2005 Program Success Highlights

Record #: 1 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-19
POW: C1
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Young, Charles M

The Ashe County Agricultural Advisory committee with Extension assistance developed and implemented a voluntary farm land preservation program. In three years over 10000 acres with 90 landowners has been enrolled. This program has generated County wide interest, was passed by the County commissioners unanimously, and is serving as a model for other counties. Interest was generated by County wide meetings, working with groups such as Farm Bureau, church groups, and civic groups. The committee has given the commissioners input on several agricultural related issues. The committee was also able to obtain continued County funding for the program. The committee has started working on additional issues, such as support of an agricultural museum, exploring land trust as a farm land preservation issue, and continuing to give the County commissioners recommendations on agricultural issues.

Record #: 2 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-19
POW: E8
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Young, Charles M

Pesticide education, with credits, is important to ensure the safety of our farmers, workers, and the environment. The training is also needed to help the ag chemical user maintain their ability to purchase and use crop and animal protection chemicals. To meet this need, I cooperated with other ag agents in Ashe/Alleghany and with Tom Bowman, NCDA pesticide inspector and planned 5 safety training sessions and numerous specialty sessions that enabled over 300 private and commercial applicators to maintain their certification. We also had two test sessions to enable new producers to become certified. As a result, chemical pesticide applicators in Ashe/Alleghany have the latest information on applying pesticides properly and on the new rules and regulations concerning pesticide use, storage and record keeping. These meetings also resulted in three requests for assistance on sprayer calibration.

Record #: 3 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-19
POW: A13
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Young, Charles M

As the Safety coordinator for Ashe/Alleghany I plan and coordinate the safety field days for all fourth grade students and all beginning agricultural and vocational high school students in both counties. The purpose of the safety field days is to develop safe habits around the home, farm and our rural community and to educate youth on accident prevention and safety awareness. We use volunteers from several agencies and related industries including NRCS NCFS, NC Parks Service, local hospital and medical transport services, DDS, EMS, and others. With these volunteers we reach 375 fourth graders and 90 high school students with information about good safety habits. This year we included the vocational high school students as participants. As a result, students and teachers have a better understanding how practicing good safety habits can affect their lives.

Record #: 4 of 2747
Date: 2005-09-29
POW: A3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Young, Charles M

Preparing livestock for exhibition teaches youth and adults many important life skills as well as livestock management. Exhibiting animals on a local, district or state level also provides learning opportunities associated with the interaction of peers. This year Cooperative Extension, Ashe Center planned livestock shows in Ashe & Alleghany counties, providing the opportunity for 150 youth from four states to exhibit livestock and learn more about their livestock projects. Ashe and Alleghany Co had at least 15 youth and 5 adults showing livestock at the state level. As a result, these participants learned management and showmanship tips from their competitors and the youth learned the responsibility to be on time and to handle the livestock management and showmanship in a professional manner.

Record #: 5 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-19
POW: A1
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Young, Charles M

The meat goat industry is expanding, with new producers and expanding operations. The knowledge base must also expand with reliable, relevant information, or the industry will not progress. I assisted in planning and presenting for an area goat field day in Yadkin that reached over 80 producers in NW NC with timely information on goat management and marketing. These producers now have a better understanding on the market expectations and how to meet that demand through better management. Producers were also introduced to the NC Meat Goat Producers Coop as a marketing tool. Goat meat was served, with area cooks competing for goat cook-off honors. This gave producers a chance to try products that most had never tasted. The taste test emphasized the necessity for marketing and market development. Funds were obtained from NC Farm Bureau which helps with both marketing efforts and policy making on state and national levels.

Record #: 6 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-19
POW: A1
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Young, Charles M

The State Fair Hay contest is a statewide effort to improve the quality of marketable hay through education that involves chemical analysis and visual appraisal. The contest encourages producers to view hay as a valuable resource and to educate hay purchasers on the characteristics of quality hay. This is a cooperative effort between CES, NCSU, NCDA, and the State Fair. I am a co chair with Betsy Randall-Schadel, NCDA.I work with agents to encourage entries, NCDA handles the analysis, Jim Green, NCSU works with the judging, and the fair handles the entries and premiums. We had 40 entries in six categories from across the state, and the booth in the Graham building had a record number of visitors. The producers gained knowledge and a marketing advantage while fair visitors and potential hay users gained information on quality forages

Record #: 7 of 2747
Date: 2006-01-19
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 consists of males and females between the ages of 10-18. The students explored 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 74.3 in 2004. (Pregnancies per 1000 teens). A total of 2,870 students have participated in this program. According to the post questionnaire, over eighty percent indicated the program helped reinforce their decision to wait to have children. According to parent evaluations, on parent said, \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\"This program taught my child that having a baby is a lot of responsibility\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\".

Record #: 8 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-22
POW: C1
Location: Rowan
Person Reporting: Cowden, James

Rowan County has 115,000 acres of valuable farmland. To this end, several boards and committees are active in farmland preservation efforts. After working with the Voluntary Agriculture District Committee, Farmland Preservation Committee and Sustainable Community Development Commission, Cooperative Extension determined that none of the committees truly understood what the others did. Extension held a workshop to discuss their respective committee roles. The result of this was all the committees plan to communicate better by sharing minutes and reports; have at least one member of each committee serve on another farmland committee; and a newly elected County commissioner got to hear first-hand the importance of farmland preservation in the County, and how the various programs can benefit the agricultural community.

Record #: 9 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-21
POW: Y5
Location: Onslow
Person Reporting: Clemmons, J G

At the conclusion of the 2004 holiday season results of the Angel Tree Program were compiled. The Angel Tree Program provides goods/services for youth who are involved in the Mentors Friends of 4-H Program. Many of these youth enter the holiday season with little hope of receiving gifts during this time of year. Angel Tree has a corporate sponsor, Wachovia Bank, which allows trees to be placed in their branches with tags displaying the needs of each of these children. With this being the 2nd year, Angel Tree even received help from the Onslow Co. Sheriff's Dept. Coordinating this project is an Americorp worker in the Mentor's Friends of 4-H office. This year 24 youth received goods/services valued at $3130.16.

Record #: 10 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-29
POW: Y11
Location: Lee
Person Reporting: Stone, William

It is important for youth to learn skills such as record keeping, creative writing, and artistic expression. 4-H Project Record books develop each of these skills in young people. This year, eighteen out of nineteen project books turned in by Lee County 4-H\'ers were done by new members who were participating in the project book program for the first time. Completing project books resulted in a positive learning experience for these new members and will allow them to receive recognition for their hard work on County, district and state levels.

Record #: 11 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-24
POW: A1
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Martin, Matt

Severe pest damage on fine turf grass areas from nematodes is a serious problem. During the summer of 2004 a research trial to evaluate alternative nematode control was conducted on four golf courses in Goldsboro and Wilmington. Current nematode pesticide technology is very limited and the only nematicide for turf grasses, nemacur, is set to be removed from the market by EPA in 2008. This trial evaluated a different nematicide to see if it is a viable alternative that could be labeled for use in North Carolina. The project was funded for $12,000 by DowAgroscience turf grass research division. The research indicated that the experimental nematicide was a viable alternative and will be recommended for turf grass nematode control in turf grass for 2005 EPA review.

Record #: 12 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-24
POW: A1
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Martin, Matt

Record #: 13 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-24
POW: A6
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Martin, Matt

Record #: 14 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-25
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert

The January 12, 2005 Forestry Issues Forum teleconference resulted in an estimated $51,671 in total cost savings for 88 participants from North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. For every dollar invested by participants, they received approximately $16.78 in cost savings when compared to attending a traditional conference. Of the $16.78 in cost savings 63% is because of time savings associated with attending the teleconference verses a traditional conference. 264 continuing education credits were awarded. 76% 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 participant’s knowledge level of the subject matter increased by 50%.

Record #: 15 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-25
POW: A15
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Cooke, Albert

Extension Agents must carefully manage time to achieve the greatest impact for the most clients. One-on-one contacts may have great impact on an individual. Planned presentations and newsletters reach more people but may have less impact on the individual. Southern Shows presented Extension Agents in Chatham, Durham, Franklin, Harnett, Lee, and Orange Counties opportunities to reach many people including one-on-one contacts. Extension received $18,258 of in-kind donations including 900 square feet of prime display space, hardscape materials and installation, and plant and mulch donations. The learning center included plant examples and how-to displays that engaged visitor attention. More than 40,000 people attended the weekend show with Agents on duty for 27 hours. Agents responded to nearly 3000 individuals. Because of Extension’s reputation as a dependable information source and partnering with outside organizations, we were able to address hundreds of specific questions in a setting conducive to hands on learning.

Record #: 16 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-26
POW: F1
Location: Scotland
Person Reporting: Graham, Cathy L

Each year 1 out of 4 people become ill from improperly prepared food. Based on this need Cooperative Extension's EFNEP (Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program) in collaboration with Laurinburg Housing Authority offered food safety training to 105 limited resource participants. 75% of the participants showed improved food safety practices by proper thawing and storing of food. As a result of this training other classes in budgeting and nutrition are being offered to these same participants.

Record #: 17 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-26
POW: A15
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: McLean, Melissa R

Paul Buie, of Ten Acres Farm, began to notice several diseased collard plants in his fields. Buie's farm operation consists of 10 acres of a variety of fruits and vegetables. During the late summer and fall months, Mr. Buie grows over 2,000 collard plants to sell at the farmers market and the local grocery store. Samples were examined by the urban horticulture Extension agent and a sample was sent to the Plant Disease and Insect Clinic (PDIC) at NC State. Alternaria leaf spot was the disease diagnosed in these samples. Recommendations for treatment were given by the PDIC as well as the Extension agent. Mr. Buie followed these treatment recommendations. As a result, 85% of Mr. Buie's collard crop was saved from the disease, thus saving Mr. Buie $2,550. Mr. Buie will continue to monitor for further signs of alternaria disease and treat as needed.

Record #: 18 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-26
POW: C4
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: McLean, Melissa R

Robeson County Master Gardeners conducted the third “Showcasing Urban Horticulture” exhibit at the 2004 Robeson Regional Agricultural Fair. They partnered with local green industry members and the urban horticulture Extension agent. The Master Gardeners worked on three themed garden displays that focused on formal, Japanese, and shade garden styles. Exhibitors from the landscape and green industry were asked to set up booths or displays that would be aesthetically appealing to fair attendees. Master Gardeners also manned an informational booth set up at an entrance of the building to provide horticultural information to those who had questions. Approximately 4,000 fair attendees saw the exhibit and/or stopped by the information booth. 20% of those who stopped by the booth requested more information about Extension and Master Gardeners. Due to the positive response, the fair exhibit will again be conducted in 2005.

Record #: 19 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-26
POW: E8
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: McLean, Melissa R

State law requires certified and licensed pesticide applicators to attend classes on a regular basis to maintain their certifications. The Robeson County Extension horticultural agent offered Private Pesticide Applicator recertification classes for categories V and X on January 13, 2005. Participants improved their knowledge of pesticide handling and storage safety, new North Carolina Pesticide laws and regulations, equipment calibration and pesticide formulation characteristics. 67 applicators received 2 hours of credit for category V, and 59 applicators received 2 hours of credit for category X. 126 applicators attended the classes and were recertified. At least five more recertification opportunities will be provided during 2005.

Record #: 20 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-26
POW: A5
Location: Cumberland
Person Reporting: Bailey, Kenneth W

In talking with farmers from the Cumberland/Harnett area, crop loss, due to poor pollination in fruit and vegetable crops, is a major problem. Lack of pollinating insects is the primary cause of insufficient pollination in fruit bearing crops. In an effort to increase the number of honey bee colonies and beekeepers within the area, in cooperation with the Cumberland County Beekeepers Association, Cooperative Extension has taught a beginning beekeeping course each spring beginning in 2001. Thirty-five new beekeepers have successfully completed the course and each student has established and maintained at least one hive. Several have increased their number of hives to 3-5, three have increased their hives to twenty or more and one has over 200 hives. This has resulted in approximately 300 new honey bee colonies established within the area, $30000 increase in profit for farmers and $12000 increase in profit for beekeepers.

Record #: 21 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-26
POW: A1
Location: Madison
Person Reporting: Tolley, Mary E

In the past, Madison County Livestock Association had begun to decline and this program needed revitalization to stay alive. At the end of 2004, officers were elected, several educational programs were conducted, and the number of members doubled. The Livestock Association is an integral part of the livestock community allowing producers to learn the most recent information and to share their personal successes and failures. Through the association's educational programs, Madison County farmers participating in the WNC Pre-conditioned Sales, along with farmers in other counties, voted to begin using modified live vaccines. Under this program cattle will be verified value-added, improving herd health and reducing treatment costs. Pfizer livestock auctions studies found that between 1997-2002 calves given preweaning vaccinations averaged up to $2.21/cwt.more than nonvaccinated calves. Our farmers were able to learn about this program through the livestock association saving them time and putting money in their pockets.

Record #: 22 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-26
POW: A10
Location: Cumberland
Person Reporting: Bailey, Kenneth W

Based on client questions and observing pond owner’s problems, it has been determined that aquatic weeds are a major problem in Cumberland County. Through client calls, contacts, newsletter and pesticide recertification meetings, Cooperative Extension has emphasized the importance of properly identifying aquatic weeds before attempting control measures. In 2004, 45 pond owners consulted Cooperative Extension with their aquatic weed problems. Cooperative Extension positively identified their weeds and prescribed the proper control measures. From surveying a small sample of this group, it was determined that each pond owner saved an average of $500 as a result of proper identification of their problem and refraining from making unnecessary chemical treatments.

Record #: 23 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-26
POW: A5
Location: Cumberland
Person Reporting: Bailey, Kenneth W

In 2003, a group of producers and consumers expressed interest in a place to buy and sell locally grown produce in Fayetteville. In partnership with the City of Fayetteville and Cumberland County producers, Cooperative Extension assisted in establishing the Fayetteville Farmers’ Market. Cooperative Extension provided the Market committee with the information necessary to establish the market and provided them with information on laws, strategies and models from other markets that they could pattern themselves after. Cooperative Extension has also assisted in promoting the market to new growers. Since its establishment, the Fayetteville Farmers’ Market has earned $38000 for the group of farmers who have participated. The City of Fayetteville plans to include the Fayetteville Farmers’ Market as a part of its Festival Park.

Record #: 24 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-26
POW: E8
Location: Cumberland
Person Reporting: Bailey, Kenneth W

In 2004, the licenses of 56 Cumberland County Private Pesticide Applicators were due to expire. Without a private applicator’s license, these farmers could not purchase nor apply restricted use pesticides if needed. Cooperative Extension conducted 3 pesticide renewal trainings to give producers a chance to keep their license current. 42 applicators successfully completed the training and retained their license.

Record #: 25 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-27
POW: F1
Location: Hertford
Person Reporting: Howard, Deborah J

Breakfast is an important meal, but studies show that teens often skip the breakfast meal. Excuses such as these are given: I don't have time, or I'm not hungry in the morning. Through the NC Cooperative Extension Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) in Hertford County, teens were taught "Breakfast-A Healthy Way to Start the Day." Teens learned how important it is to break the fast, especially since they needed the extra energy for learning. Pregnant teens also learned about the importance of eating breakfast. Many agreed to take time to eat breakfast each day or to make it one of their most important meals of the day.

Record #: 26 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-27
POW: F1
Location: Hertford
Person Reporting: Howard, Deborah J

Eating a healthy diet is very challenging for pregnant women. Using the Eating for Two lesson through the Hertford County Cooperative Extension's Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), participants learned through various hands-on activities and handouts the importance of eating nutritious foods for a healthy baby. Some participants stated that they would increase the amount of milk they drank and eat healthier snacks such as cheese and crackers vs. chips and sodas.

Record #: 27 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-27
POW: A1
Location: Haywood
Person Reporting: McGaha, Tony A

Each year my advisory committee offers ideas on strategies to improve the marketing of their cattle - value added beef. The program of pre-conditioning cattle in western N.C. has flourished and met that need with recognition. A national publication - CATTLE TODAY published an article featuring our program in its September 2004 issue. As we analyzed the numbers for 2004 the difference of marketing of cattle and increased weight gains amounted to $2837 per farm of expendable income. We marketed over 1500 head from Haywood alone with over 41 producers involved in the pre-conditioning program.

Record #: 28 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-27
POW: A3
Location: Haywood
Person Reporting: McGaha, Tony A

The future of our livestock industry is our youth and that is why so much importance has been placed on livestock youth programs. Each year a youth livestock instructional event is planned and coordinated, 2004 no different. The event attracted over 130 youth and parents. They gained instruction in skillathon events, fitting and showmanship competitions, animal welfare, and sportsmanship. In 2004 we also had two youth represent Haywood County and North Carolina at the World Dairy Expo - Madison, Wisconsin. They placed 8th nationally and one received All-American status with his skills attained in judging, public-speaking, decision-making and teamwork.

Record #: 29 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-27
POW: A1
Location: Haywood
Person Reporting: McGaha, Tony A

In order to continue to improve producers herd's genetics and/or bull selection fit into the programming schematic. The WNC Beef Conference and Bull Sale was held in January 2005. After several newsletter articles and visual appraisals Haywood producers made the move and purchased twelve of the twenty-six N.C. Mountain Test Station bulls. We now look for several years to come the fruits of our labors in heavier weaning weights, less dystocia, hybrid vigor, and more spendable dollars.

Record #: 30 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-28
POW: Y3
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Crouse, Morgan E

Community Service is a big part of a young person’s life. Cooperative Extension has provided many opportunities for youth to be involved in community service projects. One opportunity was at the Northwest District 4-H Winterfest. The teens got to go to the Victory Junction Gang Camp in Randleman, NC. They attended workshops, completed a huge community service project by planting over 1000 flower bulbs. The kids recognized how special the camp was and really got involved in helping. As a result, many of the youth expressed an interest in being a counselor for the camp. They showed great interest, respect and leadership to the staff at the camp. They set a great reputation for 4-H and Cooperative Extension and built a wonderful relationship with the camp.

Record #: 31 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-28
POW: A1
Location: Iredell
Person Reporting: Miller, Michael P

A Regional Beef Conference involving 135 producers from a 16 County area was conducted January 6, 2005. The National Animal Identification System (NAIS) was discussed by State Veterinarian, David Marshall. Also supply/demand for beef and the impending Canadian Border opening allowing live cattle under 30 months of age to enter the U.S. was discussed. This information gave producers insight into the importance of obtaining premises identification and aided in making marketing plans for future beef sales. Iredell County and some surrounding counties rank near the top in beef production so this information has proven invaluable to these producers.

Record #: 32 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-28
POW: A1
Location: Iredell
Person Reporting: Miller, Michael P

A beef producer meeting was held January 27, 2005 with 100 producers in attendance. Beef safety issues were discussed along with promotion information. Marketing was also emphasized. By using state graded feeder cattle sales producers have the potential to add $50 per head to their net income which amounts to $1250 for the average producer.

Record #: 33 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-29
POW: F1
Location: Lee
Person Reporting: Condlin, Susan C

Parents have concerns about extending their food dollars and providing nutritious foods for their families. Extension's Out For Lunch (OFL) Advisory committee helped identified established, low income groups in the County. In cooperation with Social Services, Community College, Public Housing, Haven, Parents as Teachers, Senior Services, Lee County Schools and the Food Stamp program, OFL reached 176 limited income families. OFL, consisting of 8 lessons and delivered in 16 hours of instruction, enhances knowledge, skills and behavior that contribute to nutritionally sound diets and healthy lifestyles. 90 percent of participants report positive behavior changes in their ability to meet the nutritional needs of their families by selecting, buying, preparing and storing foods; by handling food safely to prevent food borne illness; and by managing food budgets. Food safety knowledge, eating more fruits and vegetables, and drinking more water was increased. Children are eating healthier snacks and trying new foods.

Record #: 34 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-29
POW: F1
Location: Lee
Person Reporting: Condlin, Susan C

The spread of disease and illness is often associated with pathogens found on hands. The OFL Preschool Program presented to 150 preschoolers enrolled in Even Start, New Dawn, Head Start and home-based daycares lessons on germs and how children can protect themselves from colds and food borne illness by washing their hands. The children participated in several activities and a hand washing experience designed to teach them proper techniques. After the program, teachers frequently report the children reminded each other and the adults to wash their hands before eating and after playing. Research shows that applying the hand washing skills learned in this lesson helps children and adults prevent the spread of colds and other illnesses. Evaluations from teachers and parents have shown that 60 percent of children have integrated better hand washing in their daily routines.

Record #: 35 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-29
POW: F1
Location: Lee
Person Reporting: Condlin, Susan C

One in four Americans are overweight. Excess weight is a risk factor for heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. A weight loss of five to 10% can have positive health benefits. Heart disease is one major chronic disease leading to death in Lee County. Extension in collaboration with area occupational nurses, physical therapist and nutritionist offered Noon lighting, a weight management program at 3 industries and one community site. Participants learned how to lose weight the healthy way. 120 individuals participated. 101 completed the course, losing an average of 8 pounds. 63% reached their personal goal, with many coming close. Participants reported starting a walking program, reducing their sodium, fat, cholesterol and caloric intake. Noon lighting has a positive reputation in the community and many physicians refer their patients. Continuing to offer programs like this will help decrease heart disease in Lee County.

Record #: 36 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-29
POW: F5
Location: Lee
Person Reporting: Condlin, Susan C

Lee County's Extension food safety advisory committee is concerned about the lack of safe food handling practices, the high rate of employee turnover, staff's limited food safety knowledge, the constant need for food safety training and limited resources to provide training. Extension and Environmental Health sponsored "ServSafe", an 18hour food safety class. 52 managers from 44 establishments, enrolled with 45 passing the final exam. Certifications were presented at the Board of Health. Participants indicate they are checking food temperatures more often, monitoring hand washing more closely and are training employees in food safety principles. Lee County has not had a food borne outbreak related to the food service industry in the 7 years we have offered this program. The average cost of a food borne illness in 2001 was $862. If each establishment participating in ServSafe prevented one case of food borne illness, a savings of $37,928 would occur.

Record #: 37 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-29
POW: F5
Location: Lee
Person Reporting: Condlin, Susan C

There are over 10,000 species of mold, some produce mycotoxins that can cause illness and damage to our living environments. Excessive rains have increased the presence of mold and mildew problems in the home. Environmental Health and Cooperative Extension have worked together to address concerns. CE wrote 2 news articles and has distributed over 75 educational packets. Over 40 calls have been received, 15 individual office appointments and 3 moisture audits completed. 5 mold samples have been submitted to the Plant and Disease lab, results reported common household mold. One homeowner was relieved to learn toxic mold was not found, since her husband had recently died of brain cancer. Environmental Health makes weekly referrals to CE and are also distributing our information. As a result of these request a mold and mildew class will be held in early 2005. Homeowners, building contractors, insurance agents, and lenders will be targeted.

Record #: 38 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-29
POW: F5
Location: Lee
Person Reporting: Condlin, Susan C

An average of 110 cases of botulism are reported each year. Approximately 25% are food borne and usually associated with home-canning. Home canners often take short cuts, use outdated recipes, don't operate pressure canners correctly or use water baths to process low acid foods. These actions put families at risk of contracting a deadly food borne illness. Extension is known as the only resource for safe and reliable food preservation information. To encourage proper canning techniques, Extension provided one-on-one demonstrations, conducted hands-on classes for 19 individuals, loaned canners to 22 individuals, tested 26 canners, distributed 150 publications and answered over 100 phone calls on home canning. Consumers report following our recommendations and using the proper processing methods for home canning. 100% reported improved confidence in their canning procedures and 96% reported an increase in knowledge. Adoption of these behaviors has the potential to prevent botulinum food borne illness.

Record #: 39 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-29
POW: F5
Location: Lee
Person Reporting: Condlin, Susan C

Food entrepreneurs often have limited knowledge on the growth of microorganisms that cause food borne illness, and the good manufacturing practice (GMP) regulations developed to prevent public health problems associated with improperly prepared acidified food products. Processors are required to comply with FDA and NCDA mandates. We have had repeated requests for reasonably priced training to assist processors to become compliant. NCSU Food Science Department, NC Cooperative Extension, Lee County Center, FDA, and Food and Drug Protection Division of NCDA collaborated on delivering the Acidified Foods Processing Control School to 33 individuals. The 16-hour class was delivered by NCSU Food Science. 100% of the individuals in the class passed the certification exam. As a result, the entrepreneurs will be able to safely process acidified foods by following good manufacturing practices as specified in NCDA's and FDA's regulations. Their increased knowledge will allow them to generate additional family income.

Record #: 40 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-31
POW: A15
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Collins, Randy

During the month of January, three individuals in Graham County were successfully taught by Cooperative Extension to prune and care for fruit trees, grapes, and brambles. Home visits were made to each individual, and time was spent illustrating the techniques involved with correctly pruning fruit. In addition, spray schedules were discussed and set up in order to keep disease and insects to a minimum. Each individual finished the session by showing that he could correctly prune each fruit type without assistance. Therefore, the direct results of these efforts were that three individuals gained the skills needed to care for different kinds of fruit, and physically demonstrated learned skills.

Record #: 41 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-31
POW: A7
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Collins, Randy

Horses have been, and continue to be a major point of interest in Graham County. However, just because someone has a horse, doesn't necessarily mean that the horse is getting taken care of. One major area that specifically needs attention is horse feeding. Feeding horses too much starch and carbohydrates can lead to severe health problems down the road. On January 20th, Cooperative Extension hosted a lecture dealing with excessive carbohydrates and glucose loading in the bloodstream. The lecture illustrated the different kinds of problems excessive carbohydrate feeding can lead to, but also showed producers different feeding regimes that would limit carbohydrate intake and be better for the horse. As a result of this lecture, three horse owners learned better feeding techniques for their horses.

Record #: 42 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-31
POW: A3
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Collins, Randy

On January 25th, Graham County 4-H began its first horse club. The club was formed by interested 4-Her's who are interested in learning more about horses and equine management. Meetings have been designed to start participants off with the basics, and should hopefully allow each participant to feel more comfortable around horses as their skills grow. By the end of our first meeting, seven youth demonstrated that each could correctly brush, saddle, and mount a horse.

Record #: 43 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-31
POW: F2
Location: Halifax
Person Reporting: Allsbrook, Margaret P

Halifax County employees participated in the Workable Wellness program during the month of January, 2005. The program was strongly endorsed by the County manager and all department heads who attended a brief presentation on the Workable Wellness program prior to its being offered. County employees received surveys with their September, 2004 pay checks regarding the program and were given the opportunity to vote for sessions they would be interested in attending. Twenty three employees attended sessions on Adding Steps to Your Day, Stress Management, When You Are the Help, and Financial Fitness. Sessions were presented by the FCS Extension Agent and the Health Educator from the County Health Department. For participant convenience, sessions were offered on Tuesdays at the Extension Office and on Wednesdays at the County library. All participants reported the program to be beneficial and all of them stated they would attend future sessions, if offered.

Record #: 44 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-31
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Tim, Peggy

Saving money on food can be hard for anyone, especially those economically challenged. At EFNEP on Site we have added 8-10 month classes. Parents of children in that age group are referred through WIC to attend classes. The objective of this class is to help parents understand and develop good nutrition and food safety practices when feeding their babies. Parents see how easy it is to make their own baby foods and how to store them. Several parents reported saving over $10 per week making their own baby foods.

Record #: 45 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-31
POW: F2
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Buchanan, Linda

Money management is becoming a major problem among families in Graham County, especially newly married and those with young children. High debt levels and poor financial management practices have caused many families to owe more money to creditors than the value of that which they own. Due to these factors, Cooperative Extension in Graham County held a series of two basic money management classes. The aim was to increase knowledge and skills in goal setting, stopping and identifying money leaks, budgeting and organization. As a result of this training, a young married couple with two small children and a single parent with two teenage sons developed a family budget; a single professional and a small business owner increased knowledge concerning how to decrease their spending, lower their expenses and develop a simple budget. The single professional decreased her credit card debt by 33%.

Record #: 46 of 2747
Date: 2005-01-31
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cropps, Seydel

It is not easy for male single parents to plan nutritious meals for their children. They enjoy learning quick, easy, nutritious recipes. The EFNEP Program has been helping Mr. H learn many new recipes. His favorite has been the "Fifteen Minute Bean Soup", which he learned during the Reading Labels Lesson. He is very happy to participate in this program which is teaching him what he needs to learn about feeding his daughter.

Record #: 47 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-01
POW: E8
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Keene, Mark M

Proper pesticide disposal has been identified as an important issue for protecting water quality and the environment. The NCCE and NCDA Pesticide Section have developed a program for farmers and homeowners to properly dispose of unused/unwanted remaining pesticides. A temporary storage facility has been constructed for the purpose of temporarily storing pesticides until proper measures can be taken. As a result of the pesticide education program in Lenoir County 19 gallons and 94 lbs. of pesticides have been properly disposed. Moreover, proper removal of these pesticides improves the environment an increases public safety.

Record #: 48 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-01
POW: C4
Location: Iredell
Person Reporting: Breedlove, Donald E

A planned fund raising project to help support the urban horticulture program with funds for further development of a multi-purpose demonstration garden was delayed by three months. An infestation of perennial weeds and grasses developed which delayed planting of vegetables scheduled for early April. After several sprayings of non-selective herbicides during weed flushes, the growing season was into July. Pumpkins were the only profitable crop that would be in demand upon maturity. The Jack-O-Lantern type was selected because their maturity date could coincide with Halloween and be suitable for carving. The project grossed in excess of two hundred dollars in production on less than one-fifth of an acre. In addition, the project also created awareness among over fifty individuals for future educational programs at this demonstration site.

Record #: 49 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-01
POW: A16
Location: Iredell
Person Reporting: Breedlove, Donald E

Urban youth involvement in summer special interest 4-H programs are traditionally short lived. The start of the school year and competing programs allow for short experiences with continuous life skills developed through Extension 4-H programs. Thirty youth participated in summer courses with home gardening, landscape, mowing and the horticulture team competition. Five of the participants demonstrated skills in plant propagation, vegetable marketing and lawn equipment repair. Their reported income from the summer experience produced a net earning of one thousand fifty dollars from the summer classes.

Record #: 50 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-01
POW: F5
Location: Jones
Person Reporting: Flynt, Marcia L

Fires and falls are the leading cause of death and injury for adults over age 65. “Remembering When” workshop promotes education through entertainment by delivering 16 important fire and fall prevention messages aimed at helping senior adults live safer lives. The workshop was presented January 12 at the Jones County Senior Center with 18 senior citizens in attendance. The program gives specific suggestions on how to prevent fires and falls in the home. An extra long oven mitt glove was presented to each participant for use in their home.

Record #: 51 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-01
POW: F1
Location: Jones
Person Reporting: Flynt, Marcia L

Senior Citizens are more vulnerable to food borne illnesses. The Commercial Horticulture Agent and Family and Consumer Science Agent developed and presented a program targeting senior citizens concerning food safety from the farm to the table. History of the production side of our food supply was presented and participants increased awareness concerning the farmer's role in supplying safe food. Participants discussed their role in preventing illnesses due to contaminated food. Four simple steps to food safety (Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill) were discussed and examples of each were given. The importance of a food thermometer was stressed and proper food temperatures for different foods were reviewed. A chart of cooking temperatures for home use was distributed to each participant. Sessions were presented January 14 & 18 at the Jones Co. Senior Center for 32 participants. A local reporter also attended and placed the article on the front page of the newspaper.

Record #: 52 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-03
POW: A9
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Little, William E

The Wilson Forestry Association held its Forestry Banquet and announce the winner of the 2004 Tree Farmer Of the Year for Wilson County. The theme for the series of meetings to be held in Wilson this year for the Forestry Association is developing a Forestry Management Plan for landowners. The new state law requiring a written plan for tax evaluation reduction for forestry land has timed exactly to meet the current needs of our clients.

Record #: 53 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-03
POW: Y10
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Johnson, Carolyn B

As chairman of the education committee for the Chamber of Commerce, I worked with the chamber director and a group facilitator to undertake long range program planning with the committee. This type planning is a first for any committee associated with the chamber and the director and Chamber Board are impressed with this initiative. The committee worked to develop a mission statement and then discussed ways to function so the mission is fulfilled. Program delivery (within the mission) was assessed and gaps were identified. Committee members are excited about having a focus and are anxious to continue planning for future programming.

Record #: 54 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-03
POW: A15
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Ashburn, Diane

A grant was obtained from the Golden Leaf Foundation through NC State University Insect and Plant Diagnostic Clinic. Henderson County received a compound microscope, a dissecting microscope, a digital camera, a Dell personal computer, and twenty-eight printed resource books. Before this diagnostic equipment was acquired, clients in our County waited up to a week to receive an insect or disease diagnosis. Following training, I began to utilize this valuable equipment, capturing images and emailing them to Raleigh. I have cut my response time from a week to a few hours. This equipment has had a remarkable value to our clients and has potentially saved thousands of dollars each year.

Record #: 55 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-04
POW: E1
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Parsons, James T

My newspaper article about the new tax information for farmers resulted in at least one CPA sending the article to all his farming clientele. Without this information and tax identification number, farmers will have to pay taxes at the standard tax rate for farm products.

Record #: 56 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-04
POW: E1
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Parsons, James T

Escalating fuel prices have poultry farmers searching for ways to reduce heating costs in poultry houses. In December, 2004, I wrote a newspaper article about fuel line maintenance for poultry farms. Several poultry farmers have since told me they have the article posted in their farm offices so they will not forget to check their systems.

Record #: 57 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-07
POW: A15
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Ashburn, Diane

Learning horticultural information often times means teaching through example. The Henderson County Extension Master Gardeners saw a need to develop a demonstration shade garden for County residents due to the fact that the majority of the population deals with tremendously shady property. The volunteers donated time and manpower to design and implement a demonstration shade garden at the Bullington Horticulture Learning Center. This garden will help the Center to teach County residents a valuable life skill such as gardening for additional no charge. The benefit to the community can be felt savings of money for admission fees to other demonstration gardens as well as a saving to the County for the cost of labor. The volunteers donated over 40 hours resulting in a savings of $640.00.

Record #: 58 of 2747
Date: 2005-07-21
POW: F2
Location: Hoke
Person Reporting: Dunham, Juantina

The Hoke County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension collaborated with NC A&T State University (NCA&T) and the University of Georgia (UGA) to implement a seven week research project called Strong African American Families (SAAF). This project was designed to help families to work together so that the youth would feel prepared to make responsible choices, handle peer pressure, and set and meet positive goals. While post test data have not been collected verbal comments from participating families support that some of the participants had a positive experience. One adult participant reported that as a result of this program she is now an “Askable” parent. In addition to the parents comment several of the youth reported that since they have been involved in this project that “they spend more time with their parents.” The curriculum associated with SAAF seems to be a great resource for Extension programs.

Record #: 59 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-09
POW: Y13
Location: Granville
Person Reporting: Henry, Karen E

Partnerships are essential for a 4-H program to be successful. Granville County 4-H partnered with the 4-H Youth Development Fund, the Raleigh Golf Association and seven other counties to put on the 75th Anniversary RGA Golf Tournament to raise money for 4-H camp scholarships. As a result of such efforts, $2908 was earned for 4-H camp scholarships for Granville County youth-- 9 full scholarships. The camping experience helps youth to learn new skills, build confidence, explore nature and the outdoors, meet new friends and learn to get along with others. All of these skills will help to contribute to the youth being a good future member of society.

Record #: 60 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-09
POW: F1
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Jackson, Margaret

The Expanded Foods and Nutrition Program teaches limited resource audiences the importance of handling and storing food safely. Cleveland County EFNEP program assistant Peggy Jackson uses a variety of teaching strategies to help her participants understand and appreciate the principles of food safety. After a recent food safety lesson, one participant shared that he had convinced his grandmother to wash the spoon she used for tasting before returning it to the pot.

Record #: 61 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-09
POW: E3
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Lauderdale, Cynthia

The need for continued education to the landscape and nursery industry is ever important in Wilson County since it is the number one agricultural cash crop in the County. Lauderdale wrote personnel messages on banquet invitations to non-members of the Wilson County Green Association (WCGA). Sixteen new companies joined the WCGA membership because of her creative marketing technique. This will help to get research-based information to the green clientele through their monthly meetings.

Record #: 62 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-11
POW: F2
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S

It is not often that youth and senior citizens realize that they have a common interest and can learn from each other. A 4-H dad was interested in starting a chess club. I asked him did he want to do it for youth or adults. He wanted both. He is a Life Master in Chess and wanted to share his love of the game. I was able to schedule one of our meeting rooms and we advertised the club. Now, every Friday afternoon we have a room full of youth and seniors playing with and learning from each other. One of the adults is from another country. She brought an old chess set and shared some of her native culture with the children.

Record #: 63 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-12
POW: F5
Location: Iredell
Person Reporting: Compton, Sandra G

A young homeowner called NC Cooperative Extension with a mildew problem in the crawl space of the home they were selling. The buyer's home inspector told them it would cost $1200 to correct the situation. Cooperative Extension suggested they wipe off the mildew on the support beams with a chlorine bleach/water solution, make sure crawl space vents were open, and set a fan in the crawl space door to circulate air. The homeowner and his dad followed the suggestions. Ten days later the relative humidity of the crawl space was 56%. A moisture meter reading indicated 19% moisture in the support beams. Crawl space vents were open and air was circulating freely. There was not any evidence of mold or mildew. Using Cooperative Extension's suggestions saved the couple $1200.

Record #: 64 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-14
POW: F5
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L

Caldwell County Center participated in a Food Safety project which enabled us to provide additional food safety education materials to the local school system for career and technical educators who teach food safety in the High Schools. This service provided over 300.00 dollars of educational materials to over 250 students within three high schools and the career center.

Record #: 65 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-16
POW: F1
Location: Nash
Person Reporting: Latour, Janice

With the shortage of vaccine during the 2004-2005 flu season, measures to help minimize the number of actual cases became a significant goal for the students of Braswell Elementary School. Nash Cooperative Extension and Braswell Elementary teamed together in January 2005 to provide hands on educational session to teach hand washing techniques to all 111 students. Each student was given fake "glow germs" to rub on their hands. Following their individual normal hand washing procedure, each student was able to see with the aid of a black light how many germs remained on their hands or clothing touched prior to washing. As the result of a group discussion, students now identify crucial times to wash their hands. They will also properly wash their hands and sneeze correctly; therefore, preventing the flu, other contagious diseases and the spreading of germs.

Record #: 66 of 2747
Date: 2005-09-29
POW: Y12
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Thompson, Drury

The 4-H Bulldog Alert Support Our Students of the Ashe County Middle School after school program provided through the North Carolina Cooperative Extension experienced low levels of parent involvement with respect to feedback and participation. The student participants were challenged in a group brainstorming exercise to plan an on going activity that would promote more involvement by parents. It was decided that cooking special dishes once a month and sharing them with teachers, school support staff, and parents picking up their children at the end of the day would be a way to engage parents and enhance a sense of community. One parent of an academically challenged youth who had stopped coming to the after school program dropped by during one of these occasions and discussed program activities in detail with staff and tutors. This parent made contact with other parents and volunteered her time at the 4-H Bulldog Alert Support Our Students after school program to assist with activities. Important impacts included a greater number of parents involved by stopping by and interacting with their children as well as visiting with staff working with youth. Youth experienced aspects of living skills related to meal planning, preparation, and nutrition. Youth experienced value of group process in planning a successful project. A few months’ later 15 parents attended an evening parent appreciation night hosted by Cooperative Extension\'s 4-H Bulldog Alert Support Our Students after school program and the 21st Century Community Learning Center. This represented a 50% increase in attendance at a parent event. Participants reported that cooking special dishes and sharing them with others made them feel competent and valued.

Record #: 67 of 2747
Date: 2005-09-27
POW: A4
Location: Martin
Person Reporting: Cochran, Al

Peanut farmers have to spray fungicides about 5 to 6 times each season to control leafspot diseases. Extension peanut plant pathology specialists at NCSU have designed a weather advisory that predicts when condition are favorable for disease. This information was provided to farmers by a phone tips line and email newsletters by County personnel. Bertie County peanut farmers were able to reduce at least one application of fungicide by following the advisory. Surveys at production show that about 50% of farmers use the advisory to determine when to spray. Bertie County peanut farmers were able to reduce fungicide expenses by about 55,000 dollars by following the advisory.

Record #: 68 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E

From a meeting with the County Manager and a County Commissioner, Extension was asked to check out the landscape around the County Court House. Concern was the staining on Building. From an on site visit, the Caldwell County Extension Center and its Agents determined that "sooty mold" was the problem. Several options were offered. These included proper pruning, aphid control, removal and replacement of trees. Value to County $750.00.

Record #: 69 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-18
POW: A1
Location: Iredell
Person Reporting: Miller, Michael P

An educational meeting for corn and soybean producers from a 5 County area (Iredell, Rowan, Davie, Alexander and Caldwell) was held February 17, 2005 with 135 producers attending representing 35000 acres. An update on weed control was discussed along with neonicotinoid seed treatments for insect control in corn. In addition soybean varieties and plant populations along with Asiatic Rust, a new disease that was confirmed in the Southeast in November 2004, were highlighted. Based on estimated adoption rates of the practices corn and soybean farmers will realize an additional $420,000 in net income in 2005.

Record #: 70 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-20
POW: F1
Location: Cumberland
Person Reporting: Underwood, Candy

More than 60 percent Cumberland County women do not engage in the recommended amount of physical activity. Women of all ages benefit from a moderate amount of physical activity, preferably daily. The Cooperative Extension in collaboration with Cumberland County High School Family and Consumer Science teachers implemented Women Living Healthy. A total of 25 Family and Consumer Science teachers received training along with an interactive CD which focuses on healthy eating, physical activity, and women's health issues. All participants stated they gained knowledge about physical activity and nutrition. After using Women Living Healthy, 23 teachers indicated they will change their behavior regarding physical activity and nutrition. One teacher stated the following, "It is very user friendly and provides a wealth of information that I plan to use to change my lifestyle.

Record #: 71 of 2747
Date: 2005-09-28
POW: Y5
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Thompson, Drury

One of the objectives and services of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension 4-H after school program in Ashe County is to provide a safe place for youth in the community. A troubled middle school student regularly attending the 4-H after school program engaged in several incidents of disruptive, unsafe behavior, resulting in a parent conference and corrective action plan. The student was matched with a tutor of the program who was willing to work with the youth in a small group setting during after school hours. The youth participated in 3 sessions of Adventure Challenge, a life skill program in cooperation with the 4-H Blueridge Conservation Corps, an experiential learning program using group games to teach problem solving and social skills. This youth was impacted through a reported improved ability to resolve conflicts in a responsible manner with peers, and successful self behavior management during after school hours. As a result, he developed a more positive and improved behavior as evidence by responsible peer interaction. The participant refrained from engagement in unsafe or physically assaultive behavior for the remainder of the school year and was successfully employed at a local fast food restaurant during the summer.

Record #: 72 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-24
POW: A9
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Hamilton, James

Hispanics, primarily from Mexico, make up 80% of the labor force in North Carolina's Christmas tree industry. In 2004-2005 the Watauga AG Agent along with the Mountain IPM Specialist and other agents, developed an IPM course to train Hispanic workers in pest identification and the basics of scouting and integrated pest management. In February 2005, the Watauga agent trained 35 Hispanic workers in Spanish. This training will allow workers to identify pests and potential problems in the field allowing growers to make informed decisions regarding treatment options earlier, thus reducing overall insecticide treatments and exposure risks.

Record #: 73 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-24
POW: A9
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Moody, Jerrold T

On February 17, 2005 an IPM Scouting school was held in Avery County. This program sought to teach and re-iterate IPM Principles to growers with lots of Tree experience while still maintaining attention. With the use of innovative techniques, games, and teams the information concerning pests and pest management decisions were given out while the 30 attendees stayed attentive. Growers indicated through personal communication that the amount of information retained and new information learned was greater than any other meeting they had attended.

Record #: 74 of 2747
Date: 2005-09-28
POW: A4Location: Wilkes
Person Reporting: Miller, Matthew S

Wilkes corn growers need assistance in corn production to increase profitability and decrease pesticide use and human exposure. Cooperative Extension conducted the Wilkes Corn Production Meeting February 8 with 34 producers in attendance. 2.0 hr. of pesticide recertification was offered. Producers were informed of results of on-farm demonstrations evaluating hybrid yields and quality and also the effectiveness of seed treatments and Bt expression in root system for early season insect control. Producers increased awareness of importance of hybrid selection and how seed treatments and biotechnology instilled traits can benefit yields and reduce insecticides in the environment and also reduce farmer exposure. Farmer also learned about other important production topics such as weed control, fertilization, disease control and influence of plant population on yield. Adoption of recommended practices increased on 25% of the County acreage.

Record #: 75 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-06
POW: A1
Location: Wilkes
Person Reporting: Miller, Matthew S

Wilkes cattlemen need assistance with forage production and preventative health programs. Cooperative Extension coordinated an educational program for The Wilkes Cattlemen's Association on February 10, 2005 with 89 in attendance. Educational topics increased awareness and knowledge level concerning forage production, preventative cattle health programs and equipment and machinery selection to increase efficiency of production and profitability.

Record #: 76 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-24
POW: Y2
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Taylor, Tara

Lenoir County 4-H has partnered with a community organization called Sisters of Sara. We share similar objectives and goals. We are striving to provide limited income youth that live in the Carver Courts community with increased life skill development. By providing these young people with research-based information, we hope to mold them into citizens that contribute positively to their community. We hope to provide them with educational opportunities that will give them the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. This partnership is new, but is growing strong. Weekly meetings on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays are attracting larger youth crowds. At our last gathering, 20 youth met and learned about germs and how germs are spread and contribute to sickness. They are learning how to socialize with each other and adults in a responsible, respectful manner. They are learning how to control themselves in a healthy, safe environment.

Record #: 77 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-12
POW: F5
Location: Iredell
Person Reporting: Compton, Sandra G

A senior citizen asked NC Cooperative Extension for information to adapt her under-construction condo for Alzheimer's disease. Her husband has been diagnosed. She wanted to make the condo user friendly since she planned to keep her husband at home as long as possible. She was given three publications on Universal Design principles. Using information in the publications, the condo was adapted with a wheel chair accessible floor level shower. Doorways were enlarged for a wheel chair. Levers were used in place of door knobs. On a recent visit by Cooperative Extension, it appeared every possible modification had been made during construction so the Alzheimer patient could live comfortably in the condo until going to a care facility.

Record #: 78 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-12
POW: A1
Location: Perquimans
Person Reporting: Copeland, H J

In order for the cow-calf cattleman to be profitable he has to sell his calf crop. Unfortunately, this is not a given. Poor to zero conception rates are not uncommon and can ruin profitability for any given year. Progressive members of the Coastal Carolina Cattlemen's Association (sponsored by NC Cooperative Extension Service) held a bull breeding soundness evaluation for local cattlemen. Twenty-four bulls were checked by a veterinarian with four failing. Estimated savings in those herds could easily be $65,000 by identifying and rectifying the problem before breeding season.

Record #: 79 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-28
POW: C1
Location: Scotland
Person Reporting: Graham, Cathy L

Many workers at Scotland County Department of Social Services (DSS) were experiencing an extreme amount of stress due to caseloads increasing by 35-40% without the assistance of any new staff. Furthermore, the Income Maintenance Section reorganized and implemented a new multiple response system which required a significant amount of time for tracking and reporting. Based on this need, Scotland County Cooperative Extension facilitated a half day "Fun Academy" Retreat for the DSS Management Team. Thirteen members were involved in activities to promote distressing, reenergizing, and teambuilding. Follow-up surveys revealed 100% of participants felt less stressed and more reenergized due to participation. The retreat was so successful, Cooperative Extension has been asked to conduct similar retreats for the total DSS department in the future.

Record #: 80 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-28
POW: C1
Location: Scotland
Person Reporting: Graham, Cathy L

Scotland County's Long Range Plan identified the development of community leadership as a high priority need. Based on this need, Scotland County Cooperative Extension in collaboration with the Laurinburg/Scotland County Area Chamber of Commerce held a 2 day Leadership Retreat in 2005. Fifteen (15) participants completed a self-assessment utilizing the Human Patterns personality inventory. The inventory identified personal, interpersonal, occupational, and organizational preferences of each participant. Survey results showed 95% of participants felt they were better prepared to accept civic responsibility and roles of leadership in the community.

Record #: 81 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-28
POW: Y10
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Edwards, Nikki

Robeson County's youth needed an educational curriculum that would keep them interested in learning. The 4-H Program Assistant, Nikki Edwards, put out flyers in public, private, and home schools, and all housing authority buildings informing them of the 4-H embryology project. This project is hands-on and will expose the youth to several different life skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and leadership. With the help of United Way, 4-H will provide all necessary equipment and supplies needed including the training, incubators, and the fertilized eggs from the NCSU Hatchery. Out of the 34 schools, there were 36 participants to sign up and 46 called to inquire about more information for future interest. Due to the increase participation, the embryology project will be offered next year.

Record #: 82 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-01
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Tim, Peggy

Rising obesity among adults and youth is a concern for health care providers. During many of the classes conducted at EFNEP on Site, positive behaviors are enforced through education. Beth G. has been attending classes for over two years. She used the knowledge of the food guide pyramid and serving sizes to improve her health and her life. At our first class she was challenged to replace just one of many sodas consumed in a day with water. She commented that helped her to lose a few pounds and motivated her to eat and drink wisely. In Feb. 2005 she reported a loss of 132 lbs and a loss of 6 sizes of clothing. She also will get her associate degree in teaching from Surry Community college this May. She has a new look and new attitude for life.

Record #: 83 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-01
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cropps, Seydel

Many women are not receiving proper nutrition during their pregnancy. This, of course, can affect the unborn child. The EFNEP program is helping many women to understand the importance of proper nutrition. For example, Ms. T was four months pregnant when she started participating in the EFNEP program. She was not eating any vegetables and very little fruit. After participating in several classes and with the encouragement of other participants, she finally came to our last class and announced that she had eaten carrots, peas, potatoes and corn for dinner. The information discussed in class as well as the support she has been receiving from the class was able to accomplish this.

Record #: 84 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-30
POW: A15
Location: Currituck
Person Reporting: Perry-Weber, Jan

Through County surveys residents expressed an interest in learning how to graft plant material. The Extension office offered the class with a local knowledgeable instructor. The major techniques of grafting were covered during the class. Hands on demonstrations were also used as learning tools. Many of the 36 residents attending expressed a new knowledge base to help them produce new species and to save heirloom plants. The class was a great success for all residents attending.

Record #: 85 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-03
POW: F5
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S

Providing safe food in a clean and sanitary environment is the goal of every school food service employee. In an effort to achieve that goal, thirty representatives from every public school cafeteria in Carteret County as well as the Child Nutrition Director and Supervisor and two from Craven Co. participated in a Serve-Safe Class offered to the school system. Twenty-nine of the class took the exam. Twenty-seven passed. The class was team taught by the FCS Agent, a FCS school teacher, the Horticulture Agent, and a microbiologist from Sea Grant.

Record #: 86 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-04
POW: E2
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H

As a direct result of local programs on pesticide education, applicators are using a new type of spray nozzle. This nozzle is called an air induction nozzle. This spray tip greatly reduces the volume of small droplets and produces a more uniform, air filled, spray droplet that has reduced drift potential. This is helpful as the farm / urban interface grows. I estimate 400 acres will be sprayed with this improved nozzle. Spray drift or off target spray is illegal this program shows applicators how to reduce drift potential.

Record #: 87 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-04
POW: E8
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H

Pesticide container recycling sites have been in the County almost ten years. The sites were receiving many pesticide containers but, pesticide applicators were not bringing the containers to the site clean. The containers must be triple or pressure rinsed and the labeling removed to be recycled. Over the past three years this has been a focus of all pesticide education efforts. The efforts have paid off. Not one pesticide container was rejected by the recycling company. This is an improvement over the 50 percent rejection rate three years ago. This improvement saves the tax payers $9,000 per year in landfill costs.

Record #: 88 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-04
POW: A2
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H

Graded cattle sales allow farmers to pool their cattle with other similar cattle. Cattle buyers will pay a premium for grouped and graded cattle. I assist with four graded sales per year. This allows Caldwell County producers to receive an extra $10 to $30 per head over weekly sale prices. Over the last three years Caldwell County farmers participating in the sales has increased. Steve Anderson, a local poultry and cattle farmer received and extra $1000 by marketing 30 head through the graded sale.

Record #: 89 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-04
POW: A2
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H

Fescue grass is the dominate pasture grass in the Caldwell County. This grass, though abundant, causes performance problems when cattle graze it. Researchers have been tackling this problem for well over 20 years. One low cost option farmers have is to dilute the fescue grass with other grasses and clovers. Since this educational effort, more pasture is being diluted with other species of forage and three new no-till pasture drills are in the County. I estimate that 400 acres of pasture have been improved resulting in a 150 pound increase of 200 head. This practice provided the producers with an extra 30,000 pounds to sell at or at $0.90 per pound, and additional $27,000 dollars to the County.

Record #: 90 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-04
POW: F5
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Ostergaard, Nancy

With the supermarkets increasing in size it is getting more difficult for our aging population to accomplish their basic need of getting groceries. Being aware of the problems facing our elderly Buncombe County Extension in addition to several other agencies collaborated to approach a local grocery store chain to designate staff in their stores that would assist this population. It was determined that a pilot store would be chosen to advertise its staff availability to the senior population during a pre-determined time to assist with their shopping. Staff would aid in retrieving items from upper shelves, locate difficult to find items, etc. If found to be successful the service would be offered throughout the grocery store chain. This is the first service known of its kind to be offered in North Carolina to our aging population.

Record #: 91 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E

The Caldwell County Manager asked the Caldwell Cooperative Extension Center to help in the selection and planting of the "Tree of Strength" which was damaged at the Sheriff's Department during recent construction. Agent visited the site and made decision that the tree in question was not worth saving. Replacement tree was suggested/secured and planted. Savings to County $250.00.

Record #: 92 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
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 County Extension Director 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, and 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 #: 93 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
POW: C7
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E

From a meeting with the Caldwell County Planning Department, it was determined that the need existed to educated and up-date the County's Planning Department about stream bank classification, determining amount of damage, corrective measures, and how to explain procedures to homeowners and/or municipalities. This need existed because of the flood damage from the recent tropical storms and available funding for stream bank repair. The Caldwell Cooperative Extension Center held an educational workshop and conducted on site visits with Specialists from North Carolina State University. Those present (9) all expressed appreciation for the workshop and implied the knowledge gained would be use in their work with clientele with stream damage.

Record #: 94 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-08
POW: F1
Location: Halifax
Person Reporting: Allsbrook, Margaret P

Preschoolers from Weldon and Roanoke Rapids school systems and the Gingerbread House attended Nutrition Camp at the 4-H Rural Life Center in February. Approximately 226 children enjoyed their "camp" experience. The children participated in activities that focused on where we get our food, the bread group, the milk group, and proper hand washing skills. The sessions were taught by Joe Long(Rural Life Center Director), Margaret Allsbrook(Extension Agent), Suzanne van Rijn(Nutrition Program Supervisor), Halley Deihl(Livestock Agent), Teshena Best(4-H Agent), Carrie Davis(EFNEP Program Assistant), and Arnetta Wilson(EFNEP Program Assistant). By written evaluation, all children retained information on the areas discussed at camp.

Record #: 95 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-08
POW: F4
Location: Halifax
Person Reporting: Allsbrook, Margaret P

The Halifax County ECA presented its second annual Cultural Arts Fair in February. Entries totaled 26, which was twice the number of entries at the 2004 event. Members, representing 6 of the 7 active clubs, participated. Ernestine Anderson of the Scotland Neck club received recognition for Best of the Show with crocheted placemats and matching table runner. Her entry will be entered at the District event in March. During the Fair, approximately 35 people dropped by to view all entries.

Record #: 96 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-09
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert

The February 9, 2005 Forestry Issues Forum teleconference resulted in an estimated $5,985 in total cost savings for 115 participants from North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. For every dollar invested by participants, they received approximately $13.91 in cost savings when compared to attending a traditional conference. Of the $13.91 in cost savings, 63% is because of time-savings associated with attending the teleconference verses a traditional conference. 345 continuing education credits were awarded. 80% 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 58%.

Record #: 97 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-09
POW: Y3
Location: Granville
Person Reporting: Henry, Karen E

Due to a number of inquiries from community members, a 4-H Basics of Babysitting Training was put on at the Granville County Center. Ten youth participated in this workshop, learning about ages and stages of youth, basic CPR and First Aid, Healthy Snacks, Babysitting as a Business and Etiquette and Manners. As a result of the training, youth learned skills pertaining to caring for younger youth, communication, time management, getting along with others and workforce preparation. As a result of the training, these youth will be able to exhibit skills that may be used in the workforce and in society.

Record #: 98 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-09
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert

The January 20, 2005 Forestry Use-Value and Management Plan Program for Forest Landowners in Wentworth, North Carolina had reached approximately 33 people owning approximately 1711 acres of forestland. Program evaluations indicate for the 67% of the participants who do not currently have forestland enrolled in the forestry present-use property tax program 89% of them will enroll 865 acres under the program. Evaluations also indicate 73% of the participants will develop a forest management plan for their forestland (965 total acres) as a result of the program. Program participants, on average, felt they would save or make $1000 for participating in the program for a total savings and earnings of $14,110.

Record #: 99 of 2747
Date: 2005-07-01
POW: A1
Location: Durham
Person Reporting: Goldmon, Suzette S

Many employees today are too overwhelmed to attend classes to promote their personal health. To address this, Durham County Cooperative Extension offered a 12-part lunch-hour program entitled Workable Wellness to employees at Durham Social Services. The program helps people manage the struggles of leading a healthy, balanced life. One class dealt with stress. During that class a woman voiced that a new company procedure was causing her a lot of stress. Another employee offered her services to help the woman and they arranged to meet and review the procedure together. Both women were happy to solve the problem together and stayed after class to further discuss. This Workable Wellness program is an example of how agencies can work together to improve the quality of employee and work performed by the County.

Record #: 100 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-09
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert

The February Forestry Program in Currituck, North Carolina had reached 33 people owning 5878 acres of forestland. Program evaluations indicate for the 69% of the participants planning on selling timber, 31% have sold timber in the past, but with out assistances. For the 69% of the participants planning on selling timber in the future 94% will use a consultant to assist with sales. Program evaluations also compared participants’ knowledge level before and after the program on a 1-5 scale with 1 being poor and 5 being excellent. Participants’ knowledge level about selling timber went from fair (2.04) to good (3.74), an 83% increase. Participants’ knowledge level about seeking professional assistance went from fair (2.32) to good (3.95), a 70 % increase. Evaluations also indicated program participants, on average, felt they would save or make $869 for participating in the program for a total savings and earnings of $11,300.

Record #: 101 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-09
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert

The February Forestry Program in Hillsborough, North Carolina had reached approximately 29 people owning 1839 acres of forestland. Program evaluations indicate for the 75% of the participants planning on selling timber, 35% have sold timber in the past, but with out assistance. For the 75% of the participants planning on selling timber in the future 100% will use a consultant to assist with sales. Program evaluations also compared participants’ knowledge level before and after the program on a 1-5 scale with 1 being poor and 5 being excellent. Participants’ knowledge level about selling timber went from fair (2.10) to good (3.73), a 78% increase. Participants’ knowledge level about seeking professional assistance went from fair (2.22) to good (4.17), an 88% increase. Evaluations also indicated program participants, on average, felt they would save or make $950 for participating in the program for a total savings and earnings of $13,300.

Record #: 102 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-09
POW: F2
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L

Training for Daycare Instructors working with limited resources Extension Family and Consumer Science Agent provided training to 30 low income teachers. This is the second training provided to this group and they reported that after the training last year the instituted a policy change for the teachers to be allowed 1 hour of exercise time on Monday, Wednesday and Friday to help improve the health of their workers. Fifteen of the teachers utilize the room and time available to improve their quality of life and make behavioral health changes.

Record #: 103 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-11
POW: Y11
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Edwards, Nikki

Often times, our youth do not have the opportunity to experience positive activities that will allow them to demonstrate their part in being responsible. The Robeson County 4-H Program Assistant, Nikki Edwards, offered the animal science project to all of the 4-H participants as well as the general public. In this project, the children will select an animal, attend a workshop hosted by 4-H that provides all needed information on how to raise the animal, and pay only a small portion of the price of the animal (due to funding from United Way). At the end of the project, two brothers continued to care for their laying hens and roasters/broilers. They have increased their number of roasters from 6 to 32 and their laying hens from 7 to 68. They are currently selling the eggs and making a pleasant amount of money. The youth have learned responsibility, teamwork, leadership,

Record #: 104 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-10
POW: A7
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Godwin, Peg

The number of cut flower growers is increasing and with it comes increasing requests for information from Extension to help farms succeed. A conference on February 19, 2005 was sponsored by Lenoir County Cooperative Extension with NCSU, NC Commercial Flower Growers Association, Golden LEAF Foundation, and Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers. The Keys to Successful Cut Flower Production was attended by 67 growers from four states. Presentation topics included marketing, plug and transplant performance, good and bad insects, profitable new cuts and keys to production. The evaluations for this event rated it excellent and included comments like: “Solid programming”; “Should meet annually”; “I learned about different kinds of aphids”; “Wished it was longer”.

Record #: 105 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-27
POW: Y3
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Crouse, Morgan E

Rockingham County has a large population of five to eight year old youth. This age group needs a great deal of hands on activities. These youth want to do many of the same activities that the older youth get to do so Cooperative Extension offered a program for these youth on how to safely use a sewing machine. The workshop was very effective because it gave 15 youth a chance to learn by doing. They were shown how to use the sewing machines and then they got a chance to make their own project. They learned about sewing and it required them to use coordination to get it all done. This activity resulted in an increase in self confidence in each child. In the end each youth got to take home their project which they had designed, sewn and stuffed. It was a great learning experience which involved youth and volunteers.

Record #: 106 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-16
POW: A15
Location: New Hanover
Person Reporting: Nash, David L

Members of the Town of Oak Island Tree & Vegetation Preservation Committee and town residents became upset over improper pruning of trees located on street right-of-ways. The Town of Oak Island was using a boom-mounted bush hog to remove unwanted vegetation. This left trees and limbs mangled and broken. A second pruning was required to clean-up the problem resulting in increased labor costs for the town. This agent was asked to meet with town employees, department heads, commissioners, committee members and residents to address the problem. Proper pruning methods and appropriate equipment for pruning was presented to those in attendance resulting in a greater understanding of how to correctly prune trees. This will save the town money, time, and equipment costs. Also, the town has requested future consultation and training for their employees prior to the fall/winter pruning of street right-of-ways.

Record #: 107 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-16
POW: Y13
Location: Madison
Person Reporting: Kindley, Eve

Attendance at the West District 4-H Teen Retreat has steadily declined due to increased cost to attend the weekend event. Current West District 4-H Council Officers working with the Madison County 4-H Agent strived to achieve an outstanding educational opportunity for youth that was affordable for families. This year's retreat offered educational workshops on Civic Responsibility Globally, Civic Responsibility for our Natural Resources, Teambuilding and Electricity. Also, youth participated in District 4-H Council elections, a dance, and free time activities. Cost for the event decreased from $70 in 2004 to $55. Enrollment for the event increased from 88 to 116. 40% more youth were able to attend and participate in this year's event.

Record #: 108 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-17
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Sidebottom, Jill

· Spanish-speaking farm workers are in Fraser fir Christmas trees throughout the growing season doing a variety of tasks including fertilizing, shearing, and applying pesticides. Two day-long training sessions were held in Ashe and Avery Counties in February to train these men to recognize pest problems they might encounter while working. Trainings were conducted by Jim Hamiton in Spanish with help from Bryan Davis, Doug Hundley, Jill Sidebottom, Della Riley, and David Isner. Participants received a 7X power handlers and a scouting manual in Spanish. Of the 47 men attending, several owned their own Christmas trees or did contract work shearing trees and applying pesticides for the Christmas tree industry. This was the first time that pest identification, control and pesticide safety was offered in Spanish and many participants expressed their appreciation. Funds for these trainings were received by the Pesticide Environmental Trust Funds with NCDA&CS.

Record #: 109 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-17
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Sidebottom, Jill

As part of a Pesticide Environmental Trust Grant with NCDA&CS, 108 Christmas tree growers representing over 5,100 acres of Fraser fir Christmas trees were given extensive training on Fraser fir Integrated Pest Management including pest identification, control strategies, spray coverage and spray drift reduction. Trainings were conducted in Ashe, Avery, Yancey and Jackson counties and also included growers from Alleghany, Watauga, Mitchell, Burke, Swain and Macon Counties from January through March. Eighty-four percent of growers said the workshop would make them money with a reported $26,000 in yearly savings. These trainings were conducted by Jill Sidebottom with help from Doug Hundley, Bryan Davis, Jeff Vance, Jean Harrison, Christy Bredenkamp, Della Riley, and David Isner.

Record #: 110 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-18
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna

A seminar was held to educate the public on how to attract purple martins. Purple martins can greatly reduce the number of insects around homes and farms without the use of pesticides. 37 residents of Burke County participated in this workshop, taking away with them the information needed to attract these birds, build houses for them, best locations for houses and how to keep them returning year after year. Horse owners were particularly interested in fly control without the use of pesticides and most planned to put up houses in pasture areas. Plans for forming a Purple Martin Association were made.

Record #: 111 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-18
POW: A1
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna

Lawn care is an issue with homeowners. Costs can be very high and often fertilizers and chemicals are bought and applied needlessly and many times without the desired outcome. Two seminars were held with 30 homeowners attending. These homeowners learned about proper timing of fertilizers and pesticides along with practices that can sometimes take the place of pesticide use. They learned about proper grass planting techniques and the best times to sow grass. The types of turf grasses were discussed and how to choose the best type for the location. Consumers left with information on how to best care for their lawns without wasting time and money.

Record #: 112 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-18
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna

Record #: 113 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-18
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna

Improperly pruned fruit trees and grape vines will never bear fruit as well as plants that have been correctly taken care of. Two workshops were held on a peach and apple orchard site to show homeowners how to prune new, established and old trees. Homeowners got to prune under the supervision of experienced growers and were taught the proper techniques to be successful. 34 fruit tree owners are now better prepared to care for their fruit trees and grape vines, resulting in larger harvests and healthier plants.

Record #: 114 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-02
POW: F1
Location: Madison
Person Reporting: Estridge, Susan S

Madison County senior citizens are at an increased risk for malnutrition. The Family and Consumer Science agent offered Partners In Wellness, a nutrition program designed to improve the well being and nutritional status of older adults in N.C. In 2004, approximately 75 Madison County senior citizens from three congregate meal sites participated in 4-six week educational modules aimed at reducing risk factors for malnutrition: It Could Be Salts Fault; Liquids For Living; Where's the Fat and Variety Matters. Each session involved group interaction, skill building, taste testing, and a variety of activities designed to influence behavior changes. Pre/post surveys revealed an 80-90 % change in dietary changes which results in a decrease in the possibility of malnutrition.

Record #: 115 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-22
POW: F2
Location: Union
Person Reporting: Landsman, Robin

In December 2005 I established a Turn Off Take Charge Taskforce with partners from Partnership for Children, Union Regional Medical Center, The Enquirer Journal, The Union County Public Library and the Monroe Aquatic and Fitness Center. This taskforce has worked together to establish Union County's First Turn Off TV Week. Our week long event has garnered support from the schools, the churches, united way agencies, More at Four and Smart Start programs. We have engaged multiple organizations to provide screen free programming and parent education for every day of the week. We have the support from many area merchants who are providing family discounts for families who sign a TV Free pledge as well as many raffles to distribute at our Kick Off Pep rally scheduled for April 25th.

Record #: 116 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-29
POW: A5
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Jones, N W

Duplin Winery had established a 20 acre block of new grapevines. I helped train the new vineyard manager during the 2003 season which was his first year working with grapes. I stopped by the vineyard in April 2004 and saw they were applying fertilizer. I knew they were applying too much fertilizer way too close to the young vines. I stopped them and made them weigh the fertilizer. They were applying a 3X rate within 6 inches of the vines and had already done half the vineyard. I got them to use fan rakes to get the fertilizer away from the vines and start using the correct amount at the desired distance from the vines. The manager left the fertilizer around a couple of the vines to see for himself and almost killed those vines before he raked the fertilizer away and flushed with water.

Record #: 117 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-29
POW: A5
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Jones, N W

The Duplin Winery vineyard manager quit after harvest of the 2004 crop and the new manager called in mid September 2004 and wanted me to help calibrate his herbicide sprayer. After calibrating the sprayer I noticed a pallet of Roundup and Simazine had been delivered. This is what the manager was going to spray with. That would have been a huge mistake. There should be no Roundup used after June and no Simazine on vines less than 3 years old. If I had not seen and corrected this, 20 acres of 1 and 2 year old vines and 10 acres of 8 year old vines would have been lost.

Record #: 118 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-29
POW: A5
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Jones, N W

Duplin Winery credits my fertilizer program with the high yields they achieved in 2004. They picked 3 tons per acre on 2 year old vines. They had never picked over 1 ton on 2 year vines and sometimes never picked 2 year old vines with the machine due to low yields. Standard fertilizer recommendations for grapes use 10-10-10 and Ammonium Nitrate. I recommend 6-6-18 Tobacco Fertilizer and Calcium Nitrate because of a number of reasons. I also recommend epsom salt (Magnesium Sulfate) in the spray water when fruit begins to set. A number of growers saw the results of this fertilizer program and will use this program in 2005.

Record #: 119 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-29
POW: A5
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Jones, N W

Elizabeth Pecan Candy has 15 acres of peach trees and had hired a new orchard manager in 2004. The new manager called me to show him how to prune the trees and that was when I noticed the trees had no vigor due to root rot. Alan Bundy, owner of Elizabeth Pecan Company, told me he had the problem and nobody had a solution. I got a pint of Ridomil and we treated an acre to see if that helped. The trees responded within 10 days so Alan treated the whole orchard. Root rot symptoms disappeared during the 2004 growing season. Alan has said a number of times that the best thing the manager had done was introduce me to him.

Record #: 120 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-29
POW: A5
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Jones, N W

As a result of a field grown tree meeting I held, Stewart Davis planted 3 acres of holly and Live Oak in 2003. During the spring of 2004, I stopped by to see the trees and noticed Stewart had dropped his fertilizer (20-0-20) too close to the trees and had used way too much. Stewart was not around so I called him that night and told him about the problem. He raked the fertilizer away from the trees the next day. Stewart left the fertilizer around a few of the trees to see for himself. Those were the only trees that died (the fertilizer burned them up within 3-4 weeks).

Record #: 121 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-29
POW: E7
Location: Wake
Person Reporting: Lawrence, Grace

As part of the 319 funded workshop program, "How To Do Phase II", the Good Housekeeping Section was created. The "How To Do Phase II" program is to help communities across NC learn the steps necessary to complete requirements for the Phase II storm water runoff rules. The Good housekeeping Section highlighted practices municipalities could employ to keep their own facilities in compliance with Phase II rules. This program will be conducted in 30-40 communities across NC in 2005.

Record #: 122 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-31
POW: F2
Location: Greene
Person Reporting: Ford, Shenile

The County Employees Walking Club was a very successful program. Employees began walking in January and finished up in March. Each participant walked on their own and paid a quarter each time for the kiddie. The employee that walked the most was Roscoe Holloway who won the $16.00. The impact of the program is that employees will continue to walk 30 minutes during office hours. Walking according to some have increased productivity and have some have lost weight.

Record #: 123 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-31
POW: F2
Location: Greene
Person Reporting: Ford, Shenile

Yoga classes were offered to County employees in response to health awareness. It was a seven-week class. There were 23 women enrolled in the classes at noon time. The cost was $5.00 each class. Yoga has improved the flexibility of women in the class. It has helped two women learn how to counteract their arthritis pain in the mornings by learning how to stretch to alleviate their stiffness in the joints. The impact of yoga is that it has helped me personally to so my own breathing and stretching techniques which now I do not spend $100 a month at the chiropractors office.

Record #: 124 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-27
POW: Y10
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Crouse, Morgan E

Schools are always looking for programs that involve hands on learning. Cooperative Extension offered the 4-H Embryology Program as a hands on learning program for teachers to use. 551 children in local elementary and middle schools got to experience the Embryology program and utilize the curriculum. Through observing the incubation and hatching processes, youth learned life skills such as planning, keeping records and teamwork. They developed science skills such as observing, comparing and measuring and relating. As a result, teachers reported that students are more engaged in school work and have an increased knowledge about life cycles.

Record #: 125 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-31
POW: E3
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Lauderdale, Cynthia

The Green Industry is the second largest cash crop in Wilson County. This creates the need for more information for this growing agriculture sector. The Eastern NC Landscape Conf. was held with 301 in attendance. This event is a multi-County event and attracts participants from 25 different counties (1/4 of the state). Based on a survey participants will adopt BMP's:12% cycled irrigation, 9% water reuse, 24% nutrient management, 22% conservation practices, 45% integrated pest mgmt., 28% soil or foliar tests, and 33% split application and/or slow release fertilizers. Participants also saved money by reducing chemical use, etc. 21% of the participants saved over $100 each.

Record #: 126 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-31
POW: A15
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Lauderdale, Cynthia

Gardening is the number one hobby of Americans. Trees are very important to the landscape and need to be properly maintained. Because of this need the 15 Annual Spring Symposiums was held with grant funding from the NC Urban Forestry Council. A survey was sent to participants. Participants will adopt BMP's:425 Water conservation methods, 38 % BMP's for fertilization and use of non-chemical methods for pest control and 69% will use practices to enhance plant growth and reduce pesticide or fertilizer misuse. 65% of participants said that the Symposium saved them time or money ranging from $10 to $1,000 with an average saving of $146 per person.

Record #: 127 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-31
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cropps, Seydel

The average American consumes 158 pounds of sugar each year. Much of this is due to drinking less water and more sweetened drinks, such as soda and tea. Unfortunately, this contributes to obesity and tooth decay. The EFNEP program is encouraging parents to drink more water and set a good example for their children. In a class of fifteen, half the participants admitted carrying a soda bottle with them during the day. After participating in the EFNEP program, all but one says they now carry a water bottle with them. They say they have lost weight and feel better.

Record #: 128 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-09
POW: A1
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Cochran, James E

Over 40 inquiries for poultry production information was requested by prospective growers. An extensive packet was developed containing economic considerations, production practices, labor and management requirements and expectations. Opposing viewpoints of contract poultry production were also included. Farmer scrutiny was heightened given increased steel prices impacting projected cash flows. Smaller farms with more family heritage holdings to risk were of targeted concern vs. large commercial row crop farms choosing diversification. Twelve inquirers received funding and construction approval for forty-eight $650,000 poultry production complexes in Robeson, Hoke and Bladen counties. Seven consciously ceased pursuing poultry production. Two of twelve purchased property specifically for their new production venture while three of seven backed down from land purchases intended for new poultry house construction based upon Area Poultry Extension Agent provided discriminating information. Three prospective growers are known to consider other alternate enterprises for their farmland.

Record #: 129 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-09
POW: A1
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Cochran, James E

The winter area poultry Extension conference returned from a two year suspension due to bio-security concerns and disease spreading potential among growers of different poultry companies congregating. Previously, and still continuing, are educational meetings conducted for each poultry company. However, opportunities for growers from different poultry companies in a 5-7 County area to get together and discuss common interests is a rare and informative treat. One of the surveyed favorite aspects of the conference is grower exchange before, after and during meeting breaks with other growers. Forty plus participants received production and management updates concerning litter, pests, property taxes, regulations and technology topics. Ten follow-up requests were received for more detailed information introduced during the conference.

Record #: 130 of 2747
Date: 2006-01-10
POW: F3
Location: Johnston
Person Reporting: Stroud, Debra L

People in debt want to get out of debt but many don't make the changes necessary in order for this to happen. They don't make the changes because they do not know how. If an individual feels empowered they are more likely to make positive changes in their life. Money In Money Out (MIMO) is a program designed to teach basic financial management and awareness. One client reported that after completing the 6 week MIMO program he paid off one credit card and cleared up incorrect information on his credit report because he now knew how to do it. He says that he has a lot more to do but feels better able to make changes financially. All MIMO participants develop personal financial management plans after receiving the education necessary to implement those changes.

Record #: 131 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-04
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Tim, Peggy

Commercials affect the purchases many people make. Many commercials lead us to believe products are healthy for our family. Teaching clients to read and understand labels is an important part of the EFNEP program. S. Manchester commented that she uses much of the information learned at EFNEP ON SITE. Reading labels is one lesson she uses daily. She was shocked at the amount of sugar, fat and sodium contained in products she once had purchased. She now relies on labels to make her own evaluation of products instead of the claims used to market the products.

Record #: 132 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-04
POW: Y1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Cahoon, Patricia G

The 4-Ever Friends 4-H Club began meeting in January as a new club to specifically meet the needs of youths with disabilities. The initial meeting had 6 youths in attendance and has grown to 11 members with 7 having a disability. Each meeting not only has the youth in attendance, but also the adult parent or mentor. At the second meeting the adult leader held a “get to know 4-H” symposium with over 30 youths and adult volunteers learning about the curriculum areas, project record books, presentations and much more. In just three short months this club is thriving and definitely has an extremely captive audience.

Record #: 133 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-04
POW: Y1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Cahoon, Patricia G

Carteret County 4-H held a Presentation workshop to help members and their parents better understand what it takes to give a winning Presentation. Five youths, all winners at the district level and 3 at the state, with one adult took the lead in offering tips and samples of their posters to the 29 participants. The highlight of the evening was a candid segment of what “not” to do during your Presentation.

Record #: 134 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-04
POW: F1
Location: Halifax
Person Reporting: Allsbrook, Margaret P

National Nutrition Month was celebrated by the staff at the Halifax County Cooperative Extension Office. "Get a Taste of Good Nutrition" was encouraged throughout the month. The staff participated in a walking program, by attempting to walk around the world. For each 70,000 steps walked, their name was entered into a drawing for a special prize. Each day of the month the staff received a Nutrition tip of the day in their mailbox. Each week, a different country was highlighted. On Tuesdays, the staff received a "Fun Facts" sheet about the country and a short quiz. Upon completion of the quiz, staff was entered into a weekly door prize drawing. On Thursday of each week, the staff enjoyed a "taste" of the highlighted country. Recipes were shared with the staff. Countries highlighted included Brazil, Kenya, Russia, and Australia. The staff expressed satisfaction with this program and learned about places around the

Record #: 135 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-04
POW: F2
Location: Durham
Person Reporting: Lloyd, Cheryl L

Helping low literacy parents to adopt practices that improve their children's success rate in school requires that they first identify the need to do so. During a recent Motheread class--the Welcome Baby’s family literacy program—participants learned how stories can help even those with less reading skills gain a better understanding of parenting. After reading the story “Love You Forever,” one of the mothers in the group began to cry. She said the story touched her and made her wish that she could be more like the mother in the story. She then shared that she has felt very distant from her son 8 year old son. Her son has anger problems and has been getting in trouble at school. As this mother shared her story, the other mothers in the group helped her to see the connection between her distance from her son and his behavior problems, offered concrete

Record #: 136 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-04
POW: A1
Location: Durham
Person Reporting: Lloyd, Cheryl L

Homelessness causes a great deal of stress for families with children and exacerbates the normal challenges of parenting. When the Welcome Baby Parent Educator initially started going out to speak to some of the families in area shelters, she encountered some hostility from the parents due to their negative perceptions of “parenting classes” which they had equated with “bad parents” label. After taking sometime to explain to them about the importance of parenting education for all parents irrespective of their social economic or educational background, they gradually became more receptive and are now having very productive discussions. During the fourth class, the parents asked if the Parent Educator could stay behind for individual consultation which was an indication of their acceptance to learn more about parenting. They also expressed their enthusiasm by asking the parent educator not to cancel any class during spring break. The Parent Educator was successful

Record #: 137 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-04
POW: A7
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Collins, Randy

The meat goat industry is one of the fastest growing livestock industries in the United States. However, many beginning producers have discovered that not much credible information exists dealing with proper management techniques in goats. As a remedy to this problem, Cooperative Extension designed a two-day workshop entitled "The Tri-State Goat College". This workshop allowed producers from several states to set in on some lectures that presented research based answers to current management problems. Participants also got to view a hands-on demonstration in the afternoon, showing some of the current practices in goat care. The workshop was designed by agents from Graham, Cherokee, and Clay counties and utilized the expertise of several university specialists from both NC State and Tennessee. As a direct result, eighty-eight participants from four different states participated in the program. At least half indicated that they were going home to make immediate changes in the way

Record #: 138 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-05
POW: C8
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Parsons, James T

An emergency response exercise dealing with avian influenza introduced by a terrorist was conducted on March 23, 2005. The exercise involved 8 counties and many agencies and poultry companies. My role was to serve as one of the public information officers along with Dr. Donna Carver, Extension Veterinarian, and Bob Ford, Executive Director of the NC Poultry Federation. The exercise was deemed a success by all parties involved. However, several short comings were identified. Identifying "problems" was considered one of the more significant impacts of the exercise. The knowledge gained will be valuable in the event of a "real" disaster.

Record #: 139 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-05
POW: E1
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Parsons, James T

Bio-security for poultry farms is consistently identified as a concern by my Poultry Specialized Advisory Committee. Part of a good bio-security program involves the use of disinfectants. To address this concern, 2 meetings were conducted, one for turkey service persons, and one for chicken service persons. The purposes of the meetings were to present fact based information on the types of available disinfectants and the proper use of these products. The information gained from these educational meetings should help prevent the spread of disease on poultry farms.

Record #: 140 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-05
POW: E8
Location: Wayne
Person Reporting: Pleasants, Robert H

Through a cooperative arrangement with the Center for Environmental Farming Systems and the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Wayne County Cooperative Extension promoted and conducted a Pesticide Disposal Day for Wayne and surrounding counties. On March 30, citizens brought in 588 containers of pesticides with a total weight of 5147 pounds. A professional pesticide disposal company packed the containers for transport and removed them from the County for incineration.

Record #: 141 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-05
POW: E8
Location: Wayne
Person Reporting: Pleasants, Robert H

Through seven pesticide applicator recertification classes developed by and offered through Cooperative Extension in Wayne County, over 200 private and/or commercial pesticide applicators received over 400 hours of recertification credit in January and February.

Record #: 142 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-05
POW: E1
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Patoprsty, Wendy

During the Fall floods of 2004, many homes were damaged and millions of dollars were lost in property damage. During this time many private wells and springs were inundated with surface water. The Avery and Watauga Cooperative Extension service offered free well and spring water sampling for 100 homes that were affected by the flooding. The Town of Boone and CES collaborated so that the water samples could be tested at a state certified lab. The homes that tested positive for coliform and e.coli were all helped by the County agent to remediate their problem water.

Record #: 143 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-05
POW: E6
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Patoprsty, Wendy

Storm water runoff is the major contributor to water quality in our mountain streams. As water flows off pavement it picks up pollutants such as gas and oil and delivers it to a nearby stream. In January 2005, with cooperation from the Town of Newland, EPA 319, NCSU Water Quality Group, NC Cooperative Extension, North State Environmental, and Avery County, a storm water wetland was installed in the Town of Newland. This wetland was planted with 3,000 native plants to reduce storm water runoff coming from shopping center parking lots to the North Toe River. It is located on the river walk, so a kiosk was installed with a poster explaining the project. In addition to the wetland and kiosk, pervious concrete was poured in front of a stage as a BMP (Best Management Practice) demonstration.

Record #: 144 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-05
POW: E7
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Patoprsty, Wendy

There was widespread damage in the streams from the hurricanes in Watauga and Avery Counties. In collaboration with NCSU Water Quality Group, WAMY, Watauga County Cooperative Extension, EPA 319, and private landowners, 3,000 native plants were planted on stream banks after they were sloped back to a working angle. The trees will provide bank stability, shade for cooler water temperatures, habitat, and a reduction in non point source pollution for years to come.

Record #: 145 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-05
POW: E5
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Patoprsty, Wendy

The Kids in the Creek program needed some extra supplies for the 4th-5th grade students. In collaboration with the Watauga River Conservation Partners, TVA, and the NC Cooperative Extension the World Wildlife Fund granted $5,000 to us for a microscope with attached digital camera, another digital camera, and various educational supplies for the program. The microscope will be used for the Kids in the Creek, but it will also be used with the Watershed Watch Volunteer Monitoring program as well. These cameras and microscope will allow children to view live bugs enlarged on the wall for great detail. This will help give them a better understanding of what the stream creatures need in order to survive in a stream. Which will give them a deeper understanding of the ecology in our environment.

Record #: 146 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-05
POW: E4
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Patoprsty, Wendy

There is a great need for sampling the rivers and streams on a regular basis because the state agencies report every 5 years. The VWIN program received funding for another year to continue to collect samples 6 times a year for 8 different parameters. The samples are collected by community volunteers who are trained by the Cooperative Extension. This project is in collaboration with SAMAB, UNC Asheville Environmental Quality Institute, Equinox Environmental, National Forest Foundation, Watauga River Conservation Partners, community members, and the Avery/Watauga Cooperative Extension Service. The data has already been used to supplement state water quality data on certain streams.

Record #: 147 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-07
POW: F2
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Buchanan, Linda

Many Graham County fathers must work outside the County and of necessity, are not able to spend much time with their families. To address this problem, FCS agent developed a Fatherhood brochure to give information concerning research-based reasons why fathers are important and tips on how to remain an active parent even while away from home. Phillips & Jordan, the largest construction company in the SE, requested 150 of these brochures to distribute to their employees with their May, 2005, paychecks. As a result, 150 fathers in Graham County received information on the importance of their role and how to be a more effective parent.

Record #: 148 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-07
POW: F1
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Buchanan, Linda

In 1995, an estimated 13,500 North Carolinians were hospitalized with an osteoporosis related fractures, representing 110,000 hospital days at a cost of more than $14 million. A comprehensive osteoporosis treatment program includes a focus on proper nutrition, exercise and safety issues to prevent falls that may result in fractures. A program addressing these issues was presented at three senior facilities during the month of April, 2005. Consequently, 30 Graham County senior citizens became more knowledgeable about osteoporosis, the risk factors involved, preventative measures and self-care for those who have already been diagnosed. These seniors plan to make at least one change in their eating habits or lifestyle to lower their risk of having osteoporosis.

Record #: 149 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-07
POW: F1
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L

School Health Advisory work has culminated in the completion within the committee work to provide the school principals with a checklist to determine the need for improvements in the healthy school environment. The local School Nutrition Program had received a grant to fund the purchase of fruits and vegetables in two low income schools. Extension Volunteers with the Family and Consumer Science program provided gardening demonstration in the school cafeterias to allow children to view how their fruits and vegetables grow. Over 440 children observed strawberry plants, broccoli, onion, lettuce, tomatoes and spinach being planted. This is the school years culmination of impacting the school environment with healthy messages regarding 5 a day. Building and maintaining the relationship over the past two years with the school system has built a level of trust and cooperation to make positive changes in the community.

Record #: 150 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
POW: C5
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E

From a meeting with the County Planner, it was determined that the need existed for educating governmental agencies, landscapers, engineers and others involved in earthmoving near, planting or repairing stream banks. The Caldwell County Cooperative Extension Center conducted a workshop with Dr Greg Jennings, NCSU, and Lara Rozzell, NCSU Water Quality Group, helping with the meeting. Participants gained knowledge and skills on how to evaluate damaged stream sites and design high quality repair solutions. Those present (23) all expressed appreciation for the workshop and indicated that they would adopt at least one of the stream bank repair solutions covered.

Record #: 151 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-08
POW: E3
Location: Pitt
Person Reporting: Lauderdale, Danny M

On Tuesday, February 1, 2005 41 members of the green industry from Pitt County (landscapers and nursery employees) learned about weed identification and management, turf grass diseases, sudden oak death, and new pest management products at the Eastern North Carolina Landscape Conference and Trade Show sponsored by North Carolina Cooperative Extension in Johnston, Nash, Pitt, and Wilson Counties. Based on surveys of the conference these professionals indicated increased knowledge of weed and disease identification which will improve their ability to do their jobs and a value to them of $8,200.

Record #: 152 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-08
POW: Y10
Location: Cherokee
Person Reporting: Stiles, Jane G

Poor eating habits and unhealthy snacks for most of Cherokee School Age youth is one of the factors contributing to childhood overweight. Peachtree Elementary School received grant money to educate youth on eating healthy snacks. Cherokee County 4-H Agent, 4-H Program Associate, and the FCS Agent were ask by the Peachtree Elementary School Staff to teach healthy snacks and to educate them on the nutritional value of the snack. The youth were surveyed by the 4-H staff on the types of fruits and vegetables they would like to try. Our Educational Program was based on these surveys. The 204 youth were served free healthy afternoon snacks for a total of 8 weeks. The students surveyed, 94% said they would continue healthy snacks outside the school setting. The youth got to eat different fruits and vegetable they had never eaten before.

Record #: 153 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-08
POW: A16
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Ashburn, Diane

The Organic Growers School is an annual event held in Henderson County for the past 12 years. The School committee is comprised of individuals from Blue Ridge Community College, Warren Wilson College, area organic farms, and North Carolina Cooperative Extension. This year we saw it necessary to include an educational component for children to the agenda along with usual adult education. We accepted 30 participants to learn about goats, llamas, plants, insects, and making organic foods. The day was a complete success with 100% of the participants walking away with an increased understanding of organic growing.

Record #: 154 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-08
POW: F1
Location: Cherokee
Person Reporting: Roberson, Jessica L

Only one in five children consume five servings of fruits and vegetables a day, as recommended by the National Cancer Institute. Extension was asked by Cherokee County Schools to present fruit and vegetable programs for 204 students (age’s pre k through 5th grade). The school had received a grant enabling the cafeteria staff to offer free fruits and vegetables as snacks. The FCS agent and the 4-H agent with the 4-H program associate provided several programs and activities throughout 8 weeks. The 3rd through 5th grade students were given a pre and post survey to see if they were eating 5 fruits and vegetables a day. The surveys indicated that 75% were consuming 5 fruits and vegetables a day and 100% of the students knew why it was important to consume a daily amount of 5 fruits and vegetables.

Record #: 155 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-10
POW: Y10
Location: Cherokee
Person Reporting: Coleman, Rebecca

The Cherokee County Center of the NC Cooperative Extension partnered with Peachtree Elementary in an effort to help youth of the school learn to choose healthier snacks along with trying to help fight the growing problem of childhood obesity. The 4-H Agent, 4-H Program Associate, and Family Consumer Sciences Agent go once a month and do educational programs with the students about healthy food choices and why it is important for them to eat a healthy snack. The 4-H Agent and 4-H Program Associate conducted a survey of some of the 204 students participating in the programs. Out of the students surveyed, 94% of the youth said they would eat healthier snacks at school if provided. Another survey will be conducted at the end of the overall program to see if the students are still making good snacking choices. We hope that this will help the students against the growing obesity problems some are facing.

Record #: 156 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-11
POW: A1
Location: Onslow
Person Reporting: Adams, Emily M

Nutrena, Cooperative Extension, and REINS hosted an Equine Nutrition Seminar at the Onslow County Multipurpose Complex on February 3. There were 30 horse owners from Onslow, Carteret, Craven, Pamlico, and Pender counties that attended. Area horse owners were able to learn important information about the nutritional needs of their horses that they could apply in determining the proper diets for their animals.

Record #: 157 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-11
POW: A1
Location: Onslow
Person Reporting: Adams, Emily M

Two Advanced Forage Management classes were offered in Onslow and Craven counties on February 21 and March 19. As a result of the classes, 35 horse and livestock producers were able to gain new information on forage management and related topics. In addition 6 swine producers were able to earn 6 continuing education credits by becoming more knowledgeable of forage related topics affecting their swine operations.

Record #: 158 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-11
POW: A1
Location: Onslow
Person Reporting: Adams, Emily M

Onslow County Extension offered 3 Pesticide Recertification Training classes to area certified pesticide applicators. Each class offered 4 hours of continuing education credits. As a result of the classes, 50 certified applicators were able to receive the certification credits they needed in order to keep their pesticide licenses current.

Record #: 159 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-20
POW: A1
Location: Onslow
Person Reporting: Adams, Emily M

A series of Horse Management Short Courses was held in Kenansville, NC and sponsored by REINS and Cooperative Extension in conjunction with James Sprunt Community College. As a result of attending the 4 short courses, area horse owners were able to gain valuable information on pasture management, nutrition, barn and fencing design, and health care that could be used to improve the quality of life for their horses.

Record #: 160 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-12
POW: C1
Location: New Hanover
Person Reporting: Nash, David L

In March 2005, this agent presented a program to the Oak Island Lions Club. Members learned about the importance of the coastal ecosystem and the need to conserve and protect coastal resources and the environment. A reporter from the Myrtle Beach Sun News attended the meeting and interviewed this agent afterward. The resulting story made the front page of the March 25, 2005 edition of the Sun News. The article emphasized the impact of programs by the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service to reach coastal residents with educational information to conserve and protect coastal resources and the environment.

Record #: 161 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-12
POW: A5
Location: Pitt
Person Reporting: Booth, Marian P

4-H life skills is a model for success. 32 youth at risk are gaining valuable life skills through citizenship and civic education. The 21st Century after-school academy program at Northwest Elementary School is focusing on 4-H curriculums for academic enrichment and leadership to help improve student performances. By utilizing the 4-H life skills model there has been a tremendous difference in their altitude towards learning.

Record #: 162 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-30
POW: A5
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Holmes, Kathryn A

Cooperative Extension helped with a Rockingham County Bee Field Day on Saturday April 16, 2005. The 40 people present learned how to check the hive to make sure the queen is lying correctly and everything looks healthy. There was a demonstration how to split a hive. Three hives were check for mites using the sugar shake method and the screen sticking board method for checking was explained. A hive was then treated with the apistan strips. One hour of pesticide continuing certification was available and 11 people signed the roster. Three of the NC Cost-sharing program new beekeepers and four youth beekeepers attended the field day. Participants have reported using this information gained to check their personal hives for pests.

Record #: 163 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-19
POW: A7
Location: Haywood
Person Reporting: Hawk, Robert J.

A farmer in Graham County was funded in 2004 under the "Agricultural Tourism and Crop Diversification" Program now known as the "Western North Carolina Agricultural Options" program administered from Buncombe County Cooperative Extension. This farmer was funded with $2,500.00 to aid in the development of a greenhouse for medicinal and other natural mountain plants such as bloodroot, yellow root and other specialty plants utilized for cultural practices in the Southern Appalachians. In 2005 a grant was awarded to the Qualla Arts and Crafts Cooperative on the Cherokee Indian Reservation from the Cherokee Preservation Foundation. The focus of this grant is too aid craftsman in the preservation and practice of Cherokee basket making with native plants. The dye materials that are utilized to make these cultural baskets must come from native plants to be authentic and of high value and quality. Both came together in trade in April 2005.

Record #: 164 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-19
POW: F1
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Smith, Trudy

Containing health care costs and improving health among employees is important to all businesses. Three issues underlie 2/3 of all preventable diseases and death. These issues are tobacco use, poor nutrition, and physical inactivity. Offering wellness programs on the job can provide education that will enable employees to address these 3 issues in their lives. Cooperative Extension in Duplin County provided the Workable Wellness series to Duplin General Hospital in 2004. The module on “Adding Steps to Your Day” encouraged several of the participants to start wearing pedometers in order to improve their physical activity output. Educating employees about the long term health benefits of consistent physical activity results in healthier employees and ultimately in reduced health costs to both employers and employees.

Record #: 165 of 2747
Date: 2005-11-21
POW: A3
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Honeycutt, Eve

For year’s youth have gained skills such as responsibility, dependability, and accountability while showing animals in the 4-H Livestock program. In March of 2005, the 65th annual Coastal Plains Junior Livestock Show and Sale had exhibitors from Pender, Duplin, Onslow, Craven, Jones, Carteret, Lenoir, Greene, and Pitt, Wayne, and Sampson counties. Over 150 youth exhibited 250 animals and earned collectively over $60,000 for the sale of those animals. Extension staff from these 11 counties works with the youth to get the animals and the children ready for this annual event. By participating in this show, children learn their importance in the animal agriculture industry, and the importance of this industry to their communities.

Record #: 166 of 2747
Date: 2005-10-06
POW: A3
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Honeycutt, Eve

The animal agriculture industry must constantly meet demands of consumers. It has become necessary to ensure consumers that production animals are treated safely and humanely while on the farm and in transport to markets. Lenoir County Extension partnered with the NC Agrimedicine Institute to teach 15 livestock show participants the importance of proper treatment of farm animals with the Pork Quality Assurance Program. The youth demonstrated a 75% increase in knowledge and skills associated with raising livestock. Because of their participation in this program, the participants were able to guarantee their animal was a safe product that consumers and stockyards would be willing purchase.

Record #: 167 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-20
POW: E1
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Honeycutt, Eve

Swine producers must meet water quality requirements from DWQ to remain a viable operation. Some of these regulations require producers to perform sludge surveys of their waste lagoons on an annual basis. These surveys can be performed by the individual producers, but most do not know how. Greene and Lenoir County Extension taught two classes to inform producers how to perform the survey. Over 50 producers attended the classes and will be able to save over $500 per farm because they know how to survey their lagoon without hiring a private company.

Record #: 168 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-20
POW: A2
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Honeycutt, Eve

Because of the recent concern surrounding BSE, or Mad Cow Disease, the USDA and NCDA have implemented a National Animal ID program for the identification of animals and farms during a disease outbreak. Producers are encouraged to sign up in order to make tracking infected animals easier. Lenoir and Greene County Extension held two informational meetings to inform livestock producers on the program. Fifty two producers will sign up for the program during this initial phase. Additional information was made available during a television interview and with a newspaper article. Extension in these counties has taken the initiative to make sure the public understands the importance of animal identification.

Record #: 169 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-20
POW: F2
Location: Duplin
Person Reporting: Clay, Wanda C

Court-mandated parents in Duplin County need increased knowledge in the area of parenting teen-agers. As a result of reviewing normal developmental stages of teen-agers with the parent, Mrs. Jones states that her teenagers feel more secure in the home with her now that they have established rules and boundaries in their home. She also states I believe my children know that I love them.

Record #: 170 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-21
POW: Y1
Location: Transylvania
Person Reporting: Arnaudin, Mary W

Just wanted to report on our Jr. So Fine Equine Club. As you know, we were having some issues during our meetings. Our officers were not about to conduct the meetings successfully. The members were disruptive and often discussions fell into chaos. To address this problem we planned a leadership workshop aimed at helping each member discover what role the officers and members should be. We reviewed basic parliamentary procedure and how it enables everyone to have a more effective role in the club. What a success! We now have young people who have taken ownership of their club and respect the president as she conducts the meeting. Their goal is to be respectful members by listening and staying focused. Our meetings are now a joy!

Record #: 171 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-21
POW: Y1
Location: Transylvania
Person Reporting: Arnaudin, Mary W

As the volunteer leader of a 4-H horse club, I have tried to interest our members in doing a 4-H presentation. Their blank expressions made me realize they did not have a clue about what a presentation is. Working with our 4-H Agent, we planned a sleepover/workshop at a camp to help them plan and organize a presentation. By the end of the workshop, each participant had helped give a presentation. Now, at our monthly meetings, the kids have enjoyed taking turns doing the programs themselves. They have all become more confident in their public speaking. Their presentations have been organized and informative. We are going to help them polish up these club presentations for District Activity Day. In time, they will be required to do Sr. projects and professional presentations. I am sure they will be thankful to 4-H for helping to develop this leadership skill.

Record #: 172 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-21
POW: Y13
Location: Transylvania
Person Reporting: Arnaudin, Mary W

Everyone knows that learning to eat healthy foods is a key factor in staying healthy for life. It’s putting that knowledge into practice that can be difficult. Transylvania County’s Sr. High 4-H Cooking Club decided to see if they could make a difference by organizing and teaching a “kids’ cooking class”. The teens took responsibility for advertising, designing lesson plans, shopping for supplies, creating handouts and leading. Twelve children ages 9-11 responded to the club’s open invitation to join them for a day of “fun and food creativity”. Evaluations completed by the children revealed that everyone had fun and learned to prepare healthy snacks they planned to fix at home. Most made 6-9 new friends from across the County who share their interest in cooking. Everyone reported trying at least one food they liked for the first time.

Record #: 173 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-21
POW: Y1
Location: Transylvania
Person Reporting: Arnaudin, Mary W

Although several families from an isolated community wanted a 4-H club at their school last fall, no parents felt capable of serving as volunteer leaders and providing programs. By establishing a new partnership with two educational rangers from a nearby state park, we were able to start the new club in February. The rangers lead the programs while the parents take turns providing snacks and supervision. A teacher at the school helps remind the children of meetings and stays for club meetings so we can meet at the school free of charge. The club has 15 members and several have participated in countywide 4-H programs.

Record #: 174 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-21
POW: E8
Location: Franklin
Person Reporting: Mitchell, Charles

Franklin County Cooperative Extension in collaboration with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services held an old/unused pesticide collection day in March 2005. We collected a total of 1,481 pounds of old pesticides and 167 pesticide containers. The purpose of this program is to keep these products out of our landfills and to protect our environment. This program not only protected our environment, but saved farmers over 15,000 dollars in disposal fees. The value to the citizens of Franklin County and the environment is well over 50,000 dollars.

Record #: 175 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-21
POW: A10
Location: Franklin
Person Reporting: Mitchell, Charles

Franklin County Cooperative Extension held An Arbor Day Tree-Give-Away during the month of March. ? We worked closely with over 17 sponsors to make this event a success. We raised 1,375 dollars to purchase over 15,000 trees and 18 different species to give away. The purpose of this event was to educate the public on the importance of trees in our environment. Extension was able to run newspaper articles, newspaper ads, five minute lunch hour radio programs, and two 20 minute radio talk shows on the importance of trees. We focused on 18 native species and elaborated on their characteristics. The day of the event we reached over 250 people and exposed them to Extension, native plants, and gardening issues that they face each month. This event cost over 5,000 dollars to conduct; however, it was worth over 200,000 dollars to the citizens of Franklin County and the surrounding counties.

Record #: 176 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-01
POW: A7
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Brewington, Martin L

Bee swarms are not uncommon this time of the year. Twelve area beekeepers are assisting residents with retrieving swarms of bees from their property. This will reduced the number of violations of EPA laws by residents using illegal chemicals to resolve the problem. Martin Brewington, Extension Technician and Extension coordinator for Area Beekeepers, coordinated the retrieval of fifty four (54) swarms of bees in 2005. Retrieving bee’s swarms has saved beekeepers $3,800 this year. A nuc box consists of four or five frames of brood and bees, plus an actively laying queen. In 2005 beekeepers added 54 colonies to their bee yards from retrieving swarms saving $3,800 in bee expenses. The Area Beekeepers will continue this service for the residents of Robeson County during the coming years.

Record #: 177 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-28
POW: A15
Location: Currituck
Person Reporting: Perry-Weber, Jan

The Currituck Master Gardeners and the Extension sponsored their eighth annual Flower and Garden Show in April. Hundreds of visitors attended the event despite inclement weather. Thirty three exhibitors participated in this year's show. Vendors displayed and sold a large variety of plants and gardening supplies. Local artists offered paintings, pottery, handcrafted birdhouses, books, artificial flowers, and gardening apparel. The Master Gardener's booth offered a large variety of plants including herbs and perennials propagated and cared for by the members. The Master Gardener's were available to answer questions in all areas of horticulture. Thirty Master Gardener' were actively involved in organizing the show. This year’s show was a great success.

Record #: 178 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-28
POW: A4
Location: Pitt
Person Reporting: Smith, R M

PROPER TOBACCO DISEASE IDENTIFICATION REDUCES COSTS – One of the most important tobacco diseases in the greenhouse is pythium root rot (PRR). If a greenhouse is determined to be infected by this disease, the extra financial investment of a fungicidal application is necessary in order to reduce the potential losses from this disease. During the winter of 2005, eight Pitt County tobacco farmers received on-site consultations from the Pitt County Extension Center to determine if control measures were necessary to combat PRR. The NCSU Plant Disease and Insect Clinic also assisted with this project by verifying if PRR was infecting several of these greenhouses. As a result of Extension efforts, these eight tobacco farmers were informed that their greenhouses were not infected with PRR. A total of $5337 was saved through lower production costs and reduced pesticide usage.

Record #: 179 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-29
POW: A9
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Little, William E

Women In The Woods program was held for women to gain knowledge for decision making of forestry management goals. With many women holding timber land as a result of inheritance, they are faced with making choices for selling timber. This workshop covered many of the items they will face in this endeavor. Results from the survey they completed at the end of the sessions were very positive on the content of the program.

Record #: 180 of 2747
Date: 2005-04-29
POW: F4
Location: Halifax
Person Reporting: Allsbrook, Margaret P

Halifax County ECA members traveled from end of Halifax County to another on April 12...the "official" Halifax Day. Members visited the restored depot in Hobgood, Josey Brothers gift shop in Scotland Neck, Safelite glass in Enfield, the Halifwa-Saponi Tribal Center in Hollister, Lake Gaston, and the Center at Halifax Community College. Members learned many interesting facts about Halifax County. Even though most of the members participating have lived in Halifax County numerous years, they all felt they had learned something new about our County or seen something they had never seen before.

Record #: 181 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-02
POW: A3
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Collins, Randy

Living in our advanced society, more and more youth in public school systems have less knowledge of what our food sources are and what processes are involved in producing America's food. On April 20th, 2005 24 youth from a kindergarten class at Robbinsville Elementary School toured C&C Farms in Graham County. The purpose of this tour was to educate students at an early age as to where some of the food they eat comes from. In addition, many students that had never been on a farm got to view first-hand some of the activities that go on at a farm. As a direct result of this tour, 85% of the students exhibited an increased comfort around farm animals, and at least 90% exhibited that they had an understanding of where some of their food comes from. The class finished by having lunch at the farm.

Record #: 182 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-02
POW: Y8
Location: Dare
Person Reporting: Hubbard, Amanda

Twenty after school childcare providers attended the school age development workshop: From Spongebob to Tweens: Development of the School Age Child. Child development theory was reviewed and put into practice through 5 hands-on activity stations that participants were able to manipulate and experience. 100% of participants stated that they learned new ideas that they can use in their center, while 85% of participants strongly agreed that they will use the information in their center to improve school age care. When asked to put a nominal value on the two hour training if it were offered in the private sector, the average cost reported was $31 per person.

Record #: 183 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-27
POW: F2
Location: Union
Person Reporting: Landsman, Robin

On April 24 through April 30 Union County enjoyed its first Turn Off TV Week. This program involved daily non screen activities for families, and local coverage on Channel 14 News, Heart to Heart Radio Program and daily articles in the Enquirer Journal about the negative impact of TV and event coverage. Turn Off TV Week will continue to be an annual count event. By turning off the TV families get more exercise and have less contact with advertisement for unhealthy food choices. This impacts the health of our children and families and can reduce the incidence of childhood overweight. With a decrease in obesity the incidence of chronic illness included diabetes and heart disease can be reduced.

Record #: 184 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-02
POW: A3
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Wagner, Brandi

Agriculture is the base of life as we know it in world. Without it we people will not be able to go off to work and make a living. This was our (Rickey Williams & myself) theme during Bartlett Yancey High School's Career Day. We began each class with a question, "What did you have for breakfast this morning?" From this we went into all the careers in agriculture. This was a great way to the youth involved in how many people are involved in getting their cornflakes to the store.

Record #: 185 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-02
POW: Y13
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Cahoon, Patricia G

The first TRY-IT team in Carteret County attended their initial training in April. The four youth, one adult coach and the agent stayed 2 nights at BJP 4-H Camp to help the team learn strategies of how to teach other youths. One of the most successful parts of the weekend involved one of the team members. She is dyslexic and came away with a lot of confidence in herself. The entire team did great in their processing and presenting of information learned. Several teaching opportunities for the team have been scheduled during the summer.

Record #: 186 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-02
POW: F1
Location: Union
Person Reporting: McNeill, Sally E

April 2005: The Noon lighting Weight Management series (Moving Toward a Healthier You) was taught by the FCS agent at the Monroe Aquatic and Fitness Center during the winter/spring of 2005. Eighteen individuals graduated from the 12-week series, each participant having attended at least 7 or more of the nutrition sessions. The average amount of weight lost during the program was 9.3 pounds, with one individual losing 39 pounds. As important as the actual weight loss was the positive change people make in their eating and physical activity habits. Evaluation comments included, "Noon lighting has made a positive change in my lifestyle. I feel so much healthier and stronger. The information I have learned will be used on a daily basis." and "...that instead of some fad diet, I know now how to eat right."

Record #: 187 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-22
POW: Y3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Rogers, Aggie L

Yearly completion of project records is an important component of the 4-H program. Records reflect what 4-H'ers have planned, done and learned. Getting youth to complete these records can be a task. Getting volunteers to motivate, encourage and assist club members was the answer. Robeson County sent volunteer leaders to assist with district judging. By judging other books, leaders learned new methods of reporting, also aware of how important record keeping is as a life skill. As a result, 51 books were submitted, 17 were sent for district competition. The impact is that we will have at least six (6) district winners.

Record #: 188 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-03
POW: C4
Location: Currituck
Person Reporting: Perry-Weber, Jan

The 2005 Master Gardener Training Classes were held from February through April. This year there were 15 students. All expressed great interest in the course and started volunteering from the beginning. All 15 graduated with passing grades greater than 90. They continue to volunteer and contribute to the Master Gardener Association.

Record #: 189 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-03
POW: Y11
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Edwards, Nikki

The youth in Robeson County have a vast lack of how to handle responsibility. The 4-H Program Assistant, Nikki Edwards, partnered with the poultry and livestock agents from the NCCES to offer an animal science project to our area youth and 4-H'ers. This program promotes responsibility in a real-life setting by caring for an animal. 4-H will provide all necessary trainings and animals are provided for a small co-payment. The remaining cost will be provided by United Way funds. In marketing this program in the school system and including it in presentations on glogerm, the number of youth participating has increased by more than 35%. As a result, this project will be offered the following year.

Record #: 190 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-03
POW: E7
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Silver, Diane

Water fest 2005 took place at Blue Ridge Community College on April 23, 2005. A celebration of Earth day, the event was cosponsored by the Mud Creek Watershed Restoration Project (Henderson County CES) and Blue Ridge Community College Green Club. About 100 individuals attended, primarily families with children. Exhibitors included: • Mud Creek Watershed Restoration Project • Blue Ridge Community College Green Club • U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service • Environmental and Conservation Organization (ECO) • Volunteer Water Information Network (VWIN) • Clean Water for North Carolina • WNC Nature Center Activities focused on protecting water resources, and also included canoe races on the lake, and a water balloon toss. A variety of craft vendors also set up shop. Participants were eligible to enter a drawing for prizes if they visited all the educational booths and received a sticker for completing activities at each booth.

Record #: 191 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-04
POW: F1
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Noble, L S

Unfortunately Robeson County youth are no different from other NC youth in terms of poor health status. Of NC elementary school age children, 12.6% have high cholesterol and 12% have hypertension. Youth need education and motivation to make lifestyle changes to improve their health. Robeson County Cooperative Extension Service Agent Noble partnered with the after-school program of Communities in Schools to conduct Sybershop. Sybershop is a multimedia cd on nutrition and physical activity for teens. 9 youth participated in a series of 4 classes. According to exit surveys, all 9 increased knowledge of nutrition and physical activity; 6 indicated they would either become more physically active and/or make healthier food choices. Nutrition intervention is believed to contribute to health care savings ($5,400 per person). Thus, for those indicating change, this instruction saved an estimated potential of $32,400.

Record #: 192 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-02
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert

The April 13, 2005 Forestry Issues Forum teleconference resulted in an estimated $61,058 in total cost savings for 101 participants from North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. For every dollar invested by participants, they received approximately $17.27 in cost savings when compared to attending a traditional conference. Of the $17.27 in cost savings, 63% is because of time-savings associated with attending the teleconference verses a traditional conference. 303 continuing education credits were awarded. 73% 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 62%.

Record #: 193 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-05
POW: A15
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Lauderdale, Cynthia

Every day a countless number of trees are cut down for construction purposes. Trees are a valuable resource in reducing energy costs and providing clean air. Because of the need for more trees the All-Season Garden Club participated in Arbor Day and planted a tree in the Wilson Botanical Gardens. This tree will provide clean air for people to breathe, a place for wildlife to inhabit, and make the Wilson Botanical Gardens increase in value.

Record #: 194 of 2747
Date: 2005-11-18
POW: E8
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Cobb, Roger N

Alamance County does not have a permanent facility to dispose of unwanted paints and pesticides. Because of this the citizens of the County do not have a place to properly dispose of their unwanted pesticides. The Extension Service along with the Alamance County Landfill sponsored a paint and pesticide disposal day where citizens could bring in either of these products for disposal at no charge. The landfill provided manpower and money to help with this day. Extension provided manpower and advertisement to promote the proper disposal of these products. A total of 1509 lbs. of pesticide was collected along with 47,256 lbs. of paint. This disposal day kept at least part of these products from being put in the landfill possibly causing water quality issues in the future.

Record #: 195 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-24
POW: A15
Location: New Hanover
Person Reporting: Wells, Kenneth J

In May of 2005, an Advanced Master Gardener training was offered. The focus of this training was IPM, integrated pest management, and pesticide usage. Because Master Gardeners are sometime the only contact the public has with extension, it is important that they have an understanding of pest management and safe pesticides usage. I partnered with fellow agent Jerry Dudley, pesticide coordinator, to help with the course curriculum and teaching of the class. We covered IPM theory and techniques, common pests of New Hanover County, recognizing and encouraging beneficial insects in home landscapes, safe pesticide use, environmentally friendly pesticides and correct calibration of sprayers and lawn spreaders. 100 percent of participates said they had gained new information regarding pests and pesticide. 100 percent said they would modify at least one of their current behaviors because of information they had learned during this course.

Record #: 196 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-05
POW: A15
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Lauderdale, Cynthia

Record #: 197 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-05
POW: Y1
Location: Lincoln
Person Reporting: Dillon, April

To grow up to be competent, coping, contributing adults; children must develop life skills. Lincoln County 4-H helps children to develop life skills through subject matter programs such as the Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Program (WHEP). Seven 4-H youth ages 9 to 13 studied wildlife, their foods and their habitats. As they gained subject matter knowledge in each of these areas, they also developed a critical life skill, decision making. The 4-H'ers learned to make decisions about habitat management recommendations, evaluation of aerial photographs of wildlife habitats, and identification of wildlife and their foods. The Lincoln County Department of Soil and Water Conservation, Natural Resources Conservationist coached the 4-H'ers with assistance from their 4-H volunteer. They participated in the State 4-H WHEP contest and placed 3rd in the state. The team plans to continue their study of wildlife and participation in the WHEP program this year.

Record #: 198 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-06
POW: A1
Location: Wilkes
Person Reporting: Miller, Matthew S

Wilkes cattlemen are lacking in knowledge on the BSE surveillance program being conducted by USDA and the National Animal Identification Program. Cooperative Extension coordinated a program to address the issues for the Wilkes Cattlemen's Assoc. on Mar. 29, 2005 with 93 in attendance. Dr. Friend with the Veterinary Division of USDA presented a program on the current status of BSE in the U.S. and increase knowledge level of cattlemen on the enhanced surveillance program. Matt Miller discussed the National Animal Identification program. 10 % of audience has requested more information on state registration forms for premise identification and increase awareness of BSE has benefited cattlemen in how to handle mortality of cattle over 30 mo. Old.

Record #: 199 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-09
POW: A4
Location: Martin
Person Reporting: Cochran, Al

Twenty farm visits were made to tobacco greenhouses to diagnose disease and nutrient problems by the extension agent. Farmers made fungicide and fertilizer applications based on correct diagnoses and were able to grow healthy tobacco transplants for about 1000 acres of tobacco. By following extension recommendations, these twenty farmers saved about 100,000 dollars by not having to purchase their transplants.

Record #: 200 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-09
POW: E6
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Patoprsty, Wendy

Storm water runoff is the number one water quality problem in the United States. The Town of Boone will soon be a Phase II community, meaning that state storm water regulations will be in place for the town to follow. A tour of innovative storm water solutions was offered to Town and County Officials in collaboration with NCSU, ASU, Cooperative Extension, and the Arboretum. This tour included innovative ways to remediate storm water runoff, and presentations to guide the Town of Boone in solving their storm water problems. This tour was in conjunction with the Kraut Creek Restoration Project.

Record #: 201 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-09
POW: A1
Location: Martin
Person Reporting: Cochran, Al

A cattle producer in Martin County wanted to spray his pasture with 2-4D herbicide to kill unwanted weeds. Cotton is very sensitive to 2-4D and can cause severe yield reduction. By consulting with his extension agent, and selecting a non 2-4D herbicide, the farmer was able to reduce the risk of damaging the neighbor's cotton which could have caused thousands of dollars in damage as well as the friendship with his neighbor.

Record #: 202 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-10
POW: F4
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L

As a member of the Area School Health Advisory Team in Caldwell County Schools Extension provided additional training and leadership skills for 3 team members to attend the Extension Service Southern Region Obesity Prevention Training in Orlando Florida in February 2005. The team members were able to provide direct guidance to help the school system avoid a costly mistake. The school advisory group took the Body Mass Index scores of all sixth graders to determine the level of obesity system wide. The percentages were high and the group was leaning towards sending letters home to all sixth grade parents regarding obesity. After attending the conference the Team members were able to share stories of similar attempts in other states that cost their school systems considerable legal expense and ill chosen policies that created further community disdain. The Caldwell County school system health advisory chose to table the discussion on how to

Record #: 203 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-10
POW: A3
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Collins, Randy

The Graham County School System has expressed the desire for students to gain knowledge and appreciation for our states natural resources. In addition, many students have indicated that they know very little about the natural resources located in their own County. To meet this need, NC Cooperative Extension teams with the local Natural Resource Conservation Agency to help put on the annual 7th Grade Conservation Field Day. At this event students travel to different activity booths where they learn valuable information concerning natural resources. Each year, Cooperative Extension does a wildlife trivia booth at which students learn more about local wildlife. As a result of this year's efforts, 35 students exhibited gained knowledge about wildlife by answering a series of questions related to different wildlife themes.

Record #: 204 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-09
POW: A1
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Cochran, James E

Remembering a topic introduced several years ago at a Robeson County area poultry Extension conference, a poultry company representative requested information on planting tree lines on poultry farms. A field day was organized on a farm whose operator had followed suggestions establishing a visual screen with topics of: planting, spacing, species, fertility, pest management, etc. Research shows tree line benefits of by disrupting damaging storm air currents, aiding odor and dust control, and reducing temperature fluctuations around poultry house ventilation intakes. Tree lines are an underutilized NRCS/SWCD 75% cost-shared best management practice. Application procedures were outlined and led to the first two County contracted windbreak establishments on a poultry farm. Word spread and eight requests of information were received from other company growers in Cumberland, Hooke, Bladen and Scotland Counties. Over $1,000 establishment expenses were reduced by half. Four other farms delayed their planting intentions due to late summer/early fall dry conditions.

Record #: 205 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-27
POW: F1
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Buchanan, Linda

Since there are no regulations for the preparation, handling, and storage of food in the home, home food safety must be controlled through consumer education. The threat of food borne illness remains a serious issue for our senior population due to weaker immune systems and a decrease in stomach acid which helps fight bacteria. Also, underlying illnesses such as diabetes, some cancer treatments, and kidney disease may increase a person's risk of food borne illness. In May, 2005, “To Your Health” Food Safety for Seniors, was presented at two senior centers and one senior housing development in Graham County. Twenty-nine seniors received information on how to use the concept of clean, separate, cook and chill to help them prevent food borne illnesses. All twenty-nine said that they learned at least one new food safety practice which they plan to implement into their lifestyle.

Record #: 206 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-13
POW: C1
Location: Haywood
Person Reporting: Hawk, Robert J.

The Cherokee Reservation Cooperative Extension Center in partnership with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Tribal Government, Jackson County Greenways Commission and Harrah's Cherokee Casino has successfully secure approximately $170,000.00 in grant funds from the Cherokee Preservation Foundation to build a 1 mile greenway trail along the Soco Stream. This trail will serve as a community walking trail, riparian buffer zone for improved water quality and access for residents and tourists to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area, while accessing local business, residential neighborhoods and community institutions. The trail will be completed by fall 2005. This has been a community-based planning initiative among local citizens, local government and private businesses since 2004, which has created a network of sustainable and healthy community partnerships

Record #: 207 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-29
POW: F3
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L

Families dealing with major economic and survival challenges need help from each other to make it through the transitions of life. A major concept of community and parenting networks is to provide skills and support to each other as a community. The Habitat homeowners in Caldwell County are slowly coming to grasp the importance of this skill as they forge a new neighborhood and community. Several of the single women are reaching out to each other to talk on the phone and offer support and to offer child care to one another. 4-H has worked to provide a new club with this community to engage the children in youth development. Building networks in low income communities takes time and a team effort to support and encourage their positive steps of growth and change.

Record #: 208 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-29
POW: A5
Location: Davie
Person Reporting: Sparks, Colleen S

The Asian Ambrosia beetle is a new and recent pest of woody ornamental, fruit, and nut trees in North Carolina and is causing significant damage in nursery and orchard settings. Currently control of this beetle is difficult. There are few chemical insecticides effective against this beetle and timing is critical for control. In cooperation with vineyard managers, North Carolina Cooperative Extension Davie County Center established traps in four local vineyards to monitor the beetle populations over a two month period. Homemade traps were made and at least three traps were placed at each location. The traps were checked weekly during April and May and beetle numbers were recorded. The data collected was used to determine the optimum time for chemical applications for better control, avoiding unnecessary and overuse of pesticides and saving growers valuable plants, time, and money.

Record #: 209 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-18
POW: Y3
Location: Scotland
Person Reporting: English, Sharon

Scotland County is faced with one of the highest unemployment rates in the state. Recent statistics show unemployment rates are considerably lower for those with higher education levels. However, many Scotland County youth and parents do not know how to plan for college nor are aware of opportunities available for assistance. In an effort to address this concern, Scotland County 4-H offered College Day for 8th - 12th grade students. An Admissions Counselor, who answered questions on preparing, testing and applying for college, led nine youth on a tour of a nearby university. Youth were given information on career selection assistance, areas of studies offered, admission requirements as well as athletic programs and various school organizations. All nine youth stated they plan to further their education after high school and will work with their school counselors to prepare for the college application process.

Record #: 210 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-20
POW: F3
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L

North Carolinians are in need of developing new skills to manage the expected and unexpected economic changes to their family resources. The cost of fuels has continued to effect family budget planning. Increasing energy savings in home energy costs can help in assisting the increase of costs for gasoline. A workshop with the State Energy Office brought people to Caldwell County including energy providers and energy contractors and low income families to learn best practices for home energy conservation .Each person attending the training received a home energy conservation kit and a several homeowners took advantage of a state home star energy contractor audit that will give them additional tools to plan to reduce home energy costs. Our marketing approach was multi leveled and we reached a wider range of participants than in other attempts.

Record #: 211 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-23
POW: Y3
Location: Scotland
Person Reporting: English, Sharon

Scotland County, a rural community with limited resources, does not provide youth many opportunities for exposure to environmental issues. In collaboration with Scotland County SCHOLARS, 4-H SACC was able to bring Earth Day activities to 141 youth. After learning about environmental issues in their own community, youth decorated grocery bags, donated by local grocers, with slogans and pictures depicting their ideas for environmental change. The bags were returned and distributed to customers during Earth Week. The youth, and then in turn the public, learned about Earth Day, recycling, water conservation, litter clean-up, and tree planting.

Record #: 212 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-29
POW: A4
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Cobb, Roger N

The tobacco buyout had been talked about for years but was passed quickly with the money figures different than had been discussed. Also, the money companies were willing to pay for 2005 tobacco was sketchy. Cooperative Extension held area meetings wrote newsletters and met one-on-one with tobacco growers to provide information that they could use in order to make a decision about growing tobacco in 2005. Armed with this information they were prepared to decide if they were going to produce tobacco when they saw a contract. 90% of the 75 growers said that Cooperative Extension information helped them determine whether they could produce tobacco in the post buyout era.

Record #: 213 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-23
POW: F1
Location: Cumberland
Person Reporting: Underwood, Candy

Studies show that obesity has doubled among American children in the last 30 years. According to the Nutrition and Physical Activity Surveillance System 608 children between 2 - 4 are at risk for overweight and 450 are over weight in Cumberland County. The Cooperative Extension in collaboration with Child Care Solutions have been implementing the Color Me Healthy Program since 2001. A total of 75 Child Care Providers and kindergarten teachers indicated they would be using the curriculum with their students. If so, 992 children will learn the importance of eating healthy and exercising. All 75 educators indicated they gained knowledge related to nutrition and physical activity. One participant said she would faithfully use this program. She was absolutely amazed by the colorful props and how it was put together step by step including artwork.

Record #: 214 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-23
POW: A4
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Cobb, Roger N

A dairy called Cooperative Extension with a wheat growth problem. After a field visit, samples were taken and sent to the disease lab at NC State. The results indicated a soil virus. The dairy had around 150 acres with this problem. In looking at other wheat fields in the County this problem was widespread in one variety. Questions to the wheat specialist revealed this is a statewide problem. Proper identification of this disease along with information on managing this problem will help 50 wheat farmers gain the knowledge to manage this problem in the 2005-2006 wheat crops.

Record #: 215 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-01
POW: Y3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Rogers, Aggie L

With the demand for High school students to learn more about Government. Four Robeson County 4-H'ers were selected to participate in the 1st State CWF Citizenship Focus program. They were among 25 other 4-H'ers across the state to meet and make plans for the 2006 CWF Conference. They participated in role playing demonstrations concerning issues and concerns facing youth today. They visit the legislative office of the Senators and Congressman to share views and concerns within their local community and also ways they can be apart of improving their community. As a result, they were selected to facilitate workshops for the 2006 CWF conference.

Record #: 216 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-24
POW: A6
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Ruth, Cliff

Hemlock Woolly Adelgids are likely the worst insect to have invaded WNC landscapes and forests. Many local pesticide applicators have found that they needed additional training and certification in order to combat this insect. NCCE collaborated with representatives from the Mauget tree injection company to provide training to this audience. The response was so high that it took 2 sessions of 25 students in each session to meet the current demand. Although these individuals lost a day of work, post-program results indicate that all of the attendees had increased service calls as a result of the class. Many of these calls resulted in over $1000 in increased revenue per week for these applicators.

Record #: 217 of 2747
Date: 2005-11-03
POW: F1
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Noble, L S

According to Center for Disease Control, only 1 in 5 children eats the recommended daily 5 servings of fruits and vegetables. Thus, local primary school used grant monies to purchase extra and fancier fruits and vegetables to serve in cafeteria. However, simply serving these did not increase consumption. North Carolina Cooperative Extension Agent was contacted to do a class with pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students promoting fruits and vegetables. Agent developed and delivered series of 3 classes. Approximately 100 students participated in all classes. Three weeks after classes, 1 teacher estimated percent of students eating fruits/vegetables had increased from 50 to 80. Cafeteria manager reported students \\\"now want to take one of every fruit.\\\" The annual per capita cost of low fruit/vegetable consumption in NC is $377. This intervention saved an estimated potential of $11,310 for the 30 percent students (30) increasing their fruit/vegetable consumption.

Record #: 218 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-25
POW: F2
Location: Stanly
Person Reporting: Alexi, Molly

In North Carolina less than 40% of adults achieve the recommended amount of regular physical activity. In fact, 26 percent of adults report getting no physical activity at all. More than 56 percent of our state’s population is overweight or obese, and approximately 26 percent of North Carolina’s residents report poor metal health during any given thirty-day period. In response to these and other similar issues, Stanly County Cooperative Extension offered a new program called Workable Wellness. 12 sessions were presented to 17 families who learned practical solutions to help them lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. The participants learned simple strategies and skills to develop healthy habits for a lifetime. At the end of the sessions Mothers reported spending more time with their children by taking walks with them in the afternoons when they got home from work and talking about what happened during the day.

Record #: 219 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-30
POW: F2
Location: Stanly
Person Reporting: Alexi, Molly

200,000 children are treated in U.S. hospital emergency rooms each year for injuries associated with playground equipment. Stanly County Cooperative Extension is working with childcare centers to help eliminate these preventable injuries, by teaching providers about the appropriate fall zones, maximum equipment height, importance of maintenance, lead paint on playground equipment clothing entanglement on equipment, and the importance of daily evaluations of the playground. 17 teachers, who provide care for over 300 children, participated in the training. Each provider learned new ways to make their playgrounds a safer place to learn and explore.

Record #: 220 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-30
POW: F3
Location: Stanly
Person Reporting: Alexi, Molly

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. Families and Habitat volunteers 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. At the programs conclusion, all participants had developed a spending plan and were working on building their savings.

Record #: 221 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-25
POW: F2
Location: Pitt
Person Reporting: Reece, Susan

For every $1 spent on high quality early childhood education programs, taxpayers get $4 in benefits. School districts save more than $11,000 per child because participants are less likely to require remedial education. NC mandates child care providers have contact hour credits yearly in order to remain employed. Therefore, CES offered 112 childcare providers 14 credit hours of training. The 7 trainings are as follows: General Sanitation in Childcare (2), The 10 Dietary Guidelines Snacking Tips (2), and Play Safe, Be Safe (3). The typical childcare provider makes $15,600/yr. This training enabled the workers to receive a total salary of $1,747,200.

Record #: 222 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-13
POW: F5
Location: Pitt
Person Reporting: Reece, Susan

Americans have a 1 in 4 chance of contracting a food borne 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 two ServSafe classes to 77 restaurant managers. Of the 76 English exams administered, 66 participants became ServSafe certified and attained knowledge increases of 33% and 20%.

Record #: 223 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-25
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 62 members address seniors' needs by hosting the 19th annual Elder Fair and presenting monthly caregiver education advocacy meetings featuring educational speakers that are open to the public. CES presented the educational session "Paper Treasures." Elder Fair featured educational breakout sessions, lunch, snacks, entertainment, 70 vendors, with the FCS agent delivering the welcoming and closing speeches to 285 seniors. Based on evaluations, the event was rated excellent/good by 226 attendees.

Record #: 224 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-25
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 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 and Head Start monthly request of 547 copies. The monthly circulation expansion totaling 2022 has proven the information promoting physical activity and healthy eating is well received during the past 2.5 years.

Record #: 225 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-25
POW: F2
Location: Pitt
Person Reporting: Reece, Susan

Since 1900, the US population has tripled, while the number of older adults has increased 11-fold. Health promotion programs for older adults have lagged behind programming for the rest of the population. Ten senior programs were delivered to Tuesday's Children, Kiwanis Golden K Jewels, Council on Aging Centers, and the hospital's Gold Path seniors. A total of 255 seniors heard at least one of the following programs: Survival Tips for Seniors, Exercise, Eating Out & Eating Healthy, Heart Attack Signs, and Paper Treasures.

Record #: 226 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-26
POW: F1
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Jackson, Margaret

Cleveland County EFNEP program assistant Peggy Jackson taught nutrition classes for Head Start parents during February and April, 2005. Classes were conducted at nine elementary schools throughout the County. Head Start administrators were very supportive of all aspects of the program, which taught parents the basics of nutrition, food preparation, menu preparation, and food budgeting. Everything went so well that Peggy had been invited to return for the 2005-2006 school year.

Record #: 227 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-26
POW: Y3
Location: Scotland
Person Reporting: English, Sharon

Approximately 30% of youth between the ages of 6-19 are overweight, with 15% considered obese. These youth are at risk for heart attacks, strokes and diabetes. Scotland County Cooperative Extension's 4- H Youth EFNEP (Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program) collaborated with the Scotland Scholars After - School Program, Parks and Recreation, local churches and several daycares to offer a nutrition and fitness activity program for youth. Over 800 youth received 6 lessons or more of instruction in selecting better, healthier food choices, for both meals and snacks. Lessons were taught on the five food groups, appropriate serving sizes, hand washing and the importance of fitness and the role that food plays in it. After completing a pretest and post-test, the results showed 95% of youth surveyed improved their diets through healthier food choices and increased physical activity.

Record #: 228 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-27
POW: Y10
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Crouse, Morgan E

NC 4-H has built a great reputation for the Embryology program. But many teachers in Rockingham County were looking for an alternate program that still focused on hands on learning and life cycles. So 4-H and Cooperative Extension offered a butterfly program to the schools. Each student had their own caterpillar and got to watch it form a cocoon and then emerge as a butterfly. After all the butterflies emerged, the students released their butterflies into their school butterfly garden. As a result, 74 percent of the youth got to see the life cycle of a butterfly for the first time. Cooperative Extension received positive media attention from this program when the students were releasing their butterflies that they had raised. The youth stated that they learned a lot from the curriculum and the experience itself. One hundred percent of the youth and teachers want to do the program again.

Record #: 229 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-27
POW: F1
Location: Cleveland
Person Reporting: Jones, Nancy H

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hand washing is “the single most effective way to prevent the transmission of disease.” Twenty-four third grade children were given a thirty minute lecture and demonstration on proper hand washing. Discussion included germs, disease, proper hand washing techniques, followed by a demonstration using Glogerm® lotion and an ultraviolet light. Children were able to see how easily germs can spread and cause sickness if hands are not washed properly and frequently. Decreasing the likelihood that children will get sick from improper hand washing will help prevent time lost in the classroom, reduce medical costs, and prevent the further spread of disease. Hand washing programs will continue to be offered to Cleveland County schools and childcare centers.

Record #: 230 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-27
POW: A1
Location: Union
Person Reporting: Landsman, Robin

On May 26, 2005 Union County's First Woman’s' Leadership Luncheon took place. The event was the brainchild of Robin Landsman, FCS and Monica York, Director of Spirit of Women for Union Regional Medical Center. The event included a lovely luncheon, keynote speaker Dr. Bernadette Watts, and a directory for all participants. The luncheon was sold out with 250 attendees representing women in government, social services, businesses and civic and volunteer organizations. The message was one of leadership, mentoring, networking and working together. The luncheon was well received for its lovely setting and great food. The impact however is far more important. Our attendees were inspired to make a difference - working together, and networking and giving back. With the directory, women can continue to call upon one another to work on committees, join civic clubs, and be invited to serve on Boards. Union County will benefit by women taking on active

Record #: 231 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-27
POW: Y5
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Kelleher, Michael

Two migrant students who are enrolled in the 4-H Hispanic Migrant Education Program had been held back a grade in the 03-04 school year, and it appeared that they were going to be held back again in 04-05. The North Carolina Cooperative Extension, 4-H and the Ashe County Board of Education worked together to improve their grades. Through the Twenty First Century Grant designed to help struggling students, this partnership paid for one on one tutoring for Miguel and Luis during the 04-05 school year. As a result of there collaboration the student’s End of grade tests indicated that they went from a level 0 to a level 2. The impact is that these student’s now have pride in themselves and they both want to read and study harder so that they can further their education.

Record #: 232 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-27
POW: F5
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Sutton, Brenda

According to the Center for Disease Control, 76 million people get food borne illnesses every year. Safe food handling by employees of restaurants, schools, food vendors, camps, and nursing homes is imperative for the safety of consumers. In coordination with the County Health Department, Cooperative Extension provided ServSafe class for 29 participants who have food safety responsibilities in April, 2005. Passing scores resulted in certification for 26 of the attendees, who will receive the added bonus of two extra points on their health inspections. All students indicated an increased knowledge of food safety and reported new behaviors that would be implemented in their work situations to ensure the safety of their patrons.

Record #: 233 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-27
POW: F5
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Sutton, Brenda

Senior citizens are at a higher risk for food borne illness than the general population and are more likely to suffer potentially fatal results. Thus, safe food handling practices at Senior Nutrition sites is of vital importance. In February 2005, Cooperative Extension taught Fighting Bac! Food Safety for Food Handlers Working with Older Americans, for 12 nutrition site managers and their supervisor. All participants reported new food safety information they had learned during the training and would be able to apply at the senior nutrition sites. The supervisor indicates that new food safety behaviors are being demonstrated by her staff, insuring the safety of senior citizens participating in the lunch program.

Record #: 234 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-27
POW: F3
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Sutton, Brenda

Declining numbers of farms and lower commodity prices force producers to search for new ways to remain profitable. Cooperative Extension was active in establishing the Rockingham County Farmer’s Market and recruited farmers and artists who needed additional sales and income. Cooperative Extension took the lead in marketing for the venture. Efforts included securing funding for printing of 5,000 brochures and donation of 200 t-shirts from County Economic Development; donation of vendor space at business expo by Chamber of Commerce valued at $350; donation of signage and promotional materials by NC Department of Agriculture; three television interviews, one radio interview, and three newspaper interviews; and presence of Commissioner of Agriculture and other dignitaries at Grand Opening. Opening day brought over 1,000 visitors and 26 vendors selling produce, art, farm crafts, and baked goods. Vendors rated the day a success and plan to continue to utilize this opportunity to reach new customers.

Record #: 235 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-30
POW: A8
Location: Wood and Paper Science (SP)
Person Reporting: Denig, Joe

A small eastern North Carolina secondary wood products firm was trying to meet the packaging needs of a large multi-national manufacturer of kitchen appliances and power tools. The potential customer had recently experienced some failures in their packaging. The wood products firm was interested in producing and marketing the firm packaging strengthening members made from sap gum (an underutilized species). As any large company requires nowadays, they wanted proof that the new stringers would perform. With the assistance of NC State's Wood Products Extension Group and Hodges Wood Products Lab the manufacturing firm was able to demonstrate the suitability and strength of their product to the customer. The net result was that the multi-national company was pleased and gave the wood products firm a trial order. Currently the added annual revenue generated by this added value product from an underutilized species is estimated over $750,000.

Record #: 236 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-30
POW: Y13
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Cahoon, Patricia G

The Carteret County Council is now required to perform a community service project. We recently volunteered a total of four hours at the Hope Mission, which is a soup kitchen. Six youths and four adults helped prepare, serve and clean-up for the 110 who ate that day.

Record #: 237 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-31
POW: C4
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Collins, Randy

The Graham County School System Campus has been in need of landscaping for quite sometime. In May of 2005, Graham County Schools received a grant in the amount of $15,000 to be used for this purpose. The school system then turned to Cooperative Extension in order to determine what types of trees to use, and how to properly landscape the campus. It was determined that while the trees would be used to provide shade, they would also be used as educational tools for various classes. As a direct result of Extension's efforts, a landscape design was established and trees were selected that would meet the needs of the school system. In addition, Extension will deliver programs to students dealing with proper tree planting, landscaping and site care. Various Master Gardener programs will also be conducted at the site as well. This project alone will bring a tremendous increase to the

Record #: 238 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-31
POW: C4
Location: Currituck
Person Reporting: Perry-Weber, Jan

During past plant sales residents have expressed an interest in different varieties of trees, shrubs, and plants. The Currituck Master Gardeners have been propagating trees and shrubs, dividing perennials and growing annuals for the last year to sell at their Spring Plant Sale. There efforts produced more than 2000 plants. The sale was a great success. Residents were very excited with the variety and quality of the plants. The Master Gardeners also answered many horticultural questions at their information booth. The project also increased the Master Gardeners knowledge base on propagation, dividing perennials, growing annuals, and individual plant information.

Record #: 239 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-01
POW: Y13
Location: Vance
Person Reporting: Bailey, Devonda

I have successfully completed all planning for the total of 25 Summer Fun Activities. I also hand delivered all brochures to each school in Vance County. Many of the Summer Fun Classes have already been filled to capacity with a waiting list. Vance County's youth are very excited about this year's Summer Fun activities.

Record #: 240 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-01
POW: A5
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Little, William E

A Sweet Potato Production meeting was held for area growers to discuss the results of field trials and research data collected over the past growing season. The data presented from NCSU researchers and farmer testimony was very helpful to growers in making decisions for the upcoming year in production management and cultivar changes that will greatly affect the percentage of new crop planted in 2005.

Record #: 241 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-01
POW: F2
Location: Granville
Person Reporting: Reid, Joan M

The four-part series, “Putting Your Best Foot Forward”, was conducted at the request of the education administrator for the NC Department of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention for a group of male teens at the CA Dillon detention facility. The requested topics were effective communication skills and anger management, preparing for a job interview and etiquette skills. Most of the eight participating males indicated that they had improved their communication skills and would feel more comfortable when dining out. Some of the boys gained knowledge on how to prepare for and conduct themselves at a job interview. The students practiced their newly-learned skills during a lunch outing to a nice restaurant. One student wrote, “It taught me how to have better manners and respect for others”.

Record #: 242 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-01
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna

A program was presented to the Drexel First Church of God on May 4 on growing herbs. There were twenty participants and different uses for herbs were discussed along with the differences between annual and perennial plants. Weed control was also covered and informational handouts were provided. Drexel is a community that has not been very active with Extension and it is the hopes of the agent that these types of programs will raise community awareness of Extension.

Record #: 243 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-01
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna

A joint program was presented on May 12 by horticulture agent, Donna Teasley and Livestock agent, Damon Pollard at Childers Elementary School. Fourth grade had been studying agriculture in Burke County and the agents provided 90 students with information about the agriculture that exists today in Burke County. The students learned that while large farms are not present in the County, there are numerous small farms and that the commercial horticulture industry is very prominent. Beef cattle and pleasure horses are also active in the County along with much pasture land and hay fields.

Record #: 244 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-01
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna

Local farmer, Johnny Yancy received materials, labor and instruction to put down up to one acre of plastic and drip on May 11. Working through NC A&T and NCCE a plastic laying machine along with a technician was transported to Burke County and Johnny Yancy was taught how to use the machine. An acre of plastic and drip was laid and 12 farmers from the area attended and learned about the process. This was made possible by the Tobacco Trust foundation.

Record #: 245 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-01
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna

The Morganton Fresh Freight Exchange opened on May 14 and Master Gardeners provided a booth to answer gardening questions. Agent, Donna Teasley presented 2 container gardening demonstrations and local farmers were present with local produce for sale. Literature was handed out to 160 people and 60 people attended the demonstrations. The farmer's market also houses a year round fish market, garden center and Amish food market. Approximately 400 people attended the grand opening.

Record #: 246 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-01
POW: Y10
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Mackey, Karee M

The school system expressed a need for science related activities for the classrooms. One relevant issue is exploring alternative energy sources. The National Junior Solar Sprint was identified as a “vehicle” to help young people implement science, technology, and engineering concepts in the classroom, as well as increase awareness of energy issues. In 2003, the Watauga County Cooperative Extension, 4-H and ARISE (Appalachian Regional Initiative for Renewable Energy) and the NC Solar Center worked with middle school teachers to provide resources for hands on activities on renewable energy, including the Solar Sprint. The third Solar Sprint competition was held in 2005. Over 40 teams designed shoe box sized race cars in groups of four. Over 115 youth participated in the Solar Sprint race. The students reported increased knowledge in solar energy, aerodynamics, and mechanics. They also practiced their skills with machinery and teamwork.

Record #: 247 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-14
POW: Y3
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Mackey, Karee M

Emergency room nurses reported to the Healthy Carolinians SafeKids task force that ATV injuries were a concern for Watauga County. Our state had no regulations for children riding ATVs, including no requirements for helmets or other safety measures. SafeKids asked Cooperative Extension/4-H for assistance in creating a program for young people. SafeKids, 4-H, Boone Fire Department and Watauga County Fire Marshal's office planned a day long safety workshop. 13 youth and 2 parents attended the workshop. Participants made a first aid kit, made an egg helmet to see why helmets are important, had lessons on basic ATV facts and personal equipment, and observed riding strategies. As a result, the participants demonstrated safe riding techniques.

Record #: 248 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-01
POW: Y1
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Mackey, Karee M

4-H club programs help meet the developmental needs of youth and develop a variety of life skills. 4-H horse club members exercised self-responsibility, self-discipline, and self-motivation through the 4-H Horse program. Members participated in activities like the state Horse Judging event and 4-H Horse Bowl. 4-H'ers care for their horses, practice for events and practice learning how to learn. For the 4-H horse show event, participants must follow instructions for leading their horses. Not following directions could lead to disqualification. Watauga County 4-H'ers demonstrated the development of life skills as they excelled in the horse show at the district level. They all qualified for state-level competition. As a result, 4-H'ers also exhibited the life skills of contributing to a group effort, meeting deadlines, interpreting information, and increased self-esteem. Also, they demonstrated knowledge of horses, and horse judging and showmanship.

Record #: 249 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-01
POW: A5
Location: Granville
Person Reporting: Cantaluppi, Carl

In an effort to search for high-value horticultural crops that are profitable for area growers, a 13 variety replicated asparagus variety trial was planted in a Person County grower's field in the spring of 2005. Asparagus continues to be in high demand from consumers, especially ones that move into NC from northern states. It is an easy crop to grow, in terms of needing very little or no irrigation, and few sprays to control insects and diseases. Extension partnered with a local greenhouse bedding plant grower to grow the seedlings free of charge. The plants will grow in the field in 2005 and 2006 with the first harvest taken in 2007. Yield data will be taken and field days will be conducted, starting in 2008 to report yield results to interested growers.

Record #: 250 of 2747
Date: 2006-01-04
POW: A5
Location: Granville
Person Reporting: Cantaluppi, Carl

Many people are planting wine grapes throughout NC but very few are trying fresh market bunch (table) grapes for retail direct market sales. Growers can realize the retail dollar from fresh market table grapes and do not have to plant extensive acreages to realize a modest profit. Fresh market table grape growers can sell at the price they want and add another crop to their retail marketing mix. A one acre, 13 variety replicated table grape trial was planted in a Granville County grower\\\'s field in the spring of 2005. The first harvest will be taken in 2007 and yield data will be taken and disseminated at field days to make recommendations to growers. This project was made possible by receiving an Innovative Program Grant for $15,000, awarded by NC A&T State University.

Record #: 251 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-01
POW: A4
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Harrell, Norman E

Operating farm equipment on highways is dangerous. To address this concern, Cooperative Extension partnered with the NC Highway Patrol with funding provided by the NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission to conduct highway safety training with farm equipment in a seven County area. Over 1,000 farmers and employees participated in these meetings. Participants were tested and determined to have increased their knowledge of farm traffic safety by 71 percent. In addition, 875 safety equipment kits were distributed to farmers. New media provided coverage of the project with a total circulation of publications of over 650,000. Surveys have indicated adoption of safety equipment usage as high as 94 percent. Data available from the Highway Patrol indicated a 21.7 percent decrease in crashes involving farm equipment for the project area. This program has reduced the number of crashes involving farm equipment and increased farmer adoption of safety practices with farm equipment on

Record #: 252 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-01
POW: A4
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Harrell, Norman E

From 1995 through 1999, the UNC Highway Safety Research Center reported that Wilson County ranked twelfth in North Carolina in farm tractor/implement crashes. Cooperative Extension in cooperation with the NC Highway Patrol received a grant from the NC Tobacco Trust Fund Commission. Meetings were held in Wilson County which highlighted highway safety. Over 185 farmers and employees participated in these meetings. Participants were tested and were determined to have increased their knowledge of farm traffic safety by 81%. In addition, 125 tractor safety equipment kits were distributed to County farmers valued at $31,250. Surveys have indicated adoption of safety equipment usage as high as 98 percent. Data available from the Highway Patrol indicated an 83 percent decrease in Wilson County with crashes involving farm equipment. This program has reduced the number of crashes involving farm equipment and increased farmer adoption of safety practices.

Record #: 253 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-01
POW: A4
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Harrell, Norman E

The Wilson County Young Farmers Association (WCYFA) held a five-day educational tour to attend the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, Kentucky. This farm show is the largest indoor show that highlights agricultural products, equipment, and services. Farmers had the opportunity to inspect new equipment and visit with agrochemicals and seed companies to learn the latest information about their products. The show also had Ag Update seminars that provided farmers information on legislative developments, crop price outlooks, and new technology. To help offset the expense of the tour, the WCYFA sold barbecue plates at the Livestock Show and Sale. Volunteers served 450 plates and the association profited $1196. The Young Farmer's arranged for twelve sponsors that donated $2,300 toward the tour. The farmers attending the tour increased their knowledge of cotton production technology.

Record #: 254 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-01
POW: A4
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Harrell, Norman E

Producing healthy tobacco seedlings is the goal of every flue-cured tobacco farmer. Pythium root rot is a destructive disease that often threatens transplant supplies. A 125 acre tobacco grower contacted Norman Harrell, Extension Agent, to determine why his plants were slow dying and wilted. Harrell diagnosed the plants to be infected with Pythium root rot. As a result of Cooperative Extension assistance, the farmer applied a corrective fungicide and saved his tobacco seedlings which are valued at $18,750.

Record #: 255 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-01
POW: A4
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Harrell, Norman E

The Tobacco Transition Payment Program, commonly referred to as the Tobacco Buyout, ended the federal tobacco program that has been in place since 1939. With this buyout, tobacco production will be deregulated and farmers and quota owners will receive compensation for their tobacco quota. The buyout has created many questions and uncertainty. To help address this situation, Cooperative Extension partnered with the Farm Service Agency to conduct an informational meeting about the Tobacco Buyout. Information was presented on the facts of the buyout, sign up procedures, and taxation issues. Over 200 farmers and quota holders attended the meeting and increased their knowledge of the buyout.

Record #: 256 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-02
POW: A15
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Lauderdale, Cynthia

Because gardeners is the number one hobby of Americans educational programs are needed. One way to educate is through visual experiences and hands on learning that is why the Wilson Botanical Gardens (WBG) is being created. A presentation was given by Lauderdale to the Wilson Agri-Business on the WBG followed by a tour. Because of the need the County Manager and two County Commissioners attended this event. Two of the three had never participated in Wilson Agri-Business meetings before. The impact of networking with people who can help develop this project is immeasurable. It also leads to being asked to speak to the local Rotary Club.

Record #: 257 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-02
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert

The May 11, 2005 Forestry Issues Forum teleconference resulted in an estimated $56,561 in total cost savings for 104 participants from North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, 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, 66% is because of time-savings associated with attending the teleconference verses a traditional conference. 312 continuing education credits were awarded. Seventy six percent 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 40%.

Record #: 258 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-02
POW: C1
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Garland, Teresa A

Tourism is a major industry in a community which is economically deprived. Increasing money earned from tourism has been identified as a need by Travel & Tourism and the Economic Development Board. One identified strategy was to offer visitors more entertainment through festivals. As a result a committee was formed to expand the local ramp dinner which is a one day event. In 2005, a three-day event was planned - Smoky Mtn. Romp. Over 1400 people participated in activities over the three-day period. More than twenty local and regional groups, businesses and organizations worked together to create a successful event. Graham County Cooperative Extension staff were key partners in the development of this local festival and in volunteer development.

Record #: 259 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-02
POW: Y13
Location: Graham
Person Reporting: Garland, Teresa A

Graham County citizens have determined the need to offer youth more opportunities. Developing youth leaders is a goal identified by the local 4-H Committee. Six 4-H teens were selected to participate in Teen Reaching Youth training in 2005. Two TRY Teams were formed. One team will provide local youth opportunities to explore science through hands-on learning. The other team will lead Operation Military Kids which will educate the community about the special dilemmas facing military families when one or both parents are called for duty.

Record #: 260 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-20
POW: A3
Location: Person
Person Reporting: Brewer, Jennifer

The interest of youth in the Agricultural and Livestock Industry has been steadily decreasing each year. The Person County Cooperative Extension Office had 14 youth compete in the 60th Annual North Central Junior Livestock Show and Sale. The youth had the opportunity to show a total of 49 animals, including 2 steers, 27 hogs, and 20 goats. The Person County 4-H youth walked away with several awards, self-confidence, increased responsibility and record keeping skills. However, the biggest impact seen is they each took away an appreciation of agriculture and livestock and all of the hard work that goes into breeding, raising, and showing animals.

Record #: 261 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-20
POW: Y3
Location: Person
Person Reporting: Brewer, Jennifer

The cost for nursing care and the difficulty to provide activities for the older and disabled people in Person County has increased over the years. The Person County Cooperative Extension Service hosted the 4-H Visually Impaired Workshop for 8 people from the Visually Impaired Group in our community. The visually impaired guests were exposed to the 4-H youth and their new and creative ideas, while completing a variety of crafts that they each got to take home. The 4-H'ers had the opportunity to learn how to deal with people of different ages, backgrounds, and handicaps and walked away with a bigger appreciation and understanding of the elderly and the visually impaired community. Events such as these not only bring awareness to the need for appropriate care for the elderly and disabled community, but they also save the community nursing care costs of approximately $60 per person with a total of $480 saved.

Record #: 262 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-20
POW: A16
Location: Person
Person Reporting: Brewer, Jennifer

The knowledge and interest that youth have in the Agricultural Industry is steadily decreasing each year. The Person County Cooperative Extension Office in cooperation with the Flat River Antique Tractor Club hosted an Agricultural Field Day for 200 fifth graders. The youth had the opportunity during the 5 hour event to visit 16 different booths with each discussing a different aspect of agriculture and life sciences. The youth walked away with a new appreciation of agriculture and life sciences and increased knowledge of agricultural related topics and careers. All of the teachers walked away satisfied because they agreed that this event got the kids involved, met the Standard Course of Study for 5th Grade, and was very educational. Since this event, several of the youth have contacted the Cooperative Extension office to inquire about 4-H programs and other services available. And, several teachers and schools have contacted us to learn about the 4-H Embryology project or about one of the other vendors.

Record #: 263 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-05
POW: A7
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Brewington, Martin L

Reports show a 20.1% loss of honey bees in the East region of North Carolina over the last year. The North Carolina Department of Agricultural State Apiarist, and Sand hills Bee Inspector partners with Martin Brewington, Agricultural Technician, and Extension Coordinator for area beekeepers coordinated educational programs and presentations for local schools and community clubs. Seven beekeepers volunteered to give these presentations at areas School. Thanks to these educational program the Robeson County Area Beekeepers Association has increased its membership by (6). Eight (800) youth in Robeson and surrounding counties have learned about beekeeping and its economic impact. This program not only taught youth the importance of beekeeping but promotes beekeeping as a hobby and business opportunity. The Robeson County Center and area beekeepers will continue this educational and marketing program in the future.

Record #: 264 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-05
POW: A7
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Brewington, Martin L

With a 20.1% loss of honeybees in this regional over the last year. Dr. David Tarpy, NCSU Entomology Specialist in Beekeeping and North Carolina Department of Agricultural and Consume Science assisted with conducting a Bee Certification School. Thanks to this program thirteen (13) beekeepers have passed the written test at certified level of the North Carolina Master Beekeepers Program. The Robeson County Area Beekeepers Association has increased it membership by five (5) members that are now participation in beekeeping meeting. In 2005 a Journeyman level of the master beekeepers program was conducted for (15) members and none-members in beekeeping. Individual should be functioning as a competent beekeepers, with skills and knowledge for moving into areas of sideline in beekeeping. The Extension center and the beekeepers association will continue this service in the coming years.

Record #: 265 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-03
POW: F1
Location: Halifax
Person Reporting: Allsbrook, Margaret P

Dining with Diabetes, a curriculum shared by the West Virginia Cooperative Extension Service, was presented at the Haliwa-Saponi Tribal Center on Tuesdays during the month of May, 2005. The class was taught by Margaret Allsbrook, Extension Agent, EB Odom, Health Dietitian, and Diana Dillard, Carolina Primary Care, RN. Seven individuals participated in the 4-week class. The participants sampled dishes and participated in classes to increase their knowledge of dealing with diabetes. Each week, 2 class members served as "guest chefs" and prepared the dishes sampled. Topics covered included, carbohydrates, fats, fiber, physical activity, vitamins and minerals, and sodium. All participants shared concepts about diabetes they had learned. There will be a 3-month follow-up class in August, 2005.

Record #: 266 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-03
POW: Y3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Dejarnette, Shea

In the past few years the 4-H animal Science program has seen declining numbers in Robeson and surrounding counties for a variety of reasons. In an effort to improve the program and increase the quantity and quality of the animals the Quad Squad concept was created. Area counties joined together to offer youth a uniform training giving them a level playing field for competition. This year the training took place in May at the Robeson County Fairgrounds. More than 150 people from 7 counties (Bladen, Hoke, Lee, Moore, Richmond, Robeson, and Scotland) took part in this event. Parents and children had the opportunity for a hands-on learning involving seven different types of animals. Each person who filled out an evaluation gave a specific example of something they learned from the event. Agents in area counties have decided to offer this program again next year.

Record #: 267 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-03
POW: Y3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Dejarnette, Shea

To improve the 4-H animal science program and save on training costs of this program 4-H agents, Livestock, and Poultry Agents have joined forces across County lines to create the Quad Squad Plus. This year the 12 County groups offered a youth training in May. The event (including planning time on the part of Agents and cost of supplies etc.) cost approximately $1400. If we had done the training as in the past offering a different training for each animal, it would have cost approximately $2700 per County to complete the animal science training, for a total of $18,900 for the seven counties that had youth participating. Overall we saved the counties, NC State, and our programming budgets a combined total of approximately $17,500. Also this training provided greater learning impacts for the youth, and stronger 4-H programs overall.

Record #: 268 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-04
POW: A6
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Ruth, Cliff

The Certified Landscape Technician program is now recognized internationally in several countries as a way to identify professionals in the landscape trade. This year the Cooperative Extension office in Henderson County teamed up with local green industry professional to provide a review program for local green industry professionals as well as Vocational Agriculture teachers from all over the state. The combination of the two groups resulted in the teachers being able to interact with green industry professionals, not only getting new skills to take back to their schools but increasing their awareness of training needs of the landscape industry. It also allowed green industry professionals to get a better understanding of the opportunities for them to interact with the high school vo-ag programs. The program was deemed a win-win for both groups!

Record #: 269 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-28
POW: A1
Location: Person
Person Reporting: Woods, Kimberly

Livestock producers are always trying to increase the efficiency of their operation while reducing inputs. Controlled grazing is a relatively simple practice that can accomplish both of these goals. Person County Cooperative Extension worked in conjunction with four other Extension offices to organize, promote and sponsor the Piedmont Grazing Day for a total of 171 attendees, with 15 from Person County. This event provided valuable information about the economic benefit of controlled grazing, exhibiting how much money could be saved by having the livestock harvest the forage instead of the producer. Details, such as system design, fencing, and watering options that are crucial in implementing a controlled grazing system were also addressed so that producers could conceivably go home, develop, and initiate a plan. With this information, livestock producers can implement grazing plans to save both time and an estimated $120 per acre.

Record #: 270 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-01
POW: F2
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Chase, Susan

Out of 30 Department of Social Services referred parents for the 8 session \"Parenting Matters\" series,23 parents completed seven out of eight sessions. These parents gained knowledge in parenting practices, child development, and nurturing. Three of these parents reported regaining custody of their children shortly after their completing the \"Parenting Matters\" series and one grandparent regained custody of her grandchild. \"Parenting Matters\" was required for these parents to attend in order for them to be eligible to regain custody of their children/grandchildren. Two of these parents have also participated in Money/In Money Out training, trying to rebuild some stability in their family's lives.

Record #: 271 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-15
POW: F2
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Chase, Susan

Partnering with Mid East Area Agency on Aging and being selected as one of the five counties to participate in the Fostering Community Partnerships for Gerontological Training and Program Development and presenting \"Family Care giving: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren\" to over 100 NCSU Social Work students interested in gerontology has strengthened Beaufort County Cooperative Extension\'s Aging program by making Cooperative Extension more visible and the two agencies are now working collaboratively on elder issues in Beaufort County, such as the planning for area workshops for seniors, pooling our resources. This saves both agencies time and money and makes us more visible.

Record #: 272 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-15
POW: F1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Chase, Susan

With North Carolina ranking among the worst states with respect to physical activity, Beaufort County Cooperative Extension offered Families Eating Smart and Moving More to area health businesses and had 41 home health aides, social workers and nurses aides attend all four sessions of the training. These participants all take care of other people for a living, eat on the run, and have not been getting any exercise themselves. All participants agreed they need to change their food consumption habits. All participants agreed to add some sort of physical activity to their day and eat smarter by preparing lower fat foods, reducing their caloric intake, and reading food labels, so that they will be able to continue to take care of others and themselves in the future.

Record #: 273 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-06
POW: E6
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Patoprsty, Wendy

Storm water runoff is one of the leading causes of surface water quality degradation in the nation. The Watauga River is no exception. Every time it rains our rivers and streams are exposed to pollutants such as oil and gas from roads, trash and debris, sediment from erosion, and excess nutrients and chemicals from agriculture. In collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency, Washington State University Extension Service received grants to produce video documentaries on three watersheds across the nation to explore what communities are doing for storm water pollution. The Watauga Watershed was chosen as one of the areas to be documented mainly for the stream restoration work that has been done, the Banner Elk storm water system that is in place, and the educational outreach programs that have been implemented. The documentary will be nationally broadcast via satellite on October 11, 2005 and will be shown locally on MTN.

Record #: 274 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-06
POW: E7
Location: Watauga
Person Reporting: Patoprsty, Wendy

After the floods in the fall of 2004, many landowners was left with severely eroding stream banks. In collaboration with Watauga River Conservation Partners, Cooperative Extension, World Wildlife Fund, WAMY, Watauga County Soil and Water, North state Environmental a bank stabilization project was completed. Boulders, coir matting, native vegetation were installed to stabilize the banks long term. The landowners will keep the buffer in tact. This landowner is now an example to others that riparian areas can protect stream banks during high flows.

Record #: 275 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-07
POW: F2
Location: Dare
Person Reporting: Hubbard, Amanda

Nine Dare County residents attended a stress management workshop in which they identified sources and solutions for daily stressors commonly associated with parenting. At the conclusion of the workshop, 66% of participants stated that they plan to increase the quality and quantity of time they spend with their child. In addition, 88% of the participants stated that they plan to utilize the stress management techniques they learned in the workshop, potentially saving Dare County businesses and agencies $8,888 in lost time and extra costs in both health and worker's compensation insurance.

Record #: 276 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-07
POW: F2
Location: Dare
Person Reporting: Hubbard, Amanda

53 Manteo High School Students burned off little excess energy as they learned more about stress management during an interactive physical activity entitled “Stress busters!” Students brainstormed sources and causes of everyday stressors then collaborated in teams to form solutions. As these young adults are graduating and entering the workforce, educating them with proper stress management techniques and practicing those skills can potentially help them meet the challenges of their life, improve the quality of their life, and become more effective employees.

Record #: 277 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-07
POW: F1
Location: Dare
Person Reporting: Hubbard, Amanda

Amanda Hubbard and Sandi Brick house (Dare 4-H Agent) collaborated to educate 83 middle school students on proper health and nutrition principles using the interactive educational software program Sybershop. Emphasis was placed on consuming more fruits and vegetables as students identified healthy choices by choosing items from a virtual food court and virtual cafeteria. As the cost for low fruit and vegetable intake in NC is estimated at $377 per person per year, North Carolina could potentially save $31,291 annually if students adopt these healthy eating patterns.

Record #: 278 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-07
POW: F1
Location: Pitt
Person Reporting: Reece, Susan

Through a NC Agro medicine Institute grant CES partnered with the Pitt Co. Health Dept. to offer a Pitt Co. employee health fair. CES offered the participants (265 signed in) a pedometer, a magnet promoting Pitt Co. Farmer's Market, healthy snacks for the worksite at a "Snack Shack", and two CD's promoting walking/walking trails in Pitt Co. and safe biking at no cost. Additionally, CES provided healthy recipe demonstrations promoting NC produce. From the 159 surveys completed, 103 reported an intention to make a lifestyle change as a result of the fair. CES resources encouraged and facilitated these lifestyle change intentions.

Record #: 279 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-07
POW: A15
Location: Dare
Person Reporting: Ruiz-Evans, Susan E

In an effort to increase horticultural educational opportunities, the Coastal Gardening Festival at the Outer Banks Arboretum and Teaching Garden was a success attracting over 200 residents and visitors doubling last years attendance. Gardening enthusiasts listened at “back porch lectures” on a variety of educational topics including native plants, container gardening, mosquito control and flower photography. Over 30 children learned about butterflies through fun craft projects. Vendors offered for sale herbs, trees, shrubs, flowers, seeds, jewelry, flower photographs and birdhouses. Educational booths provided information regarding fire ants, composting, lawns, soil sampling and fire wise landscaping. Tours of the arboretum demonstrated the variety of native plants and trees in a beautiful garden setting. About fifty percent of the Master Gardeners were involved with some aspect of the event double the number in past years. Over $1400 was raised for Extension Master Gardener educational projects through raffle ticket, plant and cookbook sales.

Record #: 280 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-29
POW: A5
Location: Gates
Person Reporting: Rayburn, Marjorie L

Educational efforts of NC Cooperative Extension in Gates, Chowan, and Perquimans counties have led strawberry growers to fine-tune their management to increase yield and profitability. Growers who had problems with Phytophthora disease in past years, applied Ridomyl in drip lines and had none this year. Growers used a disease management strategy and rotated fungicides resulting in excellent disease control of leaf and fruit diseases. Growers also used plant tissue sampling to improve their fertility and sent samples to the NCSU Plant Disease Clinic to confirm presence or absence of disease. Because of information presented at pre-plant meetings and follow-up visits to strawberry farms, growers were kept abreast of new developments and used better management to have one of the best years ever. One grower was still harvesting into June.

Record #: 281 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-10
POW: A2
Location: Onslow
Person Reporting: Adams, Emily M

Nineteen horse and livestock owners gathered on May 26, 2005 at the Onslow County Extension office to learn about how the NC Farm ID program could impact their farms and what the implications were of the national animal ID program. They also learned about the Air Consent Agreement which would impact hog producers in the future. Nine producers were able to receive 1.0 CEC each towards their credit hours needed to keep their animal waste operators license.

Record #: 282 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-27
POW: A1
Location: Person
Person Reporting: Woods, Kimberly

Horse theft is an increasing problem in North Carolina as well as Person County. Person County Cooperative Extension in conjunction with the Person County Horsemen's Association organized promoted and sponsored an Equine Microchip Clinic. Area horse owners were invited and encouraged to bring their equines in order to permanently identify the horse by microchip. Micro chipping is a permanent means of identification that can not be altered or destroyed by thieves. Most County animal control offices, slaughter facilities and auction facilities have scanners available to look for microchips, which can reunite horse and owner. As a service to the local horse population, a local veterinarian micro chipped a total of 9 horses. To date, none of the five owners that participated have lost their horses or had them stolen. With an estimated value or $4000 per horse, these horse owners saved $36,000, but the value of these animals to their owners is priceless.

Record #: 283 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-27
POW: A1
Location: Person
Person Reporting: Woods, Kimberly

Individuals often pursue endeavors without fully exploring the monetary or time investment needed. A local, deaf gentleman, interested in discontinuing his current employment in order to delve into the cattle business, contacted Person County Cooperative Extension for assistance. Organizations designed to assist the hearing-impaired and deaf encouraged this endeavor without the benefit of understanding the time, effort and especially the initial capital outlay required for a cattle farm. Extension, with the assistance of other state agencies to bridge the language barrier gap, discussed with this gentleman and his family the details involved in starting a cattle business. This family would have to take on a huge financial burden in order to purchase the equipment, facilities and cattle. Through discussions with this gentleman, a more suitable agricultural endeavor was proposed and accepted. Extension's recommendations saved this family $300,000 in equipment, cattle, fencing and other necessities to start a cattle business.

Record #: 284 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-10
POW: Y1
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Fuller, Iris W

The annual 4-H new years party was held to encourage existing youth, involve new 4-Hers and to get volunteers and youth excited about the New Year. This activity was a good encourager, promoter and overall great kick-off to a wonderful year ahead!

Record #: 285 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-10
POW: Y1
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Fuller, Iris W

The 59th annual livestock show and sale was sponsored in Orange County. Multiple life skills are learned by youth in this two day event as well as collaborative efforts by County, public, private and state entities.

Record #: 286 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-10
POW: Y1
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Fuller, Iris W

Another successful collaboration took place with Piedmont Electric Membership & Person County 4-H program by hosting the annual 4-H golf tournament. Despite the strong winds and rain over 80 teams gathered to raise money for the two 4-H programs.

Record #: 287 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-10
POW: Y1
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Fuller, Iris W

Orange County 4-H sponsored a delegation to space camp this year. This activity was quite a life learning experience. The youth enjoyed learning hands on about the space and science world. We hope that have inspired a future astronaut or two with this 4-H opportunity!

Record #: 288 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-10
POW: Y1
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Fuller, Iris W

The collaborative efforts of recreation & parks from both ends of the County and Orange County 4-H brought together community support for our annual youth fishing rodeo. This was a special time for 4-Hers in the County, other youth participants and their family members.

Record #: 289 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-10
POW: Y9
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Fuller, Iris W

Summer Sizzle middle school day camp began in June and will continue throughout the summer months with enrichment as well as recreational fun for rising 6th, 7th & 8th graders. So far the response is overwhelming with the registered participants.

Record #: 290 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-10
POW: Y1
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Fuller, Iris W

The third year of collaborations with local founders to continue our summer youth leadership program for teens is underway. The program is receiving rave reviews for its quality programming. This year an additional week has been added to make the program 6 weeks. The final week will include participation at 4-H Congress an excellent ending to this dynamic teen leadership development program.

Record #: 291 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-10
POW: Y9
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Fuller, Iris W

4-H will again be the quest presenters for the UNC-Chapel Hill summer day camp experience. Over 200 youth are introduced to 4-H hands-on-experiences within a two week period. Many youth get involved in 4-H after school or clubs from our past experiences.

Record #: 292 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-11
POW: A6
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Ruth, Cliff

Green Industry clients often are too busy to attend classes. Regarding new and emerging pests, but will take the time to read newsletters and/or e-mail. As over 50% of them are connected by internet, a system of sending newsletters and weekly Pest News updates has been developed. Many of these clients have indicated that they print out and keep these messages in a folder to refer back to when making scouting/IPM decisions and pesticide applications. This saves them guess work and has reduced the amount of pesticides that they use thus protecting the environment and saving a combined total of approximately $40,000 each year on chemicals.

Record #: 293 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-11
POW: A5
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Ruth, Cliff

New growers often find it difficult to bring buyers to their farms. One of the answers is crop diversification. This was the case with one Transylvania County nurseryman. When he asked for advice on growing strawberries we suggested he start small. He planted 14,000 plants- about 1 acre. Tired of removing the row covers, we suggested that he leave them on until the threat of frost was past. The result was that he began picking 2 weeks before any other grower and extended his season to 7 weeks instead of the typical 5, picking more than 75 gallons of berries each day and selling them for an above average price the berries more than paid their way. While his berries paid the bills for the farm, this spring, the long term effect was the draw of new plant buyers to his nursery.

Record #: 294 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-11
POW: E3
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Ruth, Cliff

The Certified Plant Professional Exam can often be quite difficult even for individuals with extensive training and experience in the green industry. A change in venue allowed NCCE agents to provide a mini-review for 12 of the 15 examinees taking the winter exam. This resulted in an above average pass rate with 9 of the 12 passing the exam. The economic impact of these passing participants equates to $2000 in increased income per year for each participant and a combined total impact of $72,000. Participants came from various regions of NC and VA.

Record #: 295 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-11
POW: A5
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Ruth, Cliff

the impacts from radio and other mass media delivery are often difficult to determine. This has not been the case with a recent announcement regarding the Operation Brighter Day hurricane relief applications. Growers that would otherwise not have came to the Cooperative Extension office, heard the announcement over one of the 2 stations that we air the Growing in the Mountains radio show and made an special effort to call for an appointment and come by to fill out their applications for assistance. Their comments were keeping up the good work and continue airing timely information on these stations because otherwise they would not have known that they had this option.

Record #: 296 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-11
POW: A6
Location: Henderson
Person Reporting: Ruth, Cliff

Being able to prepare and prepare programs for several topics is often difficult even for the most seasoned agent. The solution to this was found when 3 horticulture agents came together to collaborate on a multi-County, multi-speaker program for the green industry. The results: Over 90 green industry professionals were able to hear 10 extension professionals discuss topics they were most comfortable with. These folk received new information on a wide range of topics from the latest on Sudden Oak Death and Hemlock Woolly Adelgids to better ways on dealing with weeds and diseases in cool season turf. The attendees represented several area businesses over a 6 County region. The value of the information that these participants received exceeds $1000 per participant.

Record #: 297 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E

Timely and proper pruning can increase vigor, insect/disease resistance, safety and the aesthetic value of plants in the home landscape. To stress these points, the Caldwell County Cooperative Extension Center provided pruning information through newsletters, newspaper articles, workshops, radio, and TV programs. Adoption of lessons learned is estimated to increase value of home landscape by $1800.00.

Record #: 298 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
POW: C3
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E

Four years ago, the Caldwell Cooperative Extension Center was approached by County Manager to oversee the implementation of a CBG Grant of 1.5 million dollars for a five year period. Extension networked with WPCOG and NRCS in the application of these moneys in the Harper town community of Caldwell County. The land clearance project alone was valued at 120,000.00. Also, qualifying homes in this African/American community were selected for moneys to rehab them. Extension has played a lead role in setting up and conducting community meetings and in the establishment of a CDC to help start businesses in the area. Master Gardeners installed a demonstration \"Rain Garden\" at one of the new homes, valve at $300.00. This has generated interest in water quality and storm water management in the Harper town community. Five other homeowners have expressed interest in installing similar gardens.

Record #: 299 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-13
POW: F1
Location: Gaston
Person Reporting: Minges, Linda

As per NC Prevention Partners (www.ncpreventionpartners.org/basic) the cost for physical inactivity and poor nutrition to manufacturers results in costs of nearly $11.1 billion dollars each year to North Carolina. NC Cooperative Extension collaborated with R.L.Stowe to provide Noon lighting, a worksite wellness program in which 35 employees completed this eleven-week program. As per NC Prevention Partners guidelines, a cost savings of approximately $116,865 was provided to R.L. Stowe by this Extension program. The total group weight loss was approximately 340 pounds. Participants reported increased physical activity, using nutrition labels to make healthy food choices, and planning healthy meals for home. Monthly follow-up sessions will continue at R.L. Stowe to support weight loss maintenance. The Noon lighting program will continue to be offered to manufacturers and businesses throughout Gaston County.

Record #: 300 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
POW: C1
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E

The need existed to educate the Citizens of Caldwell County about the role that Agriculture still plays in the County\'s economy. So, the Caldwell County Extension Center in cooperation with the Caldwell Chamber on Commerce a Farm/City Tour 2005 was conducted. Fourteen participants visited an Angus Cattle Producer and Tuttle State Educational Forest. Participants were amazed and appreciative of the diversity of agriculture in Caldwell County. A TV program, potentially reaching an audience of 52,000, of this tour played on the local cable channel during Farm/City Week. Plans for next year are already in place and a visit to an industry will be included.

Record #: 301 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
POW: C6
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E

After the two hurricanes hitting Caldwell County this year, a local land owner contacted the Caldwell Cooperative Extension Center concerning correcting/repairing stream bank damage and erosion. Local Extension Agents and NRCS, our MAC Team partner, visited the site and made initial suggestions. Dr Greg Jennings, NCSU Specialist, was asked to visit the site and offer further suggestions. It was determined that the best approach would be to work through NCDEHNR and seek to restore the stream back to a natural trout stream. Extension and NRCS will provide technical assistance and stream bank planting suggestions. Saving and value to land owner estimated to be $7,500.00

Record #: 302 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-29
POW: C7
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E

Solid Waste management and recycling have been identified by Caldwell County officials as a major concern for the County. The Caldwell Extension Center, because of its expertise and passed record in dealing with a variety of waste management problems was asked by County Manager to address this area. The Center continued to lead the County's recycling program. Educational programs/activities included: newsletter articles, newspaper articles (9), radio programs (10), TV programs (4), composting classes (4), and promotion of Project Hero. Results in reducing solid waste stream by the following amounts: (1) Mixed paper...305 tons, (2) Card Board...1152 tons (3) Aluminum cans....18 tons (4) Glass....77.66 tons (5) Mixed Plastics....34.22 tons, Lead Batteries...3412 units and White Goods...1200 tons. Project Hero resulted in 6,914 gallons of used motor oil being recycled.

Record #: 303 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
POW: C7
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E

The need existed for the County to provide Caldwell County Citizens the opportunity to participate in additional recycling efforts. The Caldwell County Cooperative Extension was the lead Department in helping to establish Swap Sheds at three Convenience Sites. The major purpose of this joint effort was to provide a location where citizens could leave items they no longer needed, but may still have a useful life to someone else. This would reduce the total waste stream. It has been estimated that on the average 30 pounds/day of \"solid waste\" is being removed from the waste stream.

Record #: 304 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E

The Caldwell County Extension Center trained fourteen new Master Gardeners in an intensive 3 month training session of lectures, workshops, demonstrations and educational field trip.. Master Gardeners have volunteered over 400 hours of time at a value of $4,000.00 to Caldwell County.

Record #: 305 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-06
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E

The design of low maintenance landscapes and productive home gardens are important to homeowners in Caldwell County. The need for information dealing with the proper application of fertilizers, pesticides and other chemicals, in a safe and timely manner is of utmost concern. The Caldwell Center has provided information to over 4500 clients. Over 600 horticulture related phone calls were answered with a per call value of 35.00 ($21,000).Forty five horticultural news articles were submitted to the NEWS-TOPIC with a circulation of 14,000. Twenty TV programs were produced and played over the two local cable stations, potentially reaching an audience of 52,000. Ten radio spots were aired dealing with timely horticultural problems. and offering solutions. Application of all this information increased land value by an estimated amount of $2100 and vegetable garden value by $1000.00

Record #: 306 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-13
POW: F5
Location: Gaston
Person Reporting: Minges, Linda

Fifty percent of the 76 million reported cases of food borne illnesses in the U.S. are due to improper handling in the foodservice environment. NC Cooperative Extension, Gaston Center collaborated with the Gaston County Health Department to offer one 16-hour ServSafe certification class. A total of 28 restaurant managers and staff passed the certification exam. Based on data provided by Extension’s food safety specialist, a case of food borne illness costs $612. If each establishment prevented one case of food borne illness, the savings would be $17,136. ServSafe will continue to be offered annually as a result on its impact on preventing food borne illness.

Record #: 307 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-13
POW: F1
Location: Gaston
Person Reporting: Minges, Linda

Between 1995 and 2000, there was a 36 percent increase in the prevalence of overweight children between 2 and 4 years of age. In fact, twelve percent of 2 to 4 year old children seen in North Carolina public health settings are overweight. Gaston County Cooperative Extension collaborated with Gaston County Health Department to offer Color Me Healthy training to preschool teachers in childcare centers. The training focused on increasing physical activity and improving eating habits of preschoolers. Twenty-six childcare providers attended the training and reported intentions to use the curriculum. This training reached 246 four and five year olds in Gaston County. Teachers report that children in their centers tried different foods and played more active games together. Childcare providers also reported that the curriculum provided practical steps to improve their own nutrition and activity habits. Color Me Healthy will be offered in fall 2005 in Gaston County.

Record #: 308 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-14
POW: Y1
Location: Dare
Person Reporting: Brickhouse, Sandi

Manners, Respect, and Etiquette are topics that are usually taught by mothers and fathers to children at an early age. There are many children who do not receive these lessons from mom and dad, leading to disrespectful, and bad mannered young people. Dare County 4-H offered a workshop on manners, etiquette and respect. Eleven 4-H'ers participated in this workshop, they came in dress up clothes some even had hats and feather Boa's. Topics of discussion were germs, hand washing, table manners, how to cut, how to sit and walk properly, how to properly apply make-up and ways to respect ourselves and others. The workshops concluded with a tea party were the 4-H'ers could practice what they learned. This event received rave evaluations from participates as well as parents. Several parents inquired when more workshops such as this would be offered.

Record #: 309 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-14
POW: C8
Location: Cherokee
Person Reporting: Clement, Doug M

Since 9/11 disaster preparedness has become an important issue in Cherokee County Government. Cherokee County has a team providing leadership in determining the assets of each department and the resources available in the event of a disaster. Cooperative Extension is seen as the leader in providing educational information to our citizens and has been designated as the Public Information Office for Disaster Information. NCCE will be activated as part of a Public Information System to provide assistance with media relations during a major crisis/disaster in the area. Emergency management in which NCCE is a major component of the exercises is conducting trainings.

Record #: 310 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-21
POW: C2
Location: Cherokee
Person Reporting: Clement, Doug M

Western North Carolina is increasingly becoming dependent upon the tourist industry for economic viability. Key County leaders are searching for adjoining County and state coalitions to enhance and promote the assets of our area to potential visitors. As we receive visitors, it will be imperative that the visitors have a positive experience as they make Western North Carolina their traveling destination. Three Community Colleges and Cooperative Extension have partnered to develop customer service training for front line workers. A pilot project has been conducted with over 40 employees and 10 employers. A grant for $40,000.00 has been received to conduct training in the 7 western most counties of North Carolina and on the Qualla Boundary.

Record #: 311 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-14
POW: C1
Location: Cherokee
Person Reporting: Clement, Doug M

With Tourism in Cherokee County, a major component of Economic Development, one of the major initiatives is litter awareness. Litter education awareness programs were conducted to 250 adults and 300 youth. As a result of the educational programs in the spring of 2005 Litter Sweep was conducted on a County- wide basis. With support of County government, community clubs, local businesses and religious institutions, over 150 volunteers were mobilized and over 400 bags of trash were collected from the roadsides.

Record #: 312 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-15
POW: A1
Location: Craven
Person Reporting: Andrews, Amy

Horse Trailer Safety Meeting Saves Money & Lives... Changes in laws regulating trailer tag and weight classifications have confused local horse owners. Advisory leadership committees voiced the need for Craven/Jones County Cooperative Extension help provide educational meetings to insure that horse owners haul their horses legally & safely. Three Horse Trailer Safety educational meetings have been offered to producers of Craven, Jones and several surrounding counties. Eighty-four horse owners, caretakers, REINS volunteers and agents took advantage of information provided by the series. Topics ranged from "Choosing a Safe Trailer", "Prevention & Treatment of Trailering Injuries" to "Weight and Tag Classifications". Speakers included a NC Highway Patrol Officer from the Motor Carrier Division, local Vet, and a trailer builder & author of a new popular horse trailer safety book.

Record #: 313 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-15
POW: A1
Location: Craven
Person Reporting: Andrews, Amy

Horse Trailer Safety Saves $5,000 Approximately 84 horse owners and REINS volunteers attended an educational Horse Trailer Safety Series. Confusion among horse owners was discussed during an Advisory Leadership meeting. As a result, Cooperative Extension set up an educational meeting including a speaker from the NC Highway Patrol Motor Carrier Division. The officer spoke to a group of 39 horse owners and volunteers answering confused questions. Approximately $5,000 worth of court ticket violations was present. Several participants revealed that they had been hauling horses illegally due to the confusion. Two horse trailer and trucks were set up on display outside and were used to clarify confusion. This meeting helped save 37 court violations, $5,000 and represented hauling approximately 78 horses safer.

Record #: 314 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-15
POW: A1
Location: Craven
Person Reporting: Andrews, Amy

Swine Farmers Protect the Environment... A grant funded flow meter has been used on 11 different farms within two counties saving producers approximately $38,500. The meter measures gallons per minute during irrigation calibration procedures. Craven & Jones County Cooperative Extension has assisted 18 producers so far in calibrating wastewater irrigation systems. Several problems preventing efficient use of the systems have been corrected. Producers have been able to document efficiency of waste application and have saved money using Cooperative Extension.

Record #: 315 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-14
POW: Y1
Location: Montgomery
Person Reporting: Bruton, Millie C

Montgomery County 4-H Summer Fun classes give young people the opportunity to learn new skills, develop new friendships and even explore possible careers. Sixteen young people currently are participating in a Sign Language Class and are learning the basics of communicating in American Sign Language. The class was taught by 4-H alumni who became interested in signing in the very same kind of class. After two years of participating in the class she began to assist the instructor and eventually taught the class on her own. As a teen she spent a week each summer working at Deaf Camp at Sertoma to learn more about deaf culture. Now she is completing a degree at UNCG in Deaf Education. The 4-H Summer Fun class opened the door to a possible career in this field.

Record #: 316 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-27
POW: Y8
Location: Gates
Person Reporting: Riddick, Shevon

The School Age Child Care Director in Gates County is responsible for providing quality programming. On May 10th I received two letters from parents stating that this in fact was true. The parents gave outstanding praise to one of my after school teachers. Both sets of parents noticed that their child was starting to excel in math, where they were near failing. Due to this teacher's concentrated efforts both Christopher and Jenna were doing spectacular work in class. By the end of the school year both were completing second grade math objectives (they would come into after school \"asking\" for math problems to do. Did I mention that these children were only in kindergarten? After school is not a daycare service, we are providing quality school age child care. There will be NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND as long as this teacher is on the scene!

Record #: 317 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-15
POW: F4
Location: Gates
Person Reporting: Eure, Helen P

Extension and Community Association clubs continue to decline in both Gates and Hertford County. In Jan. 2005 three of the clubs in Hertford County made the decision to disband due to lack of members willing to take leadership positions within the clubs. The FCS agent with N.C. Cooperative Extension, Hertford County Center, offered to host a monthly meeting at the Extension Office for those members that wished to continue their affiliation with ECA. As a result, a new club was formed with representation from the three disbanding clubs. This is the FIRST integrated club in either Gates or Hertford County. By combining the three groups there were enough members willing to fill the offices of President, Secretary, and Treasurer.

Record #: 318 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-15
POW: F1
Location: Gates
Person Reporting: Eure, Helen P

N.C.C.E., Gates County Center, collaborated with Gates County Schools to reach 93 5th graders. Students gained a greater appreciation of African American History by participating in "Let Freedom Ring". As part of this program the students learned about "Soul food". Included were discussions about food preparation and seasoning techniques and changes that can be made to make more healthful choices in today's world. Heart disease is a leading health concern for Gates County residents. Gates County residents in programs such as those described here are learning how to increase their quality of life by reducing risk factors for chronic diseases such as heart disease, through behavior changes such as decreasing intake of salt and fat, preparing food with less fat/salt, and increasing intake of complex carbohydrates, fiber, fruits and vegetables. Yearly cost saved per person if heart disease is avoided equals $30,000 per patient.

Record #: 319 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-15
POW: F5
Location: Gates
Person Reporting: Eure, Helen P

Gates County Extension Center continues to be the only organization offering community-wide CPR classes in this area. First aid and CPR training continue to be an important programming area, since Gates County residents are located at least 30 minutes from the nearest hospital and rely on a volunteer rescue squad. A total of 74 participants (child care providers, school aged care providers, teachers, students, disaster shelter managers and community citizens) have been reached with first aid and/or CPR training. All 74 participants completed requirements of American Red Cross certification.

Record #: 320 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-15
POW: A3
Location: Guilford
Person Reporting: Day, Marti P

Cooperative Extension, in partnership with local farmers and volunteers, provided a positive agricultural learning experience to the kindergarden class of a local Montessori school through the dairy heifer project. Calves were loaned to the school group to feed, care for, prepare for and exhibit at their district junior dairy show. The majority of these children live in suburban areas and would not have had such an opportunity without participating in this Extension sponsored activity. The director of the school was quoted as saying - "This was a great project! The children learned so many life skills - teamwork, commitment, responsibility, patience, persistence - there is not another project we could have chosen this summer that the children would have learned so much and had so much fun while doing it! Can we do it again next year?"

Record #: 321 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-15
POW: A1
Location: Guilford
Person Reporting: Day, Marti P

Cooperative Extension provided information, support and technical assistance to a farm family milking herd of goats, crafting and marketing their own farmstead cheese to initiate an intensive grazing program for their milking herd. The original goal of the project was to reduce critical parasite loads they were experiencing in their does. Extension guidance in forage species selection, pasture establishment, paddock design and grazing management helped the family achieve this goal and also realize others which included improved flavor and feel of their milk and cheese and increased cheese yield due to changes in milk components. The family credits these improvements directly to the intensive grazing program.

Record #: 322 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-30
POW: A1
Location: Guilford
Person Reporting: Day, Marti P

Cooperative Extension programs influenced the decision of a large dairy producer to adopt new technology in silage corn planting. 105 acres were planted using new double row technology. Research data shows an increase of approximately 2 tons per acre using this technology. With corn silage valued at $40 dollars per ton, this farm family will experience an increase in gross farm income of $8400.

Record #: 323 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-30
POW: A1
Location: Guilford
Person Reporting: Day, Marti P

Cooperative Extension working closely with a newly established dairy farm has been vital to the process of problem solving through the start-up transition phase. A particular area of significant contribution has been waste handling facility design. The farm is not of a size and scale to be able to most efficiently utilize the more common waste storage facility designs for larger dairies. However, the main area of waste generation was located near a perenial stream and the farmer was very interested in protecting the water resources potentially impacted. In cooperation with local regulatory agencies, Extension agents and specialists were able to provide an affordable and effective design for a waste management structure thus avoiding unecessary expenditures on the farmer\'s part and ensuring protection of water quality. Working with Extension agents and specialists, this farmer saved approximately $5000 on his waste handling facililties

Record #: 324 of 2747
Date: 2005-11-18
POW: A7
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Brewington, Martin L

Small and limited resource farmers are constantly facing challenge to find alternative enterprises. The Robeson County Center of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension service, is assisting small farmers to determine which alternative crops provide the greatest opportunity for profits. Three farmers families constructed (5) greenhouses on their farms to generate additional income and grow transplants for other farmers. These greenhouses provide an efficient, economical plant structure for growing transplants that have provided $3,000 in profits for these growers.Management practices, skills, and decision making abilities have made a difference in growing top quality transplants for sale to other farmers. These growers can now reduce expenses and increase profits in the future by selling transplants and flowers. Thanks to the assistance of Martin Brewington, Agricultural Technician these families can better meet the challenges in the future.

Record #: 325 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-16
POW: C1
Location: New Hanover
Person Reporting: Nash, David L

Working with the Town of Oak Island Tree & Vegetation Preservation Committee, this agent provided guidance and assistance to the committee members to revise the Town's Tree Ordinance. Over a period of 14 months, the committee members gained knowledge about the benefits of urban trees, learned about the native tree species, and gained awareness about community tree ordinances. The work of the committee was recognized by the Oak Island Town Council who approved the new ordinance at their June 2005 meeting.

Record #: 326 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-16
POW: C1
Location: New Hanover
Person Reporting: Nash, David L

Working with the City of Southport, this agent provided technical information to control erosion at a new city park located on the Cape Fear River. Working with NCCE, the City had recently completed a stone sill project to reduce wave action induced erosion. Following completion of the stone sill breakwater, the shoreline needed to be vegetated with native species. This agent, in conjunction with the Town of Oak Island Greenhouse, grew 2500 Spartina alterniflora plants, that were donated to the City of Southport. Volunteers and city employees planted the plants under the direction of this agent. The plants and labor saved the City of Southport $2500, and the shoreline ecosystem was restored and protected from further erosion.

Record #: 327 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-16
POW: C4
Location: New Hanover
Person Reporting: Nash, David L

Students and adult volunteers provided help to the Town of Wrightsville Beach by planting 2000 sea oats to help build and stabilize the coastal dune system. The students and adult volunteers learned the importance of the coastal dune ecosystem and gained knowledge about native species. The sea oats were grown by a local sea oats grower who donated the seedlings back to the Town in exchange for the seeds harvested by volunteers last fall on Wrightsville Beach. This agent worked with the Town to coordinate the sea oat seed harvest last fall, growing of the seedlings, and planting by student volunteers. This is a win-win-win scenario for the Town of Wrightsville Beach, the sea oats grower, and Rachel Freeman Elementary school students and teachers.

Record #: 328 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-16
POW: A1
Location: New Hanover
Person Reporting: Nash, David L

The Town of Oak Island operates a greenhouse to produce native dune species such as sea oats, bitter panicum, and seashore elder. The Town needs the plants to build and stabilize the coastal dunes that protect the homes, roads, and other infrastructure from the impacts of hurricanes and other storm events. In early 2005, the greenhouse was staffed with new employees who did not have knowledge of commercial scale dune plant production. This agent worked with the new employees to train them to grow the needed plants. The employees learned greenhouse management skills and gained knowledge about growing dune plants from seeds and/or cuttings. So far this year, the greenhouse has produced about 75,000 seedlings for dune stabilization. The seedlings are valued at approximately $35,000.

Record #: 329 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-16
POW: Y5
Location: Onslow
Person Reporting: Clemmons, J G

The Department of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention awarded the Mentors/Friend of 4-H Program in Onslow a grant for an Americorp Promise Fellow for the period of one year. This individual recruits volunteers to serve the youth as mentors as well as providing monthly educational and recreational activities. To date the Americorp worker has conducted 3 educational programs and recruited 10 new mentors to be matched with youth from Onslow County. Because of these efforts there has been an increase in the effectiveness and success of the youth and their mentors.

Record #: 330 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-16
POW: Y5
Location: Onslow
Person Reporting: Clemmons, J G

When working with at risk youth/families from low income backgrounds it is often difficult to establish trust and respect from outsiders. The 4-H SOS program housed at Jacksonville Commons Middle School has had some success in this area. Through a visitation program in various neighborhoods of these youth/families a sense of trust by parents, family members and youth at the school with the school staff and the 4-H SOS staff was gained. A sense of respect was also developed. Because of this relationship building parents are now attending necessary meetings at the school checking on their student's grades and performances and also becoming more involved in what is happening at the school.

Record #: 331 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-16
POW: Y5
Location: Onslow
Person Reporting: Clemmons, J G

With the help of a local sorority and fraternity consisting of minority adults, three differnt programs have been put in place at the 4-H SOS site here in Onslow County. Two of the programs, Girls Get Real(45 enrolled) and Gentlemen of Quality(30 enrolled) have helped minority students with academics and social skills. The other effort is called Delta Academy targeting girls(20 enrolled) to help them with technology and math skills. Delta Academy also has taught these girls how to set up a CFNC.org account which in turn helps them focus on college plans and future endeavors.

Record #: 332 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-16
POW: Y1
Location: Onslow
Person Reporting: Clemmons, J G

After analyzing the feedback form parents concerning the 2004 Avenues of Interest 4-H Summer Program, a need for additional horse riding camps that evolved around the 5-8 year old age group was discovered. With the help of an additonal stable in the County two more individual weeks of riding camp was provided which increased the participation in the horse program by 24 youth. This has been a great compliment to the existing horse camp week set up for 9-19 year olds. In addition efforts were made to increase participation in the Farm Safety Day Camp. Onslow only had 5 youth participate previously. Networking with Brookwood Day Care, 17 youth who reside in the city of Jacksonville made the trip to Kinston this year(2005) to learn about safety on the farm and in other areas in gerneral.

Record #: 333 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-27
POW: Y5
Location: Gates
Person Reporting: Dozier, Jazmine

20 4-H SOS participants have had their math and reading scores increase dramatically since being enrolled in both SOS and Project Acceleration. Through continuous observation, 10 particpants' attitudes, self-esteem, and confidence, has dramatically increased. Through numerous public speaking activities, more than 35 participants' public speaking skills has improved since being enrolled in the program. 5 student presenters are presenting in 2 different categories and 3 different age groups for District Activity Day this year.

Record #: 334 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-28
POW: A1
Location: Edgecombe
Person Reporting: Blalock, Ralph E

The new East Carolina Livestock Arena Board was faced with the problem of needing seating for the sales arena portion of the facility that was not covered under the building contract. With limited funds for this oversight The Edgecombe Extension Center was asked to help solve the problem. After much research a seating company was located that deals in used stadium seating. Samples where sent to the board and a deal was made. The seat saved the board $44,000 from new seat prices. Volunteers worked to assemble and install the 208 seats all in time for the 4-H livestock show and sale to be held in the new facility. Volunteer instalation saved an additional$2912.

Record #: 335 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-16
POW: Y1
Location: Onslow
Person Reporting: Clemmons, J G

During the third week of 4-H Summer Day camp in Onslow County a group of 30 youth between the ages of 5-10 were able to test their skills in the project area of sewing. The finished product that particular day was a 15in.x15in. pillow constructed of material donned with 4-H clovers. Assisting with this project was the FCE Agent, two 4-H volunteers,one teen volunteer and the camp staff. What was uniques about this project is the youth were sewing on a new machine donated to the 4-H program in February by AllBrands, INC. The 4-H Agent applied for and received the machine as part of a grant application. The machine will continue to be used in other sewing youth projects throughout the year.

Record #: 336 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-17
POW: F4
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Pettitt, Alice L

According to the 2004 NC-NPASS data for Orange County, 19.2% of children ages 2 through 18 years of age are at risk for overweight and 21.6% are overweight. Cooperative Extension is trying to promote better nutrition and increased physical activity through its Orange on the Move Coalition. The Coalition involved over 600 youth and their families in special events in April. Youth participated in numerous activities to help them become more active and teach them better nutrition. Through the coalition, members have increased their networking and collaboration. The coalition also contacted the County commissioners to ask their support of facilities, environmental changes, policies, and other things that would promote physical activity and nutrition for youth and their families. Members spoke at a public hearing for the Town of Chapel Hill to get their support for a program for youth and their families who are overweight.

Record #: 337 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-17
POW: F1
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Pettitt, Alice L

According to the 2004 NC-NPASS data for Orange County, 19.2% of children ages 2 through 18 years of age are at risk for overweight and 21.6% are overweight. Cooperative Extension in Orange County is working with the School Health Advisory Committee to promote better nutrition in the schools. A timeline has been developed for Orange County Schools to meet the Recommended North Carolina Eat Smart Standards. Changes made this year include switching to lower fat milk, offering whole grains 3 times a week, offering fries just once a week, analyzing menus and offering at least one Winner's Circle meal daily, and having some healthier choices in vending machines. Cooperative Extension helped promote Winner's Circle healthier meals to over 3500 middle and high school students.

Record #: 338 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-17
POW: F5
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Pettitt, Alice L

According to CDC, an estimated 76 million illnesses and 5194 deaths are attributed to food borne illness in the US each year. Food safety education is widely believed to be essential to the prevention of food borne illness in the US. Cooperative Extension in Orange and Durham County teamed up with another agency to offer an 18-hour food safety manager's certification class to 59 managers. A 6-hour food safety class was also taught in Spanish to 20 employees. Managers reported the following changes as a result of the training: keep raw meat on the bottom shelf to prevent cross-contamination; developed a cleaning schedule; stricter monitoring procedures on time, temperature and holding; require better handwashing from employees; label foods with date before storing; developed training programs for employees; and improved food storage procedures.

Record #: 339 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-17
POW: F1
Location: Orange
Person Reporting: Pettitt, Alice L

Cooperative Extension and its Orange on the Move Coalition teamed up with several agencies to develop and implement a 10 week interactive program for youth and their families who are concerned about weight. The youth participated in physical activity twice a week at the YMCA, and parents and youth participated in once a week sessions that focused on lifestyle changes, and nutrition education. 22 youth and their families participated in the program, with 64% having incomes less that 30% of the median income for the area. BMI remained the same for most participants, but waist circumference decreased in 75% of participants. 50% decreased body fat, and 75% decreased blood pressure. Fruit and vegetable intake increased from 2.5 servings per day to 4.25. 82% showed an increase in the number of steps they walked in a 7-minute walk test, and participants reported having more stamina and easier breathing while exercising. A grant from the Town of Chapel Hill helped support the program.

Record #: 340 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-17
POW: A7
Location: Mitchell
Person Reporting: DeLisle, Jeremy A

Rising fuel costs, bioterrorism, food safety concerns and an increased awareness by consumers as to the benefits of developing a local food system have all led to the creation of the Bakersville Community Market. The focus of the market is to provide the freshest, highest quality food to consumers, while simultaneously providing local producers with a marketplace for their goods. Members of the community, along with the support of the Cooperative Extension Service came together to form the market. Extension provided guidance on food safety regulations, business structure and sourcing local goods available. The market opened to the public on April 20th of 2005. Between the store manager and the volunteer working members, the value of providing the market to the community is $2000 per month. The market spends approximately $500/month on local goods.

Record #: 341 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
POW: A4
Location: Lincoln
Person Reporting: Beam, Josh B

Implementing improved production practices and pest management strategies are vital to the family farm. Grower meeting provide the opportunity for farmers to learn about these production practices and how to implement them. At our local production meeting growers learned from specialists and agents about pest management, marketing, and production practices. From this meeting, through a survey, growers said they would change production production practices (especially planting dates, seeds per acre, variety selection, and being more timely) and pest management techniques (especially scouting and pesticide application timing).

Record #: 342 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
POW: A4
Location: Lincoln
Person Reporting: Beam, Josh B

Increasing crop production from a particular field, increases farm sustainability and overall profitability. A particular grower noticed one field was not growing and yielding compared to other fields or even the same as it had in the past despite similar fertilizer and lime applications. Cooperative extension agents collected plant tissue and soil tests to determine possible causes. Soil tests results indicated a high pH spot in the field which lead to nutrient deficiencies and lowered performance. Because of the help he got from Cooperative Extension, the grower was able to correct the problem in succeeding crops and increase production and overall farm profitability.

Record #: 343 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-17
POW: Y10
Location: Lincoln
Person Reporting: Dillon, April

Educators are required to plan and teach according to NC standard course of study objectives specific to grade and subject matter. 4-H Embryology School Enrichment helps second grade teachers apply experiential learning activities to their science unit. This 4-H program supplies the classroom with an incubator, quail eggs and curriculum. A local farmer, who obtains a wildlife propagation permit, raises the quail at the completion of the classroom project. Eight teachers were trained by the 4-H Agent in Experiential Learning and 4-H Emrbyology. Unfortunately seven teachers were not able to complete the program due to administrative reasons regarding health and sanitation in the public schools. The remaining Charter School Teacher utilized experiential learning and 4-H Embryology activities for three weeks. This teacher reported some improvement in attendance, great improvement in classroom interaction, great improvement in science grades and some improvement in classroom behavior for all twenty-one students. The teacher also

Record #: 344 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-18
POW: A7
Location: Yancey
Person Reporting: Harrison, Una

Extension agents and an NCDA inspector performed a food safety training to educate Farmer’s Market members and produce growers about safe food handling practices, good agricultural practices (GAPS), and kitchen certification to reduce the risk of food borne illness. Fifteen workshop attendees learned the following practices to minimize health risks associated with handling food from production in the field to selling at the market: provide adequate sanitation facilities for workers, use appropriate handwashing techniques, follow processing guidelines for value-added products, and have kitchens inspected. As a result of the training, one market member discontinued production of value-added products because her processing kitchen would not have met required inspection criteria. Another member discontinued production of acidified foods until attending the “acidified foods school”. Workshop attendees will now provide safer products for their customers, reduce the chance that a food borne illness will occur and improve market image overall.

Record #: 345 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-20
POW: Y5
Location: Currituck
Person Reporting: Bailey, Alysia

Parents schedules can be quite hectic, and with the demands of after school activities can be quite impossible at times. This year the 4-H/SOS Program created a Family Fun night. Families were able to come out & enjoy a fun night with each other, where dinner was supplied at no cost. Parents attended a seminar, by the FCS Agent, on Families Eating Smart and Moving More. Children enjoyed a fun evening of games and activities. Then parents were joined with children for more family games and activities. The night was a success with over 50 in attendance, and 100% of the parents stated they wish this type of activity was available more often.

Record #: 346 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-20
POW: Y5
Location: Currituck
Person Reporting: Bailey, Alysia

Children are not always susceptible to helping others. This year in the Currituck SOS Program, participants have had the opportunities to put in over 50 hours in community services projects. These projects included donating shoes, walking animals at the animal shelter, cleaning the adopted highway, assisting with the annual easter egg hunt, and working at the Flower and Garden Show. One student however decided that she wanted to venture out and challenge her self even more. She contacted the Triple R Ranch Special Equestrians Riding Program to see if she could donate more hours their. The young lady was responsible for leading horses that were being ridden by handicap children. She donated numerous hours this semester, and received a certificate of appreciation.

Record #: 347 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-20
POW: Y5
Location: Currituck
Person Reporting: Bailey, Alysia

In Currituck County the number of child abuse and child neglect cases increase annually. To provide comfort and security to the children being removed from these situations the students of the Support Our Students Program joined forces with the Currituck Sheriffs Department to collect Teddy Bears to donate to the children. The children started in January, and were asked to select one of their own bears to donate, and then any others that they could locate. In just one week, 32 students donated 100 teddy bears. The students learned the importance of caring & sharing , and how to be thankful for the little things in life. 100% of the student 4-Hers participating increased their awareness & understanding of the complexity involved in child abuse and neglect.

Record #: 348 of 2747
Date: 2005-07-19
POW: A7
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Boylan, Richard

Collaborative Field Education Enhances Outreach & Education – Many aspiring growers and beginning farmers in the NC High Country are well-read on their chosen areas of agriculture, but lack the hands-on experience necessary for a successful start. In 2005, Cooperative Extension teamed up with several partners to offer a series of field schools that offer on-farm, hands-on education. Over the year’s field schools, growers were able to access timely information on greenhouse production, organic pest management, cover crops to improve soil quality, summer-pruning of fruit trees, and strawberry production in the mountains. Each of these classes occurred at a suitable farm site, with most of them offering guided hands-on activities so that farmers could learn by doing. Overall, more than 100 growers participated in the series, with at least 25 growers reporting adoption of new practices due to what they learned.

Record #: 349 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-20
POW: A7
Location: Halifax
Person Reporting: Davis, James

By providing educational information to two limited resource farmers through the North Carolina A&T State University mentoring program these farmers have increased their marketability in the community by mentoring 15 potential growers that have since increased their sells of produce to double from what is was last year this time. Date 6-20-05

Record #: 350 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-20
POW: F1
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L

Families Eating Smart Moving More Health Risks associated with excessive soft drink consumption include increased calories for non-diet soda's, low calcium intake which contirubes to osteoporosis , and dental cavieties which increases dental expenses. A workshop delivered to 125 teacher assistants to improve healthy environments and personal health habits impacted 11% of the group to reduce their soda consumption this year. This training encouraged increasing their calcium levels with dairy products to improve the dental health and decrease the dental expenses to the family and school system. The school system also made strides to increase the milk and water choices in all vending machines.

Record #: 351 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-20
POW: Y1
Location: Gates
Person Reporting: Green-Holley, Reba M

Collaboration with NASA enabled first ever implementation of 4H Spacepalooza Camp in the Northeast District and in North Carolina for sixty-six youth and 14 adults. The idea was the brain storm of Reba Green-Holley, CED and Kyleen Micheal, Northampton County 4H Agent. Together they coordinated the district wide event. NE District agents assisted with curriculum instruction and recruitment. Purdue University provided the training on ALS/NSCORT curriculum (scientific concepts as they related to Mars space exploration). These concepts were taught in four workshops along with going to the Virginia Air and Space Museum and participating in additional scienfic workshops. They also viewed IMAX film, "Aliens of the Deep". Overall evaluations indicated that: this was the first time for one third of the youth being in a college environment and visiting the museum. Funding was obtained from NASA, Roanoke Electric Care Trust, private donation and registration fees.

Record #: 352 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-01
POW: Y3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Rogers, Aggie L

With the decline of jobs in Robeson County, there is a demand for youth to learn about entrepreneurship and money management. Robeson County 4-H networked with NC A&T University to implement the Mini-Society program. This program target youth age 8-12. With the demand for (5) days instead of (3) days, we included it in our list of summer activities. The number increased from 23-32. The curriculum was designed to teach youth how to start their own business by identifying ways they can earn money. An written evaluation was completed. Due to the evaluations, 95% said their money management, decision making,citizenship and speaking skills has increased and (3) youth have started their own small business.

Record #: 353 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-21
POW: E8
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: McLean, Melissa R

State law requires certified and licensed pesticide applicators to attend classes on a regular basis to maintain their certifications and licenses. The Robeson County Extension horticultural agent, partnering with the NCDA and CS Pesticide Inspector, has offered eight Private Pesticide Applicator recertification classes for categories V and X during 2005. Participants improved their knowledge of pesticide handling and storage safety, new North Carolina Pesticide laws and regulations, aquatic weed identification and control, herbicide use and safety in the landscape, and pesticide formulation characteristics. Over 300 private and commercial applicators attended the classes and were recertified. This recertification will keep their licenses current and will save these applicators a potential $600 each in violation fees.

Record #: 354 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-21
POW: E8
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: McLean, Melissa R

Plastic pesticide containers can create waste problems on farms as they build up. It is illegal to burn, bury, or throw away these containers. With landfill space at a premium, farmers are reluctant to carry their pesticide containers to the landfill due to the fees charged. The cost of disposing of pesticide containers in the landfill is over $.015 per pound. With assistance from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and US Ag. Recycling, a plastic pesticide container collection week was held at the Robeson County Fairgrounds during the week of January 2 through January 7, 2005. 1,236 containers were collected over five days. All containers collected were properly cleaned and were acceptable for recycling. The farmers paid no recycling fees or disposal fees to recycle their containers. Further container collections will be held to assist farmers with the proper disposal of their plastic pesticide containers.

Record #: 355 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-21
POW: C4
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: McLean, Melissa R

The Robeson County Master Gardener Association provides many services to the community through volunteer projects that include speaking to garden clubs and social groups, assisting with training sessions and workshops, community beautification projects, and many other activities, at no cost to the participants. The association held their annual plant sale on April 30, 2005 to raise funds to assist with their volunteer projects. The Master Gardeners spent volunteer time preparing plants from their own gardens and greenhouses to sell for the fund raiser. 20 Master Gardeners volunteered four hours of their time to work at the plant sale. Plants were sold at $2 each and over $1,000 was raised in less than four hours. This money will go towards volunteer projects, special programs, and the next Master Gardener Training class.

Record #: 356 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-21
POW: F2
Location: Sampson
Person Reporting: Peele, Anna J

Sensible Safe Play: Following attendance of a Sensible Safe Play workshop, one of the students requested that I conduct an audit and give her a written report of the finding of the play area used by her church. The workshop had made her aware of the potential hazards in the play area. The audit was conducted, the report written and given to the decision makers of the church. Her immediate request was that the hazards be removed prior to the beginning of the summer youth activities. Not only did the decisions makers begin immediately removing hazards, but gave her a budget for improvements and renovations.

Record #: 357 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-21
POW: A7
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Brownlee, Nelson C

Small and part-time farm families are always constantly facing the challenge of finding alternative sources of income that provide relatively high per-acre returns to supplement the loss of farm income. With the help of the Cooperative Extension Service, these families are trying to meet this challenge. Last year, nine small farm families produced approximately twenty-one acres of alternative crops on plastic and drip irrigation to reduce risks due to weather conditions. This year, three of the families constructed five greenhouses to grow transplants and flowers for production and sale to other farmers. These plastic cover greenhouses provide an efficient, economical plant structure for growing transplants. Farmers using the greenhouses have generated approximately $3,000 extra income. In the future, these farmers will continue to increase profits by selling a larger volume of transplants and flowers.

Record #: 358 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-22
POW: F2
Location: Sampson
Person Reporting: Peele, Anna J

Thank You note from Guidance Counselor -- Just wanted to thank you again for coming to Union High School and talking to our freshmen students about anger management. Shortly after your session a young man was referred to me from our assistant principal because of his own issues with anger. In my counseling session with this young man he stated that after your presentation he realized that he needed help with his anger; we have since referred him for additional counseling and he seems to be doing better.

Record #: 359 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-22
POW: Y1
Location: Lincoln
Person Reporting: Dillon, April

To grow up to be competent, coping, contributing adults, children must develop life skills. 4-H encourages life skill development through the delivery of subject matter content in 4-H club settings. The Targeting Life Skills Model identifies relating and caring as two major life skills categories. (Hendricks, P. A. (1996) Targeting Life Skills Model. Ames, Iowa, Iowa State University.)Child development research shows that five to eight year olds are just beginning to look outside the self and show concern for others. Twelve 4-H’ers, ages five to eight, studied six character traits this year: kindness, caring, responsibility, respect, trustworthiness and citizenship. The programs were led by a 4-H volunteer. They demonstrated having acquired relating and caring life skills by electing to do an unusual service project. They planned and conducted a FREE lemonade stand for their community. They also displayed their work and shared handouts about character traits with the public.

Record #: 360 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-22
POW: A4
Location: Wilkes
Person Reporting: Miller, Matthew S

The tobacco buyout that is ending quota and support prices to Wilkes tobacco farmers has raised many questions concerning tax implications and investment decisions. On May 10, 2005 Wilkes Cooperative Extension held a workshop to address producers questions. Speakers included Matthew Miller, Wilkes Ag. Extension Agent, a local certified public accountant and a representative with an investment firm. !6 farmers attended and survey results showed an increase in knowledge and awareness of options to properly deal with this situation.

Record #: 361 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-22
POW: A9
Location: Richmond
Person Reporting: Pence, William

Due to lack of knowledge in marketing and timber volumes, timber owners can potentially lose substantial amounts of money when making a timber sale. Timber production and management can contribute a significant portion to the farmer/landowners total income. Management strategies were shared with the landowners by the Richmond County Agricultural Agent. This year 2 of these landowners, when using advice from the Richmond County Center of the NC Cooperative Extension Service, increased their timber income revenue by $ 35,000.

Record #: 362 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-22
POW: F3
Location: Randolph
Person Reporting: Graves, Priscilla

Obtaining Homeownership for low-income displaced homemakers, single parents and first time homebuyers is a problem in Davidson County and Randolph County. To address this need, Davidson and Randolph Cooperative Extension, North Carolina Housing Finance Agency, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture and have partnered to ensure that these individuals have access to safe, well-built, affordable homes. The NC Housing Finance Agency and USDA offered a program that allowed participants to secure a first mortgage at 0% interest and a second mortgage as low as 1%. Cooperative Extension provided homebuyer education counseling in the areas of “Managing Your Money”, “Understanding Credit”, “Shopping for a Home”, and Keeping Your Home & Managing Your Finances”. As a result of the counseling program one couple received a $68,000 interest free loan from USDA and $50,000 loan from NC Housing. The couple closed on their home May 2005.

Record #: 363 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-22
POW: F3
Location: Randolph
Person Reporting: Graves, Priscilla

Unemployed and underemployed residents of the Asheboro Housing Authority need basic living skills to assist them in obtaining better jobs and to become free of housing subsidies through Section 8 rental programs. To address this need, Randolph County Extension and the Asheboro Housing Authority partnered to provide educational classes to forty-seven participants. Cooperative Extension provided classes on “Record Organization”; “Making Spending Choices”; “Understanding Credit”; “Handling Credit Problems” and “Banking Basics”. Some participants were surveyed via the telephone several weeks after the classes. Three indicated that they now open their bills as soon as they arrive and file them in a central location. By doing this their bills are now being paid on time. In addition, one person indicated that she will open a checking account now that she knows of all the hidden fees. Due to the interest of the participants classes will continue on an as needed basis.

Record #: 364 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-22
POW: F3
Location: Randolph
Person Reporting: Graves, Priscilla

Unemployed and underemployed residents of the Lexington Housing Authority need basic living skills to assist them in obtaining better jobs and to become free of housing subsidies through Section 8 rental programs. To address this need, Davidson County Extension and the Lexington Housing Authority partnered to provide educational classes to twenty-eight participants. Extension provided classes on “Making Spending Choices”; “Understanding Credit”; and “Handling Credit Problems”. In order to get the residents off public assistance, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) require unemployed persons to obtain a certain number of community service hours by attending educational classes to assist them in developing skills to help them to become self-sufficient. As a result of the series of financial management classes, the non-working residents of Lexington Housing became more self-sufficient, met their community service hours and were able to continue to live in their homes.

Record #: 365 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-22
POW: F1
Location: Hoke
Person Reporting: McRae, Clinton

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that approximately 76 million people get sick and 5,000 people die annually from food borne diseases. Children, senior citizens and people with a compromised immune system are at a higher risk. The Hoke County Center of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension with support from the Hoke County Environmental Health Department offered an 18 hour ServSafe® food safety certification program. The program focuses on teaching safe food handling practices at all levels of operation. Over 70 food service employees have completed the program in the past three years. Most of the participants indicated an increase in knowledge of safe food handling practices through passing a certification exam. Application of knowledge gained will reduce the risk of food borne illness and save over $860 per consumer in doctor expenses (United States Department of Agriculture). If each food handler prevented just one case of food borne illness, there is an estimated savings over $60,200. The program will continue to be offered.

Record #: 366 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-28
POW: E2
Location: Pasquotank
Person Reporting: Wood, Alton E

Economically and environmentally sound practices are presented throught our meetings, field days, and newsletters to enhance and protect environmental quality. Topics covered included nitrogen management in corn and wheat, foliar disease control in wheat, improved disease resistance, and use of insecticide treated seed corn for the control of billbugs and wireworms. With the adoption of the neonicotinoids corn seed treatments, the amount of insecticide active ingredient used in the County has been decreased by 95 percent. Also, we are getting better control of our two major corn pests, billbugs and wireworms and higher yields.

Record #: 367 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-01
POW: Y3
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Rogers, Aggie L

Robeson County is among the highest to have youth injured or killed on farms and homes. An estimated of 104 children younger than age 20 are fatally injured from farms and homes annually. Aggie Rogers, 4-H Program Associate with Robeson County Extension Service networked with Progressive Farmers to sponsored a Safety Day Camp. The camp focused on youth age 8-14. The educational demonstration and workshops included; Fire and Bicycle safety, ATV and Disability Awareness was to educate youth about being safe. 98% of the youth expressed the need to change practices to be safer. The camp is for one day - but what they remember will last a lifetime.

Record #: 368 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-22
POW: Y1
Location: Currituck
Person Reporting: Conner, Sandra S

It was identified by Advisory Board members that children lack the social graces needed to succeed in today's world. Thus, the “How Rude” workshop was born. Twenty SOS youth participated in a twelve week course, to teach them the skill needed to meet life's opportunities and challenges with confidence. This was accomplished by teaching social skills, good manners and proper behavior. At the conclusion of this program, students dined at a prominent local restaurant where they enjoyed a five-course meal and put all their newly learned manners into motion. Parents reported that they saw marked improvement in their child's manners at the dinner table and social functions as a result of their participation in this course.

Record #: 369 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-22
POW: Y12
Location: Currituck
Person Reporting: Conner, Sandra S

The ability to construct garments is a declining art due to many reasons including the lack of expertise. Sewing is a life skill that young folks need to learn. Youth attending the State Fashion Review wanted the opportunity to participate in their own County fashion show. Three volunteers seeing this interest and desire for a County fashion review made this happen. They met weekly for 3 month helping youth learn sewing skills and construct a garment. For the first time in twenty years, Currituck County held it's first fashion review in 2004 with ten participants This event sparked even more interest. In 2005, there were eighteen youth sporting fashion that they designed. Participation almost doubled from the previous year. Two of the older participants will fulfill their dream by competing in the State 4-H Fashion Review.

Record #: 370 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-22
POW: Y12
Location: Currituck
Person Reporting: Conner, Sandra S

4-H members enjoy participating in club activities and projects. Getting club members to record their accomplishments takes more skill. Recognizing the importance of developing record keeping skills and in an effort to improve the quality of project books and cumulative records, the 4-H staff has held numerous trainings for both adult volunteers and youth. In addition, the 4-H staff encouraged volunteers to judge district project books and state cumulative records to see how other counties across the state complete their books. Five leaders volunteered to assist with this judging. As a result, these leaders sharpened their skills and shared this knowledge with participants. They stressed the importance or following directions, creative ways to complete their scrapbook, and the importance of members checking their grammar and spelling. Twenty six project books and ten cumulative were mailed to the state office for judging.

Record #: 371 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-29
POW: C3
Location: Guilford
Person Reporting: Morris, Brenda A

Sixty percent of Guilford County citizens use the internet as a source of information. In order to market the North Carolina Cooperative Extension - Guilford County Center - to these clients effectively, a more effective web site needed to be created. The technology department of Alamance Community College was contacted to provide the necessary expertise. A student created the front page for Cooperative Extension's website with staff input. This student is now updating each page weekly with staff input to create a marketable, up-to-date and aesthetically pleasing web site for the Guilford County Cooperative Extension to utilize. This partnership has not involved any funding and will not only create a more appealing web site but will create a portfolio for the student when she is in the job market.

Record #: 372 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-23
POW: A1
Location: Perquimans
Person Reporting: Copeland, H J

Extension is often asked to solve problems specific to individual farms. An example of one is a small but high quality quarter horse breeding farm in Perquimans County where three mares in early pregnancy were checked by a veterinarian and determined to be safe in foal but failed to give birth in 2004. After on-farm visits and working on sound advice from the NCSU Extension Horse Department several possible causes were ruled out or explored. The most probable being ergot, a fungus that can be found in rye hay and in pastures. The bottom line is the spring of 2005 found three beautiful foals frolicking in their pasture where there were none the year before.

Record #: 373 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-23
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, recordkeeping, management, etc. through Extension programming. 129 youth from Chowan, Gates and Perquimans had 163 unduplicated 4-H animal projects (163 pigs, lambs, goats and steers). Evaluation was positive and consisted of personal observation, feedback to agent and directors.

Record #: 374 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-23
POW: A1
Location: Perquimans
Person Reporting: Copeland, H J

A newly formed cattlemen's organization named the Coastal Carolina Cattlemen's Association ordered 24,550 lbs. of a custom designed mineral specifically for them, arranged to have 392 cows palpated for pregnancy and plan to have 15 bulls examined for breeding soundness. Extension has provided the nudge to organize and the guidance to keep prgressing through quality educational and informational programming. The savings could easily be $30,000 to those cattlemen for 2005 in improved performance.

Record #: 375 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-23
POW: A1
Location: Perquimans
Person Reporting: Copeland, H J

Farmers rely on extension agents to solve emergencies when there is no one else obvious to turn to. In June of 2005, a beef cattle farmer in Chowan County and another in Perquimans County found dead cows in their pastures. With extension's help the Chowan farmer determined the cause was sweet potato waste they had been fed since January with no previous problems. Extension contacted a large animal veterinarian, and between the farmer, veterinarian, and agent ran the herd through the chute that day checking for rumen movement and doctoring all those needing care. Even though the farmer lost 12 brood cows total, he was thankful he had someone to turn to in time of crisis. Similarly, the next day a Perquimans farmer had one bull, five cows and one calf die from the same cause. Extension was there to offer suggestions on improving the herd nutrition program.

Record #: 376 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-13
POW: F1
Location: Stokes
Person Reporting: Kent, Janelle

Diabetes is the 5th leading cause of death in North Carolina and the leading cause of blindness, renal failure and non-traumatic amputations. According to the American Diabetes Association in 2002, per capita medical expenditures totaled $13,243/year for people with diabetes compared with $2,560/year for people without diabetes. Diabetes imposes a substantial cost burden to society estimated at $132 billion/year. Cooperative Extension, in conjunction with the Health Department, offered “Dining with Diabetes” to equip individuals in disease management to prevent complications, thereby reducing medical costs. Twenty-five citizens participated in cooking demonstrations using foods lower in sugar, salt, and fat and learned practical tips for diabetes care. According to three-month follow-up surveys, 66% lowered their blood pressure, increased fiber, and stated that blood sugars have been better controlled. By participating in this program, people can significantly improve their quality of life, while at the same time potentially reduce expenditures for health care.

Record #: 377 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-23
POW: F1
Location: Stokes
Person Reporting: Kent, Janelle

Many children and youth lack basic nutrition, food preparation, and food safety skills. Cooperative Extension, in partnership with the Triad Chapter of American Culinary Federation, offered Stokes County’s first Chef & the Child program for youth ages 8-12. During the five-day program, twenty youth gained “hands-on” cooking experience under the guidance of local chefs, the 4-H and Family & Consumer Science Agents, and volunteers. Chefs donate their time and provide monetary support for food and supplies. Most youth mastered basic measuring and cutting techniques, learned essential food/kitchen safety tips, and gained valuable life skills in preparing simple, yet nutritious foods. Surveys also revealed that youth increased their frequency of cooking at home as a result of participation in the program. In addition, Chef & the Child expose youth to a potential career choice in the food service industry.

Record #: 378 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-27
POW: F2
Location: Wayne
Person Reporting: Head, Sandra B

Research has shown that families who practice a number of meaningful family traditions weather the storms of adversity better than those that have few family traditions. Cooperative Extension\'s \"Parents As Teachers\" program encouraged the practice of family traditions during a \"Celebrating Family Traditions\" parent meeting and playgroup. Two sessions - a spaghetti lunch and dinner – were held to accommodate the large number of participants registered. A brief presentation on types of traditions, establishing traditions, and the positive impact research has shown in regard to strong family traditions were shared with the 74 adults and 84 children present. ECA volunteers helped make the event possible by preparing materials for and managing appropriate activities for parents and their children to engage in. Surveys indicate that 91% of participants learned new knowledge/skills and 91% planned to adopt new practices as a result of attending.

Record #: 379 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-24
POW: A15
Location: New Hanover
Person Reporting: Wells, Kenneth J

In February I visited a home with damage to a variety of woody plants. The owners had installed several thousand dollars of new landscaping in May of 2004. The homeowner and landscaper where opposed as to the caused of damage and its correction. Inspection of the damage indicated frost damage due to a sprinkle system left on all winter. Soil samples taken indicated high pH’s in beds installed by the landscapers. This was due to “topsoil” that was brought in to form beds. I wrote a letter, addressed to the homeowner, which was to be shared with the landscaper. I spelled out several practices which would improve the landscape these included adjustments to the sprinkles and amending the soil in the beds. My visit saved the owners several thousand dollars in landscaping costs and a potentially lawsuit between themselves and their landscaper.

Record #: 380 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-24
POW: A15
Location: New Hanover
Person Reporting: Wells, Kenneth J

From January through May of 2005, 1535 residents of New Hanover County visited the plant clinic to obtain information concerning best gardening practices. The services provided by the New Hanover County plant Clinic to its residents is valued at approximately $52,190 dollars. Clients utilizing the services of this program are up 4.06 percent, over the same period in 2004. The plant clinic received 1535 phone contacts, which is up 19 percent over the same period last year. The value of these services to the community is projected to be $52,088 dollars. Increases in both numbers reflect an increase in the publics’ awareness of Extension’s services and our role in the community.

Record #: 381 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-24
POW: A5
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Little, William E

Wilson Extension hosted a tour for a group of New Zealand Sweetpotato growers and brokers. The group visited several growers and packers in the Wilson area. The interaction was beneficial for both the New Zealand and Wilson people involved as the exchange of ideas benefited both parties. The New Zealand group will be purchasing specialized equipment from Wilson Equipment dealers that they saw on the tours and several production ideas will be implemented by our growers during the coming season.

Record #: 382 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-24
POW: E8
Location: Wilson
Person Reporting: Little, William E

A major Wilson County industry called Merck recently invited the Wilson Cooperative Extension Service to provide a booth and information sessions at a Safety Fair they developed this year for their employees. During the daylong event I was able to see over 400 people at my area as I covered Pesticide Safety for home owners and yard maintenance. I also incorporated food safety into this event from the standpoint of chemicals used in garden plots. The exhibit booth and handouts developed for this event will be used through the year as other educational oportunites arise for this type of educational process.

Record #: 383 of 2747
Date: 2005-06-24
POW: Y1
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Wagner, Brandi

Barn B.R.A.T.S. and Wildlife Club had great attendance this month from prospective members! Total we had around 40 prospective members. This was due impart to our Caswell Clover newsletter stating “January was new member month.” This was a great opportunity for youth to experience a new 4-H club. New members can join any time during the year but by putting Location: Wilkes
Person Reporting: Miller, Matthew S

Record #: 75 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-06
POW: A1
Location: Wilkes
Person Reporting: Miller, Matthew S

Record #: 76 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-24
POW: Y2
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Taylor, Tara

Record #: 77 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-12
POW: F5
Location: Iredell
Person Reporting: Compton, Sandra G

A senior citizen asked NC Cooperative Extension for information to adapt her under-construction condo for Alzheimer's disease. her husband has been diagnosed. She wanted to make the condo user friendly since she planned to keep her husband at home as long as possible. She was given three publications on Universal Design principles. Using information in the publications, the condo was adapted with a wheel chair accessible floor level shower. Doorways were enlarged for a wheel chair. Levers were used in place of door knobs. On a recent visit by Cooperative Extension, it appeared every possible modification had been made during construction so the Alzheimer patient could live comfortably in the condo until going to a care facility.

Record #: 78 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-12
POW: A1
Location: Perquimans
Person Reporting: Copeland, H J

Record #: 79 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-28
POW: C1
Location: Scotland
Person Reporting: Graham, Cathy L

Many workers at Scotland County Department of Social Services (DSS) were experiencing an extreme amount of stress due to caseloads increasing by 35-40% without the assistance of any new staff. Furthermore, the Income Maintenance Section reorganized and implemented a new multiple response system which required a significant amount of time for tracking and reporting. Based on this need, Scotland County Cooperative Extension facilitated a half day "Fun Academy" Retreat for the DSS Management Team. Thirteen members were involved in activities to promote destressing, reenergizing, and teambuilding. Follow-up surveys revealed 100% of participants felt less stressed and more reenergized due to participation. The retreat was so successful, Cooperative Extension has been asked to conduct similiar retreats for the total DSS department in the future.

Record #: 80 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-28
POW: C1
Location: Scotland
Person Reporting: Graham, Cathy L

Record #: 81 of 2747
Date: 2005-02-28
POW: Y10
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Edwards, Nikki

Robeson County's youth needed an educational curriculum that would keep them interested in learning. The 4-H Program Assistant, Nikki Edwards, put out flyers in public, private, and homeschools, and all housing authority buildings informing them of the 4-H embryology project. This project is hands-on and will expose the youth to several different life skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and leadership. With the help of United Way, 4-H will provide all necessary equipment and supplies needed including the training, incubators, and the fertilized eggs from the NCSU Hatchery. Out of the 34 schools, there were 36 participants to sign up and 46 called to inquire about more information for future interest. Due to the increase participation, the embryology project will be offered next year.

Record #: 82 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-01
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Tim, Peggy

Rising obesity among adults and youth is a concern for health care providers. During many of the classes conducted at EFNEP on Site, positive behaviors are enforced through education.Beth G. has been attending classes for over two years. She used the knowledge of the food guide pyramid and serving sizes to improve her health and her life. At our first class she was challenged to replace just one of many sodas comsumed in a day with water. She commented that helped her to lose a few pounds and motivated her to eat and drink wisely. In Feb. 2005 she reported a lose of 132 lbs and a lose of 6 sizes of clothing. She also will get her assocate degree in teaching from Surry Community college this May. She has a new look and new attitude for life.

Record #: 83 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-01
POW: F1
Location: Surry
Person Reporting: Cropps, Seydel

Record #: 84 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-30
POW: A15
Location: Currituck
Person Reporting: Perry-Weber, Jan

Through County surveys residents expressed an interest in learning how to graft plant material. The Extension office offered the class with a local knowlegable instructor. The major techniques of grafting were covered during the class. Hands on demonsstrations were also used as learning tools. Many of the 36 residents attending expressed a new knowledge base to help them produce new species and to save heirloom plants. The class was a great succes for all residents atttending.

Record #: 85 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-03
POW: F5
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S

Providing safe food in a clean and sanitary environment is the goal of every school food service employee. In an effort to achieve that goal, thirty representatives from every public school cafeteria in Carteret County as well as the Child Nutrition Director and Supervisor and two from Craven Co.participated in a Serve-Safe Class offered to the school system. Twenty-nine of the class took the exam. Twenty-seven passed. The class was team taught by the FCS Agent, a FCS school teacher, the Horticulture Agent, and a microbiologist from Sea Grant.

Record #: 86 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-04
POW: E2
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H

Record #: 87 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-04
POW: E8
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H

Pesticide container recycling sites have been in the County almost ten years. The sites were receiving many pesticide containers but, pesticide applicators were not bring the containers to the site clean. The containers must be triple or pressure rinsed and the labeling removed to be recycled. Over the past three years this has been a focus of all pesticide education efforts. The efforts have paid off. Not one pesticide container was rejected by the recycling company. This is an improvement over the 50 percent rejection rate three years ago. This improvement saves the tax payers $9,000 per year in landfill costs.

Record #: 88 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-04
POW: A2
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H

Record #: 89 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-04
POW: A2
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H

Record #: 90 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-04
POW: F5
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Ostergaard, Nancy

Record #: 91 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E

Record #: 92 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E

Record #: 93 of 2747
Date: 2005-12-30
POW: C7
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E

From a meeting with the Caldwell County Planning Department, it was determined that the need existed to educated and up-date the County's Planning Department about stream bank classification, determining amount of damage, corrective measures, and how to explain procedures to homeowners and/or municipalities. This need existed because of the flood damage from the recent tropical storms’ and available funding for stream bank repair. The Caldwell Cooperative Extension Center held an educational workshop and conducted on site visits with Specialists from North Carolina State University. Those present (9) all expressed appreciation for the workshop and implied the knowledge gained would be use in their work with clientele with stream damage.

Record #: 94 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-08
POW: F1
Location: Halifax
Person Reporting: Allsbrook, Margaret P

Record #: 95 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-08
POW: F4
Location: Halifax
Person Reporting: Allsbrook, Margaret P

Record #: 96 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-09
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert

Record #: 97 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-09
POW: Y3
Location: Granville
Person Reporting: Henry, Karen E

Due to a number of inquiries from community members, 4-H Basics of Babysitting Training was put on at the Granville County Center. Ten youth participated in this workshop, learning about ages and stages of youth, basic CPR and First Aid, Healthy Snacks, Babysitting as a Business and Etiquette and Manners. As a result of the training, youth learned skills pertaining to caring for younger youth, communication, time management, getting along with others and workforce preparation. As a result of the training, these youth will be able to exhibit skills that may be used in the workforce and in society.

Record #: 98 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-09
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert

Record #: 99 of 2747
Date: 2005-07-01
POW: A1
Location: Durham
Person Reporting: Goldmon, Suzzette S

Record #: 100 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-09
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert

The February Forestry Program in Currituck, North Carolina had reached 33 people owning 5878 acres of forestland. Program evaluations indicate for the 69% of the participants planning on selling timber, 31% have sold timber in the past, but with out assistances. For the 69% of the participants planning on selling timber in the future 94% will use a consultant to assist with sales. Program evaluations also compared participants’ knowledge level before and after the program on a 1-5 scale with 1 being poor and 5 being excellent. Participants’ knowledge level about selling timber went from fair (2.04) to good (3.74), an 83% increase. Participants’ knowledge level about seeking professional assistance went from fair (2.32) to good (3.95), a 70 % increase. Evaluations also indicated, program participants, on average, felt they would save or make $869 for participating in the program for a total savings and earnings of $11,300.

Record #: 101 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-09
POW: A9
Location: Forest Resources
Person Reporting: Bardon, Robert

The February Forestry Program in Hillsborough, North Carolina had reached approximately 29 people owning 1839 acres of forestland. Program evaluations indicate for the 75% of the participants planning on selling timber, 35% have sold timber in the past, but with out assistance. For the 75% of the participants planning on selling timber in the future 100% will use a consultant to assist with sales. Program evaluations also compared participants’ knowledge level before and after the program on a 1-5 scale with 1 being poor and 5 being excellent. Participants’ knowledge level about selling timber went from fair (2.10) to good (3.73), a 78% increase. Participants’ knowledge level about seeking professional assistance went from fair (2.22) to good (4.17), an 88% increase. Evaluations also indicated, program participants, on average, felt they would save or make $950 for participating in the program for a total savings and earnings of $13,300.

Record #: 102 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-09
POW: F2
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L

Training for Day-Care Instructors working with limited resources Extension Family and Consumer Science Agent provided training to 30 low income teachers. This is the second training provided to this group and they reported that after the training last year the instituted a policy change for the teachers to be allowed 1 hour of exercise time on Monday, Wednesday and Friday to help improve the health of their workers. Fifteen of the teachers utilize the room and time available to improve their quality of life and make behavioral health changes.

Record #: 103 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-11
POW: Y11
Location: Robeson
Person Reporting: Edwards, Nikki

Record #: 104 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-10
POW: A7
Location: Lenoir
Person Reporting: Godwin, Peg

Record #: 105 of 2747
Date: 2005-05-27
POW: Y3
Location: Rockingham
Person Reporting: Crouse, Morgan E

Record #: 106 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-16
POW: A15
Location: New Hanover
Person Reporting: Nash, David L

Record #: 107 of 2747
Date: 2005-03-16
POW: Y13
Location: Madison
Person Reporting: Kindley, Eve

Attendance at the West District 4-H Teen Retreat has steadily declined due to increased cost to attend the weekend event. Current West District 4-H Council Officers working with the Madison County 4-H Agent, strived to achieve an outstanding educational opportunity for youth that was affordable for families. This year's retreat offered educational workshops on Civic Responsibility Globally, Civic Responsibility for our Natural Resources, Teambuilding and Electricity. Also, youth participated in District 4-H Council elections, a dance, and free time activities. Cost for the event decreased from $70 in 2004 to $55. Enrollment for the event increase from 88 to 116. 40% more youth were able to attend and participate in this year's event.