Record #: 1 of 2780
Date: 2004-01-29
POW: A1
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Walker, David P
A company that processed and packaged fruit had a waste product
from this process that could be used as a cattle feed. This company
was disposing of this waste in the land fill. After consulting with
the local livestock extension agent, samples of this waste product
was analyzed for nutrient content and its suitability as a cattle
feed. The analysis showed it to be an excellent cattle feed and a
large beef cattle operation agreed to take the product to feed to
his cattle. As a result, this product is now used as feed
ingredient rather than a landfill waste product which saved the
company approximately $72,000 per year in landfill disposal fees.
In addition, the farmer was able to produce a feed for $40 per ton
as compared to purchasing commercial feed at $134 per ton. This
saved the farmer $6,862/year in feed cost.
Record #: 2 of 2780
Date: 2004-01-29
POW: Y11
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Massey, Walker
4-H Blue Ridge Adventure is a Therapeutic backpacking program
located in Ashe County. Disadvantaged youth are referred from
various youth service agencies throughout the area. One particular
female participant was struggling with her father’s death and
coping with this event through absolute avoidance, of which she was
receiving therapy. Half-way through her camping experience with us,
on rock climbing day, she verbalized a positive thought about
remembering her father. “My father would be happy to know
that I am doing this. This is something he would have loved to
do”. This was a therapeutic breakthrough, as prior she had
made NO verbal acknowledgements of her father (positive or
negative). Because of this turning point for her, her therapists
were able to engage her in healing discussion about her
father’s death in an effort to promote healing.
Record #: 3 of 2780
Date: 2004-01-29
POW: Y11
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Massey, Walker
4-H Blue Ridge Adventure is a Therapeutic backpacking program
located in Ashe County. Disadvantaged youth are referred from
various youth service agencies throughout the area. We received a
call from a parent whose son had attended the previous year. She
stated her positive opinion about her son’s experience and
the impacts it made for him throughout the school year. This single
mother of 2 teen-aged boys requested that her son attend 4-H Blue
Ridge Adventure again this year. However, there was no referral
agency to provide funding and the mother would be responsible for
all fees. She made an effort to make monthly payments prior to the
course start and her son then attended this program for a 12-day
adventure.
Record #: 4 of 2780
Date: 2004-01-29
POW: Y4
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Massey, Walker
4-H Blue Ridge Conservation Corps is a work-force preparedness
program focusing on job skills, academic performance and life skill
enhancement. BRCC operates 6-days a week for 16-weeks each
semester. Corps Members are identified as at-risk of Juvenile court
involvement, HS failure/drop out. Corps Members earn points
redeemable for cash. The following is an e-mail from a guidance
counselor: “Denise seems to be enjoying the program. The
semester is starting off well for her and her attendance has
improved greatly. She is working hard here at school and seem
motivated to do well. Our most unlikely candidate is now becoming
our only candidate for the program. I did want to mention that she
said they are required to have boots and a belt, both of which she
states she does not have. Her family does not have the money to
purchase those items. What can we do to remedy this?
Record #: 5 of 2780
Date: 2004-01-29
POW: Y4
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Massey, Walker
4-H Blue Ridge Conservation Corps is a work force preparedness
program focusing on job skills, academic performance and life skill
enhancement. BRCC operates 6-days a week for 16 weeks each
semester. Corps Members are identified as at-risk of Juvenile court
involvement, high school failure or drop out. Corps members earn
points redeemable for cash. One student who remained enrolled the
entire 16 weeks of BRCC introductory semester had not completed a
semester of is post elementary schooling without being suspended
from school. From September 2003 through December 2003, this
student was NOT suspended out-of-school. Another student was able
to raise her grades from D’s and C’s to A’s and
B’s over the 16 week period. Both students return this
semester with greater confidence and more challenging individual
goals (one to include quit smoking). They display improved
self-esteem through body language and improved physical effort.
Record #: 6 of 2780
Date: 2004-01-29
POW: A5
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Collins, Randy
In recent years, wine and table grape production has drawn
considerable attention in Graham County. Having two commercial
vineyards already, has left others seriously thinking about the
industry. On January 17th, 2004, Cooperative Extension in Graham
County organized an on-farm demonstration dealing with grape
vineyard care and maintenance. The program was designed to provide
interested individuals with knowledge about proper pruning
techniques, trellising systems, quality spray programs, vine
maintenance and harvesting techniques. Seventeen people attended
this event, and as a direct result, one new vineyard owner is
currently using what she learned at the extension program to
maintain her own vineyard.
Record #: 7 of 2780
Date: 2004-01-29
POW: A1
Location: Gaston
Person Reporting: Drechsler, Peggy A
Farmers seldom know their cost of production or think about tax
planning until after the end of the year, when it is too late to do
anything to reduce their tax burden. Extension's financial
business management program teaches farmers how to improve their
financial planning. Many of the area's farmers who participate
in this program work with one farm tax accountant. The accountant
reported that for the first time she was overwhelmed with work in
December because so many farmers brought her their information
early so they could make year-end tax planning decisions. This
shows adoption of the ideas and techniques presented in this
program.
Record #: 8 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-12
POW: Y9
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Miller, Jennifer
Studies indicate that at-risk children who have the opportunity
to receive one-on-one mentoring and tutoring are more likely to
succeed in the academic arena as well as socially. At West
Jefferson Elementary there are approximately ten Hispanic students
in need of one-on-one time. Ashe County 4-H, Board of Education,
Wilkes Community College, and Appalachian State University have
partnered to provide this opportunity during afterschool time. 5th
Dimension provides one-on-one hands-on learning in the areas of
academics, technology, culture and arts. Mentors, who are college
students in the education department at WCC, spend two hours each
week with their assigned child doing hands on learning activities
and developing a relationship with the child. The goal of 5th
Dimension is for the children not only to succeed in school but to
also see the need to seek postsecondary education and realize that
they can do anything they put their minds to.
Record #: 9 of 2780
Date: 2004-01-30
POW: A9
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Little, William E
During the month of January we held our annual Wilson County
Forestry Association Banquet. During this meeting we recognized the
Wilson Outstanding Tree Farmer of the year. The program for this
meeting was a very interesting topic that drew a crowd of 75 timber
and landowners. It dealt with Landowner Rights with a
representative of the NC Wildlife Enforcement and a representative
of the Wilson County Sheriff Dept. Many landowners are dealing with
4 wheel ATV and trespass hunters causing damage to their land and
forest stands. The legal aspects that were brought up to cope with
the problems were very timely. Many of the attendees will be
entering into a program established to patrol their land for these
problems.
Record #: 10 of 2780
Date: 2004-01-30
POW: A5
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Little, William E
A Cucumber program was conducted for growers interested in
producing pickling cucumbers for the first time. A group of 45 row
crop growers attended the production meeting to gain knowledge of
the production process. Mt. Olive Pickle Company is interested in
additional cucumber production to fill in some processing times
that they do not have material for during certain times of the
year. This may offer these growers an additional input into their
overall cash flow during the early spring and middle of summer
production season. I presented a PowerPoint presentation on weed
control, disease control and insect control. Dr. Schultheis
presented production and planting procedures.
Record #: 11 of 2780
Date: 2004-01-30
POW: A5
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Little, William E
I had the opportunity to attend the National Sweet Potato
Collaborators meeting in Baton Rouge LA. This gave me the
opportunity to visit the sweet potato production sites in LA. the
state that is second to NC in production of sweetpotatoes. Many
presentations were made by Science Researchers from around the
world. Many new ideas and procedures were gained from this trip. I
was able to fund the expenses from a grant received to study the
calcium effect on sweet potato skin texture.
Record #: 12 of 2780
Date: 2004-01-30
POW: F1
Location: Nash
Person Reporting: Latour, Janice
Following January 4-H Cooking Club, the agent received this
e-mail: "I wanted you to know that Lizzie made lasagna and
garlic bread for supper last night. She went with me to the grocery
store yesterday and had her own separate list of all her
ingredients she needed. She went off on her own, with her own
basket, and gathered everything on her list (getting the correct
size and checking the dates on everything). When we got home, she
got to work on the lasagna and she fixed the bread while the
lasagna was in the oven cooking so she could slip it in the oven as
soon as the lasagna was done. We all complimented her on such a
wonderful supper and she was so proud of herself! Thanks for
helping to make this possible. She is really enjoying the club.
“(Nancy) Proud 4-H'er, proud mom and proud agent.
Record #: 13 of 2780
Date: 2004-01-30
POW: Y3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Rogers, Aggie L
Annual completion of project & cumulative records is an
important component of the 4-H program. Records are based on what
4-H'ers have planned, learned and done. Five (5) Robeson County
volunteers was part of the states judging team to judge records. By
them judging other books, the leaders learned new methods and
became more familiar with record keeping as a life skill in the
development of young people. As an result, the leaders conducted
record keeping workshops to improve and increase the number of
records. As the end results, over 90 records were submitted this
year, which is an (100%) increase over last year.
Record #: 14 of 2780
Date: 2004-01-30
POW: Y3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Dejarnette, Shea
It is often hard for parents who have children with disabilities
to find programs that can fit the needs of their child. Often when
the programs are available many parents are scared to let their
child try because they might fail or get frustrated setting them
back emotionally. This summer an autistic child joined 4-H and
worked on a rabbit project. His parents had all the usual fears but
he not only raised the rabbit he completed a curriculum book and
learned more about rabbits than anyone ever imagined. This month
this young man, after encouragement from the 4-H staff, and his
parents, submitted a project record book on his rabbit project. The
book shows how much he has progressed from August to January in his
communication skills, and thought processes. His parents are
thrilled with his progress and say it is thanks to his involvement
in 4-H.
Record #: 15 of 2780
Date: 2004-01-30
POW: Y12
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Dejarnette, Shea
Seeing change in an individual youth is not always easy to see
as a 4-H staff member. Our attention is often spread across many
areas and unless the change is severe we often don’t notice
it on a weekly or monthly basis, it often takes years for us to see
it. Recently Mable Haywood, a Robeson County Program Assistant who
primarily works with Teens that live in economically deprived
areas, was walking through an area store when a parent recognized
her. The mother thanked Mable for all the good work she had done
with her two children and listed the positive changes in them.
Without this mother’s feedback Mable would not have known
what kind of impact she and the 4-H program had on these youth.
This feedback also shows that parents are now more comfortable and
supportive of this program in areas that it hasn’t been in
before.
Record #: 16 of 2780
Date: 2004-01-30
POW: Y1
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Dejarnette, Shea
To keep our youth and volunteers interested in our program it is
necessary to offer all of them new opportunities. Last year Robeson
County 4-H started a horse club. This specialty club has grown over
the last year to include close to 50 members. This year the club is
ready to spread its wings and begin competing in district and state
events. To provide them this opportunity, I budgeted more United
Way funds for this club this year so that the leaders could get
better training and learn about the opportunities. This weekend 6
volunteers will attend the horse volunteer conference in Raleigh.
There they will have an opportunity to meet other volunteers in the
same area and bring back new ideas and learning experiences for our
Robeson County youth, which will positively enhance all aspects of
our community.
Record #: 17 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-02
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cropps, Seydel
There is an increasing problem with people skipping breakfast.
They substitute a nutritious breakfast for soda and cigarettes. In
one of my classes consisting of about 15 persons, only 3 eat
breakfast on a regular basis. When we reviewed the EFNEP lesson
"Breakfast" I made the challenge for everyone to try to
eat breakfast before our next scheduled class. I was happy to see
that all but two had breakfast the following week. The challenge
still stands. I hope to see the entire class eating breakfast
soon.
Record #: 18 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-02
POW: E1
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Parsons, James T
A caged layer operation in Wayne County needed to formally close
its lagoon using state cost share money. The farmer's health is
failing rapidly and his income is limited. He asked me to serve as
"mediator" with the contractor. In addition to the cost
share money he received, I was able to save the farmer
approximately $8,000 by persuading the contractor to rent some of
the farmers own equipment. The lagoon closure met all state
regulations.
Record #: 19 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-02
POW: E1
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Parsons, James T
Many poultry farmers employ Spanish speaking workers.
Communication between farmers and employees can sometimes be
difficult because of the language barrier. By utilizing my advisory
committee and Dr. Abel Gernat, Extension Broiler Specialist, key
phrases related to poultry production have been translated from
English to Spanish. Dr. Gernat was able to obtain a grant to
produce brochures with these phrases that will soon be available to
both the farmer and his workers.
Record #: 20 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-02
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Tim, Peggy
Often clients of our program run short or go without food by the
end of the month due to poor food resource management skills. Many
shop with out a plan, shopping as needed, some as often as daily.
In an effort to make changes in this habit our Planning Can Make a
Difference and Making The Most Of Food Dollars lessons were used.
Participants were taught to make a weekly menu, checking to make
sure items that were needed to prepare the food were added to a
grocery list. Clients were encouraged when possible to divide their
monthly budget to weekly, for easier management. Stocking low cost
pantry items will help in emergencies simple bread of self rising
flour, water and spices was prepared in class. 124 clients were
given the tools to ensure their families wouldn't have to go
hungry.
Record #: 21 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-16
POW: F3
Location: Iredell
Person Reporting: Compton, Sandra G
NC SAVES classes in Iredell county focused on completing the
H-Plan as well as setting short and long term financial goals.
During the four week spring and fall courses, participants closed
credit card accounts and used cash for daily spending needs. They
determined their total amount of consumer debt and developed plans
for paying down debt. Participants indicated they plan to continue
tracking monthly expenditures. Two class members are using
information from The College Foundation of North Carolina to begin
college savings. On the evaluation one person wrote, "With
discipline and determination I can budget my money and save toward
future goals and retirement." The classes will be
repeated.
Record #: 22 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-02
POW: Y8
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Blackburn, Linda
Several of the youth in Ashe County live in substandard housing
and thus are considered homeless. Many times it is these youth that
need academic support in our afterschool programs and have no funds
to attend the program. This year with no funds available for
scholarships we were struggling to help this audience. Ashe County
Board of Education received a Homeless Education Grant and used
some of the funds to scholarship 24 of these youth into the
afterschool program to receive all the opportunities offered
including homework help.
Record #: 23 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-05
POW: Y8
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Blackburn, Linda
Ashe County 4-H School-age Program lost TANF funds this past
year that had been used to provide a homework teacher at each of
the afterschool sites. This left Program staff scrambling to help
participants with homework every afternoon. This also left no
liaison between the school day and the afterschool Program.
Scholarship monies from a Homeless Education Grant were used to
fund a homework position at two of the five afterschool sites.
Homework support will be given to those youth who do not have it
available at home. Experience tells us that participants grades
will improve.
Record #: 24 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-05
POW: Y8
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Blackburn, Linda
The present trend of education in the United States is
pressuring youth to perform well in school and sometimes with
little support from home. A few of these youth need one on one
tutoring. Participants of the PAL's Club, sponsored by the
Future Farmers of America, in Ashe County agreed to partner with
our afterschool programs to provide the one on one support for
targeted youth. PAL Club participants become a mentor during
afterschool for one or two of the youth. Not only do the
afterschool participants receive the help and support needed but
high school youth receive the community service hours they
need.
Record #: 25 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-05
POW: Y8
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Blackburn, Linda
Ashe County Middle School houses our 4-H Bulldog Alert-SOS
Program in Ashe County. Middle School participants have a hard
transition from a one teacher classroom to several teachers in one
day. The afterschool teachers were having a hard time tracking
youth referred by classroom teachers to the tutorial track
afterschool. Combining funds and efforts 4-H, Ashe County Middle
School and GEAR Up we were able to hire a tutor coordinator. This
allows the afterschool program to help participants receive the
tutoring help needed and track their success.
Record #: 26 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-02
POW: A4
Location: Pasquotank
Person Reporting: Wood, Alton E
The NC Soybean Festival, which is sponsored by the Albemarle
Agribusiness Council and the County Centers of Camden, Currituck,
Pasquotank, and Perquimans Counties, was conducted on Tuesday,
January 27 at the Kermit E. White Building on the Campus of ECSU.
This program highlights and celebrates the importance of soybeans
to northeastern North Carolina. The theme for this year's
program was "Soybeans To Go" There were 340 people in
attendance. Attendees sampled recipes of soybeans as well as were
made aware of ready-to-eat items that they may buy. Participants
also learned about the growing soy diesel market and how growers
might participate in a cooperative that markets the product. Also,
4th grade students that were winners of the poster contest were
recognized as well. A total of 374 posters were submitted.
Record #: 27 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-05
POW: Y8
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Blackburn, Linda
One of the afterschool sites in Ashe County is West Jefferson
Elementary School. This school was awarded a technology grant
because of the need for youth in that school to have more up to
date computers. There was still a need for some of the youth to
have assistance with computer skills and a great need for youth to
be able to practice good decision making skills. We were able to
offer both to the most at risk youth in the afterschool program.
The 5th Dimension Program has been made available to youth in the
afterschool program with a mentor from ASU and Wilkes Community
College to tutor 10 of these youth in afterschool using 5th D.
Record #: 28 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-05
POW: Y8
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Blackburn, Linda
60% of the youth in our School-age Care Program are subsidized
in one way or another for the school-age care they need. Subsidy
money is hard to come by this year. Child Care Resource and
Referral alerted 4-H that they would have to terminate 25 youth
that were subsidized. This meant the possibility of 25 youth being
home alone since families do not have the necessary funds to pay
for afterschool care. We developed an unofficial task force to find
the funds needed. Within one week we had enough funds to allow for
all school-age youth already being served to be funded through this
fiscal year.
Record #: 29 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-02
POW: E8
Location: Pasquotank
Person Reporting: Wood, Alton E
On January 29, 2004 the Pasquotank County Center conducted a
commercial pesticide applicator recertification class that provided
credits for all categories. The program, which was entitled
Pesticide Safety For Humans and The Environment, was attended by 14
people. which earned a total of 56 hours of credits. The
participants were provided training on handling, mixing, and
loading of pesticides, the effects of pesticides on the
environment, the fate of pesticides in the environment and personal
protective equipment, The participants gained knowledge as
indicated by the pre-and post-test. From the evaluation of the
class, 100 percent of the participants indicated that they gained
knowledge that they could use at their job. Also, the class saved
the participants a total of $375.00 in registration by attending
the Extension sponsored class.
Record #: 30 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-02
POW: C2
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Landry, Julie B
As a result of reduction in jobs (9.4% unemployment) and need to
increase income, the Farmer Market has provided a market venue for
both horticulture producers, nurserymen and craftsmen. Efforts on
the part of the Farmer Market Committee to increase PR and
recruitment of both vendors and customers has resulted in the need
to increase market capacity and broaden the eligibility
guidelines
Record #: 31 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-02
POW: C2
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Landry, Julie B
Although the growing season was very wet in 2003 affecting
produce production, the Ashe County Farmers Market was successful
in providing a venue for home made crafts and home grown nursery
products. Vendor participation among craftsmen and nurserymen grew
by more than 50% .
Record #: 32 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-02
POW: Y3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Landry, Julie B
Environmental issues are still at the forefront for communities.
Young people often are unaware as to how they can help contribute
to “saving our environment”. Multi agency efforts to
provide an environmental field day resulted in 250 5th grade
students in Ashe County receiving knowledge and developing skills
in solid waste management, stream ecology, wildlife management, and
pesticide education.
Record #: 33 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-03
POW: A1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cave, T B
Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) was discovered in a cow
in Washington state in December '03. The resulting media
coverage initiated hundreds of questions concerning this disease
and it's consequences for beef producers and consumers alike.
In response to this storm of uncertainty, the Surry Center of NCCE
and Livestock Agent Bryan Cave sponsored an educational forum with
an international expert as speaker to educate producers, consumers,
and local news media about the disease. The forum was attended by
approximately 100 participants from 3 NC counties and 2 VA
counties. Participants were educated about how the disease works in
cattle and the possible human health consequences. Participants
rated the forum highly educational and timely. NCCE was portrayed
as cutting edge and timely in the response to the need for
information concerning the disease.
Record #: 34 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-03
POW: A1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cave, T B
Meat goat production is developing into a lucrative enterprise
for livestock producers across the state. There is a need however
for scientifically based educational opportunities for new and
existing producers. In response to this need, NCCE in Surry County
developed a Goat Management Series to allow producers to gain the
needed knowledge in all aspects of goat production and management.
The initial training session was held in late January '04.
Thirty-one participants attended the first meeting and more have
signed up for the next session as word spreads about the great
information being presented. Producers were from 4 counties and all
rated the first session a resounding success and felt the knowledge
gained would result in more dollars to producers.
Record #: 35 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-03
POW: A1
Location: Agricultural and Resource Economics
Person Reporting: Benson, Geoffrey
A conference was organized for produces and county faculty to
explore the opportunities for value added livestock products in
North Carolina. Existing producers shared their experiences. As a
result of this conference the participants are better able to
identify opportunities and plan for successful ventures.
Record #: 36 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-03
POW: A1
Location: Agricultural and Resource Economics
Person Reporting: Benson, Geoffrey
The number of NC dairy farms is declining year-by-year.
Financial records were collected from a number of dairy farms, a
summary with performance benchmarks was prepared and made available
on the web and through extension meetings. This information
provides the participants with specific information about their
farm relative to others, as a guide to making changes to improve
profitability. Non-participants have access to benchmarks and can
perform their own analysis to identify problems and plan for
improved performance.
Record #: 37 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-04
POW: Y1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Johnson, Carolyn B
As a result of training provided to 4-H leaders and members, the
number of project records doubled. A total of 133 records were
submitted for judging by 35 members ages 5-18. Members need to
learn record keeping skills because they are useful throughout
life. Through record work, members learn to set goals and then
achieve them. They learn to collect and organize materials and keep
accurate data on what they have done for a year. They learn how to
write stories and compile information in an interesting format.
They also learn how to read and follow directions.
Record #: 38 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-04
POW: Y10
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Johnson, Carolyn B
Information on Extension educational resources available for
teachers was presented at a resource fair held at a local high
school. As a result of this marketing effort, fifth grade teachers
at one elementary school requested a program for their students on
improving science fair projects. These teachers had not utilized
this information in the past and would not have known about this
program had they not attended the resource fair. As a result of
their interest, three classrooms, involving 75 students, were
involved in learning about ways to improve science fair
projects.
Record #: 39 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-04
POW: A1
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Cochran, James E
Expense producing $32 million of turkeys increased when a
disease resurfaced. The source was traced to a local breeder flock
after a five month identification delay, resulting in 20 grow-out
farm outbreaks over four months. Previously normal and easily
recognizable symptoms were not exhibited. Extension was asked to
provide thirty company workers a bio-security refresher course
following review of the latest outbreak characteristics and
statistics - the first use of a new poultry disease bio-security CD
developed by the NC State Veterinary School and sponsored by the
National Poultry and Egg Council. Participants reviewed videos,
reference materials, checklists and farm audits including
interactive self-assessments. Company expense from early flock
slaughters, increased feed, farm down-time and reputation prompted
employees to increase observation vigilance of early disease
symptoms. Bio-security practices target breaking the chain of
infection. Increased surveillance caught other symptomatic birds
earlier with the slightly different virus strain was contained.
Record #: 40 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-04
POW: A1
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Cochran, James E
A 100 bird backyard poultry flock, including six, $1,000 pairs
of peacock varieties, was saved from destruction. A rare flea
discovery, uncommon but potentially threatening to the commercial
poultry industry, is isolated to ground raised caged birds (a
common backyard practice). Extension and Department of Agriculture
increased disease awareness programs among small, backyard poultry
flock owners, alerted one small flock owner to contact Extension
when faced with insect infestation. The flea, unlike more common
"chicken" fleas, is usually fatal. It was halted with
NCSU entomologists providing positive identification and
recommended treatment. The unusual flea infestation was most likely
traced back to South Carolina obtained birds. An impromptu on-farm
training session increased awareness among 3 other neighbor poultry
hobby farm enthusiasts. Extension backyard flock information was
assembled for distribution, including through feed stores and by
prominent home flock breeders at NC and SC poultry "swap
meets" and auctions. No further cases.
Record #: 41 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-04
POW: A1
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Cochran, James E
A four county area $112 million commercial poultry industry
(yearly live bird production value) fears devastating disease
outbreaks through possible backyard home flock sources as happened
in California in 2003. The threatened negative economic impact
would affect local turkey and broiler meat chicken production
including hatcheries, breeder egg farms, feed mills, trucking,
processing, as well as individual contract farmers. Extension and
Department of Agriculture increased disease awareness programs
among small, backyard poultry flock owners resulted with an
unusually high volume of requests regarding a variety of home flock
disorders including other numerous other diseases and parasites,
some with similar symptoms to the feared highly contagious
diseases. Extension backyard flock information was assembled for
distribution, including through feed stores and by prominent home
flock breeders. Record numbers of home flock birds were
investigated and laboratory tested with no feared disease
introduction into North Carolina in 2003.
Record #: 42 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-14
POW: A1
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Cochran, James E
Due to numerous repeated requests for advice and input from an
independent, unbiased informational resource, packets of land grant
university Extension publications were revived and revised to
assist potential new poultry growers with their investment
decisions, including daily expectations and functions required of
poultry farm management. Revision included the affect of new
regulations (4 houses vs. 8 houses) as well as increased steel
costs contributing to 15 or 12 year loans vs. 10 year loans.
Fourteen requests were fulfilled with eight follow-up discussions.
Three are known to reconsider, six have proceeded with construction
with the remaining undecided or pending next year.
Record #: 43 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-14
POW: A3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Cochran, James E
As a result of poultry judging contest preparation workshops
conducted at five high schools, three requested further
presentations on modern poultry production and processing in
general - from egg to birds on the grow-out farm through processing
to plate. Two of these additional workshops also included the
schools' Family and Consumer Sciences classes. Included in the
two hour presentation and demonstrations was use of an Extension
Poultry Science developed industry video. Agriculture and food
science students noted various career opportunities exhibited in
the video, available in their own county - with proper further
education. Instructors also had students watch for areas of
bio-terrorism vulnerability and subsequent impact in the poultry
industry (breeder flocks vs. grow-out flocks; feed mill vs. farm
feed bins).
Record #: 44 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-04
POW: F2
Location: Family and Consumer Sciences
Person Reporting: Debord, Karen
Through a collaboration between faculty in the Department of
Family and Consumer Sciences, the Department of Landscape
Architecture at NCSU and the Department of Human Development and
Family Studies at UNC-Greensboro, a rating scale for outdoor child
care environments for preschool children has been developed. The
scale has been piloted and reliability studies are nearly complete.
Related to this, an Extension peer reviewed publication was
developed entitled It’s more than just Watching Children
Play: Making the most of your outdoor time. FCS-507. This Extension
Publication is posted online at:
<http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/fcs/humandev/pubs/FCS507.pdf>
Multiple presentations about raising the quality of outdoor
children’s environments have been presented throughout the
state, a national presentation at the premier conference for
educators of young children was presented and an article appeared
in the journal Young Children, a publication of the National
Association for the Education of Young Children.
Record #: 45 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-05
POW: E7
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Silver, Diane
Jan. 2004, Village of Flat Rock – By serving as a liaison
between the Village Council and the Division of Water Quality
(DENR), Extension enabled village officials to fulfill their Phase
II stormwater permitting requirements without hiring a high-priced
consultant. “The Village of Flat Rock Council is highly
appreciative of your support. You helped us through the maze in
Raleigh and have potentially saved our Village a significant amount
of money.”
Record #: 46 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-26
POW: A1
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Honeycutt, Eve
Owners of grazing animals struggle every year to producer their
number one crop, grass. Without a healthy pasture, producers are
forced to spend extra money on feed, which drops their profit
considerably. Animal Waste Operators are forced to maintain healthy
pastures for proper nutrient utilization. During the month of
January 2004, 29 hog producers and animal waste operators, along
with 8 producers of grazing animals received information about
pasture management from Extension's Year Round Pasture
Management Short Course. The three part short course provide Animal
Waste Operators with three hours of continuing education credit.
All in attendance completed the course with the ability to create a
year round pasture management plan, focused on weed control,
fertilization, forage establishment, and grazing management
contoured to their grazing needs.
Record #: 47 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-05
POW: F1
Location: Yadkin
Person Reporting: Wells, Marilyn C
"Cooking Around the World" was a workshop designed to
provide multi-cultural experiences for participants. The workshop
not only provided participants hands-on-experience in food
preparation, food safety, and nutrition but also provided
information which expanded knowledge of the cultural aspects of
other countries. The 11 participants evaluated the workshop with a
95% rating of success in the areas of information covered and
techniques mastered. A rating of 100% intention of use at home and
to share with others was reported.
Record #: 48 of 2780
Date: 2004-09-22
POW: F2
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Clay, Wanda C
Due to lack of parenting skills the Duplin County Social
Services Child Protective Services became involved and removed a
father's son from the home. As a result of the father
participating and graduating from the parenting education program
offered through the Duplin County Extension Center, the
father's son has been placed back in the home with parental
rights with his wife and their three other siblings. All legal
allegations involving the father were dropped. This parents writes
and applauds,” thank you for offering this program, I was
able to retain my parental rights and raise my own son."
Record #: 49 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-06
POW: A15
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Lauderdale, Cynthia
The Wilson County Master Gardener Volunteer Advisory Council met
to plan for 2004. Because of the need to market Extension and the
Master Gardener program one objective is to become involved in more
community events that center around gardening. The Master Gardeners
plan on taking out ads in the local newspaper and have a booth at
the Art of Gardening symposium sponsored by the Wilson Arts
Council. Their efforts have already been acknowledged by the fact
they are having a spring training class right after a fall training
which only ended two months ago.
Record #: 50 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-09
POW: A6
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Moody, Jerrold T
Avery and Mitchell County held a Christmas Tree Workshop on Jan
30, 2004. Growers heard talks concerning Repelling Deer, Chemical
mowing, Balsam Woolly Adelgid Trials, and a Pesticide Update. There
were 130 Christmas Tree growers in attendance representing more
than 3620 acres. Growers ranged from 1/2 acre up to 1000 acres. 66%
of the growers came to gain Pesticide Recertification Credits. 97%
of the respondents said that they gained knowledge that would help
them grow Christmas Trees better. 91 % of the growers responding
indicated that the information derived from this meeting would make
them more money with an estimated $137,750 in estimated
savings.
Record #: 51 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-09
POW: F1
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Jackson, Margaret
Food safety and sanitation is an important part of the Expanded
Foods and Nutrition Program curriculum. In Cleveland County, EFNEP
program assistant Peggy Jackson conducted an eye-opening
demonstration with Hispanic students in a English as a Second
Language class at Cleveland Community College. Everyone rubbed a
fluorescent product called Glo-Germ on their hands and then washed
them as they normally would. When finished, each person viewed
their "clean" hands under a black light. They were
astonished at the number of "germs" which remained on
their hands. Everyone re-washed following Peggy's instructions,
put their hands back under the light, and were more pleased with
the outcome. One gentlemen commented in broken English that he
would wash his hands "good" before next class. This
demonstration was an effective way to share the importance of
proper hand washing technique.
Record #: 52 of 2780
Date: 2004-07-06
POW: F1
Location: Franklin
Person Reporting: Robinson, Stacy
Franklin Co. still has a wide variety of people who need to be
reached to learn more about good nutrition and healthier eating
habits. So through a various amount of churches, group homes,
agencies within DSS and agencies throughout the community it has
become possible to meet the needs of these people. The OFL class
that was just held through DSS and Franklin-Vance-Warren. It
consisted of a group of women through the Work First Boot Camp
program. This boot camp helped the young ladies to learn the skills
needed in the job world and also to teach them how to conserve
money and make healthy nutrition choices not only for themselves
but for their family as well. After completing all four sessions
the young ladies were very impressed with the program. They stated
that the program should be longer and have even more information on
nutrition.
Record #: 53 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-12
POW: A5
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Gurganus, Rod R
Strawberry production suffered from heavy disease pressure in
2001-2002. After investigating the potential for disease free
plants originating from the NCSU Micro propagation Unit, I urged my
growers to secure plants from this source if possible. One grower
secured these plants as well as plants from an outside source. The
difference in incidence of disease in the micro propagated plants
was amazing. The difference in yield between the two plant sources
was approximately 20,000 pounds per acre. At $.85/lb., income was
increased by $17,000.00 per acre.
Record #: 54 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-12
POW: A4
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Gurganus, Rod R
Beaufort County farmers produced 60000 acres of soybeans this
year. I have spent many hours in the field performing side by side
variety trials to furnish farmers with the best information
possible in terms of variety selection. Based on this information,
115 soybean producers choose varieties that yielded on average 1.0
bushels more than the variety they replaced. On 45000 acres, this
increased income by 315,000.00, or $2740.00 per farmer.
Record #: 55 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-12
POW: A4
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Gurganus, Rod R
For the past two years, studies have been conducted in Beaufort
County to determine the lower limit for soybean planting
populations that would still provide a profitable return. The goal
was not to recommend these ultra low rates as seeding rates, but to
establish an understanding of the plants ability to compensate for
a reduced population. This is helpful in situations when heavy
rains or dry conditions impact germination of planted seed. Results
have been put into farmers hands, and planting populations have
been reduced. An estimated 35 farmers have reduced seeding rates on
18000 acres of soybeans for an average savings of $6.00 per acre,
or $108,000.00.
Record #: 56 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-13
POW: E4
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Jackson, Star
Star Jackson, Extension Agent in Duplin County and Chairman of
the Education Committee with the North Carolina Pork Council
conducted five focus group meetings covering seven counties over a
two month period. These meetings targeted swine producers from
counties in southeast North Carolina to give input on how the North
Carolina Pork Council can be of better service to the swine
producers in this state. Jerry Hardesty with the North Carolina
Pork Council stated that, "Having worked with Extension on
many activities, we would like you to help facilitate the meetings.
The North Carolina Pork Council is assured that we will gain valid,
unbiased information if we allow your organization the opportunity
to conduct these meetings." Ed Emory and Star Jackson met with
NCPC to review the findings and provide feedback that will enable
NCPC to produce information in the most useable format for the
swine producers in NC.
Record #: 57 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-10
POW: Y5
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Kirk, Bridget
To reduce the number of Duplin County youth sent to training
school, Duplin County Cooperative Extension offers a prevention
program called Duplin County 4-H Outreach. The program collaborates
with the juvenile courts to offer the program. During 2004, 59
youths were diverted from training school through participation in
the Duplin County 4-H Outreach program, saving taxpayers $2,950,000
in incarceration costs.
Record #: 58 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-13
POW: A15
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Godwin, Peg
Carmena Zimmerman shared a program with the Lenoir County Master
Gardener’s on February 9, 2004. She told of her five year
dream to turn several acres on her historic farm into a memorial
for the many generations (present, past and future) that had been
part of the land. Her desire was to plant wild flowers as a
beautiful, living tribute on the former cow pasture. The project
was begun after completion of the Master Gardener Volunteer
Training Class. Zimmerman publicly thanked Horticulture Extension
Agent, Peg Godwin for her assistance in making her vision a
reality. She shared many large pictures with the group showing the
entire year long process. The group was surprised as each detail
was introduced and excited to learn about how to grow
wildflowers.
Record #: 59 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-16
POW: F3
Location: Iredell
Person Reporting: Compton, Sandra G
Two years ago, C. and J. participated in Credit Card Smarts, a
three week 1 1/2 hour series of classes. C. was using high interest
rate credit cards to purchase parts for his small engine business.
J. and C. used credit for routine purchases and bought other things
on a whim. They realized they were in financial trouble when they
could not meet minimum payments on the cards. In a recent
conversation J. mentioned they had stopped using credit cards. They
make purchases with cash and save for things they need. When
grocery shopping she is not lured by coupons/special offers. She
negotiated with their creditors to reduce payments. They are
committed to solving this problem together. J. stated: We can see
the light at the end of our financial tunnel.
Record #: 60 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-05
POW: A15
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Collins, Randy
On February 6th, 2004 Graham County hosted its first Organic
Certification Workshop. The purpose of this workshop was to provide
individuals from Graham and other counties with information needed
to help begin or maintain organic certification status. Thirty
individuals enrolled, some with organic farming experience, others
with none. The major impact of this program was that about 90% of
those that had no experience with organic production left with the
information needed to get their farm certified, while others that
had already achieved certification left with many new ideas that
would help their organic farming operation run smoother and be more
sustainable.
Record #: 61 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-24
POW: Y12
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Traywick, Greg B
A volunteer gives of their time and expertise without expecting
monetary compensation. 4-H volunteers enjoy working with children,
but it is important for Extension staff and administration to make
special efforts to recognize our volunteers as part of a complete
volunteer management system. The Cleveland County Extension staff
worked as a team to conduct a 4-H Awards Program on February 19,
2004. This informal celebration included food and entertainment,
and provided an opportunity to congratulate 4-H youth for their
achievements in project work and community service. To recognize
our many volunteers, the 4-H staff presented club leaders with
framed certificates and 4-H license plates. Volunteers like to be
appreciated for doing a good job, but recognition activities need
not be formal or expensive. We were able to say
“thank-you” to our 4-H volunteers during a festive
activity at very little cost.
Record #: 62 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-23
POW: A1
Location: Soil Science
Person Reporting: Lawrence, Grace
A Stormwater Resources program was developed with the
Departments of BAE and Soil Science to help communities deal with
the EPA's Phase II stormwater runoff requirements. Part of
these requirements entail educational efforts to reduce stormwater
runoff. This Stormwater Resources program has created a 27 minute
video on stormwater management for communities and individual
homeowners. It has been shown on government access channels in
Charlotte, Rocky Mount, Wilmington, Raleigh, Burlington, and
Henderson County. Three Public Service Announcements were also
created and were broadcasted around the state in the fall of 2003.
Spanish language PSAs were also created and broadcasted.
Presentations on the program have been made to national and local
audiences such as the North American Association of Environmental
Educators, Councils of Government, and Southwestern Cooperative
Extension Agents District.
Record #: 63 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-02
POW: A5
Location: Wilkes
Person Reporting: Hanlin, William G
An email pest alert system was set up on a trial basis with 5
apple growers. Digital images were taken of insect and disease
problems that were beginning to appear in area orchards. These
images were sent to the growers along with the general information
about the pest and potential control measures. The growers that
received the email thought it was an extremely effective tool in
alert growers to potential problems. The program will be expanded
to anyone wishing to receive the information.
Record #: 64 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-23
POW: A1
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Traywick, Greg B
Beef producers need to understand how major issues affecting the
US livestock industry can impact them at the local level. Such is
the case with Bovine Spongiform Ecephalopathy (BSE), commonly
referred to as Mad Cow Disease. The outbreak which occurred in
Washington State in late 2003 significantly impacted US beef
exports, diminished consumer confidence, and generated regulatory
response in the form of a proposed mandatory US Animal
Identification Program. Cleveland County beef producers informed
themselves on these issues by participating in an
Extension-sponsored educational program, "BSE Update: Factors
You Need to Know," an Iowa State University BSE Satellite
Conference. By participating in the conference, local producers
gained insight into the disease, its cause, and what they can do at
the producer level to address the issue.
Record #: 65 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-30
POW: A5
Location: Wilkes
Person Reporting: Hanlin, William G
Results from a 2 year Pierces disease vector study were
presented to a state grape commodity meeting in February. The IPM
grant supported study found that one sharpshooter, Graphocephala
versuta, was the most prevalent potential vector found in all of
the survey vineyards. The study also found G. versuta on wild hosts
around the vineyards, such as blackberry and honeysuckle and
eliminating these wild hosts may help prevent Pierce's disease
infections. Use of kaolin clay, Surround, was not effective in
repelling sharpshooter vectors out of the vineyard.
Record #: 66 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-05
POW: F1
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Jackson, Margaret
During February 2004, Cleveland County EFNEP program assistant
Peggy Jackson completed a series of five nutrition lessons to a
group of English as a Second Language (ESL) students at Cleveland
Community College. All participants were Hispanic men and women
with varying English skills. All however, were attentive and
respectful, and demonstrated an eagerness to learn. The students
actively participated in group discussion and demonstrations,
enjoyed preparing recipes and trying the foods that they prepared
during class. They were very grateful for the certificates they
received at graduation, sensing a great deal of accomplishment from
their involvement in the Expanded Foods and Nutrition Education
Program. Peggy was presented with a thank-you note from the class
following the graduation ceremony.
Record #: 67 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-29
POW: Y11
Location: New Hanover
Person Reporting: Mitchell, Nicole
The New Hanover 4-H County Council hosted a 4-H Alumni reunion
as part of the statewide effort to involve former 4-H members in
local programming efforts. The "Heart of 4-H" was held on
Saturday evening, February 21st with over 35 alumni in attendance.
This special program was conducted by the Sr. 4-H Council members
and Adult Leaders under the direction of 4-H Agent Nicole Mitchell.
The evening gave senior 4-H members an opportunity to demonstrate
their leadership skills through a power point presentation on the
history of 4-H across the nation. Former members, a previous 4-H
Agent, and County Director were in attendance and everyone shared
4-H experiences that had positively affected their lives. It was a
consensus among the group that a 4-H Alumni Night become an annual
event. A retired Tom Clark 4-H Gnome was up for silent auction to
raise money for local programming and those in attendance
volunteered to share their expertise in the 4-H program. New
Hanover County has 7 new 4-H clubs and is meeting the challenge of
developing life skills programs that appeal to an urban
audience.
Record #: 68 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-26
POW: Y13
Location: Washington
Person Reporting: Liverman, Rebecca D
Farm Wives Night Out is a total staff project in Washington
County. This event is both educational and provides an outlet for
the female sector of the agarian society. I provided a book review
for these women based on LuAnn Jones' book, "Mama Learned
Us To Work". This account shows the importance of women in
agriculture over the past seventy five years and the crucial part
early extension agents also played in their lives. Highlights of
the book centered on women controlling the purse strings, trading
eggs for goods, starting the farmer's market, and making do
with whatever they had. As a result, the local library has ordered
this book for their shelves as well.
Record #: 69 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-26
POW: Y10
Location: Washington
Person Reporting: Liverman, Rebecca D
Public Speaking is a talent. Impromptu speaking is an art.
Seniors at the local high school practice speaking for 90 seconds
about a random inanimate object. They are given no time to prepare,
and they are graded by their classmates. This practice session is
part 3 of 4 workshops that the 4-H Agent offers to seniors to
prepare for their senior projects and especially the Q&A
session by the judges. It has received rave evaluations and offers
the students the chance to use their imagination as they try to
sell, persuade, and market their item.
Record #: 70 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-27
POW: A15
Location: Chowan
Person Reporting: Gray, Katy
A recent program given for a local Master Gardener group was a
success, not only in the information given, but in the application
of resources. Insects, being the topic, were researched through
Extension publications and books, but extensively by recollection
from knowledge gained in a professional development class taken in
the Fall of 2003. Having taken the course, allowed excellent
interpretation of the subject and resources to put together an
informative power point presentation. In this situation,
professional development had a direct impact on helping carry more
research based information to the public.
Record #: 71 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-04
POW: F1
Location: Halifax
Person Reporting: Allsbrook, Margaret P
According to the State Center for Health Statistics, heart
disease was the leading cause of death in North Carolina in 2001.
The age-adjusted heart disease death rate for Halifax County was
333/100,000 population; well ahead of the state average of
246/100,000. Offering Give Your Heart a Healthy Beat to county
residents assisted them in combating unhealthy diet and physical
inactivity; 2 leading causes of preventable death in NC. Ten
persons participated in the recent 4-week series of Give Your Heart
a Healthy Beat. Halifax County Cooperative Extension Service and
the Halifax County Health Department collaborated on this program.
Topics covered included weight issues, fat, cholesterol, walking,
fiber, stress management, and recipe modification. Through lecture,
hands-on activities, and taste-testing the participants learned
ways to modify their behaviors and incorporate heart-healthy foods
along with physical activity into their everyday lives to reduce
their incidence of cardiovascular diseases.
Record #: 72 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-27
POW: Y10
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Johnson, Carolyn B
School science fair participants need to strengthen projects so
that they are more scientific and thorough. As a science fair judge
at a school where I had conducted workshops on science fair project
improvement earlier in the year, I noticed that at least four of
the projects judged had included information on variables and
controls which I had focused on. I also noticed that one student
conducted a project that had been discussed in the workshop I
conducted. This means that about one fourth of the students doing
projects learned something from my session that they could apply to
their work.
Record #: 73 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-27
POW: E3
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Lauderdale, Cynthia
The Eastern NC Landscape Conference was held in Wilson County
for professionals in the green industry. Over 364 attended this
area Extension event. Using the new ERS questions in a survey it
was estimated that landscape companies average maintaining 11,038
acres. The average number of acres of water managed is 52 acres.
Each company averages reusing or using 65.8 Tons of waste products.
No one discharged nutrients into surface waters. It is clear that
the green industry is a leader in environmentally sounds
practices.
Record #: 74 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-27
POW: Y3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Dejarnette, Shea
Teachers in the Public School System are focused only on the EOG
(End of Grade test). Since so much of their career is dependant on
this test it is difficult to get learning experiences for youth
introduced into the classroom. To support the teachers in this
effort Robeson County 4-H’s came up with a unique approach
this year. Teachers say the number one problem concerning the EOG
is writing, so Robeson County 4-H offered a Poetry Contest to. It
gives the students a fun way to practice their writing skills,
while competing for prizes. One student lamented that she could not
write, after encouragement from a 4-H program assistant she
submitted a poem and although she didn’t win, she was still
enthused about writing because she had so much fun. Overall 47
youth participated in the contest, giving them a leg up on the
writing portion of the EOG.
Record #: 75 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-27
POW: Y3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Dejarnette, Shea
Often youth slip between the cracks because they are bored with
the work being drilled into them at school. Robeson County 4-H is
concentrating on offering experiences to students that will help
them regain enthusiasm in school as well as help them with their
End of Grade Testing. This approach is also making it easier for
4-H to introduce curriculum into classrooms because teachers are
starting to realize ultimately we do help with EOG scores. This
year we offered the Bee Essay contest to our youth. We teamed up
with our County Bee Keeper Association who offered the prizes and
judged the entries. 5 youth entered the contest, four entries
qualified to go on to the state contest. Teachers told me it was
one of the best writing exercises they had seen in the class,
commenting if a child could complete that they would have no
problem with the EOG.
Record #: 76 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-02
POW: C1
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Honeycutt, Eve
Lenoir County has grown more culturally diverse, but until now,
many organizations have not embraced this diversity. Many county
organizations and business, including Extension participated in an
International Festival to celebrate diversity and welcome those of
various backgrounds into the county. Each organization provided
information pertaining to their mission in both English and
Spanish. Extension promoted its major program areas to over 600
Hispanics and Latinos that attended the festival. Because of the
information provided at the festival, Hispanic interest in
Extension and its resources has increased 5%.
Record #: 77 of 2780
Date: 2004-02-27
POW: E4
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Honeycutt, Eve
Phosphorus has become increasingly important in Nutrient and
Waste Management Planning. Until now, Waste Management Plans have
been based on Nitrogen, but NRCS and DWQ have implemented new
regulations that will affect local farmers and their ability to
apply nutrients to their land. NRCS and Extension hosted a meeting
to provide valuable information to the producers who will be
affected by the new regulations. Over 150 farmers in Lenoir,
Greene, and Jones counties will be affected and with the
information provided they will be able to evaluate the impact on
their farm. Extension will be able to help by teaching best
management practices and proper record keeping to monitor
phosphorus levels on their farms.
Record #: 78 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-02
POW: F1
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L
The work continues to promote the Cooperative Extension in the
county while at the same time providing instructional media
messages regarding the consumption of fruits and vegetables. After
the Menu of Options Training by Dr. Dunn our group consisting of
the WIC dietician, School Nutrition Assistant Director and Health
Educator meet to plan the changes we are working on in some of our
advocacy roles. These women also have input into the vegetable
selection, this month we completed a tape on public television on
the benefits of spinach. This TV programming reaches approximately
1,500 homes in the county.
Record #: 79 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-01
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cropps, Seydel
Many people are concerned about their weight and are constantly
trying to lose weight. They starve themselves for a couple of weeks
in order to lose the weight. Unfortunately, soon after they lose it
they gain it back. One of my EFNEP clients has been able to break
this cycle because of participating in the EFNEP program. She
learned that it was not necessary to starve herself but just eat
smaller portions, less fat, and more fruits and vegetables. The
lesson "Eating Right and Light" has been very beneficial
to her. She has lost the weight she wanted and has been able to
keep it off. Both her and her two children are grateful for this
program which has helped them control their weight.
Record #: 80 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-01
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Tim, Peggy
Food Safety is an area that is always addressed in the EFNEP
programs. It is an area that some of the clients make changes but
often very slowly. During the month of February 2004, one of the
clients whom has attended many classes in past reported she is
making great changes in her home. She commented that she no longer
thaws food at room temperature. She has also purchased a plastic
spray bottle, and now makes a chlorine solution each day to
sanitize in her home. She said she has noticed less sickness
throughout the winter months. She also is grateful for the class
and information offered.
Record #: 81 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-01
POW: A1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cave, T B
Through closer working relationships developed by contact with
the Small Business Center at Surry Community College, a new
agricultural waste management business was evaluated. The local
college contacted Extension for help in working with a potential
new business entrepreneur to develop a business plan for her new
animal waste management company. This could lead to a business
specifically designed to help farmers manage their animal waste
stream and increase the business landscape through the development
of a new business.
Record #: 82 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-01
POW: Y5
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Kelleher, Michael
Our 4-H Migrant Education Program was having a problem getting
the Ashe County tree growers to let us recruit their migrant
workers. Some of the growers were afraid that our program was a
watchdog group or legal aide. Other tree growers did not know about
the 4-H Migrant Education Program. To solve this problem we became
a member of the North Carolina Tree Growers Association. We also
presented an exhibit at the NCCTA Winter Meeting in Watauga County
to inform growers what the 4-H Migrant Education Program is all
about. We gave away English / Spanish cassettes for growers to keep
for themselves or give to their workers. As a result, the President
of the local Tree Growers Association asked us to send her a PSA
about our program for their newsletter. We were also invited back
to their Summer conference to present another exhibit.
Record #: 83 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-29
POW: E8
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
Approximately 500 landscape and plant industry professionals
attended our Fourth Annual Pro Days Trade Show held on February
19th. The educational programs were very successful with audiences
of over 200 for many of the sessions. Professionals were able to
receive 5 hours of mandated Pesticide Recertification Credits for
the event and most of the participants indicated they would adopt
two or more practices recommended from the sessions. Each
participant is expected to save about $100.00 making a $50,000
impact for the professional workers in attendance. Other impacts
include: personal safety enhanced by following recommended safety
guidelines, protection of the environment, and reducing wasteful
fertilization and chemical application procedures.
Record #: 84 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-01
POW: E8
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
Landscapers and Horticultural workers (110) participated in our
regional two day Pesticide Licensing School which culminated with
an exam to license commercial pesticide applicators. (26) Workers
from Brunswick County took the test and obtained their applicators
license.
Record #: 85 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-01
POW: A16
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
Extension Agent David Barkley was instrumental in helping the
Cape Fear Fair and Expo walk away with two awards at the NC/SC Fair
Convention. David coordinated with the Brunswick County 4H Program
and the Consumer Horticulture Program to enter 13 categories in The
Showcase of Excellence at the North Carolina State Fair. Entries
David helped coordinate won first place in the Horticultural Crops
division and the Clothing division. The $500 first place prize
money will be split by the sponsoring fair and the participant.
Many of the participants will be donating their part of the prize
money to support the 4-H Program in Brunswick County. $800 so far,
will go to the Cape Fear Fair and another $675.00 has been
designated to support the 4-H program.
Record #: 86 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-01
POW: A15
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
Extension's involvement with educational booths, its
Environmental Science Day at the Fair, and the layout of exhibits
and displays were the main factors in helping the Cape Fear Fair
and Expo improve their fair while also providing a good marketing
tool for the Extension Service. Over 45,000 fair patrons walked
through the display area and many of these patrons increased their
awareness of their local Cooperative Extension Service and some of
its programming efforts to improve “Quality of Life”
issues for citizens in this region.
Record #: 87 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-01
POW: A15
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
A special exhibit featuring North Carolina Agriculture and the
“Goodness Grows in North Carolina” promotion was placed
on exhibit at the Cape Fear Fair and Expo as part of a tri-county
display. A collaborative effort among the agents and directors in
Brunswick, Pender and New Hanover Counties demonstrated teamwork
that also helped the county fair to be nominated for outstanding
achievements at the NC/SC Fair Convention
Record #: 88 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-01
POW: C4
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
The Master Gardener Association conducted monthly meetings
during 2003 and provided 125 members educational programs on
growing and caring for plants adapted and recommended for coastal
environments. An Advanced Master Gardening training session was
held with 10 volunteers passing the Plant Identification
certification exam for non professionals. Volunteers continue to be
involved with the daily operations of the Extension Office and help
with maintaining the landscape gardens, planning and preparing
educational programs, providing administrative help, conducting the
Plant Sale, and performing various roles on specialized
committees.
Record #: 89 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-01
POW: C4
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
Since Brunswick is such a large county, it is sometimes
difficult for area residents to travel to the Extension Office to
find answers to some of the questions they have on growing plants
and managing various weed, insect and disease pests. Brunswick
County Master Gardeners have developed an educational program that
goes out into the community to help county residents with their
landscape and gardening needs. Plant Clinics are put on by the
Master Gardeners and feature two presentations at each site on a
variety of gardening topics. Participants are encouraged to bring
their plant problems to the clinics to be diagnosed and are given
instructions on how to deal with their plant problems. (72) Clinics
were held with 144 presentations made to over 1900 residents. They
increased their knowledge on using best management practices to
grow and maintain their plants which resulted in saving them time
and money.
Record #: 91 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-01
POW: A15
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
Master Gardener Volunteers have renovated our Landscape
Demonstration Garden that is used as a training resource for
teaching various horticultural practices. A concept plan was
initiated by David Barkley and Charlie Spencer’s daughter
provided us with a professional drawing from her company in
Houston. Prison labor has been used to construct a new outdoor
classroom deck cutting the cost of the project in half. The Prison
labor group will continue to work with our plan to develop the
gardens and offer much needed construction expertise at no cost to
our program except for the meals that we provide them.
Record #: 93 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-01
POW: C4
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
A Master Gardener Graduation Banquet and Ceremony that was
attended by 128 people and 30 Master Gardeners received their
graduation certificates. The volunteer program contributes to the
following impacts: * Funds raised for support of programs *
increased public awareness of programs and services * Citizens
making the correct choices in managing plants and plant pests *
Money saved by citizens making the right decisions *
Environmentally sound practices promoted and adopted by citizens *
Increased volunteer staff and hours donated to community service
projects * Volunteer hours donated result in savings to the county
* Volunteer recognition and appreciation makes them feel they are
of value to the program and inspires them to want to do more.
Record #: 94 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-01
POW: A16
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
Brunswick County’s 4H Horticulture Judging Teams
participated at the State Horticulture Judging Contest held during
the week of 4H Congress. The Senior Team finished 2nd and the
Junior Team 4th in the state competition. Aaron Mallner went on to
compete in the National Contest in the Open Individual Category and
had the highest score and became the National Winner in the Open
Division. David also coached another Open team representing North
Carolina to a 4th place finish in the National Contest. With
Aaron’s win and other North Carolina participant’s
finishes in various competition categories, North Carolina was
awarded the National Sweepstakes award for all scores combined.
Record #: 95 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-01
POW: A16
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
Another 540 students participated in our Farm Day Program which
helps to increase students understanding of farming operations and
how farmers develop good stewardship practices to lessen the
impacts farm operations have on the environment. Master Gardeners
assisted by leading some of the training sessions as part of their
volunteer commitments to the extension program.
Record #: 96 of 2780
Date: 2005-01-04
POW: F2
Location: Cumberland
Person Reporting: Underwood, Candy
The Cooperative Extension began implementing the Baby Think It
Over Program in 1998 with the collaboration of Cumberland County
Schools. The target audience consist of males and females between
the ages of 10-18. The students explore the emotional, financial,
physical, and social consequences of teen parenting by caring for
an infant simulator. According to the Advocate, Cumberland
County's rates have fallen since 1998 from 107.8 to 80.0 in
2002. (Pregnancies per 1000 teens) A total of 2,267 students have
participated in this program. According to the post questionnaire,
over sixty five percent indicated the program helped reinforce
their decision to wait to have children. For the 2004-2005 year, we
received $1000 from the Cape Fear Kiwanis and a $1000 matching gift
from the Youth Growth Stock Trust. These monies will help with the
continuation of the program.
Record #: 97 of 2780
Date: 2005-01-05
POW: F1
Location: Durham
Person Reporting: Goldmon, Suzzette S
A Nutrition and Physical Education program titled Sybershop was
delivered to public school eighth graders. This program addresses
and provides education on the epidemic of childhood obesity in
North Carolina. The CD-Rom delivery of the program is a highly
effective tool in motivating students to think about the nutrient
composition of the foods they commonly eat and the impact these
have on their health status. Because students thought the CD was
cool they were excited to go home to show it to other people. It
was also an effective tool for increasing knowledge of physical
activity options. Students' responses included
“It’s helpful and a creative way to present
information; It gives me a chance to see what I eat and if
it’s healthy; I think it’s cool and something lots of
people should learn.”
Record #: 98 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-03
POW: A1
Location: Franklin
Person Reporting: Mobley, Martha L
According to the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer
Service census, NC has seen a loss of tobacco revenues on the
family farm by over $50,000 during the past five years (on average)
due to quota reductions, etc. To address a need for an alternative
agricultural enterprise, the NC Meat Goat Producers Cooperative
provided four additional "Quality Assurance"
certification programs throughout the state in 2003, certifying
over 380 new goat producers. Additional revenues generated from
value-added marketing this agricultural product has generated an
additional .30 cents per pound for the goat producers product
consistently on a year-round basis with no sales fees and insurance
costs charged. In December 2003 alone, over $31,000 worth of live
goats were sold to the ethnic northeastern market. This project is
being used as a model for Tennessee and Oklahoma goat producers and
Extension Service.
Record #: 99 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-03
POW: C1
Location: Franklin
Person Reporting: Mobley, Martha L
Franklin County is one of the fasting growing counties in the
state. Subdivisions and shopping centers are being developed each
day in the county. Due to the rapid growth rate and need to
preserve open, green space in addition to preserving agriculture,
the Franklin County Commissioners established an "Agricultural
Board " for the county along with a "Voluntary
Agricultural Districting Ordinance" in 2003. The NC
Cooperative Extension Service, Franklin County Center, serves as
the county liaison for landowners, farmers, etc. to register their
land in the Agricultural District. The Service also serves as the
advisor to the diverse 10-member Agricultural Board. An application
procedure has been developed and the Board will begin reviewing
landowner requests to be included in the program in March 2004. The
Board also serves as the County Commissioners source for
agricultural interests and needs in the county.
Record #: 100 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-03
POW: A2
Location: Franklin
Person Reporting: Mobley, Martha L
Both youth and adults are losing "touch" with
agriculture. In 2003, the 8th Annual Animal Agriculture Field Day
was held for over 800 third graders in the county, along with their
teachers, parents and volunteers. United Way of Franklin County
gave this project a $6,000 grant to make it a true success. Twelve
education stations were taught by volunteering area livestock
producers. The producers brought their animals to the local park
along with educational teaching supplies on each species. The
NCCES, Franklin County Center, presented each child a free
specially designed t-shirt using the theme, "Farm to
Table", along with a detailed training manual given for use in
the classroom by the teacher. Many positive comments were received
in a written survey by the NCCES from the teachers, children and
volunteers. In addition, the local media provided excellent
coverage on the event and labeled it "priceless!"
Record #: 101 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-03
POW: A3
Location: Franklin
Person Reporting: Mobley, Martha L
Many children do not have the opportunity to live on a farm and
have contact with animals. In 2003, Franklin County area livestock
producers shared their animals, particularly beef heifers and meat
goats, for "city kids" to visit their farms, work with an
animal, select and care for an animal, while the animal stays on
the farm. Fifty-two youth from the county participated in the 2003
NC State Fair in Raleigh. All had training in animal husbandry and
showmanship from the NCCES, Franklin County Center. However, one
child "froze" before entering the show ring during
competition at the State Fair and stated, in tears, "she could
not go in the ring with her animal." After a few minutes of
encouragement from a fellow, more experienced county showman, the
child went in the ring, and won a special award as well.
Record #: 103 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-19
POW: Y11
Location: Halifax
Person Reporting: Best, Teshena
"Kids Night Out" Halifax County is in the rebuilding
process with its 4-H Program. We are sponsoring events to get youth
interested in becoming apart of 4-H. On Friday, February 25th
forty-nine kids from all areas of Halifax County met Friday evening
and experienced fun with 4-H through “Kids Night Out”.
These kids did it all from playing icebreakers and games to get to
know one another, to making their own dinner which included pizza,
toss salad and cookies for dessert. After dinner, the kids
surrounded the television to enjoying munching on popcorn while
watching the movie Kangaroo Jack. Upon their departure, several
kids & parents expressed an interest in joining and organizing
4-H clubs.
Record #: 104 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-04
POW: A15
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Traywick, Greg B
The landscape at Lattimore Baptist Church in rural Cleveland
County is graced with 50-year-old American boxwoods. Although in
good heath, the plants had responded to previous shearings by
growing leggy with most of the foliage restricted to the outer 4
inches of the branches. When weighted by rain, snow, or ice, the
plants splayed open, subjecting them to deformity and breakage. A
few had suffered significant damage breakage by young children.
Concerned about the appearance and long-term health of these
valuable shrubs, Grounds Committee chair Bill Lovelace contacted NC
Cooperative Extension for advice. Greg Traywick called on colleague
and friend John Vining (Polk County Extension Director) for
assistance. The team identified certain shrubs for removal and
established strategies to benefit the remaining shrubs through
corrective pruning. The Grounds Committee adopted the
recommendations and employed the services of a local landscape
professional to perform the pruning operation.
Record #: 105 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-05
POW: A1
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Traywick, Greg B
One hundred six (106) cattle producers from the Southwest
Extension District participated in a March 4, 2004 area beef
conference designed to provide them with practical, timely,
research-based information to enhance the profitability of their
livestock operations. Coordinated by extension personnel serving
Cleveland, Rutherford, Polk, Catawba, Gaston, and Lincoln Counties,
the conference addressed BSE (Mad Cow Disease) and the US Animal
Identification Program, mineral supplementation programs for beef
herds grazing fescue-based pastures, profitable cattle marketing
opportunities, effective weed control strategies, and safe use of
pesticides. Participants rated the conference highly, and
encouraged NC Cooperative Extension to make the educational program
an annual event.
Record #: 106 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-05
POW: A8
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Garwood, Terry A
On February 20, 2004 29 potential growers attended a Shiitake
Mushroom Production Workshop at the Extension office in Surry
County. Extension Agent Terry Garwood and N C A&T Extension
Specialist Dr. Omon Isekhoumen conducted the seminar showing
participants how to inoculate over 40 mixed hardwood logs with
Shiitake Mushroom Spawn. As of March 4, 2004, 7 of the participants
have decided to produce 200 logs each of Shiitake from Spawn
produced in Dr. Isekhoumens lab. These growers will bring the total
commercial growers in Surry County to 12 when added to 2003's
growers. Growers inoculate over 1000 logs in 2003 and plan to
inoculate 1400 additional logs in 2004. Each log has the potential
to produce 2-4 pounds of Shiitake mushrooms per year. Current
prices of $6/pound could yield a gross income of approximately
$57,000 or $4,800 per grower in 2005.
Record #: 107 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-05
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
Burke County has many new residents moving into the county and
they need to know how to manage their lawns. Two Lawn care
workshops were held with 76 total participants. They learned about
maintaining their lawns and about chemical and fertilizer use.
Timing of fertilizers and chemicals is essential and consumers
learned that improper timing can result in wasted money spent on
materials that are ineffective at that particular time. Sowing
techniques and weed control were also discussed and economic
importance of correct usage of these materials was also
covered.
Record #: 108 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-05
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
Twenty consumers recently attended a landscape drafting and
design workshop. They learned how to use an engineers scale to draw
to scale and how this could help them to determine the correct
numbers of plants to purchase. They also learned how to make full
use of the culture tag on plant material and about hardiness zones.
They actually drew a plan and put in the plants while learning
about how to choose the best plant. Consumers indicated that they
would save between $25 and $100 dollars as a result of taking this
class as well as valuable time by planning for their landscape
project.
Record #: 109 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-06
POW: A1
Location: Craven
Person Reporting: Andrews, Amy
New Grant-Funded Equipment for Swine Producers Regulations and
the need for good record keeping skills continue to become
increasingly more important for hog farmers in Craven and Jones
counties. As this demand increases, Extension must play a larger
role in helping these producers develop the skills necessary to
comply with tightening regulations. Teamwork on behalf of local hog
producers, DPPEA, WG Simmons and myself has awarded Craven &
Jones counties the use of a grant-funded flow meter. This expensive
meter will be available (thanks to a grant through DPPEA) to
producers to more accurately calibrate their irrigation systems.
Already, one farmer has proven that the amount of waste he has been
land applying is fully in compliance with new regulations, which
was questionable before the use of the meter. This instrument will
help our producers more accurately keep tract of their waste
applications, which will help promote a more sustainable
environment and reputation for NC pork producers. Approximately 42
swine farms and 92 producers will save $168,000 due to the
availability of this grant-funded equipment.
Record #: 110 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-05
POW: A4
Location: Union
Person Reporting: Pegram, Thomas G
March 4, 2004 hosted the annual Tri-County Corn/Soybean
Production Conference at Hamilton's Crossroads Baptist Church.
The Tri-County conference consisted of Union, Anson and Stanly
Counties. Had over 125 people in attendance of which 81 received
continuing pesticide recertification credits. The conference
provided clientele a variety of information with state and local
data being made available on corn and soybean varieties and new
pesticides. Dr. Roger Crickenburger with NCSU provided slide
presentation of his recent trip to South America which enlighted
local producers to their competition in soybean production. Also,
numerous agri-business sponsors were on hand to assist in answering
questions.
Record #: 112 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-08
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert
The February 11, 2004 Forestry Issues Forum teleconference
resulted in an estimated $91,350 in total cost savings for 168
participants from North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. For
every dollar invested by participants, they received approximately
$15.54 in cost savings when compared to attending a traditional
conference. Of the $15.54 in cost savings 70% is because of time
savings associated with attending the teleconference verses a
traditional conference. 504 continuing education credits were
awarded.
Record #: 113 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-08
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert
The February 25, 2004 Timber Marketing and Financial Incentive
Programs for Forest Landowners in Fayetteville, North Carolina had
reached approximately 36 people owning approximately 4300 acres of
forestland. Based on the information provided 78% plan on
participating in financial incentive programs, 76% plan on using a
consulting forester to conduct their next timber sale, a 20%
increase in those who plan to use a consulting forester to sell
timber compared to those who sold timber before the workshop, and
82% of the participants felt the program information that they
received would save or make them money.
Record #: 114 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-08
POW: F2
Location: Madison
Person Reporting: Estridge, Susan S
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is the leading cause of death of
babies between 1 month and 1 year of age. Madison County
Cooperative Extension FCS partnered with Madison County Child Care
Partners and offered, SIDS-Sudden Infant Syndrome: What You Need To
Know! A workshop to educate child care professionals on the current
research of SIDS, laws affecting child care programs as well as a
review of policies related to SIDS reduction in the child care
setting. Twenty-six child care professionals attended the training
and a pre/post test revealed a 100% increase in knowledge regarding
best practices for the reduction of SIDS in the child care
setting.
Record #: 115 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-08
POW: F2
Location: Madison
Person Reporting: Estridge, Susan S
Children with special needs and children without are more alike
than they are different. Madison County CES/FCS teamed together
with Madison County Child Care Partners and offered the training,
"The Joys and Challenges of Inclusion: Parents and
Professionals Speak Out! With this educational training, child care
professionals learned that children with special needs in inclusive
classrooms maintain their rate of developmental growth, show gains
in social skills, interact more with others and play with toys in
different, more complex ways. A pre/post test showed a 100%
increase in new knowledge gained.
Record #: 116 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-08
POW: A1
Location: Wayne
Person Reporting: Coite, Eileen
Horse owners are faced with an enormous amount of healthcare
expenses throughout each year, both with preventative and
unexpected veterinary visits. Cooperative Extension and the REINS
program in Wayne County, along with a local veterinarian, provide a
discount healthcare clinic for horses each winter in an effort to
alleviate some of these costs. In 2004 38 horses received Coggins
testing and various vaccinations to prepare them for the upcoming
spring. Participating horse owners saved a total of $1088 by
attending the clinic.
Record #: 117 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-08
POW: A1
Location: Iredell
Person Reporting: Miller, Michael P
A state graded feeder calf marketing demonstration was conducted
on August 19, 2003 in Iredell County with 33 producers consigning
523 calves from 8 counties. This sale is a cooperative effort by
the Cooperative Extension Service with support from NCDA, the NC
Cattlemen's Association and the local stockyard. Based on an
analysis of the calves selling the same day on a regular sale, the
graded sale returned the participating producers an additional
$18,034 or $546 per producer. In addition, the educational benefits
of realizing the price differential of the different breeds,
grades, genetics and management gave producers valuable information
on which systems provided the most profit and afforded them the
opportunity to make adjustments to their cattle operations.
Record #: 118 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-23
POW: Y10
Location: Stokes
Person Reporting: Bowman, April
The Take 10 program was implemented in fifth grade classrooms in
Stokes County in 2003, in order to make the students aware of the
importance of physical activity, health and other nutrition related
topics. The program was implemented by the Eat Right Network, which
includes members from Cooperative Extension, the Health Department,
School Nurses, School Dental Hygienist, Child Nutrition Director, a
Private Nutrition Consultant and volunteers. Fifty-two percent of
the students that participated in Take 10 reported that they were
exercising more after the Take 10 program than before. Forty-two
percent of the students that participated in Take 10 reported
watching less television and spending less time playing video games
or using a computer after the Take 10 program than before.
Seventy-eight percent of the students reported that they were
physically active 4 or more days per week after the Take 10
program, versus 66 percent prior to the program.
Record #: 119 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-09
POW: Y1
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Meads, Tanya L
Community service is a major focus in the 4-H program.
Delivering meals to shut-ins in the community made a huge impact
for the youth involved. Youth learned life skills of caring,
citizenship and responsibility.
Record #: 120 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-09
POW: Y1
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Meads, Tanya L
Outreach in the community is a prime focus in the 4-H program.
Targeting the Hispanic community was done by establishing a 4-H
After-school club with OIC and also in a Y.O.U. (youth
opportunities unlimited). Programs focused on leadership and career
development.
Record #: 121 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-09
POW: Y1
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Meads, Tanya L
Program targeting males were developed to include activities
with wildlife, environment and natural resources. Monthly programs
consisted of tracking, habitat and fishing. Trip was planned for
Mattamuskeet Wildlife Refuge where over 30 youth and parents
attended. Independent living skills, animal identification,
tracking, fishing, hiking and outdoor cooking skills were
introduced.
Record #: 122 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-09
POW: Y1
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Meads, Tanya L
School Enrichment was provided by the 4-H office in training of
teachers and providing support to the schools. Over 15 teachers
were trained which resulted in over 450 students involved in the
program. Skills taught dealt with embryo development,
responsibility and caring for animals.
Record #: 123 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-09
POW: Y1
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Meads, Tanya L
Livestock judging is a part of the 4-H program that proved to be
successful in that the junior and senior teams placed in the top of
the state at the NC Livestock Judging Contest. The junior team
placed 2nd overall and the senior team placed 1st overall. This
team also participated in the National Livestock judging
contests.
Record #: 124 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-09
POW: Y1
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Meads, Tanya L
4-H Presentations is a major focus in the Wilson program. Public
speaking skills were developed through hard work and practice.
Fifteen youth were involved in 4-H Congress due to their
participation in presentations program. Four were youth-district
winners and eight youth state winners (1st, 2nd, and 3rd). We had
an increase in both public speaking presentations, winners on state
level and an increase in those attending 4-H Congress.
Record #: 125 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-09
POW: Y1
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Meads, Tanya L
Thirty=five youth attended 4-H Summer Camp at Betsy-Jeff Penn in
Reidsville. Campers learned independent living skills, environment
and natural resources. Campers were involved in horseback riding,
climbing wall, ropes course, crafts and many more activities.
Wilson had an increase in numbers that attended camp.
Record #: 126 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-09
POW: Y1
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Meads, Tanya L
New clubs were established as a kick-off to 4-H. Black Creek,
Stantonsburg and Five Points area was the target for 4-H.
Informational meetings took place in all areas targeted. Clubs were
established in Black Creek and has proven successful in that youth
involved had special needs and were noted by parents to be
improving.
Record #: 127 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-09
POW: Y1
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Meads, Tanya L
4-H was involved in a county side beautification project where
4-H was granted 100 azaleas from WRAL-TV, to be planted around the
community. Dollars saved by the project was $100 to the
community.
Record #: 128 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-09
POW: Y1
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Meads, Tanya L
Wilson County held it's first Holiday Extravaganza in 2003
which is an event where vendors come in and sell their products.
The show was held in November to accommodate holiday shoppers. We
had 25 vendors at $50 per booth which netted Wilson County 4-H,
$1,250. We also brought in more funds by clubs participating in a
bake sale during that time, which collected over $500.
Record #: 129 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-09
POW: Y1
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Meads, Tanya L
Due to a vacancy at the State 4-H Youth Livestock position, the
Wilson County 4-H agent coached the NC team for Nationals. The
senior team members and others in the state were involved in
touring and practicing for the national livestock judging contest.
The results came in with high team in beef at the Keystone Contest.
The NAILE contest (Nationals-Kentucky), NC placed 2nd in Sheep, 7th
overall, 8th in reasons and 9th in swine. Overall we also had a
Wilson individual to place 7th highest in the nation.
Record #: 130 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-11
POW: Y9
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Blackburn, Linda
Middle school age youth are hard to program for because their
needs are so varied. Ashe County 4-H has found that all the
resources that we can offer are a plus to this age group. Again
this year GEAR UP, offered by Upward Bound Program at Appalachian
State University, approached Ashe County 4-H S.O.S. and ask if we
could collaborate to offer services for youth at Ashe County Middle
School through the 4-H Bulldog Alert-S.O.S. Program for next school
year. This will allow youth the opportunity to be tutored by ASU
students and to be involved in the 5th Dimension Program, a
computer program that teaches good decision making skills.
Record #: 131 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-30
POW: Y3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Rogers, Aggie L
Yearly completion of project records is an important component
of our 4-H program. Records reflects what 4-H'ers have planned,
done and learned. Robeson County volunteer leaders assisted with
judging district records books. By judging, leaders not only
learned new methods of reporting, but also became enthusiastic
about the process and the importance of record keeping as a life
skill. They were also able to teach other leaders and 4-H'ers.
As a result, our records double this year from 43 to 90. From the
county's best, Robeson sent 15 records for district
competition, which was an increase of (9). To continue this trend,
we will continue to conduct project and cumulative records
workshops to youth and adults to continue to build their record
keeping skills.
Record #: 132 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-11
POW: A4
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Gurganus, Rod R
Agents in Beaufort, Hyde, Washington, and Tyrrell Counties
planned and implemented the "2004 Corn and Soybean Producer
Meetings" again this year, meeting with 353 farmers and
agribusiness people at 8 meetings in 4 counties during a span of 5
days. Each agent, along with specialists from the Vernon James
Center, gave 20 minute presentations on subjects of agronomic
importance to growers. Local dealerships sponsored the meals. 219
pesticide applicators earned 1.0 hour of recertification credits
towards their applicator licenses by attending these meetings. 30
Certified Crop Advisors each earned 2.5 hours of Continuing
Education Units at these meetings as well.
Record #: 133 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-13
POW: C1
Location: Warren
Person Reporting: McMillan, Philip M
Warren County Cooperative Extension has always embraced the
leadership development concept. Since 1985 Warren County 4-H has
operated a primitive day-camp program at the Historic Buck Spring
facility owned by Warren County. Through the combined efforts of
the Warren County Extension staff, former Congresswoman Eva
Clayton, The Warren County Commission, N.C. State University and
N>C>A&T State University, the concept of building a
Regional Leadership Excellence Center at the Buck Spring Center was
conceived and brought into motion in 2003. A volunteer management
team, under the auspices of Cooperative Extension, was appointed
and charged with bringing this center to reality. Throughout the
year this management team has worked tirelessly to design the
facility, gain public support through countless educational
sessions, put together a funding plan and within this year have
raised approximately $3,300,000 of the$3,900,000 needed to build
this center. Plans are to complete funding and break ground in
2004.
Record #: 134 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-13
POW: C8
Location: Warren
Person Reporting: McMillan, Philip M
Warren County suffered through two natural crop disasters in
2003. The first was a set of severe storms in May which caused over
$500,000 in crop damages and loss of available nutrients. The
second was Hurricane Isabel in September which caused a crop loss
of nearly $3,000,000. The Warren County Extension Agent responded
before and after these disasters with critical information to the
farmers, providing information on replenishing lost nutrients and
replanting information for May and early harvest, generator
availability, and post-storm handling of damaged crops and
harvesting for September. A total of 111 farms were supplied with
this information. As a result of this pre and post storm help and
support, at least 70 farmers were able to save a majority of their
crops and were able to collect insurance for that portion lost,
thus averting a nearly $6,000,000 crop disaster for Warren County
farmers.
Record #: 135 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-13
POW: E8
Location: Warren
Person Reporting: McMillan, Philip M
Warren County farmers need to use pesticides as part of their
BMP pest control in their crops. Warren County Cooperative
Extension offered eight pesticide education classes for farmers in
2003. These classes were both re-certification classes for
certified pesticide applicators and production classes for farmers
to learn best pest control practices for their farms. A total of 87
certified applicators received their required training to renew
their certifications and a total of 163 farmers received training
in best pest control practices. The knowledge gained through these
classes allowed farmers to improve the rate and amount of
pesticides used saving them an average of $200 on their total
pesticide bills or approximately $15,600 county-wide. This
reduction in pesticides used resulted in a societal benefit of
approximately $46,800 in improved health and safety.
Record #: 136 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-13
POW: E8
Location: Warren
Person Reporting: McMillan, Philip M
Stored pesticides are a danger to all. From theft and
bio-terrorism to spills and contamination, pesticides can be a
tremendous danger. To lessen this danger, Warren County Cooperative
Extension planned and coordinated with NCDA&CS to conduct a
free pesticide disposal day for Warren County. The collection day
was set up at the local Southern States and a total of 1237 pounds
of un-wanted pesticides in 71 different containers was collected
from local residents. The free disposal of these pesticides saved
these residents better than $92,775, what would have been the
average cost to dispose of them through a commercial hazardous
waste facility, which is the only other legal disposal method.
Societal benefits for this free program are valued at over $450,000
for Warren County.
Record #: 137 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-13
POW: A4
Location: Warren
Person Reporting: McMillan, Philip M
Agriculture is still one of the largest income producing
enterprises in Warren County, accounting for more than $33,000,000
to local farmers. Warren County Cooperative Extension provides much
needed assistance to these farmers through teaching classes and
workshops on production techniques, new varieties, fertilization,
pest control, management, harvesting and marketing. In 2003, ten
different workshops were conducted. In addition, more than 525
individual farm visits were conducted to help these farmers solve
problems and make best management decisions for their operations.
Because of this research-based help provided, Warren County farmers
had one of their best harvests in many years. Because of the
extremely wet season, farmers were dealing with problems not
normally experienced and thus sought more assistance than normal.
The Extension Agent provided much needed information for these
farmers at critical times thus assisting in their $33,000,000
income. Valued at only one percent, the value added by Extension
assistance accounts for $330,000.
Record #: 138 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-13
POW: A4
Location: Warren
Person Reporting: McMillan, Philip M
Tobacco is still the main income producing crop for Warren
County farmers. In recent years the concern of carcinogens in
tobacco has had a great affect on the harvesting and curing of
tobacco. Heat exchangers added to curing barns has proved to remove
at least some of these carcinogens. Warren County farmers have
equipped their curing barns with these exchangers. These exchangers
however are prone to develop leaks and dump these carcinogens back
into the curing tobacco. To help farmers certify that their barns
are leak-free, Cooperative Extension started a program of testing
these barns free for farmers. At the request of local farmers, 58
barns were tested in 2003. In comparison to commercial testing,
which is not currently available, this free testing saved the local
farmers in excess of $20,000 in direct costs. Premium prices were
also paid by some buyers for tobacco from certified curing
barns.
Record #: 139 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-15
POW: E7
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Traywick, Greg B
Cooperative Extension collaborates with the NC Department of
Agriculture to hold pesticide collection days in each county every
other year. These events protect groundwater and promote safety
through the collection and incineration of unwanted pesticides.
Realizing that agents, farmers, and homeowners needed options for
safely storing pesticides between scheduled collection days, the
NCDA Pesticide Disposal Program secured a PETF grant to set up a 40
foot shipping container behind the Cleveland County Extension
Center. One section of the container is used by the host county to
store triple rinsed pesticide containers. The other section of the
container is available for use by the Southwest District pesticide
coordinators to temporarily store unwanted pesticides for disposal.
The container was installed March 23, 2004 and all pesticide
coordinators in the region were trained on how to operate and
manage the facility.
Record #: 140 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-29
POW: Y1
Location: Davidson
Person Reporting: Jones, Julie
Having quality programs that impact the lives of Davidson County
youth is the goal of the Davidson County 4-H program. In order to
offer quality programs, the Davidson County 4-H program must secure
financial resources that ensure programs on life skill development.
In March, the 4-H staff had the opportunity to appeal the United
Way’s decision to reduce the 4-H program’s fund
allocation by 35%. A reduction in funds meant that fewer youth
would be reached through programs that focus on life skills such as
teamwork, leadership, communication, and character development.
Because of the appeal hearing, the 4-H was able to secure full
funding for the program. Due to this, more youth will be impacted
by life skill development programs, such as Sybershop, a
nutritional program for under-privileged youth.
Record #: 141 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-15
POW: A1
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Conrad, Tiffanee
Meat goat producers in Robeson County previously were forced to
drive over 2 hours to sell their goats at a market where they could
get good prices for their animals. With tobacco quotas being
decreased, many producers are looking for alternative forms of
income. The Livestock Agent in Robeson County in partnership with
local producers who are members of The North Carolina Meat Goat
Cooperative applied for and were awarded a $19,000 grant by Rural
Advancement Foundation International to build a meat goat buying
station in Robeson County. 109 local producers will now be able to
sell their goats locally generating $31,072 additional income per
month, and will not have to pay transportation cost to get their
animals to a buying station far away. The accomplishments of the
buying station will be demonstrated to the public during a field
day in July. More certification trainings are planned for the
future.
Record #: 142 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-16
POW: A9
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
Caldwell County is undergoing a tax re-evaluation this year and
with the recent passage of Senate Bill 1161. The need was
recognized that it will be important that farm and forest land
owners learn and understand the qualifications for
"use-value” and the processes that the use-value
advisory board follows to develop the schedules of values provided
to the County. The Caldwell County Cooperative Extension Center
hosted a program on Qualifying and Staying Qualified for NC
Deferred Property Tax System. Twenty three people attended the
program and a post class survey indicated that 85% of those present
intend to apply knowledge gained to their tax planning.
Record #: 143 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-19
POW: A7
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Brownlee, Nelson C
One farm family in Robeson County has been participating in the
Small Farmer Outreach Training and Technical Assistance Project for
ten years. In the past, they expressed a desire to seek alternative
sources of income. Currently they are raising pigs and cows and
selling them to the local livestock market. In 2001, they opened a
small business to market swine and beef directly to the community.
In order to grow their business even more, they applied for a Rural
Advanced Foundation International Producer Grant to install a
Walk-In Freezer and scales base and purchase a Refrigerated Truck.
In March 2004, they received a $10,000 producer grant. The larger
freezer and refrigerated truck will allow them to keep more meat on
hand and make deliveries to their customers, which will improve and
sustain the family farm. With the help of the Cooperative
Extension, this farm family will reach their financial goals.
Record #: 144 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-26
POW: F4
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L
Community Capacity building. En Vino Vertas! That is all the
Latin I know! Lenny Rogers and I met with the new vintner in
Alexander County, Ginger Creek Winery. He is planting 11 acres of
muscadine and in the process of finishing his building and
vineyard. Provided grower with information from the last
winegrowers association meeting regarding label design process and
offered him lists of label makers. Also offered support for working
with local government on issues of permits for tastings. This
winegrower is a minister which I think truly blends religion,
agriculture and economics into one new business on a century old
farm.
Record #: 145 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-29
POW: E8
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Collins, Randy
On March 25, 2004, 18 individuals received 2 hours of core(V)
credit of the 4 total hours required for pesticide recertification.
The significance of this program is to provide private pesticide
applicators with the opportunity to keep their license current and
to stay on top of new and emerging issues in the pesticide field.
This program is also beneficial in that it allows private
applicators to be recertified in their local area rather than
having to travel long distances to renew their certification.
Lastly, this program is also an opportunity for Cooperative
Extension to market its other services and programs that are
beneficial to the public.
Record #: 146 of 2780
Date: 2004-08-26
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Tim, Peggy
An on going struggle is to encourage people to eat more
vegetables. The three minimum servings per day are seldom met by
the EFNEP clientele. In an effort to help the clients improve their
intake and add variety a baked ziti and vegetable casserole was
used for demonstration. It included a bag of frozen mixed
vegetables, green and red bell peppers, tomatoes and onions along
with mushrooms. The vegetables that seem to be less favorites, such
as the peppers, onions and mushrooms were pureed so they were no
longer visible. Everyone enjoyed the casserole and parents were
thrilled the children ate 8 vegetables that tasted like pizza in
one dish, without complaints.
Record #: 147 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-29
POW: E8
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Davis, Everett
Disposal of unwanted pesticides is a major problem for
homeowners as well as for farmers. Unwanted, outdated, and surplus
pesticides can cause serious environmental problems if old
containers begin leaking and can pose health problems or death if
accidental exposure occurs with farm workers, children or
homeowners. The Robeson County Extension Director coordinated with
the North Carolina Department of Agriculture pesticide division to
conduct an Unwanted Pesticide Collection day. The Robeson County
Fair donated the use of their exhibit hall for the collection.
Extensive publicity was conducted prior to the scheduled collection
day resulting in 307 containers with a total weight of 3,410 pounds
being collected. Collected materials were transported to approved
site for disposal. Due to the success of this effort this activity
will continue to be provided bi-annually for the citizens of
Robeson County.
Record #: 148 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-29
POW: Y1
Location: Davidson
Person Reporting: Jones, Julie
With the tough economic times Davidson County has been
experiencing, the Davidson County 4-H decided to create a
fund-raising committee to help their 4-H members. This committee is
composed of representatives from the 4-H clubs in the county. The
purpose of this committee is to help the 4-H staff in planning,
developing, and execution of fund-raisers for the 4-H clubs. The
goal of this committee is to facilitate the organization of
fund-raisers that helps to support 4-H club programs and 4-H
scholarships for members. The scholarships for these youth will
enable them to participate in district and state programs that
teach communication, teamwork, self-discipline, and character
development. Many of the youth within the county program are one
income families that cannot always afford to send their children to
these programs. Also, it is important in today’s world for
youth to develop these life skills at an early age. The development
of these important life skills will help these youth be successful
in their futures. Since the creation of the committee in May 2004,
the 4-H fund-raising committee has gathered resources and
information on fund-raising opportunities, and has started to
create fund-raising guidelines.
Record #: 149 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-30
POW: F5
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Smith, Trudy
Each year, millions of people are affected by foodborne illness.
Many cases are a result of dining in restaurants and food service
establishments that have used unsafe food handling practices. In
March 2004, Duplin County in partnership with the Duplin County
Environmental Health Department, trained 18 restaurant and food
service managers in the Servsafe Food Safety Course. As a result of
taking and passing the certification exam, 17 restaurants and food
service operations, such as senior care facilities, will add 2
points for the next 3 years to their overall inspection grades.
Seven of those tested scored over 90%.
Record #: 150 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-31
POW: Y3
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Wagner, Brandi
Caswell County has a great need for summer programming. The
Parks and Recreation hold many sporting summer camps though out the
summer and 4-H holds their annual 4-H Summer Fun program. This year
to make our sign up fair to everyone in the county we handed out
3,000 copies of our Summer Fun brochure to all the youth who attend
Caswell County elementary and middle schools and also Clover
Garden, a charter school on the Caswell - Alamance county line. The
Summer Fun brochure was also ran in the local newspaper on the same
date. Our sign up was on Tuesday, March 16th at 8:30 a.m. by 5:30
p.m. on the same day the 4-H summer program was 91% full. This
shows me that our 4-H program is really doing a great job and is a
real need in our county.
Record #: 151 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-31
POW: Y10
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Edwards, Nikki
The majority of the youth in the school system are not aware of
our 4-H program and the benefits it could have on their lives. So I
went into the individual classrooms involved in the Embryology
School Enrichment Project and demonstrated, to the children, the
importance of washing your hands after turning the eggs. As a
result, I have had several children explaining the purpose of 4-H
and how they learned to keep a record of their responsibilities
with teamwork. This was a wonderful experience and it taught me how
easily adults learn with the children.
Record #: 152 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-31
POW: A15
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Lauderdale, Cynthia
The NCCES of Wilson County is training nine home gardeners to
become Master Gardeners. In the insect training class a pre and
post test were given. The average pre-test score was 50%. After the
training offered by NCCES their score was 76%. The Master Gardener
program then shares the knowledge learned with the community for an
ever increasing knowledge gain.
Record #: 153 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-30
POW: Y5
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Dejarnette, Shea
Working with teens at risk is an emotional undertaking. Often
you find yourself on the losing end. That’s why it’s so
rewarding when you can see a positive change in one youth. Phillip
was definitely a teen at risk. He came from a low-income, single
parent, home and hung out with the wrong crowd. He wasn’t
interested in anything. Three years ago Phillip became part of the
4-H Teen club at the Red Springs YO! Center. It took some
encouragement, but soon one activity lead to another like
Leadership camp at Betsy Jeff Penn, the Citizenship and College
programs, and even community service work. This translated into
school as well he became active on sports teams, and the Future
Business Leaders of America. This week he was inducted into the
Beta Club. It’s amazing what a little encouragement and 4-H
can do for a youth.
Record #: 154 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-31
POW: Y6
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Dejarnette, Shea
It is tough for parents to let go and encourage a child to do
something they don’t want to. Jaidah is 5 years old and was
very excited about the idea of getting up and giving a speech about
family at the Robeson County 4-H Public Speaking Contest. However
when it came time she ran back to Mommy scared to death, and her
Mother told her she didn’t have to do it. 4-H staff
didn’t let that stop her; they knew if she didn’t try
again it would be even more difficult to do it next time. So with a
lot of encouragement, and another Cloverbud holding her hand,
Jaidah did what she didn’t think she could do, she stood up
and talked in front of a crowd of strangers. It may have only
lasted for 30 seconds but the lessons she learned that night will
last a lifetime.
Record #: 155 of 2780
Date: 2004-03-31
POW: Y11
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Dejarnette, Shea
The average family income in Robeson County is just over
$26,000, making it difficult for parents to afford quality summer
care for their children. In March I set a booth up at the local
mall for 4 hours. In that time I marketed all the Robeson County
4-H summer programs as well as our year round opportunities. Of the
more than 200 people who came by my booth 20% signed up to receive
more information on our programs. 50% of those people wanted more
information specifically on our week long residential camping
opportunity at Betsy Jeff Penn. Thanks to United Way funds the
camping experience will only cost $250 per youth. An opportunity
that these parents feel is worth saving pennies so that their child
can have an incredible learning experience.
Record #: 156 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-01
POW: A5
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Little, William E
Wilson Cooperative Extension held a GAPs (Good Agricultural
Practices) meeting for Packer/growers in Wilson and surrounding
counties. This workshop presented GAPs information and the process
for audit that USDA will use in the third party audit check. The
interest is very high in this certification as many growers see the
need to obtain the certification that food vendors will require
soon. We had 23 grower/packers present.
Record #: 157 of 2780
Date: 2004-08-24
POW: Y1
Location: Cherokee
Person Reporting: Stiles, Jane G
A 4-H bread-pizza workshop was held in the Hiawassee Dam
Cafeteria on March 25, 2004. Twenty-two youth 12 girls and 10 boys
got to make their own pizza and enjoyed eating them. Four
Volunteers also helped. Tomato sauce, chopped tomatoes, pepperoni,
cheese, peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives was available for
them to put on their pizza. The boys and girls were given a food
guide pyramid. When using the food guide pyramid the youth learned
which food group the items put on their pizza came from and how
many servings they were to have daily.
Record #: 158 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-01
POW: A1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cave, T B
The Annual Surry Beef Educational Tour was held March 25-28 to
Northern Alabama. 47 producers took advantage of the opportunity to
see how beef producers in another state managed their operations.
This tour exposes participants to new or unexplored opportunities
to adapt to their operations. Evaluations indicated that all
participants learned something to apply on their own farm to
increase income potential.
Record #: 159 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-01
POW: A1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cave, T B
The first ever Goat Production and Management Field Day for area
goat producers was held March 20 on the Surry County farm of Bruce
and Barbara Smith. 36 participants who had attended the Goat
Production Short Course conducted by the Surry Center took part in
the day. They were exposed to management techniques and allowed to
learn by hands-on activities. All participants gained knowledge and
self confidence in proficiency in management practices to market a
high quality animal.
Record #: 160 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-30
POW: A2
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Chase, Ben E
With the rural population being closer in proximity to livestock
operations, the responsibility of the producer to control flies is
greatly increased . This can be a challenge and a very sensitive
issue. An effective good neighbor policy includes proper manure and
fly management which is essential to reduce friction between the
livestock operator, animal production efficiency and neighbors near
by. The Cooperative Extension Service in Rockingham County take
several steps to try to make sure that the producer and to those
who may have complained nearby are aware of the environmental laws,
and proper management recommendations. In a situation in March of
2004 several fly complaints were being received around a livestock
operation. After recommendations from Extension were made to change
fly control practices, the use of chemicals that would not harm
beneficial insects, timing of chemicals used, the utilization of
foggers for chemical application and by spot treating areas that
serve as breeding areas for flies, the producer was able to save
money on the chemical that was used previously, improved
application method, started fly control efforts earlier and achieve
a better fly control program for his operation and the immediate
fly problem. The producer was very pleased with the control which
will be utilized from now on and the home owner was also educated
about fly control and was given recommendations to help with
controlling many types of flies that may or may not be coming from
this livestock operation.
Record #: 161 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-02
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cropps, Seydel
The Mt. Airy Housing Authority has demonstrated for many years
their appreciation for the EFNEP program by advertising and
recruiting new participants. They also provide a comfortable
location for our meetings. Recently they renovated another
community center and requested another EFNEP class. Since they
recognize how important a kitchen is to our program, they remodeled
their entire kitchen with new cabinets, appliances and utensils.
They are doing all in their power to make our program a success.
Because of their collaboration many families in Mt. Airy are
benefiting from this program.
Record #: 162 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-02
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert
The March 2, 2004 Timber Marketing and Financial Incentive
Programs for Forest Landowners in Oxford, North Carolina had
reached approximately 31 people owning approximately 4800 acres of
forestland. Program evaluations indicate an increase in anticipated
use of several incentive programs; 23% more participation in the
forest land enhancement program, 9% more participation in the
forest development program, and 8% more participation in the
present use valuation program. Evaluations also indicate 100% of
the participants plan on using a consulting forester to conduct
their next timber sale, a 22% increase in those who plan to use a
consulting forester to sell timber compared to those who sold
timber before the workshop, and 88% of the participants felt the
program information that they received would save or make them
money.
Record #: 163 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-02
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert
The March 4, 2004 Timber Marketing and Financial Incentive
Programs for Forest Landowners in Burgaw, North Carolina had
reached approximately 29 people owning approximately 5784 acres of
forestland. Program evaluations indicate an increase in anticipated
use of several incentive programs; 29% more participation in the
present use valuation program, 29% more participation in tax
credits and deductions, 24% more participation in the forest
development program, 18% more participation in the forest land
enhancement program, and 18% more participation in the conservation
reserve program. Evaluations also indicate 100% of the participants
plan on using a consulting forester to conduct their next timber
sale, a 42% increase in those who plan to use a consulting forester
to sell timber compared to those who sold timber before the
workshop, and 100% of the participants felt the program information
that they received would save or make them money.
Record #: 164 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-11
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert
The March 10, 2004 Forestry Issues Forum teleconference resulted
in an estimated $57,555 in total cost savings for 138 participants
from North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. For
every dollar invested by participants, they received approximately
$51.70 in cost savings when compared to attending a traditional
conference. Of the $51.70 in cost savings 77% is because of time
savings associated with attending the teleconference verses a
traditional conference. 414 continuing education credits were
awarded. 68% of the participants would not have attended the
conference if it were a traditional conference 100 miles away and
not available locally as a teleconference.
Record #: 165 of 2780
Date: 2004-09-09
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
64 homeowners in Burke County now understand the basic
guidelines for successful lawn maintenance as outlined by the
agent. These homeowners agree that they will each save about $100
dollars in unnecessary chemicals for their lawns after attending
this lawn care seminar. They learned about the importance of timely
fertilizer and pesticide applications as well the importance of
correct mowing techniques and correct turf grass sowing practices.
Proper grass seed selection was discussed by the agent and most
agreed that they would save time and money by following the sowing
and seed selection practices emphasized.
Record #: 166 of 2780
Date: 2004-09-09
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
More than fifty homeowners attended Extension's Landscape
Drafting Seminars this spring. They wanted to improve their
landscaping techniques as well as their plant selection practices.
Students learned how to draw to scale, thereby saving money and
time by having an accurate plan of their proposed project.
Homeowners learned how to choose the proper plant for an area,
resulting in less plant losses in home plantings and saving money
on replacement plants. Homeowners felt they would save an average
of $150 by accurate and planning and purchases of plant
material.
Record #: 167 of 2780
Date: 2004-09-09
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
Over two hundred Burke County residents participated in
Extension's four week Bee School. Experienced and new
beekeepers attended the sessions to learn how to start new hives
and to better manage hives already in production. They learned
about seasonal maintenance, equipment, cost, insects and diseases
and start up necessities. New beekeepers paired up with experienced
beekeepers to insure the best economic results for inexperienced
people.
Record #: 168 of 2780
Date: 2004-09-09
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
Extension teamed up with experienced organic growers to
introduce Burke County residents to the organic growing method.
Forty eight attendees listed to Extension personnel and growers
talk about many alternative options to conventional growing. Burke
County residents wanted the knowledge to choose between
conventional methods and organic productions. The audience asked
questions about different crops and costs and potential economic
yields to be gained by organic crops. They also sampled
refreshments that were 100% organic.
Record #: 169 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-02
POW: Y5
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Kelleher, Michael
Some of our migrant students in the 4-H A.I.M Club were
experimenting with tobacco. We wanted to let them know about the
dangers of tobacco use. In order to solve this problem we partnered
with El Pueblo, which is a non profit Hispanic advocacy
organization based out of Raleigh North Carolina, and the Ashe
County Board of Education, to send four migrant students to El Foro
Juvinil-No Fumo anti-tobacco campaign. It was a two day event
[March 5-7] on the campus of Meredith College in Raleigh NC. The
students received information about how to live a healthier life,
through workshops, activities, and powerful speakers who have
suffered the consequences for their bad unhealthy decisions. The
result was, our 4-H A.I.M Club teamed up with the TATU [teens
against tobacco use] club [located in the High Schools] to educate
teens on the importance of making healthy choices for healthier
living
Record #: 170 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-02
POW: F1
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Smith, Trudy
Studies show that obesity has doubled among American children
over the last 10 years, that Type 2 diabetes is increasing among
children and teenagers, and that a physically active lifestyle
adopted early in life may continue into adulthood. Color Me Healthy
is a program developed to reach food stamp eligible children ages 4
and 5.It provides fun, innovative, interactive learning
opportunities on physical activity and healthy eating. In March,
2004, the Duplin County CES, partnering with the county's
health department hosted a Color Me Healthy training for child care
providers. 28 English, and 6 Spanish Color Me Healthy kits were
given to the 27 attendees. Each participant received 4 continuing
education hours.
Record #: 171 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-12
POW: E7
Location: Craven
Person Reporting: Humphrey, Charles
Residents of the Greenbrier community in New Bern, NC were
concerned over sedimentation in a pond caused primarily by erosion
of the pond's north bank. The NC Cooperative Extension Service
in partnership with the city of New Bern and the Greenbrier Garden
Club, acquired a $20,000 grant from NCDENR to install a wetland
shelf to improve the water quality of the pond and help prevent
further erosion of the pond's bank. NC Cooperative Extension
provided the technical expertise for the pond shelf design and
plant selection, the city of New Bern provided the heavy equipment
and operators, and the Greenbrier garden club provided the
volunteers for the planting and landscaping. The shelf was
installed, the bank was stabilized, and over thirty volunteers
helped in the planting of the wetland shelf. The water quality of
the Greenbrier community was improved, and residents of the area
were educated on stormwater BMP's.
Record #: 172 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-05
POW: F1
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Jackson, Margaret
The Cleveland County Extension Center partners with other
agencies and organizations to accomplish mutual goals and to
conserve scarce resources. Our Expanded Foods & Nutrition
Education Program (EFNEP) maintains positive relationships with a
number of community organizations, and actively invites their
involvement in delivering quality nutrition education to diverse
audiences. By collaborating with Cleveland Community College, Day
Reporting, Day Treatment, and The Lighthouse (homeless shelter),
program assistant Peggy Jackson is able to organize and maintain
many learner groups. May, 2004 was a particularly busy month for
EFNEP, with a total of 259 persons actively participating in EFNEP
classes. These classes taught low income parents with school aged
children the basics of good nutrition, wise food shopping, menu
planning, hands-on meal preparation and food safety.
Record #: 173 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-06
POW: Y1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Johnson, Carolyn B
Through efforts in the 4-H food/fitness project area, 11 at-risk
middle school girls received information on manners/etiquette and
how food portion sizes can affect weight gain. The girls, recruited
from SCAN, Juvenile Services, and Surry Friends of Youth,
participated in hands on activities which helped them gain skills
in table manners and proper table setting. Examples of common food
portions received at fast food and other restaurants, and how these
compare to food guide recommendations, helped the girls to see how
easy over-eating can be. The girls indicated that they would pay
more attention to portion sizes eaten.
Record #: 174 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-06
POW: F1
Location: Rowan
Person Reporting: Simmons, Ann
Partners in Wellness is a program implemented in Rowan County to
improve the nutrition and health status of older adults. During
2004 the program is being offered in a congregate nutrition site in
a rural area. After completing "Variety Matters," the
first of four modules, 68% of participants said they would increase
consumption of fruits and vegetables. Three participants said they
increased their intake of fruits and vegetables and saw decreases
in their blood pressures.
Record #: 175 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-06
POW: F3
Location: Rowan
Person Reporting: Simmons, Ann
Older adults are living independently longer. As a result, they
often become targets for scam artists. Those who recognize scams
can avoid them. In Rowan County, the Family and Consumer Sciences
Agent responds to this need by offering presentations for older
adults on the various kinds of scams and how to prevent them.
Because of what they learned in a recent session, two older adults
reported that they used what they learned to avoid giving out
information over the telephone that could have resulted in fraud
against them.
Record #: 176 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-06
POW: F1
Location: Rowan
Person Reporting: Simmons, Ann
A Color Me Healthy training was held for 22 child care workers.
This is another avenue Extension uses to help decrease obesity
among Rowan County’s youth. Each participant received 3 hours
of continuing ed. credit and a curriculum kit to use in the
classroom. The value of this free training for all participants
including the kits and three trainers’ time was $3600. The
Rowan Partnership for Children collaborated with the FCS Agent and
is incorporating Color Me Healthy into their child care quality
improvement activities. Participants will reach 342 preschoolers
and their parents with the information. The Salisbury Post (local
newspaper) covered the event and it was featured in the 3/15/2004
edition.
Record #: 177 of 2780
Date: 2004-09-16
POW: A9
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Keene, Mark M
A lack of alternatives to supplement tobacco income has been
identified by the ALS. Tobacco and field crop producers have
experienced declining markets and prices for the past three years.
North Carolina Cooperative Extension in Lenoir County has worked
with six producers to develop alternatives to supplement tobacco
income. One alternative has been forestry products. Four growers
have planted 200 acres of loblolly pines for future timber sales.
Two growers have planted 60 acres longleaf pine for a potential
future pine straw racking business. These growers have enrolled in
the CREP program and will receive an average payment of $100 per
acre for 15 years.
Record #: 178 of 2780
Date: 2005-01-06
POW: F1
Location: Nash
Person Reporting: Latour, Janice
At one time or another, half the women and a quarter of the men
in this country have tried to lose weight. The ones destined to try
again and again are more likely those looking for shortcuts. There
are none. The only way to step off the diet treadmill is to find a
weight-loss program that helps you lose weight program that helps
you lose weight slowly and steadily; one that trains you to adopt a
low-fat eating plan so simple it becomes a way of life. Noonliting,
a weight loss support group that uses a three-part approach to
weight management, provided such a plan for 16 citizens of Nash
County. Through individual efforts and group support, these
committed participants lost a total of 157 1/4 pounds collectively
from January 2004 until December 2004 therefore improving their
life expectancy, overall health and self esteem.
Record #: 179 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-14
POW: F2
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L
Tools of Care giving is a Family and Consumer Science Program
coordinated with Training and provision of service with AARP
trained volunteers and FCS Extension Agents. In the Southwest
District of Burke Caldwell and Catawba County we have 2 agents
trained and one AARP volunteer collaborating with The Area Office
of Aging which provided funding for the handbooks needed for the
class. Our first class survived a crisis very well due to the
collaborative structure of this work. The AARP volunteer suffered a
severe heart attack prior to the last class. The teamwork with
Catawba County agent Glennie Daniels and Debbie Cox helped when
Glennie stepped in to finish the class and the caregivers were
grateful. The AARP volunteer is related to another Extension
Employee so the 'family' support was automatic.
Collaborative and Teamwork at it's best!
Record #: 180 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-22
POW: C6
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
From a meeting with Caldwell County's Manager and Planner,
it was determined that the need existed to educate and up-take the
County's officers along with the 7 local municipalities
government officials about the Phase 2 Stormwater Regulations and
how they will be affecting Caldwell County. A workshop was held
with Dr Bill Hunt, Stormwater Specialist NCCE and Jim Reed NCDENR,
helping with the meeting. Participants learned the current status
of Phase 2, the steps necessary to meet EPA's requirements and
what resources to do so are available both from NCCE and Caldwell
County. Those present (31) all expressed appreciation for the
workshop and agree to cooperate in working toward meeting the
EPA's requirements.
Record #: 181 of 2780
Date: 2004-11-17
POW: A7
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Brewington, Martin L
Tobacco demand has dropped in today economy and efforts is
needed to find alternative crops that current and former tobacco
farmers, can grow and market. The Robeson County Extension Center,
NC A & T State University, and the Tobacco Trust Fund
Commission, are working with farmers to plant acreage in specialty
crops. This will help growers make up income lost to falling demand
for tobacco, which in turn will go a long way to help boost the
sagging economy in rural North Carolina. A plastic layer machine
were purchased for this region of the state, along with a water
wheel transplanter. The primary goal is to provide instruction,
evidence, and experience in alternative production strategies that
lead to successes. Nine farmers had the opportunity to use the
equipment in 2003. Evidence shows that twenty three farmers learn
about crops diversity in using plastic and drip irrigation.
Record #: 182 of 2780
Date: 2004-11-03
POW: A1
Location: Wilkes
Person Reporting: Miller, Matthew S
The Wilkes Area Feeder Calf Sale was held October 7, 2004. There
were 315 steers and 273 heifers sold from 32 consignors in 7
counties. A price comparison of this sale with a weekly auction
held the same day showed a price premium on all but one category
ranging from 1.45 - 39.00/cwt. In addition consignors received
added value through higher pay weights since cattle on graded sales
are sold on a weighed in basis compared to a weighed out basis at
weekly auctions. The educational aspects are important. Graded
sales underscore the importance of genetic selection regarding
frame size, muscling, breed and breed combinations, as well as
nutrition and management. Marketing advantages in grouping in
uniform sale lots are evident. Networking opportunities were
increased since this is a cooperative effort involving CES, NCDA,
Kilby's Livestock Market and
Record #: 183 of 2780
Date: 2004-11-29
POW: A7
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Brewington, Martin L
Limited resource farmers are struggling to find ways to decrease
expenses while increasing profits on families farms. Extension
Technician Martin Brewington, and Nelson Brownlee, Farm Management
Agent provided information to farmers about alternative crops
through on farm demonstrations. Seven (7) farmers began using
plastic and drip irrigation of which two (2) erected greenhouses to
sell vegetable transplants and flowers. The seven (7) farmers that
participated in on farm demonstrations, increased their income
approximately $15,000 during 2003. The Robeson County Extension
Center will continue to use on farm demonstration as a teaching
tool in the future.
Record #: 184 of 2780
Date: 2004-11-16
POW: Y1
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Kirk, Bridget
150 Duplin County youth entered over 200 exhibits in the 2004
State Fair 4-H Contests. Numerous Duplin County 4-H'ers won
State Fair ribbons for their entries. Duplin 4-H'ers placed
first among the state's 100 counties in the annual 4-H
sweepstakes. The sweepstakes recognizes the top five county 4-H
programs whose members win the most ribbons and cash prizes in 4-H
contests at the State Fair. Participating 4-H'ers were
recognized at the November meeting of the Duplin County 4-H
Council. They also were recognized in press releases published in
area newspapers.
Record #: 185 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-01
POW: A13
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Hamilton, James
In 2003, Watauga Pesticide Education Coordinator received
funding to pay for personal protective equipment and conduct
pesticide safety education training to Hispanic workers in the
Christmas tree industry in Spanish. In April, 5 growers were
contacted and agreed to include their workers in this program. 55
workers have been trained in proper use of personal protective
equipment and were educated in the types of safety procedures and
chemicals used in Christmas trees. These workers are now properly
applying pesticides with appropriate protective equipment.
Record #: 186 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-19
POW: A9
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Hamilton, James
The Christmas tree extension agent was contacted by two growers
interested in training their Hispanic workers on grafting
techniques with Fraser fir. 4 workers were trained in Spanish on
proper grafting techniques and have successfully grafted over 500
seedlings which were transplanted into the field in Spring
2004.
Record #: 187 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-19
POW: A9
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Hamilton, James
Eight Christmas tree growers had questions about insect
infestations in their Christmas tree fields and had been practicing
improper pesticide applications that were not effectively managing
their pests. The agent accompanied these growers in the field and
trained them on pest scouting techniques and growers were able to
properly identify problem pests. As a result, over 5 acres of
Christmas trees were successfully and appropriately treated which
will increase marketability of these 2004 harvest trees.
Record #: 188 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-19
POW: A9
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Hamilton, James
In 2003, a large Watauga County property owners association
approached extension to develop a strategy for identification and
management of Hemlock Woolly Adelgid infested trees in the
development. The Watauga County agent requested the assistance of
the Mountain Conifer IPM Specialist and a local commercial
pesticide applicator to identify proper treatment strategies. In
Fall 2003 treatments were made on several hundred infected Hemlocks
in the development. Scouting efforts in Spring 2004 show that
treatments are working. Members of the POA are continuing to work
with the agent to monitor infestations and develop an educational
flyer for concerned homeowners. All treated trees were identified
for long term study of treatments which will be used to monitor
long-term effectiveness of treatments.
Record #: 189 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-19
POW: A1
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Conrad, Tiffanee
Producers with lagoons need to conduct an annual sludge and
calibration assessment for the new National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System NPDES permit. They can not acquire a permit to
operate without these assessments. North Carolina Cooperative
Extension Service in partnership with AgriWaste Technology Company
conducted a 2 credit hour class teaching producers how to do
assessments themselves. Alternatively, producers would need to hire
a company to perform these assessments. Thirteen producers from the
Robeson, Hoke, and Scotland County areas participated in the class
saving them a total of $11,375. Future classes will be planned
based off the huge success of this program.
Record #: 190 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-19
POW: F1
Location: Swain
Person Reporting: Ayscue, Georgia T
Today's family schedules are stressed in many areas
impacting healthy eating practices, physical activity levels, and
time management. Workable Wellness is an FCS program designed to
educate and develop time management techniques to incorporate
wellness as an everyday practice. Teaming with "Project Self
Development", a Workable Wellness session for school teacher
staff development (earning 1 CEU) and hospital staffers was held in
Bryson City using the Activity and Perfect Pantry modules. 43
persons attended and days later, this agent was approached by a
participant in a store. She recognized me and wanted to thank me
for changing her life. She said the Perfect Pantry worked wonders
grocery shopping and she used The American Plate at a local buffet
restaurant. The participant said for the first time in her life,
she has the practical know how to live well, eat, work, and play
healthfully.
Record #: 191 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-19
POW: Y3
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Buchanan, Linda
"Young Voices Making Wise Choices," a sexuality
education program designed by FCE agent for middle school girls was
presented to local 4-H girls in February. The participants said
that this program would help them to make wise decisions about such
things as peer pressure and communication problems in the future.
They loved the hands-on activities and informal programming style.
The program was then presented to educators at the
"Strengthening Families, Youth and Communities - Across the
Lifespan" Conference in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, February
22-25, 2004. The evaluations for this program were excellent.
Record #: 192 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-28
POW: F1
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Buchanan, Linda
In March, 2004, FCE agent presented "It Could Be Salt's
Fault" at the Snowbird Senior Center. The group reported less
use of salt, both in their cooking and at the table, because of the
information received. The site manager also said they no longer
added salt to the food prepared at the center. One lady, a
professed salt-aholic" cut back on her salt intake and started
using a salt substitute.
Record #: 193 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-20
POW: F1
Location: Macon
Person Reporting: Holley, Patsy
The NC Cooperative Extension Out For Lunch Program and the
Murphy, NC, Even Start Program collaborate to provide life skills
training to limited income families in Cherokee County. The
following letter came from a father in the Even Start Program.
“I am a parent with the Even Start Program through Murphy
Elementary school in Murphy, NC. My class attends the Out For Lunch
program here in town. Stephanie Goodell has taught me a lot about
saving money, and how to cook conservingly with my family. I would
thoroughly recommend this program to my family and friends. If the
chance came up again, I would like to go through it again.”
Participating in Out For Lunch taught this man the importance of
lifelong learning. The positive financial and nutritional impact on
this family will improve their quality of life for many years.
Record #: 194 of 2780
Date: 2004-09-02
POW: F1
Location: Macon
Person Reporting: Holley, Patsy
The NC Cooperative Extension Out For Lunch Program and the
Murphy, NC, Even Start Program collaborate to provide life skills
training to limited income families in Cherokee County. This letter
from a father who attended the Out For Lunch Program demonstrates
the importance of learning to budget food dollars. “Please
try to understand the importance of this program. It teach many of
the families here that are on a small income how to budget there
money and get the most out of there money. I would like you to know
this program is very beneficial to everyone here. Nothing in this
program is wasted. Mrs. Goodell puts 100% in the program. She is
excellent at what she does. Without this program a lot of people
will be hurt in many ways.”
Record #: 195 of 2780
Date: 2004-09-02
POW: F1
Location: Macon
Person Reporting: Holley, Patsy
The NC Cooperative Extension motto “Helping People Put
Knowledge to Work” is exemplified in the partnership between
the Out For Lunch Program and the Even Start Program in Murphy, N.
C. These programs collaborate to provide life skills training to
limited income families in Cherokee County. The following letter is
from a mother who was not sure at first that she wanted to be part
of the program. “We have learned some very important stuff.
We learned about the food pyramid (sic). We are learning how to
cook different things. We also learned that leaving food out for a
long period of time, it causes bacteria. This program is a very
good learning experience for a lot of us. It is worth going and
learning about everything. Thanks.”
Record #: 196 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-27
POW: A1
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Traywick, Greg B
Beef producers depend on quality forages to support the
nutritional needs of their herds, but pastures and hay fields often
become infested with weeds. NC Cooperative Extension conducted a
pasture weed control demonstration to illustrate the effectiveness
and cost of various herbicides to Cleveland County farmers. Results
of the demonstration were shared during a Forage Field Day held
April 24, 2004. Forty-five (45) producers learned about the
importance of identifying weeds, selecting herbicides on the basis
of their efficacy, and the importance of proper mixing and
application. Armed with this new knowledge, Cleveland County
cattlemen are prepared to make informed weed management decisions
designed to maximize forage production and beef profits.
Record #: 197 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-27
POW: F1
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Jackson, Margaret
Again this month (April, 2004), Cleveland County EFNEP program
assistant Peggy Jackson has had the opportunity to share her
nutritional message with several pre-formed groups. These range
from substance abuse treatment to adult education to the homeless
shelter. Each group is unique and information needs to be presented
to them in the most understandable way. What works in one situation
does not always work in another. Simplicity and visuals seem to
help relay the message.
Record #: 198 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: Y5
Location: Lincoln
Person Reporting: Senters, Fran
Developing coping skills, making informed decisions, and
increasing internal as well as external assets in youth, was the
goal of Lincoln Counties' 4-H Cool Club. This was accomplished
by a partnership between Lincoln County Cooperative Extension
Service, East Lincoln Christian Ministries, and area churches.
Twenty three at-risk children were transported from local schools
to participate in monthly club meetings. The programs focused on
Personal Development, Plants and Animals, Science and Technology,
and Healthy Lifestyles. The final club meeting involved activities
reviewing previous topics. Club members lead a question and
answering game providing subject related prizes for correct
answers. Each of the category questions was answered correctly with
additional input by other members. The members applauded winners
and supported their team mates. They demonstrated increased skills
in all areas. The plans are underway to provide this effort for
next fall.
Record #: 199 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-28
POW: F1
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Buchanan, Linda
Food stamp eligible families need the skills and behaviors to
use their food stamp dollars wisely and consume the most nutritious
food choices possible on a limited income. The Out for Lunch
program, consisting of 8 lessons totaling 16 hours of instruction
was conducted for food stamp eligible families. Graham County
Cooperative Extension collaborated with Dept. of Social Services
and other agencies to fund and conduct OFL. The program used the
Family Nutrition Curricula to enhance knowledge, skills and
behaviors that contribute to nutritionally sound diets and healthy
lifestyles. Eight adults participated in 10 series of classes and
received 56 lessons with multiple food preparation experiences.
Eight graduates increased their confidence and made positive
behavior changes in selection, preparation, safety, value and
nutrition of their food purchases. Four volunteers contributed 36
hours of time at a value of $620.
Record #: 200 of 2780
Date: 2005-01-04
POW: F1
Location: Cumberland
Person Reporting: Underwood, Candy
Studies show that obesity has doubled among American children in
the last 30 years. In NC, childhood overweight and adult obesity
cost North Carolina and its tax payers $2.14 billion annually in
direct medical costs. The Cooperative Extension in collaboration
with Child Care Solutions have implemented the Color Me Healthy
Program in Cumberland County. A total of 68 preschool teacher and
kindergarten teachers have received a curriculum since the program
started. The curriculum provides innovative, interactive learning
opportunities. A total of 68 preschool and kindergarten teachers
indicated they would be using the curriculum with their students.
If so, over 900 children will learn the importance of eating
healthy and exercising. All 68 indicated they gained knowledge
related to nutrition and physical activity.
Record #: 201 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-29
POW: A9
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Hamilton, James
Chemical mowing using low rate of RoundUp herbicide in Christmas
tree fields is a new practice based on 3 years of on-farm research
that has been implemented in the Christmas tree producing counties
in western North Carolina. In April, 60 growers participated in a
classroom workshop and field day to learn this practice. As a
result, these growers are using less than half of the herbicides
used in previous years on more than 100 acres of Christmas tree
farms in Watauga County. Thus reducing environmental impacts to
water quality in the county. This practice also reduces costs of
application by over 1/3.
Record #: 202 of 2780
Date: 2004-08-26
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Tim, Peggy
In April a mother of three young boys attended her fourth class.
One of the past classes she had asked to be shown how to steam
vegetables. She said her family hated vegetables because they
tasted like the tin can. She didn't know how to cook fresh
vegetables. She practiced steaming broccoli and carrots in class.
She now reports they all love several vegetables and she has
continued to steam vegetables. They now eat vegetables every day,
even with simple dinners such as macaroni and cheese. She feels her
family is eating healthier with the help of the information learned
at EFNEP on Site.
Record #: 203 of 2780
Date: 2004-07-02
POW: Y10
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Edwards, Nikki
Children often become bored or unable to learn in just one way,
for example being lectured in the classroom. Studies show that more
from hands-on curriculum. In April Robeson County 4-H partnered
with 14 second grade teachers in the public, private, and home
school classrooms. We introduced the embryology curriculum to these
students who then worked on math, language arts, health and science
projects related to this curriculum. At the end of the project
teachers tested the students and found a significant increase in
their science test scores, on average students showed a 10%
increase or their scores went up an entire letter grade. Due to
this increase teachers are anxious for another 4-H hands on
learning opportunity, and we are working to provide more
opportunities in the future.
Record #: 204 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-30
POW: A5
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Traywick, Greg B
Kings Mountain native Brent Bell established a tree farm in
2003, seeking to capitalize on North Carolina's expanding
ornamental horticulture industry. His mix of maples are growing
well, thanks in part to irrigation provided by a small farm pond.
Unfortunately, that pond had become infested with aquatic weeds,
which clogged the intake on his irrigation equipment. Bell turned
to Cleveland County extension director Greg Traywick for help.
Traywick helped Bell develop a safe and effective program for
managing the weeds in his irrigation pond. This program employed a
combination of chemical, biological, and mechanical control
strategies aimed a providing effective weed control while ensuring
the safety of his irrigation supply. With that program in place,
Bell's irrigation equipment is functioning properly, and he is
expanding his operation to include birch and oaks.
Record #: 205 of 2780
Date: 2004-04-30
POW: Y13
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Dejarnette, Shea
It is difficult for youth to understand the true value of
community service therefore it is difficult to get them to make
time to do it. As part of our Youth Opportunity Grant Robeson
County 4-H has the unique ability to spend grant money on and for
community service projects. Recently a 17 year old member of one of
our YO!/4-H clubs lost his life to cancer. The youth realized his
family still needed to pay medical bills and they wanted to help.
So as a group they made a decision to set aside their schedules for
one day and work on several events to raise money for the family.
The youth say they walked away with a feeling of accomplishment
like they have never had before. They were so pleased with their
accomplishment that members are now working with other YO!/4-H
clubs organizing other community service efforts.
Record #: 206 of 2780
Date: 2004-07-02
POW: Y1
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Baylor, Ella B
Many youth in the county lack the ability to speak well before a
large audience. Bertie County 4-H held 4 Presentation
/Demonstrations Workshops March -May to encourage 4-H'ers with
little or no presentation experience to gain skills in preparing
quality presentations. A total of 75 4-H'ers attended the 4
workshops. These workshops proved to be successful. 15 participated
in County Day and 9 participated in DAD. 3 were gold winners; 2 of
those were first timers. 3 were silver winners; 2 were first
timers. 3 were bronze winners; 2 of those first timers. As a result
of these workshops, 80% of the youth gained confidence in their
speaking ability.
Record #: 207 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-03
POW: A15
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Lauderdale, Cynthia
Because of the need for more gardening education the Annual
Spring Symposium was held in March. Over 175 people participated in
this one day event sponsored by the NCCES, Wilson Appearance
Commission and the Wilson County Master Gardeners. From a survey
all participants gained knowledge and learned at least one useful
gardening practice. The average cost savings per person was $175
with one testimonial of "invaluable".
Record #: 208 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-03
POW: A5
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Little, William E
During the Month of April I had the opportunity to record 6 TV
shows that deal with Commercial Horticulture on PAX TV which is NBC
17. This is a cable broadcast show that 41 eastern NC counties
receive. Jean Almond is the host for Carolina News Magazine. We
covered the production of new crops in the area and GAPs training
etc. The shows are broadcast Saturday and Sunday morning.
Record #: 209 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-03
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cropps, Seydel
The EFNEP program definitely has a positive influence in many
people's lives. For example, Ms. H graduated from the EFNEP
program about two years ago. She recently came to the EFNEP on-site
class and asked if she would be able to continue participating in
the class since the lessons had been very beneficial to her. She
said EFNEP had taught her how to read nutrition facts labels and
how to prepare and eat more nutritious meals. She is still using
the recipes that she learned in class. The classes also helped her
to lose weight without dieting. The benefits of the EFNEP program
are truly well demonstrated with this family.
Record #: 210 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-03
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Sidebottom, Jill
Extension forestry specialists Jill Sidebottom, John Frampton,
and Jeff Owen; CALS extension specialist Jim Rideout and county
extension agents Jerry Moody, Jeff Vance, Christy Bredenkamp, Bill
Skelton and Tamara Cole along with agricultural technician Doug
Hundley held several meeting this spring for Fraser fir Christmas
tree growers. Various topics were given including weed control,
fertility, post-harvest quality, business management and IPM
techniques and pest control. There were 332 people attending four
meetings with 47.6% responding to an after-meeting survey. Of
these, 100% responded they gained knowledge; 98% said they would
use the information gained, 96% said it would help them grow a
better Christmas tree, and 92% said the information would help them
make more money. Fifty survey respondents estimated that the
information gained would make them with an average of $3,360 per
person for a total of $168,000.
Record #: 211 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-03
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Sidebottom, Jill
Hemlock woolly adelgid control has become big business with
homeowners paying from $50 to $300 per tree. Removing large
hemlocks that have died can cost as much as $3,000 per tree if a
crane is needed. There is currently little information about how
well pesticide treatments work in western North Carolina on trees
that can be 100 ft tall. Treatments can include foliar sprays with
horticultural oil or insecticidal soap, soil drenches with
imidacloprid or trunk injections with either imidacloprid or
avemectin. This spring, Jill Sidebottom, Jerry Moody and Jim
Hamilton reviewed controls made by commercial pesticide
applicators. Imidacloprid soil drenches and trunk injections were
working. Avemectin did not work at all. Foliar sprays are still the
best control where possible. These observations will help
homeowners get the most out of pesticide treatments and lessen the
possibility that imidacloprid will become a water contamination
problem.
Record #: 212 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-03
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Sidebottom, Jill
Christmas tree growers often use Di-Syston 15 G to treat for the
balsam twig aphid. Growers must wait until all the twig aphids have
hatched in the spring to get good control with this product. Jill
Sidebottom monitored for twig aphid hatch in March and April of
2004 and observed that hatch was somewhat delayed due to cold, wet
weather. County extension agents and growers were informed of this
and were able to wait until conditions were appropriate for best
control.
Record #: 213 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-03
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
Consumers spend large amounts of money on plants that are not
suited for their needs. Many do not know the difference between
perennials and annuals or the importance of reading a culture tag.
A Successful Gardener seminar on gardening with annuals and
perennials was presented in April with 45 Burke County consumers
attending. They learned about the importance of planting in the
correct location and how very important it is to be able to read
and understand the information on a culture tag. Most attendees
felt that they had saved $50 to $100 used on replacing plants after
participating in the seminar.
Record #: 214 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-03
POW: F1
Location: Halifax
Person Reporting: Allsbrook, Margaret P
The incidence of childhood and adolescent obesity is on the rise
in Halifax County. Approximately 150 sixth, seventh, and eighth
grade students at Halifax Academy participated in Sybershop. The
CD-rom program was presented by the Family and Consumer Sciences
agent in Halifax County and focuses on the importance of making
healthy lifestyle choices that include good nutrition and the
incorporation of physical activity into day-to-day life. Each
student received a copy of the cd to take home and use at his/her
leisure, as well as share with their parents. Ninety-five percent
of the students reported this program would help them make
healthier choices, especially at fast food restaurants.
Record #: 215 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-03
POW: F5
Location: Halifax
Person Reporting: Allsbrook, Margaret P
Foodborne illness and food safety are of great importance to
food-related businesses. Due to the extreme cost of a single case
of foodborne illness outbreak, businesses are encouraged to train
their staff on ways to combat this problem. Eighteen food service
employees recently attended Serv Safe training. The training was
presented in partnership by the Halifax County Cooperative
Extension Service and the Halifax County Environmental Health
Department. Successful certification in this 16 hour food safety
course enables the businesses to be eligible for 2 additional
points on their environmental health sanitation grades. The April,
2004 class had a 66.66% passing rate, with an average passing score
of 88.08, and an average class score of 81.39.
Record #: 216 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-03
POW: F1
Location: Greene
Person Reporting: Ford, Shenile
Greene County Out For Lunch Program. This is an adult Out For
Lunch Program. The participants are women in their twenties and
referred by the Work First Program. The participants in this series
does not cook at home. All of the participants in this series say
they eat at their parents or they eat out. After class three, the
participants were gaining confidence in the kitchen. After
preparing some of the our recipes in class, the participants were
exposed to the fact that they could learn to prepare and cook
simple meals at home. The participants said they planned on making
some of the dishes we cooked at home and would bring them to their
parents house for a surprise treat.
Record #: 217 of 2780
Date: 2004-08-24
POW: F1
Location: Greene
Person Reporting: Ford, Shenile
Greene County Out For Lunch Program. This was Series 5,
graduating on the 27th of April for the Adult Out For Lunch
program. The class consisted of males and 10 females, with more
than half having mental and physical handicaps. The class was a
success because the participants truly enjoyed being given the
opportunity to do hands work in the kitchen. The participants were
eager to learn kitchen skills and all wanted to take part. Being
that many of the participants had handicaps, they have never been
given the chance to work in the kitchen. To see the joy on the
faces of the participants while preparing and eating the Out For
Lunch meals, assured me that they had gained some self worth and
will carry the skills and memory of their experiences in the Out
For Lunch program for a long time.
Record #: 218 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-03
POW: E8
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Collins, Randy
On April 15th and April 29th agents from Graham, Cherokee and
Clay counties conducted programs that offered area residents an
opportunity to increase their knowledge concerning spray programs
associated with fruit trees. One program, offered at John C.
Campbell folk school in Clay County, gave producers some hands-on
experience with handling fruit trees, while the other program, held
at Robbinsville Public Library in Graham County provided a
classroom setting at which producers could ask questions one-on-one
with agents. In addition, each program provided 2 hours of
continuing pesticide credit. During the course of both programs, 40
people attended, 38 of which received continuing pesticide credits
that either fulfilled or provided half of the credit hours needed
for recertification.
Record #: 219 of 2780
Date: 2005-01-12
POW: Y11
Location: Moore
Person Reporting: Gore, Linda
4-H clubs in afterschool programs have not existed in Moore
County. In an effort to introduce 4-H to afterschool and daycare
providers, contacts were made with the school system and the local
child care referral agency to determine if there was a need for 4-H
afterschool programs focusing on life skills. Two trainings on
Experiential Learning were held and 17 providers attended. As a
result of these trainings, one new 4-H club and one afterschool
club was organized.
Record #: 220 of 2780
Date: 2005-01-13
POW: A3
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Earle, Walter F
Most junior livestock events place the emphasis on the animals
(i.e. Grand Champion etc), however many young people work hard but
are simply unable to afford high quality animals. The Eastern
Carolina Showmanship Circuit was formed by a group of extension
agents, to place more importance on the youths ability to show
their animals, not on the quality of the animals. This program has
enjoyed much success, in 2004 over 100 youth qualified for the
awards and over 4000.00 dollars were awarded in awards and
scholarships.
Record #: 221 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-03
POW: Y11
Location: Cherokee
Person Reporting: Stiles, Jane G
Adopt A Tree. That is just what nineteen (11 boys and 8 girls)
from the Andrews Elementary School, from Mrs. Mason and Mrs.
Andersons first grade class did They got real hands on planting a
tree, from the "Adopt A Tree" 4-H record book. This was a
Cooperative effort designed by the entire first grade. A Colorado
Spruce tree was planted on the campus. Each youth got an excellent
lesson inside the classroom from the "Adopt A Tree" 4-H
record book and outside as the tree was planted. Six fruit trees
and mulch was also given to each student to take home and plant.
Each youth also received a 2004 Fruit Tree Project Book. They plan
to decorate the Colorado Spruce this Christmas.
Record #: 222 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-03
POW: F4
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Morgan, Susan M
Brunswick County ECA members planned, designed, organized and
executed a very successful District Spring meeting for 181 members
of the Southeast District during March. Members took the
responsibility for securing program support, making decorations,
getting a speaker and making decisions regarding room set-up,
meeting location, and menus. Over 40 from Brunswick County's 43
members were involved and almost all attended the very successful
meeting. Nancy Plummer and Jean Emory, Brunswick County members
serve as District Officers and Susan Morgan is the Agent Liaison
for the District for 2004.
Record #: 223 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-04
POW: E1
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Honeycutt, Eve
Because of new and existing regulations on swine operations
imposed by DWQ, hog farmers must have their irrigation systems
calibrated and the sludge in their lagoons surveyed annually. In
the spring of 2004, Extension in Lenoir and Greene Counties helped
more than 20 farmers calibrated their irrigation equipment and
estimate the amount of sludge in their lagoons. Using the
information gained in these reports, farmers can make sure they are
land applying the correct amount of nutrients to their crops,
eliminating excessive runoff and controlling excess nutrients in
the Neuse River Basin. Using the sludge survey, the operator can be
sure he has a manageable amount of sludge in his lagoon, and if
not, Extension helps by creating a sludge management plan to remedy
the situation.
Record #: 224 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-26
POW: A1
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Honeycutt, Eve
As our region becomes more culturally diverse, their is an
increased demand for more diverse agriculture. Goat production has
increased in Eastern North Carolina and continues to grow as a cash
crop. Fifteen producers of meat goats were able to learn more about
marketing, health, and nutrition of their animals during a Goat
Management Short Course sponsored by Cooperative Extension.
Specialists from the University provided pertinent information on
each topic and were able to give the producers extensive
research-based information to support the results of their studies.
With proper management techniques presented in this workshop,
producers can expect a 50% increase in their return on their meat
goat product.
Record #: 225 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-04
POW: A3
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Honeycutt, Eve
Youth continue to be the focus every spring in the southeast.
The 64th annual Coastal Plains Livestock Show and Sale boasted 120
children from 10 Southeastern counties in North Carolina. Extension
sponsored the show along with the extensive cooperation of local
volunteers and parents. Over $55,000 was raised for the support of
the children and their livestock projects. The youth gain valuable
life skills such as responsibility, accountability, and
dependability.
Record #: 226 of 2780
Date: 2004-09-03
POW: A6
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Cooke, Albert
Nursery operators have a continuous challenge in securing
contracts for plant sales and installations due to recent
requirements for certification credentials. One nursery recently
won contracts worth $152,000 by sub-contracting a site supervisor
with credentials but is seeking to avoid sub-contracting and still
qualify to bid on contracts. Cooperative Extension is providing
advice and consultation to nurseries in exploring avenues for
acquiring necessary credentials. This information included the
processes for pursuing certifications and means for becoming
Certified Plant Professionals. Extension worked closely with a
nursery owner and an employee to help them prepare for the plant
identification exam. Both passed the exam to qualify as Certified
Plant Professionals and agreed “we couldn’t have done
it without Extension.” They are now qualified to submit bids
on current projects potentially worth $484,743. By acquiring the
credentials, this one nursery can continue its business plan
without the expense of contracting outside help.
Record #: 227 of 2780
Date: 2004-09-03
POW: A9
Location: Alleghany
Person Reporting: Isner, David
Small Front yard Woodlot Nuisance Yields Returns Landscape tree
plantings often create problems when trees mature to large size.
Removal can costs thousands of dollars. One Alleghany senior
citizen homeowner owned a ¾ acre white pine planting that
was shading the driveway, contributing to winter travel problems,
and was an unwanted pollen source. The trees were not consistently
saw timber, and the area too small for local commercial loggers.
But the size area and number of trees presented a costly clearing
and removal scenario. When Alleghany Extension was contacted for
assistance, a merchantability evaluation was made relative to saw
timber volume and operability. Notifying a one-man logging
contractor, an opportunity was made for the trees to be marketed to
a local sawmill. The homeowner benefited from $2000 of income
instead of removal expense, the contractor worked locally, the
sawmill gained raw material supply, and economic activity was
recirculated in the county economy.
Record #: 228 of 2780
Date: 2005-01-18
POW: F3
Location: Stanly
Person Reporting: Alexi, Molly
With 70% of consumers living paycheck to paycheck, paying bills
on time is a major concern for many families. To make paying bills
and managing money less stressful for new homeowners, NC
Cooperative Extension, Stanly Co. Center in cooperation with
Habitat for Humanity offered four 1 hour financial planning
sessions. Seven families along with Habitat volunteers attended
sessions and learned: how to make a spending plan; managing credit
card debt; organizing important papers; managing during a loss of
income; and how to start saving for the future. All participants
reported during the first session that they did not have a spending
plan. At the conclusion of the program they had all developed a
spending plan and were working on building their savings.
Record #: 229 of 2780
Date: 2005-01-18
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
The grounds at the Caldwell County Heritage Museum located in
Lenoir was in need landscaping. The Caldwell Extension Center was
contacted by their Board of Directors seeking help in the project.
In response, the CED and Area Specialized Agent Commercial
Horticulture selected and secured a tree suitable for the site.
They worked a total of 3 man-hours cleaning, raking, preparing the
area for the planting of the tree. This represents a total savings
to the Museum in labor and supplies of over $850.00.
Record #: 230 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-11
POW: Y1
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Dejarnette, Shea
Robeson County 4-H volunteers and families were getting
frustrated with the influx of information and the lack of
explanation, causing them to drop out of the 4-H program.
Traditionally experienced volunteers guided members and parents
through the 4-H process. However the 4-H staff, through the
advisory system, found out that had not been happening. The 4-H
Agent put together a 4-H handbook, and developed a 4-H 101 class.
29 people attended the class to gain more knowledge about 4-H and
community clubs. After the two hour class, 100% of those in
attendance said the class was helpful. 50% said the handbook was
most useful while the other 50% said they were encouraged with all
the variety of opportunities offered. Due to the success of the
program we will offer it as an annual program. Evaluations also
indicated that we should set up an after school workshop as
well.
Record #: 231 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-11
POW: F5
Location: Wayne
Person Reporting: Pleasants, Robert H
Almost 1500 farm tractor/implement crashes occurred in N.C.
between 1995 and 1999. Cooperative Extension in Wayne County, in
cooperation with the Tobacco Trust Fund Commission and the N.C.
Highway Patrol addressed the issue of farm equipment highway wrecks
through "Seen and Safe" workshops. These educational
events highlighted road safety and featured educational brochures,
an exhibit, and a PowerPoint presentation, with follow-up
discussion. Two hundred twenty farmers, their spouses, and farm
workers participated in these meetings, and participants who were
tested demonstrated a 63% increase in knowledge of farm traffic
safety. In addition, 125 of the key participants received tractor
safety equipment kits valued at $200 each.
Record #: 232 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-12
POW: C4
Location: Currituck
Person Reporting: Perry-Weber, Jan
The 2004 Master Gardener Program Training classes were held from
February through April. Nineteen trainees attended with 100 percent
graduation. As a result of the training each is actively
volunteering in all Master Gardener activities such as the
Currituck Flower and Garden Show, the Spring and Fall Plant Sales
and the Garden Hotline answering horticultural questions at the
Extension office. The Master Gardener Program now has 53
volunteers.
Record #: 233 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-12
POW: A15
Location: Currituck
Person Reporting: Perry-Weber, Jan
The Currituck Master Gardeners sponsored the 2004 Currituck
Flower and Garden Show on April 17th and 18th. This is the largest
event of its kind in Northeast North Carolina. Over 40 vendors with
various garden related products participated. The Master Gardeners
designed a large educational exhibit with the theme "A Garden
Begins with a Vision". Residents were able to obtain answers
to horticultural questions through the "Gardening
Solutions" booth as well as access to the NC State
Horticultural site. Over 1000 residents attended.
Record #: 234 of 2780
Date: 2004-08-25
POW: A8
Location: Wood and Paper Science (SP)
Person Reporting: Denig, Joe
A visit to a restoration carpenter by our Wood Housing
Specialist resulted in a letter with the following comments:
“I enjoyed the time I spent with you last Friday talking
about, of all things, fungus. I received the interesting material
you sent and found it to contain abundant useful
information…. Thank you for your time and efforts on my
behalf. I have dozens of questions about a variety of wood topics
and I’m sure I will soon bother you again about another
one.”
Record #: 235 of 2780
Date: 2004-08-25
POW: A8
Location: Wood and Paper Science (SP)
Person Reporting: Denig, Joe
Phil Mitchell became involved with a furniture manufacturer that
was experiencing glue line failures due to loose face veneer that
resulted in rejected tops. Their reject rate for this high quality
product had soared to almost 50%, resulting in a total product loss
to the company of devastating $32,000 for one month alone. With
Phil’s assistance, the problem was identified and the reject
rate was brought back down to typical levels. At a cost of $7200
per percent reject (for this product alone), the company is
continuing to strive to improve their process and quality with Wood
Products Extensions help.
Record #: 236 of 2780
Date: 2004-08-25
POW: A8
Location: Wood and Paper Science (SP)
Person Reporting: Denig, Joe
Joe Denig conducted a follow up study on an optimized edger that
had been replaced in a hardwood mill based on a study he had
conducted in the past. Based on the current study the mill is
realizing over $600,000 annually due to increased yield at the
edger.
Record #: 237 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-16
POW: E7
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Pitman, J M
Tennessee Valley Authority has provided funding, in the amount
of $14,400.00, for the Watauga River Basin/Avery and Watauga
Counties. This money will be utilized for stream restoration and
trout habitat improvement projects. Projects will include a storm
water control/rain garden demonstration project; construction will
begin in July. Agencies included: NCWQ, TVA, Bio and Ag Engineer.,
Natural Resource Conservation, Soil and Water and the local and
county government. The funding will also provide money for a
community water screening.
Record #: 238 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-16
POW: C1
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Pitman, J M
The Avery County 4-H and Agricultural Conference Center
Community Campaign has received approximately $70,000.00 in pledges
and money for construction of the Avery County 4-H and Agricultural
Conference Center.
Record #: 239 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-18
POW: E1
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Jackson, Star
17 swine producers attended a workshop conducted by Star
Jackson, Duplin County Extension Agent that saved them $19,100. The
workshop provided the participants with the knowledge on how to
make sludge measuring devices, the necessary equipment to calibrate
their irrigation equipment, and instructions on how to accurately
fill out the required paperwork associated with the sludge
measurements and calibrations. The 17 producers represented 31
lagoons and 24 different irrigation designs. Private agencies are
charging on average $150 to complete a calibration and $500 to
complete a sludge survey.
Record #: 240 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-18
POW: A3
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Jackson, Star
72 children from three schools enjoyed a day at the farm. The
farm tour program was co-developed by the Duplin County Cooperative
Extension and Havaday Farms. The children learned about livestock,
saw the animals in their actual farm environment, and were able to
pet and identify how each animal contributed to their daily living.
The farm also featured a pond where the children were able to
become familiar with water ecology and learned to identify birds
and different water fowl found on the 100 acre farm. The teachers
were given an opportunity to evaluate the program and as a result,
the owners of Havaday Farm are making themselves more readily
available during school hours for educational tours like this
one.
Record #: 243 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-30
POW: C7
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Gallegos, Tony
Litter Task Force was established February 2004 under the
leadership of Cooperative Extension. The Task Forces early efforts
greatly increased participation in the annual Litter Sweeps. In
another effort, approximately 100 after-school children took part
in this activity by picking up trash from the their school grounds
and adjoining areas. Then using their creativity and imaginations
students created “Litter Bugs” from what was collected.
Extension obtained first place in NC Litter Prevention Competition
(government category) and $1000 award from NC Soft Drink
Association for ongoing efforts in the county to fight litter. The
"Don't Be a Tosser" display at the fair was also a
blue ribbon winner award winner. The task force continues to grow,
plan and "fight the war on litter one battle at a time",
our task force motto.
Record #: 244 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-19
POW: A7
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Fulford, Stephen
The agent assisted a small father and son row crop farm
operation to secure a $10,000 grant from the Rural Advancement
Foundation International-USA in order to establish a muscadine
grape vineyard that has the potential to significantly replace lost
tobacco income. The agent provided technical assistance for
vineyard establishment; grape production and grant writing for the
farmers.
Record #: 245 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-19
POW: A4
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Fulford, Stephen
The agent provided technical assistance to a small farmer for
establishing an early planted soybean system. This system will
enable the farmer produce a soybean crop earlier and take advantage
of price premiums for the early harvested soybeans.
Record #: 246 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-19
POW: A7
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Fulford, Stephen
The agent assisted a small minority farmer in developing a BMP
fertilizer use plan that included applying fertilizer rates based
on realistic yield expectations using a split application. The
farmer will reduce excess nitrogen loss to leaching and reduce his
cost per acre by $2.00.
Record #: 247 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-19
POW: A7
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Fulford, Stephen
The agent assisted a small minority farmer in developing a BMP
plan for fertilization and pest management. The plan included
applying fertilizer rates based on realistic yield expectations
using a split application. A crop rotation plan was implemented to
reduce pressure from corn insect pests without applying excess
insecticide. The farmer will reduce excess nitrogen loss to
leaching, use less insecticide, and save $4.00/ac.
Record #: 248 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-20
POW: A5
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Gibson, Stephen G
In 2002 a producer requested info on sweet potato varieties. I
decided it would be appropriate to conduct a replicated on farm
test and obtained from a specialist plants of 7 varieties, 3 which
were specialty (white fleshed). The test was conducted. Upon
completion a taste test was conducted by 5 households. This year
the farmer is planting 4 different varieties. Many things were
observed during the test and marketing of the product. An obvious
difference in the yield in one of the reps and a soil sample
identified an plant nutrient problem the farmer had for his entire
farm. Also during marketing we learned that the purple skinned and
white fleshed varieties were favored by Orientals in the area.
Record #: 249 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-20
POW: A5
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Gibson, Stephen G
The 2003 sweet potato variety test provided very valuable
information to at least 7 area vegetable growers. In addition an
unexpected success story was that we exposed the concept of on farm
tests to two ethnic groups. Four Hispanic farm workers helped with
the harvest and I was able to explain in Spanish that our
organization helped farmers as they made production decisions and
that the results of the test were to be used by other farmers
throughout the NC piedmont. In addition to our surprise an Oriental
business owner was very excited that purple skinned and cream
fleshed varieties were available. In 2004 the farmer was able to
plant this and another specialty variety to satisfy this new market
niche.
Record #: 250 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-20
POW: A4
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Gibson, Stephen G
Variety demonstrations and tests have been conducted for 24
consecutive years by Ag Agent Steve Gibson for wheat, cotton and
soybeans. Except for 7 (of 77) these have all been harvested and
the yield data shared with farmers and agrisuppliers. In addition
results of the Official Variety tests are provided. For planting
for the 2004 harvest a survey was conducted and it was determined
that farmers base their variety selection decisions on the data
provided on 80% of the acreage for these crops. A conservative
estimate was made that potential yields have increased by 20%
during the last 10 years since farmers have learned to use the
results of local and state variety tests and demonstrations.
Record #: 251 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-21
POW: A4
Location: Iredell
Person Reporting: Miller, Michael P
An on farm Wheat Field Day was conducted May 20, 2004 in Iredell
County with 30 producers attending representing 3500 acres of
wheat. An 18 variety demonstration plot was used as the teaching
method. The varieties were discussed relating to maturity, disease
resistance, and other agronomic characteristics. Disease symptoms
were identified in the field followed by a discussion of threshold
levels and control measures. This was also done with insect pests.
Nitrogen management was discussed along with tiller counts in
determining yields. One and one-half hours of pesticide credits
ware received by those attending. With adoption of recommended
varieties to reduce diseases along with adoption of identification
of pests and their control it is estimated that an added 52,500
will be profited by the growers due to the educational value of the
event.
Record #: 252 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-24
POW: Y2
Location: Person
Person Reporting: Brewer, Jennifer
The County Youth of America (CYA) 4-H Club went to one of the
local Children’s Group Homes in Person County to donate some
items and gifts to those youth. Many of the youth in the Group Home
simply need something constructive to do after school to keep them
out of trouble and give them encouragement to improve their grades
in school. The members of the 4-H Club approached the youth and
asked them to join their club. Since December, we have 5 youth from
the Group Home that have taken an active part in the 4-H club. It
has improved their self-esteem, their grades, and made them feel a
part of something and that they can make a difference.
Record #: 253 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-22
POW: A3
Location: Person
Person Reporting: Brewer, Jennifer
The Person County Silver Spurs 4-H Horse Club has been working
hard since last year to improve their teams’ score at the
Horse Bowl, Hippology, and Horse Judging Contests. After practicing
several times a week, the club placed 6th in the state and had a
youth placed 8th highest individual in the state. They also had one
youth qualify at the district show to continue on and compete at
the State Horse Show in July. This year, they were also able to
give back to the community by raising $2370.49 for the American
Cancer Society.
Record #: 254 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-24
POW: Y13
Location: Person
Person Reporting: Brewer, Jennifer
The County Youth of America 4-H Club worked extremely hard to
put together a BBQ luncheon fundraiser to raise money for the
Person County Animal Shelter. This past year, the shelter has had
to euthanize 80% of the animals brought in because of lack of money
to give them the proper shots and care that they need. The club had
their fundraiser on a Saturday at the Animal Shelter in the hopes
that some people would come and adopt an animal. The club raised
over $700 for the Shelter and several animals were adopted as
well.
Record #: 255 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-24
POW: A3
Location: Person
Person Reporting: Brewer, Jennifer
There were 19 youth that competed in the 59th Annual North
Central Junior Livestock Show & Sale. The Person County 4-H
youth won several major awards including grand champion market
steer, pen of three, and reserve champion pen of three. Not only
did our 4-H’ers do an exceptional job in the show, but the
majority of them took home awards for their record books, and we
had one young man get reserve champion junior showman. With so many
animals being shown this year, we had to go out and find more
sponsors to make donations to help support the show. With the help
of the business community and with our goat club bringing in over
$500 by selling 4-H candy bars, we were able to raise over $9500 of
support money to help our 4-H’ers with their projects.
Record #: 256 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-24
POW: Y13
Location: Person
Person Reporting: Brewer, Jennifer
The County Youth of America 4-H Club put on another BBQ luncheon
fundraiser at Family-A-Fair Day during Week of the Young Child to
raise money for the Person County Animal Shelter. The club used
some of their money to support the County Animal Response Team
(CART) trailer that is used all around town during emergencies in
the hopes that it would be easier to use and more available to the
community when needed. For their wonderful support of the animal
shelter and the CART, their name, was listed as a sponsor and was
put on the side of the CART trailer.
Record #: 257 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-24
POW: Y12
Location: Person
Person Reporting: Brewer, Jennifer
The Person County 4-H Program hosted a workshop for the Visually
Impaired group in our community. The 4-H’ers and the 8
visually impaired guests spent an afternoon completing several
crafts and fun activities that used a variety of their senses
besides sight. This event was sponsored by our local Lions
Club.
Record #: 258 of 2780
Date: 2004-11-10
POW: A4
Location: Wilkes
Person Reporting: Miller, Matthew S
The Wilkes Regional Hay Expo was held May 19, 2004 at Shew
Farms. Approximately 200 farmers, agribusiness personnel and
Agricultural Agency employees attended. Presentations on
\"Weed Identification and Control in Pastures and Hay\",
\"Field and Storage Losses in Hay\" and \"Sprayer
Calibration\" were used to increase efficiency and
profitability while being environmental sensitive. Participants
received 1 hr. pesticide recertification credit. Numerous
agribusiness and agricultural agencies had static exhibits and
shared information with participants to increase awareness and
knowledge level on important topics. Field demonstrations and
discussion of implements to increase hay and haylage forage harvest
efficiency were performed by area equipment dealers and their
associated vendors. Feedback was very favorable and knowledge level
and awareness of production, harvest and storage of hay was
increased. A front page article in the local newspaper followed -up
the event and multiplied. efforts.
Record #: 259 of 2780
Date: 2004-11-10
POW: A4
Location: Wilkes
Person Reporting: Miller, Matthew S
The Wilkes Corn Production Meeting was held 2-17-04. 26 farmers
and agribusiness personnel attend. Participants were informed on
production problems and solutions to increase yield and
profitability while being environmentally sensitive. New
developments in biotechnology were explained, Results of the Wilkes
Corn Hybrid On Farm Demonstration were reviewed as well as
information on hybrid selection. 1.5 hours of pesticide
recertification was available.
Record #: 260 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-25
POW: A1
Location: Wilkes
Person Reporting: Miller, Matthew S
The Wilkes Area Stocker sale was held 4-8-04 at Kilbys Livestock
Market. 400 feeder cattle from 30 consignors in 8 counties sold for
a premium of about $20,000. The sale was used to showcase feeder
cattle in demand and had a price setting trend that magnified
impact. The education aspects are important. Graded sales
underscore the size, muscling, breed combinations as well as
nutrition and management. Marketing advantages of grouping in
uniform sale lots are evident. Networking opportunities were
enhanced with NCDA&CS, NCCA and local livestock market.
Record #: 261 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-25
POW: A1
Location: Wilkes
Person Reporting: Miller, Matthew S
The Wilkes Cattlemen’s Association met 2-19-04. 89 people
were in attendance. Topics addressed included important issues
affecting the cattle industry. Mark Bray, Policy Director from N.
C. of the National Beef Association discussed implementation of a
nation identification system and impacts of BSE and other diseases.
Also farm and equipment safety were discussed and information on
increasing efficiency of hay production was presented.
Record #: 262 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-25
POW: A3
Location: Martin
Person Reporting: Coltrain, Justus B
Over the 28 year history of the Martin County Swine & Lamb
Show & Sale, 2,047 hogs have been sold for $487,170 - an ave.
of $238/head or about $1/lb. Lambs were added to the show in 1983.
Since then, 337 lambs have sold for $98,229 - an ave. of $291/head.
Total sales for show history - $585,399. As impressive as that may
be, the greater value of this long-term commitment of Cooperative
Extension staff is the number of youth served over those years.
Since 1977, 1,327 youth have participated in this Show, many more
than once. That is an awful lot of life skills learned.
Record #: 263 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-25
POW: A8
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Garwood, Terry A
Boxwood production in Surry county provides an estimated $1.5
million of income to producers who sell and ship boxwoods as
container grown plants, ball and burlap plants, and use trimmings
as Christmas wreaths. Growers requested the latest research in
varieties and production methods which Extension provided in a
seminar held at the Surry Extension Center. Local and area agents
as well as an Extension Specialist discussed fertility, weed
control, insects and diseases, and current and new boxwood
cultivars.100% of participants (49) responded that they learned
techniques to be incorporated into their operations. Six
participants have since soil sampled and received recommendations
for their boxwood sites.
Record #: 264 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-26
POW: F1
Location: Swain
Person Reporting: Ayscue, Georgia T
As the general population grows older, issues and ideas about an
aging world will emerge and should be addressed. In recognition of
Older Americans Month which focuses on concerns of aging Americans,
the April/May Swain Co. Newsletter contained several articles of
interest to older persons. Benefits of volunteering and senior pet
companionship are examples of articles written. P.A.W.S., Swain
County's humane society, wrote Extension a thank you card
stating that the average age of their volunteers is 68 y/o.
P.A.W.S. added that, in their opinion, the newsletter's info
regarding volunteering and adopting older pets for older persons
was a great service and outreach to the community. P.A.W.S. also
requested to be put on the mailing list for the newsletter.
Record #: 265 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-26
POW: A1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cave, T B
Got Food? Many children and adults are not aware of where food
comes from, and think that milk and bread come from the grocery
shelf. In an effort to educate them about agriculture and the food
supply, the 16th Annual Farm Animal Days were held on April 7-8.
1400 kindergarten students, teachers, volunteers, preschoolers, and
daycare providers were educated about agriculture and where food
comes from in a fun and exciting format. The children were given
the opportunity to see, hear, touch, smell, and learn about animals
with the message "Food doesn't come from a store, it comes
from a farm." Teachers rated FAD an excellent learning
experience and say students had a great time learning about
agriculture. Over 25,000 students have received this experience
over the past 16 years through this brainchild of Agricultural
Agent Bryan Cave and with the help of volunteers and the staff of
the Surry Center.
Record #: 266 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-26
POW: A1
Location: Wake
Person Reporting: Adams, John
NCCES Wake County Center worked with two individuals who had
irrigation ponds that were effected by aquatic weeds. After several
failed attempts to control the aquatic weeds and wasted time and
money, the NCCES was contacted to help with situation. The ponds
were visited and the weeds identified and control treatment was
recommended to the two pond owners. Both individuals started the
treatment recommended by the NCCES and after a short period of time
the aquatic weeds were eradicated. The pond owners not only saved
time, but also money on chemical purchases and the NCCES helped to
reduce the environmental damage that could have been caused by
usage of certain pesticides.
Record #: 267 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-26
POW: Y1
Location: Yadkin
Person Reporting: Staebner, Melissa J
An eighteen year old 4-Her from Yadkin County who has been
active in 4-H for 13 years in the 4-H club program was recently
selected to receive the Eloise Coffer Scholarship for $750.00. In
addition she was recognized at her high school awards program to
receive 3 additional scholarships. She credits her success to the
solid foundation 4-H has provided. While in 4-H she was active in
Community Service, Leadership, Project and Cumulative Records,
Presentations, 4-H Camp and Congress. 4-H provided many
opportunities for her development and growth. These honors are a
true indication of the impact 4-H has in developing life skills and
responsible young adults.
Record #: 268 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: Y3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Dejarnette, Shea
It is difficult to find programming for teenagers that they are
willing to stick with and is educational. Recently Robeson County
4-H had the opportunity to take part in the state TRY-IT (Teens
Reaching Youth through Innovative Teams) initiative. We put
together a team of 5 youth and one adult volunteer for this
program. My greatest concerns were that the youth don’t all
have internet access for this program, and not all would want to
stick with it after finding out how much thought is required on
their parts. To kick things off I held a workshop and lead them
through almost half of the required work. Each of the youth got
excited about different aspects of the program, and it was a
catalyst to intelligent conversations on politics, religion, and
different cultures. 100% of the participants said they increased
their knowledge and would continue in the program.
Record #: 269 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: Y6
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Dejarnette, Shea
Robeson County ranks third in the state for teen pregnancies.
Statistics show that 486 pregnancies were from girls ages 15-19,
and 10 were from girls ages 10-14. Youth this age often don’t
have the proper knowledge of how to feed balanced meals to their
children. Robeson County 4-H teamed up with EFNEP (Extended Food
and Nutrition Education Program) and the Exploration Station to
offer a nutrition program designed specifically for teen parents.
The workshop was held at the Exploration Station so the children
could play and learn from all types of hands-on activities, while
their parents took part in the EFNEP workshop. After a brief
evaluation 100% of the teen parents said they increased their
knowledge about the nutrition as well the Exploration Station and
its activities. We will do a follow up survey to see if
they’re eating habits change, and continue this program with
other teen parent clubs.
Record #: 270 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-10
POW: F2
Location: Scotland
Person Reporting: Riemer, Pamela
The Baby Think It Over (BTIO) program is a collaborative effort
of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension and the Scotland County
School System, focusing on teenage pregnancy prevention. As a
result of the Baby Think It Over program the teenage pregnancy rate
is currently declining due in large part to increase student
awareness and understanding in regard to financial matters. Each
student was required to prepare a practical budget based on current
minimum wage and a 40-hour workweek. Prior to conducting this
program 80% of the students felt confident that they could cope
financially. Following this program, 99 % of them realized that
their previous assessment was not correct and that they were not be
able to bear the financial burden of teenage pregnancy.
Record #: 271 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: Y12
Location: Lincoln
Person Reporting: Senters, Fran
At this time there is an enormous need for 4-H volunteers of
high-risk youth. 4-H's goal is to teach the concept that, in
order to make a difference volunteer's must evolve their role
from caretaker to a developer of life skills. Over a nine month
period, North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service's 4-H and
East Lincoln Christian Ministries utilized twenty eight volunteers
to organize the 4-H Cool Club. Members included twenty three
high-risk youth. Seven program areas were introduced including See
Them Sprout. One enthusiastic volunteer, who originally
participated in the caretaker role, ran into a 4-H'er in the
community and shared sunflower stories, emailed the CES 4-H program
assistant with the plan of driving from Lincolnton to Huntersville
to purchase plants for each child to take home and nurture for
themselves. Her evolution enabled the youth and support positive
life skill development.
Record #: 272 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-03
POW: Y2
Location: Lincoln
Person Reporting: Senters, Fran
Families who are in the process of acquiring their first home
through Habitat for Humanity (HFH) must complete Sweat Equity.
Cooperative Extensions' Family and Consumer Science,
Agricultural, and 4-H Agents partnered with HFH to provided Sweat
Equity hours through home buying, maintenance, and budgeting
classes. Recognizing the children also have a need for life skills,
the 4-H Habitat Club was formed. Targeted skills included planning
and organizing, critical thinking, recognizing difference, personal
safety, expressing feelings, and understanding self. Two volunteers
lead meetings serving six youth. In addition ,the youth prepared
forty treat bags to be donated to the local nursing home. The hands
on experience enabled them to realize that they are valuable
members of their society and families. A post evaluation of the
youth ranging from grades K-3 demonstrated the development of
skills necessary to make informed decisions about life.
Record #: 273 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-29
POW: Y5
Location: Gates
Person Reporting: Duncan, Myrna
The 4H LifeSmart Program grant funded by Governors Crime
Commission is an after school program catering to middle and high
school youth. The program deals with employability skills financial
resource management and everyday life skills. Recently a workshop
was given. The topic and title was The Real World. The curriculum
used was On Your Own, an interactive cd-rom. The youth went on a
journey of three months of life skills. They used their team
working skills to make decisions on: What kind of job they would
have, where they would live, the car they would drive, which
insurance was best, how much food to buy, how to pay their bill and
when, where they would do their banking and still deal with those
everyday hassles. The youth found that it wasn't so easy in the
real world. They did well in their decision making and succeeded in
making it in the real world. In the beginning they started with
impulsive and excessive spending but once really involved in the
real life process they began to use better money management.
Record #: 274 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: A1
Location: Poultry Science
Person Reporting: Davis, Gary
Prevention of Mortality in Game birds Using Direct-Fed
Microbials: The upland wild game bird industry has nearly doubled
in the past 30 years. Approximately 4 million Bobwhite quail, Ring
necked pheasants, Chukar and Hungarian partridges, and Mallard
ducks are produced in NC each year. The game bird production and
hunting preserve industries represent an approximate $1 billion
contribution each year to the US economy. In the past, producers
have commonly experienced mortality rates as high as 30%. Extension
and research programs were developed to investigate the effects of
Direct-Fed microbials (DFM’s) to reduce game bird mortality
and to increase overall production parameters. In numerous field
and research trials, it was found that DFM’s have a profound
effect on reducing mortality, increasing body weight, improving
feed efficiency, increasing feather quality, and increasing flight
ability. Due to the success of these trials, over 75% of game bird
producers nationwide now use a DFM in their feeds.
Record #: 275 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: A1
Location: Poultry Science
Person Reporting: Grimes, Jesse
The Use of a Novel Litter Material for Rearing Commercial
Turkeys: A novel litter material (agro-chips) made from old
newsprint, cotton waste, and gypsum, that has a very high rate of
absorbency but also a high rate of drying, has been tested as an
alternative to pine shavings for poultry litter. The use of
agro-chips litter resulted in heavier toms and hens at 20 wk, but
no differences in feed conversion, mortality or carcass yield. Both
the control and test pens used in the study had considerable caked
litter by the end of the rearing period. Further testing under
field conditions is needed to compare agro-chips litter to pine
shavings under commercial conditions. Agro-chips appear to have
potential as an alternative litter material that can substitute for
pine shavings.
Record #: 276 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-28
POW: C4
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Collins, Randy
On May 8th, 2004 a group of four Master Gardener Volunteers
along with the agricultural agent from Graham County successfully
helped landscape an entire new play area for the Snowbird Daycare
Center. This center is part of the Cherokee Indian Reservation in
Graham County as is funded by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
This project was very successful in that it saved the daycare
center extra labor costs, got the Master Gardener program some
added publicity, and gained the program two new volunteers from the
Snowbird area.
Record #: 277 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-28
POW: A1
Location: Poultry Science
Person Reporting: Havenstein, Gerald
Estimated Change in Turkey Growth, Feed Conversion and Yield,
1966-2003. Three companies control the breeding of the turkeys used
for commercial turkey production world wide. In 2003, a study using
The Ohio State University random bred control turkey line, which
was established in 1966, was utilized to compare its performance
with that of the 2003 commercial turkey strains, when fed
representative 1966 and 2003 diets. The data indicated that the
body weight of turkeys has approximately doubled at a given age in
2003 from what it was in 1966. Twenty week body weight of turkey
toms and hens have increased by 0.42 lb and 0.34 lb, respectively,
and carcass yield has increased by about 7 percent. To grow a 20
lb. tom turkey using the modern strains takes about 93 days at a
2.05 feed conversion in contrast to 151 days (3.43 feed conversion)
for the 1966 tom turkey.
Record #: 278 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: A1
Location: Poultry Science
Person Reporting: Anderson, Ken
North Carolina Layer Management and Performance Test: The North
Carolina Layer Management and Performance Test allows strain and
management practice evaluations using a common environment to egg
producers in North Carolina. This extension program has expanded to
develop and to provide scientific answers to issues facing the egg
industry related to molting practices, egg processing, and beak
trimming. Recent experiments included an evaluation of the shedding
of microbes into table eggs when the laying hens are subjected to
alternative molting programs. This test is the only one of its type
remaining in North and South America and is one of only three
remaining in the world.
Record #: 279 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-28
POW: Y1
Location: Cherokee
Person Reporting: Coleman, Rebecca
The Cherokee Rider's 4-H Horse Club was able to get two
teams to compete in this years 4-H Horse Bowl competition. The club
had one team last year consisting of 4 members and had 8 members
competing this year. The junior team went on to the state
competition but did not place there. This team had all new members
none returning from last year. The team said that they learned a
valuable lesson in that even if they know the answers they have to
work on buzzing in and answering the questions. They feel like the
first year jitters of public speaking is over and they can look on
to next years competition.
Record #: 280 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-28
POW: F1
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Noble, L S
Robeson has an extremely high rate of school drop outs. Success
in the early grades influences children to stay in school. Thus, in
2002, public school system formed committee of local
agencies-including Extension FCS agent-to plan and conduct
"school readiness" seminars for parents of pre-K and
kindergarten children. Purpose was to give parents skills to help
their children be more successful in school early on. "Feeding
Toddlers", taught by FCS agent, was included in seminars due
to the relationship of nutrition to brain development and learning.
Due to success of first seminars, 3 more were conducted in Spring
2004. (FCS agent also taught feeding toddlers to Head Start parents
in 1 Center.) 28 parents total participated with 50% indicating
they would use feeding techniques taught to improve their
child's diet. Committee plans to continue seminars.
Record #: 281 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: A1
Location: Poultry Science
Person Reporting: Ferket, Peter
In ova feeding of Poultry: In ova feeding of solutions
containing protein and amino acids to broiler and turkey embryos a
few days prior to hatch increased early post-hatch growth rate by 3
to 10% over controls. Enteric development was accelerated 48 hr
after in ova feeding, such that the in ova-fed birds had a gut at
hatch that was similar to that of 2 day-old control birds. This
technology was patented and is currently being field tested by the
poultry industry. Research and development on in ova feeding is
continuing. Information from this program was disseminated to the
poultry industry by extension demonstrations, county and state-wide
meetings, workshops, conferences, and popular press.
Record #: 282 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: A1
Location: Poultry Science
Person Reporting: Ferket, Peter
Improving Nutrient Utilization in Poultry: The environmental
impact of mineral emissions from concentrated poultry operations
must be reduced by improving dietary nutrient utilization and
utilizing animal by-products as added-value nutrient resources.
Through the use of lactic acid fermentation and extrusion
processing, poultry protein by-products can be converted into
protein meals for fish feed that are about 15% more digestible than
protein meals produced by conventional rendering methods.
Appropriate dietary supplementation of enzymes, amino acids and
organic minerals to poultry feed have been demonstrated to reduce
the emissions of phosphorus, nitrogen, and other minerals by
improving diet digestibility over 5%. The use of enzymes and feed
additives reduce feed costs by at least $0.25 per ton resulting in
a potential annual savings of over $1.2 million for the NC poultry
industry.
Record #: 283 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: A1
Location: Poultry Science
Person Reporting: Carver, Donna
Prevention of Exotic Newcastle Disease in Chickens: Exotic
Newcastle Disease (END) was identified in California in October
2002. The disease was costly ($200 million spent by USDA alone) and
disrupted trade. NCDA&CS secured funding from the Council of
State to develop an educational program that addressed animal
disease recognition and prevention utilizing END as a model.
Training materials in English and Spanish were developed in the
form of presentations, pamphlets, and posters. Posters also
targeted illiterate people, using pictures to describe the lesions
and signs seen with END. More than twenty training sessions across
the 7 Extension districts were held to inform agricultural workers
employed by NCDA, NCDOL, NCWRC, NCDENR, NCEMS, NCDHHS, NCCES, and
USDA. Additional training sessions were held as part of an
orientation for seasonal workers entering the state from Mexico.
Other trainings included people from county animal response teams,
Emergency Management, Animal Control and Law Enforcement.
Record #: 284 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-10
POW: F3
Location: Scotland
Person Reporting: Riemer, Pamela
Low income citizens of Scotland County are struggling with the
problem of using their limited funds to cover their financial
obligations. The North Carolina Cooperative Extension in
conjunction with South Scotland Neighborhood Center has addressed
this problem with a program called Money-In/Money-Out (MI/MO). When
the people were asked to identify their financial needs, it was
apparent that they did not understand the difference between
“wants” and “needs”. Through the allocation
of play money and the identification of financial requirements,
these citizens were taught to distinguish between those things they
really needed and those simply desired. They (100%) started to
understand that by setting their priorities correctly, they could
not only meet their financial needs but also achieve a surplus. The
conclusion of this exercise is obvious: Increased education leads
to changes in attitudes yielding changes in behaviors.
Record #: 285 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: F5
Location: Lincoln
Person Reporting: Chilcote, Amy G
Poor Air quality in the schools has an adverse effect on
children's ability to learn as well as teacher effectiveness.
It generates loss of dollars due to increased absenteeism because
of sickness. The Tools for Schools Curriculum is a curriculum that
allows schools to identify Indoor Air Quality maintenance issues
and work toward fixing them. Lincoln county was one of three
counties that piloted the program for the North Carolina
Cooperative Extension that led to North Carolina Department of
Public Instruction to sanction the Tools For Schools Curriculum.
Other partners locally were the Be Good to Your Lungs Committee and
the American Lung Association. Because of the success of this
program the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction has
requested that the Cooperative Extension conduct four regional
training's reaching 85% of the state schools.
Record #: 286 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: A1
Location: Poultry Science
Person Reporting: Sheldon, Brian
Incidence of Salmonella Contamination on Commercial Broiler and
Turkey Farms as a Function of Farm, Bird Age, and Season: Some
citizens have questioned the role of concentrated swine and poultry
operations and their waste handling practices in spreading
bacterial, viral, and parasitic pathogens that might ultimately
affect other animal and/or human populations. Studies are underway
involving NCSU and Ohio State University researchers to test a
number of potential animal waste treatment technologies as to their
ability to reduce the human disease risk associated with modern
animal agriculture. The initial studies involved estimating the
current levels of bacterial pathogens associated with commercial NC
broiler and turkey farms. Preliminary findings indicate that
Salmonella populations and their prevalence in broiler and turkey
fecal and litter samples vary widely from farm to farm and are
influenced by bird age, growing season, and farm.
Record #: 287 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: A1
Location: Poultry Science
Person Reporting: Anderson, Ken
Ovarian Cancer: Chickens, because of their high incidence of
naturally occurring ovarian cancer, have been shown to be a viable
model for human ovarian cancer. The epithelial cells of chicken
ovaries are similar to the epithelial cells of human ovaries and
appear to respond to the hormone progestin in the same manner as
those of humans. Researchers at NCSU, Duke, and Northwestern
University are utilizing egg-laying chickens to evaluate two chemo
preventive agents (levonorgesterol, as used in birth control pills,
and a new drug 4-HPR, developed at the National Cancer institute)
for their potential effect on reducing the incidence of ovarian
cancer. The chicken model is supporting the development of
acceptable preventive programs and provides a more rapid evaluation
mechanism for new preventive therapies for human ovarian cancer.
Our avian model allows for chemo-prevention screening at an
accelerated rate (2 versus 5-7 years) at a greatly reduced cost to
society.
Record #: 288 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: A1
Location: Poultry Science
Person Reporting: Carver, Donna
Incidence of Campylobacter and Antibiotic Resistance in Turkey
Flocks: Preliminary work by faculty members in the NC State
University Departments of Food Science and Poultry Science,
indicate that contamination levels of turkey flocks with
Campylobacter species is quite variable, and that the
anti-microbial resistance patterns of the Campylobacter are also
quite variable. This work will provide much-needed scientific
evidence related to contamination levels and the level and type of
antibiotic resistance that is present. The potential impact of this
research for the turkey industry will be great in terms of
establishing guidelines for on-farm initiatives that are feasible
and for providing evidence as to how much of a role the
administration of anti-microbial agents actually has on the
occurrence of resistant strains of microbes in humans.
Record #: 289 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: A1
Location: Poultry Science
Person Reporting: Sheldon, Brian
Estimating Bacterial Pathogen Cross-Contamination Transfer Rates
from Food Contact Surfaces to Ready-to-Eat (RTE) Foods: As RTE
foods have gained popularity, food safety professionals have
focused their efforts on assuring the safety of these foods. Raw
poultry products are frequently the source of cross-contamination
in food preparation areas and thus pose some risk for RTE foods.
The results of a study by NCSU researchers showed that relatively
high numbers of bacteria may be transferred to RTE foodstuffs even
1 to 2 hours after contact with surfaces containing these foodborne
pathogens. The transfer populations were sufficient for the
development of foodborne disease. It was also shown that relatively
high numbers of viable bacteria could be transferred to a foodstuff
even after the surface had been dried or mostly dried.
Consequently, there is a need for continuous disinfection of food
contact surfaces in food preparation areas.
Record #: 290 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-27
POW: F5
Location: Lincoln
Person Reporting: Chilcote, Amy G
A Lincoln County business recently faced a challenging problem
when they experienced mildew issues in their dye house. The
Cooperative Extension assisted the industry by sending a fabric
sample to the Plant Pathology Dept. to be analyzed. They then
introduced the industry with the Industrial Extension Service who
then assisted the business in identifying ways to eradicate the
mildew problem. With the teamwork done by both the Cooperative
Extension and the Industrial Extension Service, the Lincoln County
business was able to correct the mildew problem in their dye houses
which in turn saved the industry a substantial amount of time and
money.
Record #: 291 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-28
POW: A7
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Collins, Randy
On May 15, 2004 Cooperative Extension offered a Coggins Clinic
for area horse owners. The program was held in Graham County and
was designed to help horse owners save some money on yearly health
tests and vaccinations. As a direct result of this program, nine
horse owners saved a total of around $100 each in that they did not
have to pay for a veterinarian house call, and/or they did not have
to pay for the extra gas to transport their horses out of town.
This also provided Extension with an opportunity to market some of
its ongoing horse programs.
Record #: 292 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-28
POW: F1
Location: Swain
Person Reporting: Ayscue, Georgia T
"Older adults are N.C.'s fastest growing population and
one that is limited in income and susceptible to malnutrition. To
address these issues, Extension's Partners In Wellness supports
the Administration On Aging mandate to provide quarterly nutrition
education at congregate nutrition sites." During the final
class of an educational series module about salt consumption and
its impact on health, a 70 y/o participant shared that she had
followed class guidelines about salt. She stated her high blood
pressure had been reduced directly related to what she had learned
in PIW. In recent weeks, her BP checkups went from 198/90 to 139/70
due to behaviors she had changed from learning that "It Could
Be Salt's Fault!" Increased awareness about the dangers of
too much salt in her diet and learning how to look for salt in
foods helped her reach her goal of lowering her BP.
Record #: 293 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-28
POW: A1
Location: Poultry Science
Person Reporting: Wineland, Michael
Improved hatchery management: There are hundreds of thousands of
metabolically active embryos growing in poultry hatchery
incubators. The environment these eggs are exposed to require an
optimal temperature, humidity, oxygen and carbon dioxide
environment, and egg orientation. Research is currently being
conducted at NC State University to determine the physiological
responses to varying temperature, humidity, oxygen and carbon
dioxide concentration, and egg orientation. Our findings have
demonstrated that because of increased selection pressure for
economical traits the conditions used to incubate hatching eggs
need to be altered. Moreover, we have demonstrated how maturation
of organ systems can be altered by manipulation of incubation
parameters. These findings have been subsequently used to develop
educational materials for presenting in workshops focused on
increasing the knowledge base of hatchery workers. This information
is then put into practice by hatchery workers ultimately leading to
better chick yields and viability.
Record #: 294 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-28
POW: F1
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Noble, L S
The poor health status of NC youth is alarming. For example,
12.6% of elementary-age school children have high cholesterol and
12% have hypertension. Youth need education and motivation to make
lifestyle choices to maximize their health. In addition, overweight
children often suffer with low self-esteem. FCS agent conducted
Sybershop with 75 youth (grades 6-8) at the alternative school
operated by Communities in Schools. Sybershop is a fun, interactive
CD/ROM that addresses nutrition, weight loss, physical activity,
and self-esteem. According to exit surveys of 65 participants, 63
increased their knowledge of nutrition/physical activity. 50
indicated they would make lifestyle changes to improve their diet
and/or increase physical activity. Nutrition intervention is
believed to contribute to health care savings ($5400 per person);
thus for those indicating change, this instruction saved an
estimated potential of $270,00.
Record #: 295 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-28
POW: E8
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Little, William E
A Pesticide Disposal Collection was held at the Wilson
Cooperative Extension Building as a joint effort between the Wilson
Extension and NCDA Pesticide Section. During this event we
collected chemicals from farmers and homeowners which they wanted
to dispose. As a result of this event we collected 5,201 pounds of
unwanted chemicals to lower the prospect of these products ending
up in the environment.
Record #: 296 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-30
POW: Y11
Location: Chowan
Person Reporting: Damrow, Amy L
Obesity and sedentary lifestyles among youth are part of a
serious, complex, and growing health concern in the United States.
The number of overweight adolescents ages 12-19 has tripled to 14
percent since the 1980s, according to the Surgeon General. To
address the issue of fostering skills that help make youth make
healthy lifestyle decisions, Chowan County 4-H teamed up with the
Edenton-Chowan Recreation Department to offer the 5Kids Running
Program to middle school students. Through the program 15 youth
increased their physical condition through yoga, aerobics, long
distance running, weight training, and sprinting games. All youth
completed a 5K (3.2 mile) road race and four youth earned trophies
in their age division. One youth reported losing 14 pounds and
another youth went down three pant sizes. According to the youth,
5Kids helped relieve stress, improved overall physical fitness
level, and enabled youth to meet new people and have fun.
Record #: 297 of 2780
Date: 2004-05-31
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Sidebottom, Jill
Hemlock rust mites continue to be a problem for Fraser fir
Christmas tree growers. The material most growers use, Dimethoate,
is an organophosphate and may be taken from the market in the
future. Horticultural oil, another alternative, can cause burn to
Fraser fir foliage. Jerry Moody and Jill Sidebottom evaluated a new
material to be marketed by Bayer called Envidor. In a recent field
demonstration, this product proved to be as effective as
Dimethoate, making it a valid alternative to this
organophosphate.
Record #: 298 of 2780
Date: 2004-07-09
POW: E6
Location: Cherokee Res.
Person Reporting: Mcclellan, Sarah
EBCI Cultural Resources, Western Carolina University Cherokee
Studies and Cherokee Reservation Cooperative Extension organized a
River Cane Symposium to bring scientists, historians, resource
managers, traditional cane artists and harvesters together to share
their experiences and knowledge about river cane. The facilitated
open-exchange of knowledge focused on traditional knowledge;
history and ecology of cane brakes; botany, propagation and
restoration of cane. Fifty-four people attended the meeting from as
far away as the Chitimacha Tribe in Louisiana and other experts
from South Dakota, Kentucky, Georgia, and West Virginia. The out
comes of the meeting included the formation of a River Cane
Network, a management plan for the cane brake at the tribal farm at
Kituhwa and a web-site to share information. Funded through the
Cherokee Preservation Foundation and the sponsoring agencies.
Record #: 299 of 2780
Date: 2004-07-09
POW: A15
Location: Cherokee Res.
Person Reporting: Mcclellan, Sarah
Smoky Mountain National Park banned the collection of ramps.
Ramps are a traditional food, similar to a wild onion. The
Extension Agent participated in a “Ramp Task Force”
organized by the Tribal attorney including Cultural Resources staff
and the NRCS tribal liaison. The result of meetings and
negotiations between the task force and the Park was a lift on the
collecting ban for enrolled members. Extension’s
“Backyard Ramp Patch” project was developed to
encourage growing ramps close to home. The Project included an
educational session taught by a University Specialist and 10,000
ramp bulbs distributed to 200 interested growers in the spring of
2003 & 2004. Funded through the Extension Indian Reservation
Program Grant.
Record #: 300 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-01
POW: A15
Location: Haywood
Person Reporting: Mathews, Timothy
With the cooperation of the Junaluska elementary school staff,
we were able to obtain a grant to improve the 1st and 2nd grade
garden at the school. With the grant money, we were able to install
raised beds, purchase a composter, and purchase new tools for the
students. These improvements to the garden make it easier for the
students to work in the garden as well as educating them on how to
produce a garden in a limited space. Master Gardener Volunteers
continue to be active in this garden program at the school and have
given the students a quality learning experience.
Record #: 301 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-01
POW: A1
Location: Sampson
Person Reporting: Gonzalez, Paul
A county cattle producer with a brood cow herd of roughly 250
head was not castrating his bull calves and selling them at a
stockyard. After realizing the discounted price he was receiving
for his bull calves, this producer contacted the NCCE Sampson
County Center in March. A farm visit was arranged during which time
the producer was educated on proper castration technique. This
producer now castrates all his bull calves when the cows are
gathered to be worked. By doing so, he is now able to participate
in a marketing program through his bull supplier which increases
the price received for his calve by $15 to $20 per hundred
weight.
Record #: 302 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-30
POW: A15
Location: Haywood
Person Reporting: Mathews, Timothy
This year we organized and presented the first annual home
garden tour in Haywood County. The purpose of this tour was to
educate the target audience about the value of quality landscaping.
Master Gardeners were present at each garden to answer questions
concerning proper placement, care, and watering of specific
landscape plants. There were six gardens on the tour and each was
different in design and presentation. By attending this tour, the
public was able to obtain ideas and received information that they
can incorporate in their own gardens. Over 300 individuals attended
this tour.
Record #: 303 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-20
POW: C1
Location: Rowan
Person Reporting: Cowden, James
Cooperative Extension teamed with the Rowan County Board of
Commissioners, the Land Trust of Central NC, and the local
Sustainable Community Development Commission to establish a
Farmland/Open Land Preservation Program in Rowan County. An eight
generation family farm of 400 acres was selected for protection.
The county provided $140,000(along with a two to one match of
federal monies) to buy the development rights for this farm. The
family donated more than 50% of the value. During the year, the
program has drawn 23 applications representing 4,700 acres, and the
county has approved protecting 2,767 acres with $340,000 of county
monies.
Record #: 304 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-01
POW: Y3
Location: Rowan
Person Reporting: Cowden, James
The 4-H and youth program in Rowan County helped 40 youth
overcome their fear of public speaking by conducting eight hours of
training over four weeks. All of the youth improved their speaking
skills and self-esteem. One teen was unable to talk in front of
others prior to the training, but now has the confidence to speak
well. Upon completion of their training, 20 of the youth delivered
a 5-7 minute public speech in a county contest. Six of the youth
will conduct their speech at district competition.
Record #: 305 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-02
POW: Y3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Rogers, Aggie L
Robeson County 4-H Leaders Association continue to meet on a
quarterly basis to plan club and county events. We have more than
(25) clubs at different stages of development and maturity. The
experienced club leaders give their phone numbers and assist other
leaders with conducting project/cumulative records, presentation
and sewing workshops. Due to their leaderships our records has
increased from 12 to over 90 records books, with over (15)
receiving gold, silver and bronze. Some were their first time, and
being a winners gave them that extra boost they needed to improve
and complete a more quality book.
Record #: 306 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-29
POW: Y3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Rogers, Aggie L
Robeson County volunteers continue to rise to the top. We had
(17) volunteers to attend the NC Volunteer Leaders Conference. They
had the opportunity to choose the workshop of their choice and
needs. With their dedication and participation, we had two (2)
leaders to be installed as South Central District officers and one
(1) as a State officer. One volunteer with more than (10) years of
service and child has aged-out of 4-H and is still continue to give
his time and energy to our 4-H program was nominated and received
the 4-H Leaders Achievement Hall award, the highest award a
volunteer can receive.
Record #: 307 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-02
POW: F1
Location: Halifax
Person Reporting: Allsbrook, Margaret P
Childhood obesity and the lack of physical activity plague the
youth of Halifax County. One hundred fifty-seven preschoolers
attended Preschool Nutrition Camp held at the Halifax County Rural
Life Center. While at camp the children participated in activities
involving the importance of good nutrition and physical activity in
your everyday life. Classes were taught by Nutrition Program
Assistants, the Family and Consumer Sciences Agent, and the Rural
Life Center Director. Through a written, returned evaluation the
children reported learning about where food comes from, germs,
fruits and vegetables, and the grains group.
Record #: 308 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-29
POW: Y13
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Rogers, Aggie L
Community 4-H clubs provides opportunities for youth to develop
life skills, yet there is not enough 4-H clubs throughout Robeson
County for the ones interested to join a club near their homes.
Approximately 20 adults who indicated an interest in developing 4-H
clubs were recruited, trained so they could lead 4-H clubs in their
community. After the clubs were established, they provided long
term support for life skill development in youth programs. During
the past year our 4-H clubs has increased from 23 to 30,increase of
30%. Club membership increased from 365 to over 500,increase of
38%. Adult leaders has increased from 155 to over 200,an increase
of 32%. Due to the comments, efforts will continue to provide 4-H
clubs in every community in our county.
Record #: 309 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-02
POW: Y11
Location: Haywood
Person Reporting: Ruff, Margaret
Haywood County 4-H offered sewing classes to youth 6 years &
up. We had 27 youth to attend once a week for 6 weeks (January 19th
thru March 3rd). I recruited 3 volunteer to teach and had a total
of 8 parents to help with the sewing. The youth then attend a
sewing social where they all came together for a celebration and
instruction for the upcoming fashion revue on April 29, 2004 which
22 of them participated in.
Record #: 310 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-02
POW: Y1
Location: Haywood
Person Reporting: Ruff, Margaret
The adopt a tree program was April 3,2004 in Haywood County
sponsor by an anonymous donor whose wish is for children in the
West district to plant and take care of fruit trees. We had 43
youth to participate in the program taking home 2 apple trees, 2
plum trees, and 2 peach trees to keep a record of the growth.
Record #: 311 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-30
POW: C4
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Ashburn, Diane
Henderson County strives to fill the need for horticulture
knowledge among retirees. Many of our residents have moved here
from other areas in the United States and agents need help
disseminating information. The 2004 Master Gardener class began in
January and continued through April. Through evaluation techniques
we found 100% of the class increased their gardening knowledge to
help educate the county. Over 75% of the class were able reduce
fertilizer and pesticide usage in their own lawns and gardens
enabling them to share this information with others. Diagnosing
plant problems is a valuable part of educating and helping the
public, 100% of the class felt they were confident in completing
this task.
Record #: 312 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-02
POW: F1
Location: Onslow
Person Reporting: Taylor, Robin
Last December, a young woman discovered EFNEP. She was a
newcomer to this country, from Albania, married to a Marine
stationed at Camp Lejeune. The EFNEP PA did home visits with her
for six months. She looked forward to these visits because the
knowledge that she gained would enable her to have a healthy
pregnancy and baby. She had very little cooking skills, one
cookbook, and very few cooking utensils. She had never used a
muffin pan, however, after preparing her first batch of muffins,
she couldn’t\'t wait to go buy her own pan. She posted
EFNEP recipes in her kitchen because she uses them often. The EFNEP
budgeting skills, she gained enabled her to save enough money to
buy additional cooking utensils. Because of EFNEP she gained
nutritional information and skills that allowed her to become quite
skillful in the kitchen. She now has a love for cooking.
Record #: 313 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-03
POW: Y11
Location: Washington
Person Reporting: Liverman, Rebecca D
Babysitting can earn youth major money at a young age. For this
reason, Hyde, Tyrrell and Washington counties came together to
teach a Babysitting clinic during Easter Break this spring. Youth
from each county had the opportunity to be trained in Red Cross and
First aid, learn about child development and proper activities for
each age group. They also had mini-workshops on feeding and
bathing, marketing, and safety issues when taking care of younger
children. All participants earned a Red Cross certificate.
Record #: 314 of 2780
Date: 2004-08-30
POW: Y11
Location: Washington
Person Reporting: Liverman, Rebecca D
As a 4-H Agent, I take children every year to summer camp. I
wanted to take this one step further and let the children cook
their own meals, and set up their own tents, while enjoying some of
the activities of camp. C.A.M.P.F.I.R.E stands for Camping Allows
Making Positive Friends In Rugged Environments. This program was
held at Treasure Point 4-H Camp in Camden Co. Youth worked hard to
make sure their meals were cooked, tents set up properly, and still
managed to have a good time. This one night camping trip culminated
with a campfire program complete with tiki torches. Breakfast was
cooked outside before the enjoyed a nature hike and a canoe trip.
Everyone came home tired but with a better appreciation of the
outdoors.
Record #: 315 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-29
POW: Y3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Rogers, Aggie L
In Robeson County there was great demand for youth to learn
about entrepreneurship and money management, we conducted
Mini-Society workshops at Pembroke Housing, Assembly Church and at
the O. P. Owens bldg. with over(90) youth participated. The
curriculum is designed to teach children age 8-12 how to start
their own business by identifying tasks for earning money. They
designed their own society, creating a name for their country,
flag, county council meetings, selling and each learned the process
for auctioning items. The number of youth has increased from 35 to
over (90). Due to all the positive response from the evaluations,
we will continue to offer this workshop to reach more and new
participants.
Record #: 316 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-03
POW: Y10
Location: Alleghany
Person Reporting: Drake, Sara
All of the teachers surveyed agreed, or strongly agreed that 4-H
Embryology was a useful addition to the classroom science unit, and
that the material is applicable to non-science curriculum areas as
well. Teachers incorporated the Embryology unit in areas of
spelling, math, reading, and writing. Seventy-one percent of
teachers surveyed strongly agreed that student's scientific
knowledge and skills were enhanced through the use of 4-H
Embryology. This outcome was substantiated when examining pretest
and posttest results, where there was a twenty percent increase in
scores county wide. One teacher indicated that, “One of my
students was able to shine as a classroom expert because his father
also hatches chickens in incubators. He usually is quiet and
reserved, but this project allowed him to be a leader.”
Teachers also added that this is a “great experience for the
students.”
Record #: 317 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-04
POW: A4
Location: Union
Person Reporting: Pegram, Thomas G
Conducted a Wheat Field Day with 92 growers, agri-business
leaders in attendance. Attendees got to see first hand variety
plots, along with nitrogen management strategies, fungicide studies
and new rye-grass control options. Through this research based
educational program growers are able to make decisions that will
benefit their field crop operations.
Record #: 318 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-04
POW: F3
Location: Gates
Person Reporting: Taylor-weathers, Edith
New Choices is a program offered to help persons in North
Carolina gain life skills, employability and resource
identification skills. These skills help assist the participants in
obtaining and improving their employment situation. A New Choices
Participant started off just being an at home housewife and mother
of one daughter. She decided that she needed to do something to
help her husband out financially. So she first of all enrolled in
college to major in Business Administration. Continuing the New
Choices meetings and one-to-one consultations, she used what she
learned from "Time Management" and other skills to get a
job (Mary Kay)she could maneuver while attending school. Her and
her husband have been working on a small music business, which her
business administration major would help. She attended the Roanoke
Partners meeting when they met with Duke Endowment to share how New
Choices helped her manage life.
Record #: 319 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-04
POW: F2
Location: Gates
Person Reporting: Taylor-weathers, Edith
The PACTT Program (Parents and Children Train Together) is a
program for families and youth to gain skills, knowledge and
improved parent/child relationships. One of the PACTT families was
court mandated. The step mother had abused the 16 yr. old step son
whereas he had been taken out of the home, being away from his
father. Because the Biological mother is a victim of substance
abuse, the courts gave the step mother and father a probational
period whereas if the situation would get better, the boy could be
back in the home permanently. As a result of diligently attending
the Parenting workshops, and getting a better understanding of
Conflict Resolution and strengthening families, things began to
work out. After not being court mandated, they continued to attend
the workshops. The teen is happier than ever, although he's
having some challenges in school. The parents are supportive in
helping him.
Record #: 320 of 2780
Date: 2004-07-06
POW: F1
Location: Franklin
Person Reporting: Robinson, Stacy
Out for Lunch for the month of May was held at the Resource
Center here in Louisburg on Nash Street. There are still a variety
of people within our county needed knowledge on basic nutrition and
safety. So through agencies in Franklin County such as DSS, local
churches, Adolescent Parenting Program, and WIC we are able to
reach these people. The recent class held was through DSS with the
Work First Program. This was a big challenge due to the fact some
of these girls did not know what the Food Guide Pyramid was and
some knew nothing about cooking. After completing Lessons 2 thru 4,
it made me feel as though I had helped these participants to lead a
healthier life by giving information on the Pyramid, food safety,
and cooking nutritious meals for their families. When leaving the
class most of them wanted to know if I had additional
Record #: 321 of 2780
Date: 2004-08-24
POW: A7
Location: Yancey
Person Reporting: Deyton, Claude C
3 years ago a young man came to the extension office asking for
ideas for something to plant on the family farm to generate income
for his college education. His mother died when he was 6; he, his
father, and his sister live on the family farm which had been in
the family for 4 generations. He was shown how to raise boxwoods.
He sold part of them this year to help pay for freshman year in
college. Thanks to the Community Foundation grant that was awarded
to Yancey County to buy a chipper, this young man has now started a
galaxy demonstration. He will put in more rhizomes this fall and
plant seeds this winter. His earnings will help pay for his college
education. He plans to live on the family farm after graduation and
continue the family tradition of farming.
Record #: 322 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-07
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cropps, Seydel
There is definitely an increase with obesity in our country.
Many of the parents that are presently participating in EFNEP also
have this problem. I have been trying to help one family in which
the mother as well as all her children are obese. We have reviewed
many EFNEP lessons with the mother. At first she refused to make
the necessary changes in her personal diet but would help her
children to eat better. Soon her daughter started to lose weight
and feel better. The mother, though, would even bring her soda
bottle with her to our classes. I continued to stress the
importance of drinking more water and less soda, and recently I was
very happy to see Ms. M come to class with a 20 oz. water bottle.
Her new habit is to carry water wherever she goes! She says this is
helping her to lose weight and relieving the pain in her
kidneys.
Record #: 323 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-30
POW: Y3
Location: Perquimans
Person Reporting: Bailey, Juanita T
Teacher requests for electricity subject matter resulted in the
implementation of the Magic of Electricity using 4-H curricula.
This collaboration between North Carolina Cooperative Extension-
Perquimans Center and Hertford Grammar School reached one hundred
fifteen students, five teachers and three volunteers. Teacher
evaluations showed that 85 students improved science grades by one
letter grade. Students\'scientific knowledge, skills and
positive perception of science curricula improved. Teacher
comments: \"The Magic of Electricity was a great success;
students used hands on models and actively participated when
designing models; students knowledge was enhanced due to hands on
learning experiences.\" One-hundred twenty one students
currently participate in the second series of classes and the
school has set aside a vacant classroom to use as a \"Science
Lab\" where electricity & other science classes are held.
To date 236 students have participated in the Magic of
Electricity.
Record #: 324 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-16
POW: A15
Location: Davie
Person Reporting: Sparks, Colleen S
In response to the tragedy of 9-11-2001, the Davie County United
Way held it's annual Day of Caring on 9-11-2004. This is an
opportunity for individuals, groups, and businesses to lend a hand
to those less fortunate in the county. With help from the United
Way, Wal-Mart, and a local nursery, twelve Master Gardener
Volunteers successfully completed a woodland perennial garden for
the Davie County Group Home. Wal-Mart donated pine straw, and a
local nursery donated forty woodland perennial plants, valued at
over $300, to help complete this project. Master Gardener
Volunteers donated a total of 36 hours, valued at over $600, to the
completion of the garden. The Group Home now has a woodland garden
located at the entrance of their nature trail for residents to
enjoy. Plants in both the nature trail and garden have been
properly labeled for educational purposes.
Record #: 325 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-16
POW: F2
Location: Guilford
Person Reporting: Dalcoe, Shelia M
Many people, including senior citizens use negative words and
stereotypes to describe the elderly. These negative labels may
often cause the elderly to feel bad about themselves and getting
older. To address this problem, North Carolina Cooperative
Extension in Guilford County implemented a program entitled,
"Little Old Ladies and Grumpy Old Men" for forty
Extension and Community Association members from May, 2004 through
September, 2004. Seventy-five percent of the participants reported
gaining new knowledge. Furthermore, eighty percent of the
participants indicated they planned to use the information gained
from this program in the near future. One participant commented,
"It was very refreshing and comforting to participate in a
program that focused on some of the positive aspects of getting
older." She continued, "Thank you, this was one of the
best programs that I have attended in a long time."
Record #: 326 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-07
POW: A1
Location: Martin
Person Reporting: Cochran, Al
Truckload sales were organized by agents and cattle specialist.
Fifty feeder cattle were sold in truckload lots by producers
pooling there cattle and bringing them to one location. Cattle were
vaccinated and received about ten cents per pound more, than if
they had been sold at the weekly livestock auction sale. These
cattle producers received about 2500 dollars more for their cattle
by selling in truckload sales.
Record #: 327 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-07
POW: A4
Location: Martin
Person Reporting: Cochran, Al
Ninety-four tobacco barns were tested with a carbon dioxide
meter to detect exhaust leaks. Twenty-six barns were found to have
leaks. All these grower contracted with a tobacco company. By
checking the tobacco barns, growers were able to correct the
exhaust leaks and produce tobacco with less nitrosoamines. If the
barns had not been repaired, these growers could have lost their
contracts and would have sold their tobacco for 100,000 dollars
less, if it had been sold at auction.
Record #: 328 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-16
POW: A15
Location: Davie
Person Reporting: Sparks, Colleen S
In recent years, many people have turned to container gardening
as a new option for flower and vegetable production. This is a
great alternative for those with minimal space or a physical
disability that prevents strenuous physical activities. In response
to this increasing interest and a need for container management
education, Davie County Cooperative Extension teamed up with local
Master Gardener Volunteers and Extension Community Association
members to hold a container gardening workshop. The audience
received instruction on correct container, substrate, amendment,
and plant selection; proper maintenance; and how to make homemade
containers from recycled materials. Fifty-six participants gained a
better understanding of how to create and maintain successful
containers, as well as how to revitalize old materials for exciting
new containers. For several weeks after the program, many
participants returned to the Extension Center and requested
additional copies of program handouts for their family and
friends.
Record #: 329 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-08
POW: A15
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Lauderdale, Cynthia
Because of the need to increase home gardener knowledge the
Wilson Cooperative Extension Service offered a Garden Tour to
Virginia. Participants learned new plant material, new IPM skills
and other useful gardening practices. These tours are very
worthwhile to the participants as per their testimonials.
Record #: 330 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-08
POW: A1
Location: McDowell
Person Reporting: Deluca, Mario
The beef specialized committee identified herd health as a
potential problem in herds in McDowell County. With the assistance
of McDowell Cattlemen's Assn. Directors , a meeting was planned
and advertised to the producers in McDowell County. 65 producers
attended a herd health workshop in April. Topics covered included
developing a herd health program, types of vaccines, vaccination
immunity and diseases. Guest speakers from NCSU School of Vet
Medicine and Merial, a major Pharmaceutical Co presented specific
sections of the program. These producers represented about 1000
brood cows in McDowell County. If producers increase the
reproductive and productive health of their herds which should
increase production by 5%, an increase in net profit of $25,000
will be realized by these producers.
Record #: 331 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-09
POW: E8
Location: Martin
Person Reporting: Reddick, Lareo R
The Pesticide Container Recycling Program began in Martin County
June, 2001 with a PETF grant of $12,500. A $10,000 Hux storage
building (24'x30') was constructed in March, 2001 and the
remaining grant monies were used to purchase plastic bags, spray
nozzles, aprons, gloves, and goggles. This program has collected
over 24,000 containers in the last 3 years, saving Martin County
over $30,000 in landfill fees and continues to provide - to Martin
County citizens - a money saving resource for recycling.
Record #: 332 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-10
POW: F5
Location: Pitt
Person Reporting: Reece, Susan
Americans have a 1 in 4 chance of contracting a foodborne
illness this year. Considering Pitt Co. has grown 20% over the past
10 years, numerous food service operations have opened. Americans
spend half of their food dollars eating out. Since nearly 50% of
all reported illnesses are due to improper handling in the
foodservice environment, education concerning food safety practices
helps environmental health ensure public safety of food. CES teamed
with environmental health to offer 2 ServSafe classes to 49
restaurant managers. These classes administered 3 Hispanic exams, 3
Chinese exams and 43 English exams. Forty-five participants became
SerSafe certified and a 22% and a 30% increase in knowledge was
attained.
Record #: 333 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-10
POW: F1
Location: Pitt
Person Reporting: Reece, Susan
With only 1 in 5 children eating 5 servings of fruits and
vegetables daily, it is not surprising the obesity rates have
doubled in children over the last decade. To encourage healthy
eating and physical activity among youth, CES offered Color Me
Healthy trainings to 64 childcare providers. Sixty-four Color Me
Healthy kits promoting healthy eating and physical activity were
distributed to the childcare providers. Being valued at $65 each,
CES made a total of $4160 plus $1200 (programs costs) contribution
to Pitt County.
Record #: 334 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-10
POW: F4
Location: Pitt
Person Reporting: Reece, Susan
CES continues to take the leadership role in the community by
chairing Pitt Aging Coalition (PAC). Extension's leadership
responsibilities include sending out monthly meeting notices,
setting the agenda, presiding over the meetings, calling board
meetings, and facilitating with project development. PAC's 50
members address seniors' needs by hosting the 18th annual Elder
Fair and presenting monthly caregiver education advocacy meetings
featuring educational speakers that are open to the public. These
are taped to be shown in various venues. Elder Fair featured
educational breakout sessions, lunch, snacks, entertainment, 70
vendors, with the FCS agent delivering the welcoming speech to 250
seniors. Based on evaluations, the event was rated excellent/good
by 183 attendees and was valued at more than $600.
Record #: 335 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-10
POW: F1
Location: Pitt
Person Reporting: Reece, Susan
Though women live longer than men, (6.4 years longer) they
suffer poorer health outcomes and greater disability from disease
than men. Women also are more likely to be physically inactive than
men. Therefore, Women Living Healthy, Women Living Well CD, a CD
that promotes women's health issues, was distributed to 24
childcare providers. All but 3 rated the modules a 4 or 5, with 5
being excellent. They valued the CDs at $1380. All participants
rated the training a 4 or 5, with 5 being excellent. Six Women
Living Healthy, Women Living Well CDs were also distributed to the
Ayden Book Club. They valued the CDs at $210. Therefore CES
contributed a total $1590 plus $400 in training expenses to Pitt
Co.
Record #: 336 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-13
POW: Y8
Location: Greene
Person Reporting: Dixon, W S
Greene County 4-Hers and Parents as Teachers collaborated to
sponsor a Fall Harvest Celebration in October. One goal of the
program was to allow older students an opportunity to mentor
younger youth. This was accomplished through storytelling, crafts
and make your own nutritious snacks. The program participation
included 14 adult volunteers, 9 parents and 60 youth ages 2 through
11 years old. The most challenging aspect of the project was
revising games, crafts and activities that were appropriate for all
ages. The revisions provided a learning opportunity for parents in
developing developmental appropriate skill builders to use at
home.
Record #: 337 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-10
POW: F1
Location: Pitt
Person Reporting: Reece, Susan
Considering the budget constraints, CES must find creative
avenues to deliver researched based information. CES has offered
the Pitt County utility company a news flyer "Good For
Me!" This mini-newsletter is placed inside the utility company
employees' (425 workers) monthly paycheck. "Good For
Me!" is also distributed to the families of the state program
More at Four, with a monthly distribution of 450. This flyer has
increased its circulation by meeting NACCO's monthly request of
200 copies, Grady White Boat Corp. monthly request of 200 copies,
Health Assist request of 200 copies, and Exceptional Children
program monthly request of 125 copies. The monthly circulation
expansion totaling 1550 has proven the information promoting
physical activity and healthy eating is well received during the
past 1 1/2 years.
Record #: 338 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-09
POW: A1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cave, T B
How do you get more dollars for your product? That's the
question beef producers in Surry County were asking. In response,
an educational program on marketing high quality, locally produced,
beef to the consumer was developed. With the help of a small grant
in 2003, Extension worked with a group of beef producers to go from
cow to consumer with beef produced and marketed from local farms.
The reputation this beef has developed with consumers has producers
scrambling to meet the demand for it. Even with live cattle prices
the highest they have ever been, this value-added approach to
marketing is netting producers double the dollars they would
normally receive. With the success of this approach, Agent Bryan
Cave and Extension have been recognized as leading the charge to
help farmers adapt to the new face of agriculture. Future demand
will lead to more producers becoming involved in this program.
Record #: 339 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-10
POW: A3
Location: Martin
Person Reporting: Butler, Danny L
In today's world parents have a difficult challenge teaching
children how to acquire, analyze and use information. It's a
skill that is essential for success in life. Parents in Martin
County are using the 4-H Livestock Show to each 49 children
advanced information gathering/decision making skills. The children
learn how to gather and use information from source books,
workshops, adults with experience and by trail and error to raise,
train and show goats, lambs, and pigs. Even though the children
learn responsibility for the care of living animals and even though
they learn the livestock industry, parents are more impressed with
the information gathering/decision making sills the kids develop.
Twenty-nine businesses and individuals join in making the Livestock
Show and Sale a success.
Record #: 340 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-10
POW: E5
Location: Martin
Person Reporting: Butler, Danny L
Ecological awareness is not a lesson to be learned by children
but an attitude to be developed over time. Fourth grade students in
Martin County had a good experience out on the Chesson Farm.
Standing beside a pond where baby geese were swimming with their
mother and being on the constant look out for bees from the honey
hives in the field, it was the perfect setting for developing a
caring attitude about nature. Extension along with volunteers from
Soils and Wildlife led the children in experiences that helped them
appreciate the many parts of an ecosystem. Activities on water
quality, wildlife, soils, and even how honey is made, made sure all
the children carried back with them an appreciation for the
environment.
Record #: 341 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-10
POW: Y10
Location: Martin
Person Reporting: Butler, Danny L
Having a science laboratory in elementary school is a luxury
most schools can't afford. Children can still have hands on
science experiences with the help of the Extension Service. 167
third graders from EJ Hayes learned about plants and soils during a
field day arranged by Martin County 4-H. The kids began by visiting
Jackson's Plant Farm. Extension agents held workshops on
tobacco plants, garden plants, ornamentals, soils, and even how to
turn peanuts into peanut butter. The kids finished up the day by a
visit to the Roanoke Tar Cotton Gin and walked through how cotton
is processed. The field day finished off a study of plants for the
children by showing first hand how plant knowledge is used in our
community.
Record #: 342 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-10
POW: Y2
Location: Martin
Person Reporting: Butler, Danny L
Children living in public housing have many barriers to learning
about handling and managing resources. One group of 42 children in
public housing in Robersonville got a head start by developing
their own 4-H Mini-Society. Through a grant handled by A&T,
they started their own government, developed their own currency,
hired a treasurer to handle their bank, and developed money making
businesses. The most successful business was a factory that made
craft items. Children were hired and paid to work making craft
items and then used their pay to purchase the craft items to carry
home. For some of the children it is the first association with
working for pay as a good thing.
Record #: 343 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-10
POW: Y1
Location: Martin
Person Reporting: Butler, Danny L
A 4-H club activity of learning how to properly wash your hands
got so popular that it spread to the school system. 26 teachers in
5 schools impacting 620 children learned about hygiene and hand
washing. The possibility of reducing or limiting the spread of
colds and sickness between children was enough to make getting
Extension/4-H in the school a priority for teachers. 4-H staff used
black light and Germ-glo to demonstrate who knew how to reduce
germs by washing their hands. In a fun way children learned how to
lead a more healthy life.
Record #: 344 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-10
POW: Y1
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Williams, Spring A
Without funding for a full-time staff member assigned to 4-H
Youth Development responsibilities, many clubs are having to pitch
in to help carry out some of the traditional programming. The
Nature Discovery Team 4-H Club members and leaders agreed to be
responsible for planning and implementing the annual 4-H Talent
Show. The value of Community Service and leadership skills is a
main focus area for 4-H Youth Development. This club shared their
skills and knowledge by pulling off a successful show. While at the
same time, the 4-H Youth Development program in Burke County
continued to reach young people throughout the county in spite of
the lack of paid staff members.
Record #: 345 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-10
POW: Y12
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Williams, Spring A
The Burke County 4-H Program needs more visibility to the
general public to share their message. The Burke County 4-H
Foundation Board members came together with the County Extension
Director to write a to an Advertising and Design company to create
a marketing brochure at no cost. The Company compiled material,
information, and designed a brochure. The Foundation board members
then secured private donations to have the brochure printed. The
NEW Burke County 4-H marketing brochure is being distributed
throughout the county.
Record #: 346 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-10
POW: C1
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Williams, Spring A
Burke County Government is looking for ways to stimulate the
economy and looking to our natural resource, Lake James. A task
force, along with County Commissioners came to NC Cooperative
Extension to help do a study on the possible Economic Impact that
Lake James could have to Burke County. Specialists and staff
created a plan to help stimulate tourism in hopes to bring 2000
jobs to the county over a 5 year period. The commissioners adopted
many of the suggestions and are moving forward on several projects
for Lake James.
Record #: 347 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-11
POW: Y5
Location: Gates
Person Reporting: Duncan, Myrna
4H LifeSmart Program is a grant funded afterschool program for
youth in 6-12th grade. The program deals with employability skills
finance management and everyday life skills. Youth participated a
lesson "The Real World" where they were given a paycheck
for one months pay, check books, checking and savings deposit
slips, check registries, and a list of instructions: pay rent,
utilities, food etc. One stood out because he paid his bills and on
time but his check and savings weren't enough to pay them all.
He went to the bank of LifeSmart with a proposal for a loan. He put
together information that he was just given to show how he intended
to repay the loan. He showed proof of employment, record of savings
and activity of paying his bills on time. Bank of lifesmart was so
pleased they gave him the loan. This initiative was not part of the
instructions.
Record #: 348 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-11
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert
The May 12, 2004 Forestry Issues Forum teleconference resulted
in an estimated $69,900 in total cost savings for 109 participants
from North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. For every dollar
invested by participants, they received approximately $19.02 in
cost savings when compared to attending a traditional conference.
Of the $19.02 in cost savings 65% is because of time savings
associated with attending the teleconference verses a traditional
conference. 327 continuing education credits were awarded. 78% of
the participants would not have attended the conference if it were
a traditional conference 100 miles away and not available locally
as a teleconference. By participating in the conference
participants knowledge level of the subject matter increased by
65%.
Record #: 349 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-11
POW: F5
Location: Lincoln
Person Reporting: Chilcote, Amy G
In North Carolina over 120,000 children under the age of
eighteen are affected with Asthma. Being a parent of an asthmatic
can be difficult when trying to balance a home environment that
contains little or no triggers. “The Green Zone” card
game was created by the Cooperative Extension in Lincoln County and
North Carolina A&T State University to help parents and
children deal with Asthma. This game was introduced to Asthma Camps
in Gaston and Lincoln counties. Camp children were taught the game
and in return the children taught the game to their parents.
Families learned through a game alternative cleaning techniques to
perform around the house to reduce asthma triggers in their home.
School nurses have also requested “The Green Zone” to
aid them in their open air ways program.
Record #: 350 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-11
POW: F5
Location: Lincoln
Person Reporting: Chilcote, Amy G
Schools face a unique task in balancing their school budget.
Maintenance sometimes goes lacking for the betterment of the
classroom When this happens, maintenance does it's best to
patch failing systems in the schools. Lack of money for repair can
cause indoor air quality to become poor and the repercussion as it
pertains to children's health can emerge. After working with
the Cooperative Extension on the Tools For Schools Curriculum,
Lincoln County Schools system realized that some identify Indoor
Air Quality Issues in their schools took money to repair. With data
collected from eighteen schools, the Lincoln County school board
began the push for a bond referendum worth sixty-seven million
dollars. This money would build two new schools as well as repair
failing heating and cooling systems in some school buildings.
School bond passed.
Record #: 351 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-11
POW: F5
Location: Lincoln
Person Reporting: Chilcote, Amy G
A heating and cooling system act as a dehumidifier. The
dehumidification process keeps the relative humidity at a
comfortable level of 50-60%. If this level goes above 60% mold and
mildew growth begins. Relative humidity levels at Pumpkin Center
Middle School reached levels of 80% causing mold growth and causing
health problems in the students and teachers. Lincoln county
schools requested help from the North Carolina Cooperative
Extension and North Carolina A&T State University to monitor
the humidity levels and make recommendations. Data was collected
from the school for three months. A conclusion was that the amount
of outdoor air coming in was too much for the school's HVAC
system to handle. School maintenance is making needed repairs to
the fans that bring in the outdoor air. This will reduce the
relative humidity in the school causing the school to be
comfortable and mold growth to be eliminated.
Record #: 352 of 2780
Date: 2005-01-06
POW: F3
Location: Durham
Person Reporting: Kernodle, Peggy
Homeless families are in need of resource management
information. Focus on current debt management, ID theft, and how to
track current spending in order to plan for future changes was
focus. The facility stresses long term training. It was ex- citing
to be able to go into the home and meet with the group addressing a
focus in a more relaxed evening atmosphere vs. a day class. The
more relaxed atmosphere was more receptive, possibly b/c they do
not often have presenters who will come in the evening...well worth
my rescheduling. The most rewarding topic was ID Theft and helping
them address their events. Referral from DSS case workers was quite
helpful in tailoring the presentations to the clientele\\\'s
general needs. Twelve families were affected in the series.
Record #: 353 of 2780
Date: 2005-01-06
POW: Y4
Location: Durham
Person Reporting: Kernodle, Peggy
Youth need leadership skills to move into young adulthood. With
a team of professionals from various agencies such as DPS,
Workforce Development, volunteers, businesses and alums of
Leadership Durham. I was involved in planning the classes,
including 25 students from high schools(public, private, and
home-schooled).This has been very rewarding. Entrepreneurial,
governmental, human services, and nonprofit organizations will be
explored in the 7 sessions, after team building exercises have
brought the group together and softened the school boundaries. Team
building went well and we are learning as we go on the remainder of
the year, and from the first year\'s experience.
Record #: 354 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-14
POW: A5
Location: Jones
Person Reporting: Seitz, Mark A
#1: Specialty Crop Program Grant: Hoop Green House Grant Larry
Kent, Jacksonville, NC awarded grant by Specialty Crops Program to
evaluate guidelines for extending crop production season in a
“hot-house” environment. Agents: Jeff Morton, Mark
Seitz. Goal: extend production season using hoop greenhouse versus
heated greenhouse to reduce cost and reach local markets outside
the normal harvest season. Four, 100 ft raised beds formed, mulched
with plastic, straw and shredded paper mulch. Sweet corn, cabbage,
lettuce, onion and squash were planted on different dates to test
the early and late harvest season potential of this system. Larry
Kent said, “I have learned a great deal about how effective
this hoop house will be in letting me start planting vegetables
earlier. I can start planting at earlier than normal and extend my
harvest season. I expect to be able to do the same thing in the
fall.”
Record #: 355 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-14
POW: F1
Location: Davidson
Person Reporting: Leonard, Jeannie
Since 1980, the percentage of overweight children has nearly
doubled, but studies indicate that, with proper guidance from
parents and caregivers, 25 percent of overweight kids won’t
join the 60 percent of overweight adults. Through Cooperative
Extension’s Color Me Healthy trainings, 30 Davidson County
child-care providers learned to promote healthy eating and physical
activity among children. After training, 100 percent of
participants said they were more aware of the importance of
including physical activity in their preschool curriculum and
planned to use what they’d learned with the children they
care for.
Record #: 356 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-14
POW: F1
Location: Davidson
Person Reporting: Leonard, Jeannie
Heart Disease is the number one killer of residents of Davidson
County. Through Cooperative Extension’s program Give Your
Heart a Healthy Beat, nine Davidson County citizens enrolled in the
thirteen week series which emphasizes heart-healthy changes in
eating and exercise habits. Of those enrolled who completed the
program, 4 lost a total of 34 pounds, lowered their blood pressure
at week 13, and lowered their total cholesterol by 67 points.
Record #: 357 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-14
POW: F1
Location: Davidson
Person Reporting: Leonard, Jeannie
In Davidson County, diabetes is the 6th leading cause of death.
Cooperative Extension offered Dining with Diabetes to 32
participants with Types 2 diabetes. The three-week series covered
such topics as meal planning, label reading, portion control,
carbohydrate counting, and recipe modification. Participants also
received easy-to-prepare recipes for diabetics. According to
evaluations, participants stated the information was most
helpful.
Record #: 358 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-14
POW: F5
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Pettitt, Alice L
Orange County Cooperative Extension teamed with Extension in
Durham County, as well as Environmental Health in both counties to
present an 18 hour food safety course for restaurant managers. 33
managers completed the 18 hour food safety course, and 30 passed
the certification exam. Classes were taught by Extension Agents,
Extension Specialists, and Environmental Health personnel. One week
after the class, managers reported making significant changes in
their establishment: when training new employees, they go over
proper sanitizing, hand washing, and time and temperature rules;
increased focus on hand washing and the correct ways to use gloves;
improving storage procedures; more constant temperature monitoring;
encourage use of thermometers.
Record #: 359 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-14
POW: F1
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Pettitt, Alice L
According to a telephone survey of 289 Orange County households
with children, 65 percent of respondents reported not getting the
recommended physical activity and 72% reported a high or medium fat
diet. The Orange on the Move Coalition, organized and coordinated
by Cooperative Extension in Orange County, organized countywide
events to promote nutrition and physical activity for families.
They collaborated with the YMCA to present Healthy Kids Day, and
with the Triangle Sportplex to present Family Fun and Fitness Day.
Over 900 people attended the two events, which included free
swimming, ice skating, fitness activities, games, nutrition
classes, face painting, and health booths. The events gave the
whole family an opportunity to be active together and to sign up
for future classes. Posters promoting good nutrition and physical
activity were posted in all schools, information was printed on
school menus, and free publicity was done in the newspapers.
Record #: 360 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-14
POW: A1
Location: McDowell
Person Reporting: Deluca, Mario
The McDowell Agricultural Center has just completed a major
renovation project with over 100,000.00 in work and labor
completed. However, the roof on the facility which was repainted in
1997 was beginning to rust through and was needing replacement .
Estimates to reroof the facility were running about $20,000.00
which was beyond the financial scope of the Ag. Center's
budget. The Directors met and the decision was made to request
funding from the County. Extension assisted in developing the
information and format for a presentation. The presentation was
made to the County Manager who suggested several board members meet
with the commissioners to do a similar presentation. Numerous board
members spoke individually with commissioners prior to their
meeting. After the presentation was made to the commissioners, they
voted to fund the reroofing project over a 2 year period beginning
with the 2004 budget year and concluding with the 2005 budget
year.
Record #: 361 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-14
POW: A3
Location: Perquimans
Person Reporting: Copeland, H J
4-H animal projects are a very popular teaching method to
develop life skills while learning animal science. Youth were
taught various disciplines including showmanship, record keeping,
management, etc. through Extension programming. 127 youth from
Chowan, Gates and Perquimans Counties had 173 unduplicated 4-H
animal projects (173 pigs, lambs, goats and steers). Evaluation was
positive and consisted of personal observations, feedback to agent
and directors.
Record #: 362 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-14
POW: A1
Location: Perquimans
Person Reporting: Copeland, H J
Nutritional deficiencies can wreak havoc in animal herds. An
example is the Perquimans County farmer who lost 40 baby goat kids
in one group of does because of selenium and copper deficiencies.
With Extension's help the farmer started a very proactive
mineral feeding program incorporating suggestions to increase
animal intake by building better feeding stations, using a better
mineral supplement and giving oral doses at birth. His problem with
weak and dieing kids at birth has subsided. Estimated savings to
this large goat farm in more revenue and avoiding future associated
losses could have easily been in excess of $5000 dollars.
Record #: 363 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-14
POW: F2
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Magner, James
Avery County had no Parenting Classes for Court Referred
parents. This prevented Social Services from mandating the classes.
Extension set up a Parenting class. Upon completion one parent
reported to her caseworker that the she had greatly reduced her
yelling. Another family shared that the skill of
'encouraging' had reduce their child's negative acting
out. Two of the families were allowed to maintain custody of their
children; preventing the County from having to take custody. Saving
the county the expense of placing 6 children into foster care. The
classes allowed the other 3 families to move closer to regaining
custody of their children.
Record #: 364 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-14
POW: F1
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Pettitt, Alice L
Cooperative Extension in Orange County joined forces with the
Orange County School system and the Health Department to provide
healthier snacks for the afterschool program in the nine schools.
The majority of the snacks now meet the Winner's Circle
criteria. In addition, nutrition classes were conducted in seven of
the afterschool programs. Cooperative Extension staff set up the
monthly classes that reached over 525 youth with four educational
programs. Classes were taught by Extension staff, Health Department
staff, UNC-CH nutrition students, and Orange on the Move Coalition
members. (Orange on the Move was organized and is coordinated by
Cooperative Extension.) Students gained knowledge about 5-a-Day,
healthy snacks, the food guide pyramid and other healthy
choices.
Record #: 365 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-14
POW: F1
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Pettitt, Alice L
Cancer is the leading cause of death in Orange County.
Cooperative Extension sponsored an educational program on Learning
About Cancer, involving experts from the Lineberger Cancer Center
at UNC-CH. The program covered six of the most prevalent cancers.
Thirty-nine participants reported learning more about the risk
factors associated with the cancers, warning signs of cancer, and
the appropriate screening tests for various cancers. They also
learned when and how often these screenings should be done.
Record #: 366 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-16
POW: F1
Location: Scotland
Person Reporting: Riemer, Pamela
Budgeting for nutritional foods is a “catch 22”
situation in Scotland County. The Expanded Food and Nutrition
Education Program (EFNEP) collaborating with North Carolina
Cooperative Extension provides limited-resource families the
knowledge to choose nutritional meals. Of 140 participants, 99% of
them showed improvement in food resource management such as meal
planning, managing their financial resources, and comparisons of
foods for nutritional values. This knowledge is essential in their
challenge of not running out of food before the end of the month.
EFNEP programming has taught nutritional practices that have
improved by 95%, indicating they are making healthier choices and
learning the importance of eating breakfast.
Record #: 367 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-14
POW: F5
Location: Guilford
Person Reporting: Morris, Brenda A
Realtors must take continuing education credits to keep their
license. The courses that they participate in must be current to
ensure that their clients are knowledgeable of their investment.
Indoor air quality education– mold, mildew, radon, lead and
underground storage tanks – is critical. The Cooperative
Extension Service and Health Department of Guilford County offered
a workshop with these topics to twenty-five realtors. Ninety
percent of the participants ranked the program as excellent and
very beneficial. This is the third presentation of this workshop
and will become an annual course. One realtor said, “This is
the best training I have had in my twenty-five years.”
Record #: 368 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-14
POW: E5
Location: Guilford
Person Reporting: Morris, Brenda A
Youth in Guilford County need to become better educated about
water quality and conservation. The City of Greensboro and the
Guilford County Cooperative Extension sponsored the third annual
poster contest with "Water - A Valuable Resource" - as
the theme. Sixty first - fifth graders participated in this
contest. The posters were judged and savings bonds of $100 (first
place), $75 (second place) and $50 (third place) were given to
youth in the first - third grades and youth in the fourth and fifth
grades. Money for the savings bonds was provided by the City of
Greensboro Water Resources Department. Presentations of the savings
bonds, certificates and ribbons were made during National Drinking
Water Week at the Guilford County Commissioners monthly meeting.
County Commissioners acknowledged these youth as well as being
viewed by 100,000 viewers on the cable network where their meetings
are aired. This successful program will continue each year.
Record #: 369 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-15
POW: E1
Location: Union
Person Reporting: Simpson, Jerry B
Over 35,000 acres of pasture and hay land is in production in
Union County. Producers utilize poultry litter and commercial
fertilizer along with various herbicides in this production.
Cooperative Extension hosted a Forage Field Day and through the use
of demonstration plots and equipment displays, management practices
aimed at reducing costs and improving the environment. Over 75
producers received information on riparian buffers, fertilizing
according to soil test, and calibration of spray equipment. As a
result farmers indicated they were better informed as to herbicide
selection and how through nutrient balancing, they could save on
production costs while enhancing water quality.
Record #: 370 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-15
POW: C1
Location: Union
Person Reporting: Simpson, Jerry B
Over fourteen municipalities now exist in Union County. These
new towns are facing a number of decisions with regard to land use
planning, environmental protection, and determining which services
and at what cost to provide. Cooperative Extension has worked
closely with the towns of Waxhaw, Weddington, Wesley Chapel and
Fairview in providing information relevant to these issues. As a
result these towns recognize the expertise of Cooperative Extension
with regard to land use and include them in planning decisions. The
result is more balanced growth and increased sustainability of
their communities.
Record #: 371 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-15
POW: A15
Location: Guilford
Person Reporting: Neill, Karen C
People of all classes desire attractive landscapes to help
increase the curb appeal and sellability of their homes. Many
however, can not afford to hire professional landscapers. A 4-week
program was developed by the North Carolina Cooperative Extension
in Guilford County to educate citizens. These classes provided
homeowners the skills necessary to not only design an attractive
landscape but also to install it and maintain it themselves. A
total of 65 participants attended the first of three sessions
offered this year. An average of over $3,000 savings was the
response to the dollar value saved on a survey participants
responded to. Mr. Brenhold, a resident of Guilford County for the
last five years, said that the knowledge he gained helped him to
choose plants more wisely based on the soil type which is very
different than his Wisconsin heritage.
Record #: 372 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-15
POW: Y13
Location: Scotland
Person Reporting: English, Sharon
In recent years Scotland County 4-H members and volunteers have
had limited leadership involvement beyond the county level. Several
4-H members and volunteers have been encouraged to develop their
leadership skills by participating in district and state events.
During 2004 - 2005, two Scotland County 4-H members were elected as
President and Vice-President of the South Central District Council.
In addition, two Scotland County volunteers were elected as
President-Elect and Reporter for the South Central District.
Through district and state level trainings these Scotland County
4-H members and volunteers have improved their leadership and
communication skills. These present officers are encouraging other
4-H members and volunteers to participate in future district and
state leadership opportunities.
Record #: 373 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-15
POW: Y5
Location: Scotland
Person Reporting: English, Sharon
Opportunities are limited for youth involved in the juvenile
system to learn life skills and develop leadership abilities. To
address this problem, Scotland County 4-H has collaborated with the
local Department of Juvenile Justice to establish a 4-H Club. A
court counselor serves as the 4-H club leader and meetings are held
bi-weekly. This year club members have received recognition in
public speaking, fashion revue and entertains. In addition, several
of the youth attended District Teen Retreat and participated in
various workshops. The Court Counselor has stated, "Youth
involved in this 4-H club have substantially improved their
behavior at home with no additional court involvement".
Record #: 374 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-15
POW: Y8
Location: Mecklenburg
Person Reporting: Furr, Robbie B.
Mecklenburg County 4-H is a partner in Metrolina Alliance for
School-Age Professionals (MASAP). 4-H has offered monthly trainings
to members of the alliance. These trainings have enlightened them
both personally and professionally. Evaluations state how
significantly the trainings have improved their programming
efforts.
Record #: 375 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-15
POW: A15
Location: Guilford
Person Reporting: Neill, Karen C
The Green Industry (landscapers, nurserymen, lawn maintenance
companies, etc.) was hit extremely hard during the drought of 2002.
Many folded as a result of no business across the state. This
industry was singled out as the key water waster, causing them to
develop a bad public image. As a result the Green Industry council
was formed to provide an umbrella of advocacy, education, public
promotion and government liaison. This council is made up of
thousands of members representing all segments of the N.C. Green
Industry. The Cooperative Extension serves on their board of
directors and is involved with education. Unfortunately, this
single-minded vision that municipalities had was made without
looking at the bigger picture; what landscapes do for communities
environmentally, aesthetically and economically. Subsequently, this
industry, through the help of Cooperative Extension, developed a
positive market campaign, consisting of billboards and an
educational brochure.
Record #: 376 of 2780
Date: 2004-12-23
POW: A7
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Counts, Sue
There is a great need for good farm business management
practices to be provided for the part-time, limited resource and
small farmer. The Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture (BRWIA) partnered
with NC A&T State University to send three members of the BRWIA
to a Financial Management and Crop Insurance Training which was
held in GA and sponsored by Virginia State University. This
training included FINPACK Financial, Business Plans, Crop Insurance
Tools and FSA Forms Software. The three members of BRWIA will now
work with other farmers (one-on-one) to help them with their Farm
Business Management Practices.
Record #: 377 of 2780
Date: 2005-01-06
POW: Y5
Location: Durham
Person Reporting: Kernodle, Peggy
An opportunity presented itself to have input into a program
that provides at-risk youth with self improvement and mentor
options, on Saturdays for 4-5 months each session. This program
offers a preventive option for kids at risk of falling into the
Juvenile Detention system. Partnering with Coop Ext. through JCPC,
Teen Ct., and PROUD, they attempt to refocus kids at risk. Offering
ways to more accurately measure the impact of their intervention
was my goal. I believe the Program will be able to more
successfully apply for grants, by objectively showing their
accomplishments. After several fruitless efforts, the Board is
understanding that accountability is as necessary for their
evaluation as it is in the kids\' lives!
Record #: 378 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-15
POW: A15
Location: Guilford
Person Reporting: Neill, Karen C
Due to the time required to teach the ABC’s of learning,
teachers are finding they have less and less time to spend on
Science education. In an effort to see that science, particularly
horticulture is introduced to students Extension Master Gardeners
in Guilford county developed six-grade appropriate curriculum,
which is taken directly into the classrooms. During this programs
inception, the Science Coordinator for all Guilford county schools
was contacted to make sure that each lesson prepared utilized the
teachings standards for that grade. This year, 16 schools have
requested a master gardener volunteer come and teach one or several
of the programs. Over 3,000 youth, both cultural and economically
diverse, have been reached. These programs contain life skills that
students will carry with them, helping them to make wiser
decisions, as they become stewards of their environment.
Record #: 379 of 2780
Date: 2005-01-18
POW: F3
Location: Stanly
Person Reporting: Alexi, Molly
Only thirteen percent of teenagers have ever made a written plan
for their money. Given the tremendous spending power available to
them, it is important that today’s teens learn, as early as
possible, sound fiscal habits. Cooperative Extension in Stanly
County worked with Stanly County’s Work Prep group using the
High School Financial Planning Program to teach basic money
management. In May and June, a series of ten classes were offered
to 38 teens that taught: the time value of money; the importance of
saving money; how to protect their assets; how to establish and
prioritize financial goals; the cost of using credit; and how to
develop a budget. At the conclusion of the series, all 38
participants had written smart goals and 26 of them had started
using a spending plan.
Record #: 380 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-15
POW: C3
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Counts, Sue
The Hispanic population continues to grow in the High Country.
Although the migrant men, mainly from Mexico, are seasonal or
otherwise employed, the women and children remain disenfranchised
due to issues of communication, transportation and lack of skills.
Extension worked with other agents, small farm owner, Master
Gardeners, High Country Amigos, Blue Ridge Women in Agriculture and
community volunteers to bring Mexican women and children in the
community into a supportive environment by holding educational
programs to overcome obstacles and build vital skills for success
in their new environment. Programs included English as a Second
Language classes, basket and note-card workshops, and agriculture
and specialty crop classes. Given these opportunities, the women
have been able to network and integrate into society, as well as
add to the family income.
Record #: 381 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-15
POW: C3
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Counts, Sue
The Hispanic population continues to grow in the High Country
and Extension has partnered with a small farmer to work with this
population. The County Extension Director and the small farmer
presented their work at the Association for International
Agricultural Extension Educators which was held in Dublin, Ireland
in May as a poster session. The poster was entitled: Community and
Economic Development for Mexican Women in the North Carolina
Mountains---empowering Mexican women to overcome economic and
social disparities through Agriculture and Cottage Industry. The
Extension Director received the George and Virginia Hyatt Extension
Scholarship Award ($1,000), and used it for Professional
Development.
Record #: 382 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-16
POW: C1
Location: Cherokee Res.
Person Reporting: Cole, Tammara
In and around the Cherokee Reservation, the community club is an
integral part of community life. Community clubs holds community
property and are responsible for grant monies that are used for
local community improvements. Each grant has specific uses and
related activities must be reported back to the granting agent. In
February, ten community leaders learned skills such as accounting,
correct financial reporting and asset listing. Four months later70%
of those participants use these skills to promote the financial
aspect of their clubs. One participant stated that she had gone all
the way to Alaska for leadership training but had learned more in 1
hour of Treasurer’s Training.
Record #: 383 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-16
POW: A7
Location: Cherokee Res.
Person Reporting: Cole, Tammara
Agriculture is a vital source of income in the far western
counties of North Carolina. The traditional selling structure is
shifting from crops with ready consumers to crops where farmers
must actively sell and market within a time sensitive period. In
order to be successful in today’s market, many farmers must
learn new business skills. In January 2004, 24 farm families from a
six county area committed to participating in an intensive three
year training program in which they gain skills such as computer
accounting, tax planning, debt management, consumer markets and
innovative business planning. During the first year, 100% of
participating families attended multiple educational sessions
showing retention of new skills and a desire to strengthen their
managerial abilities. This program has also received $48,000 of
outside grant support and interest.
Record #: 384 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-16
POW: A9
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Hamilton, James
Integrated Pest Management has become a widely adopted practice
among Christmas tree growers in Watauga County. More than half of
the Christmas tree growers in the county regularly engage in IPM
practices such as groundcover management and pest scouting. The
Watauga County Christmas tree agent and Area IPM Specialist
developed and received a grant from the Pesticide Education Trust
Fund for $85,000 to fund a 3-county technician to work one-on-one
with growers wishing to continue IPM practices on their farms.
Under the grant, the collaborators will also develop a pilot pest
scouting class in Spanish for leader-workers on Christmas tree
farms in Watauga and Avery Counties and conduct pesticide safety
education for Hispanic workers in the industry.
Record #: 385 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-16
POW: A5
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Hamilton, James
In Spring 2004, The Watauga County Extension office received
digital camera and microscopic equipment from a Golden Leaf
Foundation grant in order to facilitate pest identification for the
County's extension clientele. The Christmas tree agent has used
this equipment to successfully identify and educate homeowners and
Christmas tree growers about pests with 10 individuals and has
created a pest photo database of common pests in the landscape.
Record #: 386 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-16
POW: F1
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Janowiak, Sue
According to the National Centers for Disease Control, health
conditions and/or complications from heart disease, cancer, stroke,
diabetes and obesity are attributed to diet. In an effort to lower
the occurrence of these conditions and their complications, North
Carolina Cooperative Extension's Out for Lunch (OFL) Program
for food stamp eligible participants emphasizes developing and
maintaining a healthy lifestyle by following the current Dietary
Guidelines for Americans. As a result of his participation in OFL,
Mr. D., who is both diabetic and overweight, has reported that he
is now following sound nutritional recommendations. Specifically,
he is choosing to include more fruits and vegetables and whole
grain products in his diet. Mr. D. also stated that he is walking
more for exercise. Because of these behavior changes, Mr. D. claims
that he has lost weight and has been more successful in controlling
his diabetes.
Record #: 387 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-16
POW: F1
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Sutton, Brenda
Senior citizens are at a higher risk for foodborne illness than
the general population; thus, safe food handling practices at
Senior Nutrition sites is of vital importance. In coordination with
the Area Agency on Aging, Fighting Bac! Food Safety for Food
Handlers Working with the Older Americans Nutrition Program was
provided for 21 participants. All participants were able to write
new food safety information they had learned during the training
and would be able to apply at the senior nutrition sites.
Record #: 388 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-16
POW: F1
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Sutton, Brenda
Osteoporosis is a major health threat that can be affected by
personal choices in diet and exercise. In coordination with other
state and local agencies, an osteoporosis workshop was held in
Rockingham County for 86 participants. Information was presented by
various professionals-- including pharmacist, physical therapist,
dietitian, and gerontological nurse practitioner. All participants
indicated an increased knowledge of osteoporosis issues and
expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to interact with
presenters.
Record #: 389 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-16
POW: F1
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Sutton, Brenda
Safe food handling by restaurants and nursing homes is
imperative for the safety of consumers. In coordination with the
county Health Department, ServSafe class was provided for 27
participants who have food safety responsibilities. All students
indicated an increased knowledge of food safety and reported new
behaviors that would be implemented in their work situations.
Passing scores resulted in certification for 24 of the
attendees.
Record #: 390 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-16
POW: F1
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Sutton, Brenda
Dining with Diabetes classes are offered in Rockingham County in
an effort to help diabetes patients eat healthier. A six-month
reunion luncheon was held for participants of Dining with Diabetes.
Soup was prepared by agent and participants contributed other
healthy dishes to share, along with copies of the recipes. All
attendees reported that they had implemented healthier cooking
techniques as a part if their daily lives. Two spouses who had not
been willing to attend the class series came to the reunion and
reported satisfaction with new eating habits in their homes.
Record #: 391 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-16
POW: F1
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Sutton, Brenda
Food irradiation is a means of insuring food safety that is
unfamiliar to many consumers. Information about food irradiation as
well as samples of irradiated ground beef were shared with 31 ECA
members at Health and Wellness Leader Training and at two club
meetings. All participants reported increased knowledge about food
irradiation and 95% indicated a willingness to use irradiated foods
as availability increases.
Record #: 392 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-16
POW: F5
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Sutton, Brenda
Encouraging physical activity in 4 and 5 year old children is an
objective of Color Me Healthy. The level of enthusiasm exhibited by
child care providers can be an important factor in the
child’s willingness to participate in new physical activity.
In order to instill excitement in training participants, strong
efforts were made to provide an upbeat, active training for 41
participants from Rockingham and Caswell Counties. Upon completion
of the training, participants consistently said that the training
was motivating because of the physical activity they were able to
experience themselves during the training. All attendees indicated
intentions to be more active themselves as well as to teach
students and their families to be more physically active.
Record #: 393 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-16
POW: Y3
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Sherrill, Denise
Henderson County 4-H and the National Park Service sponsor a
program in which children volunteer with the dairy goats at the
Carl Sandburg Home. Duties include care and feeding of the goats,
and talking to park visitors. Children have assigned hours each
week, and are expected to be on time, and do a good job. One of our
experienced 4-H volunteers was hired by the National Park Service
to work as a seasonal employee this summer. All the hours of
volunteering have taught her to be responsible, a good worker, and
a good communicator with the public. And she has been rewarded with
enjoyable summer employment.
Record #: 394 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-16
POW: Y3
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Sherrill, Denise
Nine children participated in Henderson County 4-H's
Beginning Sewing Class this spring. Each child made a simple pair
of shorts, learned to hand-stitch, use a sewing machine, press her
garment, sew on buttons, and insert elastic. The value of each
garment was about ten dollars, so our 4-H'ers saved about
ninety dollars by making their own shorts. But they learned
valuable life skills: making and repairing garments,
problem-solving, decision making; and enjoyed forming new
friendships with their volunteer teachers.
Record #: 395 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-17
POW: F4
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L
Nutrition Task Force. The newly announced School Nutrition
Standards has Caldwell County in favorable position for
implementation. The work over the last 6 months collaboratively
with the school system, health department and extension has a list
of recommendations in place for the school board to consider at
it's summer retreat. These recommendations include further
discussions on the increase of sales of water and juice over soft
drinks, improvements of ALA CARTE items, access to salad bars on a
regular basis and improvement of healthier choices in all vending
areas, both teacher lounges and student vending choices. FCS agent
is working on the Nutrition Task Force for 2004-2005.
Record #: 396 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-17
POW: Y10
Location: Alexander
Person Reporting: Rhinehart, Suzanne N
The North Carolina Cooperative Extension- Alexander County 4-H
Program has been conducting the embryology school enrichment
program in school classrooms for the past 20 years. The county 4-H
and youth committee feel that it is important for our county's
youth to become aware of our county's number 1 agriculture
industry- poultry. In 2004, 25 classrooms participated in the
program reaching 411 students. Twenty-five teachers were also
trained in embryology knowledge and skills. Eighty-five percent of
teachers reported an increase in their personal knowledge and
skills in this subject matter. Teachers reported an 65% increase in
youth participation in science related activities during and
following the completion of this program. 100% of teachers surveyed
reported that this is one of the best science programs that they
conducted this year.
Record #: 397 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-17
POW: F1
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Buchanan, Linda
In Partners in Wellness, Module 13 "Where's the
Fat" a demonstration was conducted with two groups, making
brownies with oil and substituting applesauce for the oil. Out of a
total of 25 participants, 48% either preferred the brownies with
applesauce or reported no difference. The one's who preferred
the oil, stated that they also liked the applesauce brownies and
could live with the substitution. The groups were happy to realize
that they could cut the fat in their diet in this way and stated
that they would start trying the substitution in more cake-based
recipes.
Record #: 398 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-17
POW: C1
Location: Cherokee
Person Reporting: Clement, Doug M
The Rural Community College Initiative is an initiative that is
being conducted by Tri County Community College, Southwestern
Community College Haywood Community College and Cooperative
Extension. The program is sponsored by the Southern Rural
Development Center. The project has generated interest in
developing a Tourism Certification program. Because of the efforts
of the initiative grant funds of over $30,000.00 has been secured
to begin the initial phase of this process. As a result of the
process new partnerships have been formed and community
organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce have indicated a
strong interest in the program.
Record #: 399 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-17
POW: A1
Location: Cherokee
Person Reporting: Clement, Doug M
The Master Gardener Program in Cherokee County, sponsored by
North Carolina Cooperative Extension, has provide leadership in 3
major landscape for county schools in Cherokee County. The projects
have provided in kind support of $10,000.00 to Cherokee County
Schools. One school administrator indicated to the Master Gardeners
that the project would not have been possible without the help of
the group.
Record #: 400 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-17
POW: A1
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Patoprsty, Wendy
Working in collaboration with the Watauga River Conservation
Partners, the Watauga and Avery County Extension Water Quality
program received a grant in April 2004 for $6,500. This funding is
to be used to stabilize the creek banks in the Watauga watershed.
In May 2004, over 600 linear feet of stream bank has been
stabilized using rock boulders and native vegetation. The rock work
was done in collaboration with the Soil and Water Conservation
District and community volunteers planted all of the trees and
shrubs. There is still money left in the grant to continue
stabilizing creeks in the river basin.
Record #: 401 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-17
POW: A1
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Patoprsty, Wendy
The "Watershed Watch" stream monitoring program in the
Watauga River Watershed received a $1,600 grant for water sampling
in 2004. This money is to pay a certified lab to sample 8 different
parameters, from 11 sites, 6 times a year in the Watauga Watershed.
This program has been successful because of the collaboration of
partners involved, community volunteers, UNC Asheville VWIN lab,
SAMAB, National Forest Foundation and the Cooperative Extension
Service. This grant allows us to continue monitoring water quality
in the watershed and will allow us to identify problem areas in the
watershed, find solutions to keep our water resources clean, and
train volunteers on the importance of good water quality.
Record #: 402 of 2780
Date: 2005-01-08
POW: A3
Location: Rowan
Person Reporting: Johnson, Bradford
In 2003, the children of a Rowan County family exhibiting beef
cattle throughout the eastern U.S. had little success in
showmanship, after experiencing great success in 2002. After
working with Cooperative Extension numerous times and having it
explained to them that showmanship success is determined through
hard work at home, the children have won showmanship at numerous
shows in 2004 including North Carolina Jr. Beef Round-Up and the
North Carolina State Fair. Through this process, the children have
learned invaluable life skills, such as: the development of a work
ethic increases the chance for success; evaluation and critical
thinking skills; the development of \"ring presence\";
and have developed tremendous confidence, in addition to learning
about the beef industry.
Record #: 403 of 2780
Date: 2005-01-08
POW: A3
Location: Rowan
Person Reporting: Johnson, Bradford
The 2004 Rowan County Senior Livestock Judging Team placed
eighth out of 14 teams at the NC State Livestock Judging Contest.
However, the team placed fifth in beef cattle and placed the market
hogs and sheep as they had been taught, with all three team members
placing the market hog class the same and two team members placing
the two sheep classes within minor pair switches of each other. The
children demonstrated the ability to see and evaluate the
differences in the livestock as they had been taught, and use
critical thinking skills to place the classes. Public speaking
skills were demonstrated by one team member placing 12th and
another 25th in oral reasons. The team has a combined contest
experience of two contests, with two members that have no livestock
or livestock experience and a third member with less than three
years of experience with just cattle.
Record #: 404 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-18
POW: Y5
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Redinger, Angela
Shaquetta was referred to Teen Court in 2000. She was a good
student that just got caught up with the wrong crowd and ended up
in a little trouble. Shaquetta entered the program, completed her
sentence and during her exit conference asked if she could continue
as a volunteer. We told her we would love to have her as a
volunteer. She has always participated in all the events, workshops
and educational seminars. She always called ahead of time to let us
know if she was unable to attend an event. She has served as the
Teen Court Clerk of Court for 2 years. Shaquetta will be going on
to UNC Greensboro this fall.
Record #: 405 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-18
POW: Y3
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Redinger, Angela
Letter from a Parent: Recently my son was in the Character and
Karate class that was taught by Bladen County 4-H. During this time
I noticed a big change in him. I never had trouble getting him to
attend class. He was always eager and ready. I believe this class
had a positive influence on him and helped to build up his
self-esteem. He seems to be a more gentle and patient person and
also taught me to know that he has great potential and does want to
be a productive citizen as he grows and matures. I am grateful for
all the ones who had a helping hand in this.
Record #: 406 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-18
POW: A3
Location: Rowan
Person Reporting: Johnson, Bradford
The Rowan County Junior Livestock Judging Team placed sixth out
of 19 teams at the NC State Livestock Judging Contest. Pacing the
team was a 10 year-old that won beef cattle and placed third
overall. All three team members placed the market hogs and sheep as
they had been taught, with only minor pair switches among them. The
team demonstrated evaluation and critical thinking skills, which
was also reflected in their public speaking skills, with all three
team members placing 20th to 23rd in oral reasons. All three youth
have a combined contest experience of three contests and all have
very little experience with hogs or sheep.
Record #: 407 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-18
POW: Y1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Redinger, Angela
Exert from a letter from a parent whose child is a member of the
Home School Helpers 4-H Club: Allen is home schooled because of a
reading disability. This disability had created negative self-worth
behaviors. The 4-H program in Bladen County is increasing positive
behaviors and desires to learn. These positive experiences have
increased his self-confidence and desires to learn to read, write,
etc.
Record #: 408 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-18
POW: F1
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Jackson, Margaret
The Expanded Foods and Nutrition Education Program educates
consumers on the importance of keeping food safe. Cleveland County
EFNEP program assistant Peggy Jackson delivered the food safety
message to a large audience attending the May 2004 Taste of
Charlotte event. Event goers were invited to tour the USDA food
safety mobile unit and to test their food safety knowledge by
spinning the food safety wheel and answering questions. Citizens
were also provided literature about food safety and NC Cooperative
Extension. Some of Peggy's colleagues wore costumes to attract
families with small children to the demonstration area. Surveys
were taken to determine the food handling practices employed by
North Carolina citizens and to assess their educational needs.
Record #: 409 of 2780
Date: 2004-06-20
POW: Y1
Location: Lincoln
Person Reporting: Dillon, April
Speaking before a group is the number one fear of adults.
Learning to speak before an audience is a life skill that children
need to develop in order to become competent and successful adults.
The 4-H Presentation Program helps youth to develop effective
communication skills. A 4-H Presentation Workshop was held at the
county level with ten participants attending. Participants learned
how to complete a 4-H Presentation by watching examples of other
4-H'ers presentation and through instruction on what makes a
successful presentation. Thirteen Lincoln County 4-H'ers
participated in presentations. For four 4-H'ers, it was their
first 4-H presentation experience. These 4-H'ers are skilled
and comfortable with speaking before a group.