symptoms; Improved communication with
health care provider; Improvements in quality of
life, fatigue and sleep problems; Improvements
in pain and shortness of breath; A significant im-
provement in ER visits and hospitalization.
Ozarks Regional Food Policy Council A lot of work is taking place in Greene
County to support the local Food System. The
Ozarks Regional Food
Council includes members
from over 50 Greene County
organizations.
In April, teams met to
review the recommendations
set out from our Food Sys-
tem Community Assess-
ment. A marketing team,
and separate project teams
have been formed to tackle
Becky Roark Republic WIC Clinic—30 cli-
ents
Well of Life Food Pantry —
268 families
Shady Dell Early Childhood
Center — 65 students (1 week)
Boyd Elementary School — 215
students (1 week)
Amazing Kidz Day Care — 15 students (1
week)
Holland Elementary — 140 students (4
weeks) Pre-K through 2nd grade
Fair Grove Elementary — 266 students (4
weeks) Pre-K through 2nd grade
Sherri Hull Victory Mission Family Ministries Food
Pantry – Display & Discussion about “Facts
on Fat”; 135 Participants
Republic WIC Clinic, lessons on “Healthy
Snacks” 32 clients
Completed series of lessons at Sequiota El-
em. K-4th grade, 300 students
Started series of lessons at Jeffries Elem. K-
2nd grade, 288 students and at Ash Grove
Elem. K-3rd, 176 students
Jenni Nevatt This month I was back at Carver middle school
to offer nutrition and food safety lessons to 114
sixth and seventh graders. I
was able to speak to all the 6th
and 7th grade Health classes at
Carver this school year. Across
town at Reed middle school,
119 6th-8th graders participated
in nutrition lessons through their
health classes. In addition to
basic nutrition information, stu-
dents learned about food safety
and were able to evaluate their
hand washing skills.”
Online at http://extension.missouri.edu Page 12
Greene County “Reaching Out” Report Last Updated April 24, 2014
Marty Wood Willard WIC Eating Smart, Being Active
Adults —15 families
Willard Food Pantry Vegetarian Diets Display
Adults —17 families
Pregnancy Care Center Eating Smart, Being
Active — Adults 67 adults Hand Extended Food Pantry Phytonutrients
Display—Adults 45 families
Southwest Mo. Indian Center Healthy Cele-
brations Display — Adults 22 families
Ritter Springs Head Start Let’s Read About
Healthy Eating Children —120 children
Harter House-Strafford Childhood Obesity
Display Adults —75 adults
Southwest Missouri Office on Aging-
Strafford Eating Smart, Being Active Seniors
—25 Adults
Wood
Family Nutrition Education Program
Edmondson DeFord Williams
Family Nutrition Education Program 2160 W. Chesterfield Blvd. Suite F200
Chesterfield Village, Springfield, Mo.
Tel: 417-886-2059 Call the office to inquire about nutrition education.
Roark
Fossett
Hull Nevatt
Nutrition in the County
nutrition, make healthier meal and snack choices,
eat breakfast more often, are more willing to try
new foods and increase their physical activity,”
said Fossett. “This important programming effort
serves to reduce healthcare costs over the partici-
pant’s lifetime, saving taxpayers money in re-
duced public healthcare benefits and insurance
premiums.”
Programs offered in the county during 2013
included a variety of curricula, methods and tools
that provide programming specific to a client’s
needs considering age, culture, reading level and
abilities; supports Missouri’s School Wellness
Policies; and aligns with the Department of Edu-
cation’s (DESE) grade level expectations.
“Our lessons with hands-on activities are de-
signed for youth and the adults that support them,
pregnant teens, and immigrant populations,” said
Fossett.
MU Extension nutrition programs are held at
Greene County locations like the Pregnancy Care
Center, Springfield/Greene County WIC Clinic,
Southwest Missouri Office on Aging, Price Cut-
ter Grocery Store Classroom
and Victory Mission Family
Ministries. In-classroom edu-
cation is also offered by MU
Extension at many elementary
schools in the county. Show-
Me Nutrition educational dis-
plays that incorporate different
nutrition messages are also
maintained at Greene County
locations.
School nutrition efforts includ-
ed a variety of in-school pro-
grams, educational displays, handouts for teach-
ers and handouts that are taken home for the en-
tire family.
“Evaluation data collected across the state
reflects the positive impacts that occur in every
county with FNEP,” said Fossett.
Adults who participate in FNEP show im-
provements in eating more vegetables and fruits,
exercising more, planning meals ahead of time,
and making healthy food choices for the family.
Online at http://extension.missouri.edu Page 13
Greene County “Reaching Out” Report Last Updated April 24, 2014
Family Nutrition Education
Program Reaches 34,830 in
Greene County During 2013
The University of Missouri Extension Family
Nutrition Education Program (FNEP) pro-
vides long lasting benefits to residents of Greene
County. During fiscal year 2013, the FNEP pro-
gram in Greene County had a direct influence on
8,502 participants plus another 26,328 indirect par-
ticipants for a total of 34,830.
The goal of direct teaching in FNEP is to con-
duct an average of six classes with each client, to
promote behavioral change. A significant number
of Greene County residents also participated in
these Extension programs through indirect teaching
methods at venues like food pantries and school
and community health fairs.
Nutrition education for youth provides infor-
mation in kid-friendly terms and lessons with
hands-on activities. Activities include opportunities
for taste-testing healthy foods and
practicing skills that lead to good
health. Education for adults in-
cludes nutrition, food safety, phys-
ical activity, and food resource
management.
“FNEP reached Greene County
youth and adults by partnering
with Greene County schools,
community groups and agencies,”
said Terri Fossett, coordinator of
the Family Nutrition Education
Program for southwest Missouri.
MU Extension is dedicated to
providing research-based nutrition education to
Missouri’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistant Pro-
gram (SNAP) recipients and food stamp eligible
citizens.
The Family Nutrition Program (FNP) is funded
by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA)
Food and Nutrition Service through SNAP (food
stamp program). In the Farm Bill, SNAP-Ed (FNP)
was funded for $401 million nationally. In Mis-
souri, FNEP will be funded at $10.495 million.
“Participants in FNEP become more aware of
MU Extension is
dedicated to providing
research-based nutrition
education to Missouri’s
Supplemental Nutrition
Assistant Program
(SNAP) recipients and
food stamp eligible
citizens.
Housing and Environmental Design Specialist
or a nursing home,"
said Barber. "Elders in
our society are often
very active, represent-
ing an incredible source
of volunteerism and
wisdom. Through the
cohousing model, these
older adults can devel-
op relationships suited
to caring for one anoth-
er in a tightly knit com-
munity."
Residents in cohousing situations often
improve their physical and mental health be-
cause of the increased opportunities to meet
and socialize with others. Additionally, when
they look out for each other, they take satis-
faction in their ability to contribute to others.
"Research indicates these feelings can be
crucial in confronting loneliness, confusion
and isolation that can lead to depression and
even early dementia," said Barber.
More information can be found online at
www.seniorcohousing.com and
www.cohousing.org. Or, you can contact Jeff
Barber at (417) 881-8909.
Jeff Barber Housing and design
Online at http://extension.missouri.edu Page 14
Greene County “Reaching Out” Report Last Updated April 24, 2014
"Senior CoHousing"
Offers Life in a Tight
Knit Community
A new idea called "Senior Cohousing" is
beginning to emerge in the United States as a
housing option for the older adults.
According to Jeff Barber, a housing and
urban design specialist with University of Mis-
souri Extension, this new approach allows resi-
dents to design and run their community, pri-
marily by consensus.
"Their focus is on creating small, close-
knit villages where residents build bonds and
know everyone's name," said Barber. "The
concept began in Denmark in the 1960's as
multi-generational cohousing. It is now gain-
ing popularity in Europe and the U.S."
When adapted to senior living, Barber says
this pattern builds on independent living, cre-
ates a fuller lifestyle, fosters interdependence
of neighbors and can extend life expectancy.
"The result is a cross between condomini-
um and traditional neighborhood, where resi-
dents join in a partnership to help each other,
while living in their own home," said Barber.
These walkable, mini-villages are suited to
both rural and urban settings where residents
own their own homes according to Barber.
However, this new
concept creates areas
where residents can
gather in common
areas to socialize,
share meals, garden
or participate in oth-
er activities.
"This approach
allows a living ar-
rangement that can
be more dignified
than assisted living
Total Cash Contributed:
$21,304.65
2014 Contributors to “Friends of Greene County Extension”
Corporate Level Master Gardeners of
Greene County
Sanford & Associates
Patron Level William & Virginia Darr
George Deatz
Friends of the Garden
Ann Hall
Joe Jenkins
Sponsor Level Greater Ozarks Hosta
Society
Greene Co. Soil & Water
Conservation District
James Mauldin
RDW Family &
Community Fund
Jim & Nancy Tucker
Contributor Level
Carl Allison
David & Stacey Burton
Ramona Burton
Marla Calico
Dr. Greenthumb/Greg
Peterson Family
Rusty Hathcock
Gaylen & Dedra Jones
Jack Kaiser
Old Missouri Bank
Ryan Lawn & Tree
Jody & Barbara Norman
Randall & Linda Sheridan
Springfield Watergarden
Society
Gene Wallace
Friends Level John & Lisa Bakerink
Donation period runs from October 1 to Sept. 30
Glenn & Beverly Blake
Shelby Bradley
Alice Counts
Bob Cirtin
Billie Sue Fuller
Mary Gallagher
James Garton
Paul & Della Goodwin
David & Linda Hall
Avis Holloway
Richard & Yvonne Jarvis
Jeff Jones
Mary Sue Joplin
MFA Agri Services
Pauline Marsh
Steve & Marlu McElhany
Dellene Nelson
Steve & Pam Squibb
Kathryn Steinhoff
Ronald & Sue Carroll
Terry
Lee & Julie Viorel
Chris & Colette Wilbers
Associate Level Jodie Adams
Cindy Arrowood
Mr./Mrs. David Bailey
Robert & Jana Belk
Mardell Bontrager
Keith & Malia Bucher
Carr Stock Farms, LLC
Kim Chaffin
Steven Counts
Kathleen Goff
Douglas Green
Fred & Elaine Hamburg
Harrison Farm
Dulcinea Fisher-Smith
Rob & Brenda
Funkhouser
William Hosman
Rita Johnson
Bob & Barbara Kipfer
Dorothy Miller
Frieda Morris
Edie Nelson
Albert Niewald
Gladys O’Dell
Minuen Odom
Cathy & Alex Primm
Crystal Quade
H. James Roper
Second Wind Companies
Stewart Farm
Elizabeth & Paul Taylor
Randy Underwood
Leslie Wilde
Join Friends of
Greene County Extension Since 1914, Greene County residents
have sought help in agriculture, garden-
ing, 4-H youth, nutrition, families, busi-
ness and community development from
Extension. Members of “Friends of
Greene County Extension” contribute
financially to make it possible for Exten-
sion to continue having a positive impact
on the quality of life in Greene County.
To learn how you can help by contrib-
uting go to extension.missouri.edu/
greene or call (417) 881-8909.
Greene County “Reaching Out” Report Last Updated April 24, 2014
Greene County Extension Office located inside the
Springfield-Greene County
Botanical Center 2400 S. Scenic Ave.,
Springfield, Mo. 65807
Tel: (417) 881-8909
Fax (417) 823-4818
Office hours:
Monday - Friday * 8 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene
Each “Reaching Out Report” is used by Greene
County Extension specialists to concisely communi-
cate activities, contacts and events to members of the
Greene County Extension Council, Greene County
Commission and residents of Greene County. For
more about this report contact the editor, David Bur-
ton, at (417) 881-8909.
Videos on YouTube Watch the videos posted to our channel at
www.youtube.com/MUExtension417.
On Facebook Get regular updates about programs and news from
MU Extension in southwest Missouri. Find us at
facebook.com/MUExtension417.
Corporate Sponsors Sanford and Associates, CPA, Springfield,
Mo.: (417) 886-2220,
www.adifferentcpa.com
Master Gardeners of Greene County:
http://www.mggreene.org
Meyer Communications, KWTO 560 AM /
KTXR 101.3 FM: (417) 862-3751
www.radiospringfield.com/
American Business Systems, Springfield,
Mo.: (417) 866-5083, www.ambussys.com
Sunshine Valley Farm, 8125 E State High-
way AD, Rogersville, ph (417) 753-2698,
http://www.sunshinevalleyfarm.com/
Springfield-Greene County Park Board,
Ph 417-864-1049, www.parkboard.org
Can I Help? Lorri can help customers
with material needs, soil
tests or program registra-
tions. Contact her at the
Greene County Extension
Center, (417) 881-8909.
Lorri Winters joined Exten-
sion in 2005. Lorri Winters Office Manager
Extension/Partner Meetings
County Commission meetings: 1st and 3rd
Mondays of month; confirm agenda and meeting
at http://www.greenecountymo.org/commission.
Commission building, Springfield, at 9:30 a.m.
Park Board Meetings: Second Friday of
each month at 8:30 a.m. Call 864-1049 to con-
firm location of meeting.
4-H Leader’s Council Meetings: 3rd Thurs-
day of each month (except July) from 7 p.m. to 9
p.m., at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2852 S
Dayton Ave, Springfield.
Master Gardeners of Greene County—
board meeting: First Monday of each month at
4:00 p.m. at the Botanical Center.
Master Naturalists Board Meetings: The
board meets at 5:30 p.m. at the MDC regional
office, on the second Wednesday of the month.
Master Gardeners of Greene County--
membership meeting: Second Tuesday each
month at 6:00 p.m. at the Botanical Center.
Greene County Farm Bureau — Second
Monday of the month at Farm Bureau 2530 S
Campbell Ave, Springfield. Starts at 7:30 p.m.