Record #: 1 of 2840
Date: 2008-01-30
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Davis, Beth
Many schools are increasingly cutting fine arts from their programs, therefore reducing creative outlets for youth to express themselves. With the help of a local pianist and choir director, Alamance County Cooperative Extension and 4-H created the Emerald Ensemble to teach youth how to read music, as well as learn how music influences history and their culture. Eight teens enrolled and met weekly during the summer to learn about different aspects of music, including vocal performance. At the end of the summer, the program concluded with a performance. They researched those songs and gave an introduction about each song before it was performed. Evaluations were conducted and six out of the seven respondents increased their knowledge of music. One participant said, ÒIt was really fun to get to express ourselves through music and art.Ó After reviewing the evaluations, we plan to improve and continue this program.
Record #: 2 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-03
POW: 4H-2.4
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Davis, Beth
Many elementary school teachers in Alamance County are uncomfortable teaching certain science objectives outlined in the NC Standard Course of Study. Cooperative Extension and Alamance County 4-H assisted the school system by offering the 4-H Embryology program. Embryology meets the 2nd grade standard course of study science objectives. Thirty three teachers from 13 elementary schools participated, with a total of 649 elementary students participating. One special education teacher reported that this program brought out language and interaction from her language-disabled students. Another 2nd grade teacher reported positive feedback from parents, who were impressed that their children had gained so much from Embryology. This teacher also stated that before Embryology, all the students knew was that there was white and yellow in eggs. They soon learned the correct terminology, parts, and development of the eggs. 4-H Embryology provides elementary teachers with the tools they need to teach growth and development.
Record #: 3 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-03
POW: 4H-2.4
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Davis, Beth
Many elementary school teachers in Alamance County are uncomfortable teaching certain science objectives outlined in the NC Standard Course of Study. Cooperative Extension, 4-H and Liz Driscoll from NCSU assisted the school system by offering the 4-H Soils Solutions program. This program meets several NC Standard Course of Study objectives for 3rd grade. In November, Liz Driscoll, 4-H Youth Extension Specialist in Horticulture conducted a training for 14 third grade teachers on this curriculum. Five of these teachers have returned their evaluations. 110 students gained an interest in class work; 105 students demonstrated an increase in quality classroom work; and 107 students demonstrated an increase in academic performance (grades). These results are good indicators that the Soils Solutions program has a positive effect on the participating teachers and students in the Alamance Burlington School System.
Record #: 4 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-23
POW: A4
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Cobb, Roger N
Fertilizer prices rose dramatically in the fall of 2007. They skyrocketed after the first of the year and farmers were looking for ways to maximize their fertilizer dollars. Cooperative Extension consulted with 50 farmers on rates of individual nutrients on each crop they grew to change practices that would provide crops the needed nutrients at the lowest cost possible. Cooperative Extension developed fertilizer recommendations on 8800 acres. In almost all cases, the rate of at least one major nutrient was lowered for each crop to better reflect the actual crop need.
Record #: 5 of 2840
Date: 2008-08-21
POW: 4H-2.4
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Davis, Beth
Alamance County has a large home school population who are in need of hands on learning experiences. Alamance County 4-H and Cooperative Extension was able to offer the 4-H Embryology Program to this population in June. This was the first time Alamance County 4-H has offered a home school embryology session. Seventeen home school families participated for a total of 35 students. These families incubated chicken eggs in their homes with incubators and eggs provided by 4-H. Many of the parents reported that this program taught their children about responsibility, patience, planning and organizing. One parent reported, ÒADHD child had to practice patience, hold back impulsivity for chicks to dry before transferred to brooder boxÉgood exercise for her.Ó Out of 35 participants, parents reported that 33 gained knowledge in science. This session of embryology will continue to be offered in the future due to successful implementation this year.
Record #: 6 of 2840
Date: 2008-11-04
POW: 4H-3.2
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Davis, Beth
During this historical presidential election, youth in Alamance County are paying attention to the progress of this race. Many of these young people have an opinion, yet arenÕt able to voice that opinion. Also, some young people are unfamiliar with the voting process. During National 4-H Week, Alamance County Cooperative Extension teamed up with local 4-H volunteers, Congressman Howard Coble, local legislators and politicians to hold a Youth Vote. The local mall donated space to host the vote and 4-H volunteers encouraged those under 18 to come in and cast their vote. Local political figures were present to discuss the election process and meet the youth. Five 5th grade classes from Elon Elementary came to cast their votes as well. A total of 151 youth learned about the election process, the importance of voting, and how to cast a ballot.
Record #: 7 of 2840
Date: 2008-11-26
POW: E8
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Cobb, Roger N
Alamance County does not have a permanent hazardous disposal site. County residents have paints and pesticides they want to dispose of properly. Cooperative Extension and the Alamance County Landfill have partnered in the past to offer opportunities for residents to dispose of these two classes of hazardous materials. Once again these two agencies offered a disposal day for residents. At the disposal day 55,699 pounds of paint was collected as well as 900 pounds of pesticides. The possibility existed that if this collection wasn't held some of these would have ended up in the landfill.
Record #: 8 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: A9
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Cobb, Roger N
A tract of land donated to Cooperative Extension and evenually the state of North Carolina needed to continue to develop into uses that fit the requirements of the donor. This tract of land approximately 170 acres in size was at a standstill after the initial deed transfer and timber sale. The timber has been harvested according to Best Management Practices, a road put in and stabilized, 4 acres cleared and planted in wildlife plots, an archery range cleared, and plans made to reforest most of the remainder of the property. A partnership has been signed between North Carolina Wildlife and Alamance County to put a wildlife depot on the site and develop passive uses for this property.
Record #: 9 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: A15
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Danieley, Mark S
A homeowner observed a tree care company spraying trees at a neighboring housing development. She talked to one of the tree care employees and he told her they were spraying the willow oaks for carpenter worms. The homeowner has many willow oaks and was concerned that she might have the same insect problem. A representative from the tree care company came to the homeownerÕs property to inspect her trees. He told the homeowner that she had carpenter worms in her willow oaks and that they should be sprayed. The cost for the recommended treatment was $1200. The homeowner contacted the horticulture agent for advice. A visit was made to inspect the trees to determine their condition. The damage to the trees was minimal and did not require spraying by the tree care company. The advice of the horticulture agent saved the homeowner $1200.
Record #: 10 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: F1
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: DeLoatch, Evelyn D
In 2009 Alamance County received funding to implement the Healthy Eating Across North Carolina Nutrition Education Program for third graders. The focus was to help the students develop knowledge and skills in the area of nutrition and physical activity in order to make healthier choices. Eighty-three students at Eastlawn Elementary were involved in ten weeks of nutrition classes . Sixty percent of the students completing pre and post test indicated that their overall knowledge of nutrition had improved and 84% indicated that they made positive behavior changes related to nutrition and eating habits. The program correlated with the 3rd Grade Standard Course of Study Curriculum on Healthful Living.
Record #: 11 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: F1
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: DeLoatch, Evelyn D
The Alamance County Extension Office sponsored the Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less program for twelve weeks to address the increase in the number of obese and overweight individuals. Approximately 15.3 percent of children (ages 6–11) and 15.5 percent of adolescents (ages 12–19) were overweight in 2000. One of the participants who is under the age of 14 and is overweight is serving as a role model and motivator for the rest of her family. Her grandmother recently reported that she is constantly reminding her and other members that a fist represents a cup of fruit and vegetables and that they should measure their food accordingly. Prior to the class the young participant admitted having a hard time portion sizing. She has currently lost 4 pounds and is so proud of her accomplishment.
Record #: 12 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: F1
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: DeLoatch, Evelyn D
The percentage of children who are overweight has increased since 1980. In 1976-1980 only 6 percent of children ages 6-17 were overweight and in 1999-2000 the percentage rose to 15%. The number of children who are overweight is of great concern due to the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and some cancers. The Alamance County Extension Office began a series of the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less curriculum with a family of 10 including 4 children who are overweight. They have currently lost a combined 60 pounds.
Record #: 13 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: A15
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Danieley, Mark S
Tree pruning is a practice that is confusing to most people. A homeowner had gotten an estimate for pruning his trees from a tree care company and called Cooperative Extension to get some more information. The horticulture agent made a home visit to evaluate the trees and discuss their condition with the homeowner. The homeowner was pleased to learn that the crape myrtles that were proposed to be pruned would not grow much taller and the topping procedure was not necessary. The homeowner was also shown how to properly remove the lower branches that were interfering with mowing the lawn. The consultation with the horticulture agent saved the homeowner $600 from not having the trees pruned. Tree evaluations reduce unnecessary pruning and save money for county residents.
Record #: 14 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: F1
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: DeLoatch, Evelyn D
The Alamance County Cooperative Extension Service implemented the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less program as a tool to address the issue of dietary choices, exercise and behavior changes. Approximately 300,000 adult deaths in the United States each year are attributable to unhealthy dietary habits and physical inactivity or sedentary behavior. One of the participants in the program lost a total of 30 pounds over a twelve week period. the begining weight was 327 pounds. Some of the changes implemented included portion sizing, increase in water consumption and exercise.
Record #: 15 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: F5
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: DeLoatch, Evelyn D
More than 200 known diseases are transmitted through food. It is now estimated that 76 million cases of foodborne disease occur each year in the United States. To address the issue training for managers and front line kitchen staff have been conducted atleast two times per year in Alamance County. Forty-one participated in the training with 75% passing and 43% of those passed with a score of 90 or above.
Record #: 16 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: F5
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: DeLoatch, Evelyn D
A Nutrtion Director for one of the local school systems was interested in having all of the cafeteria managers complete the Serving Safe Foods Protection Managers Training as part of continuing education. A training was conducted by the Alamance County Extension Service for 9 cafeteria managers. Eight of the nine are now currently Certified after passing a proctored exam.
Record #: 17 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-05
POW: A1
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Walker, David P
The Alamance County beef cattle producers needed assistance in marketing their feeder calves to get the most dollars possible. Several of the beef producers, with the assistance of the livetock extension agent, formed a beef cattle marketing alliance entitled Central Carolina Cattlemen. This year marked their second year of marketing 288 head of cattle with similar genetics, and an organized pre-conditioning program. These efforts allowed this group of 5 producers to market their calves at a 13 cents per pound premium over regular weekly auctions which netted an overall premium of $30,528.
Record #: 18 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-05
POW: A1
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Walker, David P
Hay quality and nutrient levels vary widely even within the same species of hay. Therefore, livestock owners are encouraged to have their hay analyzed for nutrient content so that the appropriate supplements, if needed, can be provided to meet the animalsÕ nutrient requirements. In a routine forage analysis on a particular farm, a high nitrate level was detected. This was quite unexpected because this hay species was not normally associated with high nitrates. If this hay had been fed without regard to the nitrate level, it could have caused a 30% abortion rate in the cow herd. Putting a value of $400 per calf in this herd of 32 cows, there would have been a loss of over $4000. However, with the $10 cost of the forage analysis, this farmer was able to prevent this loss by feeding the high nitrate hay only on a very limited basis.
Record #: 19 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-05
POW: A1
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Walker, David P
North Carolina leads the nation in loss of farmland. In an effort to preserve remaining farmland, the Cooperative extension Service in Alamance County, along with the local voluntary agricultural district board, and other agricultural agencies in the county, have develped a comprehensive farmland preservation program. In 2008, two farms totaling 210 acres were permanently perserved. The value of this preservation effort was over $840,000.
Record #: 20 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-05
POW: A1
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Walker, David P
Fertilizer prices soared in 2008 with prices being approximately 3 times higher than they were in 2006. The Alamance County Cooperative Extension Service Livestock Extension Agent recommended that livestock producers take soil samples before applying fertilizer so they would not apply more than what was needed. One producer's soil sample showed that his fields were adequate in phosphorous so he was able to apply only nitrogen. This saved the producer $101 dollars per ton of forage produced.
Record #: 21 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-05
POW: A1
Location: Alamance
Person Reporting: Walker, David P
With record high fertilizer prices a beef cattle producer contacted the Alamance County Cooperative Extension Service for fertilzer recommendations for his pasture. The recommendation was made to first take a soil sample which the producer did. The soil sample results showed the ph of the soil to be very low at 5.7 and that phosphorouos and potassium levels were adequate. If the fertilizer had been applied without correcting the ph, it would have been wasted. In addition, after correcting the ph, he was able to apply only nitrogen for a savings of $6475.
Record #: 22 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-18
POW: 4H-3.2
Location: Alexander
Person Reporting: Rhinehart, Suzanne N
Service to community is one of the main focus areas of the 4-H Community Club program in Alexander County. Ninety-two percent of the 12 4-H community club recorded on their 4-H Club of the Year Report for 2007 that the club participated in at least 3 service learning projects. The total number of service projects completed by these 12 clubs was 65 total individual projects which involved approximately 150 youth. If 20% of the 150 4-H Club members involved in service learning through their club's various community service projects volunteer an average of 18 hours per year over 5 years of their adult life, Alexander County will gain 2,700 future community service hours valued at $50,679 (according to the Independent Sector 2006 values of $18.77).
Record #: 23 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-18
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Alexander
Person Reporting: Rhinehart, Suzanne N
It is important for students to have unique and hands-on learning experiences as a part of their public school experience. This year 25 Alexander County Public School classrooms received supplies, eggs and curriculum to carry out the 4-H Embryology Program. Over 454 students learned about the embryonic development and the responsibility of taking care of the eggs. Over 92% of teachers strongly agreed that the program was applicable to their curriculum. Sixty-two percent (62%)of students showed an increase their in science grades and showed a 82% increase in knowledge in the pre/post tests. The average classroom hatch rate for 2008 was 92% which was the best in 24 years of conducting this program.
Record #: 24 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: F1
Location: Alexander
Person Reporting: Mosley, Margo
Child care, transportation, and language are three significant barriers for reaching Hispanic/Latino families in Alexander County. However because of ExtensionÕs partnership with two other county agencies: the local Family Resource Center and the Alexander International Center (AIC) five Latino families were provided nutrition and food safety education. A series of six sessions gave participants interactive lessons in food safety, meal planning, food preparation, and food buying. Child care and transportation were provided free of charge by the Resource Center and translation assistance was provided by AIC. Both agencies were instrumental in recruiting the participants. All participants reported gaining new information. Four participants reported they have adopted one or more low fat cooking methods. All five participants reported they have adopted two or more safe food handling practices. The value of the child care, transportation and translation assistance total $1600.
Record #: 25 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: F3
Location: Alexander
Person Reporting: Mosley, Margo
Many Alexander County families with limited resources lack knowledge of tax incentives for which they qualify. Extension in partnership with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Alexander International Center (AIC) sponsored the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. As a result of this partnership, six IRS trained volunteers provided free tax assistance to 32 low income, elderly, and non English speaking families, saving these taxpayers an estimated $3200 in tax preparation fees. It enabled qualifying families to receive $6475 in Earned Income Tax Credit, $3000 in Child Care Tax Credit and refunds of nearly $25,000. Clients visiting the site also received Extension information on basic money management and smart tips for use of refunds and economic stimulus payments.
Record #: 26 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: F1
Location: Alexander
Person Reporting: Mosley, Margo
Sixty-two percent of adults are overweight or obese in Alexander County. Adults need assistance to increase physical activity and improve quality of their diets. ExtensionÕs 15 week weight management series Eat Smart, Move More, Weight Less provided participants with strategies for planning healthy meals, modifying recipes and increasing daily activity. The series was a partnership effort with the Health Department and the YMCA. The Health Department provided initial health screenings and the YMCA provided a free 45 minute aerobics class with each session. As a result of these classes, 7 individuals completed the series and met their weight loss or weight maintenance goals. A total of 80 pounds was lost by those completing the series. All increased their physical activity and reported five or more changes in eating habits.. The value of the free aerobics class was $600.
Record #: 27 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-08
POW: E7
Location: Alexander
Person Reporting: Rogers, Lindsay E
The NC Cooperative Extension Service in Alexander County has taken on the task of educating county citizens in the arena of water conservation. Under the guidance of Lenny Rogers the staff has presented over 20 presentations to civic clubs and other adult organizations. Also, through after school and other 4-H groups, approximately 1,500 youth have also been educated in this area. A jeopardy game and a comprehensive handout have been used with these audiences. Topics include stressing the severity of the drought status we have been in along with water conservation in the home, in the garden, in the lawn, and many other ways around the house. Multiple newspaper articles and radio programs have also been produced on water conservation. The Extension Center has also taken the lead in providing low cost rain barrels to the public in order to provide another avenue for conserving water.
Record #: 28 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-24
POW: A1
Location: Alexander
Person Reporting: Brown, Allison
In 2008 several Alexander County Goat Producers expressed an interest for Cooperative Extension to assist them in forming a localized association that could work towards improving goat production in Western North Carolina. After the Western Carolina Boer Goat Association was formed several of the members put together a breeder sale, hosted a clinic on clipping and preparing goats for show, and have held three educational meetings in addition to regular business meetings. Member and ABGA exhibitor Cameron Grant along with Alexander County Cooperative Extension conducted the free clipping clinic with 37 youth and adults in attendance at a value of over $370.00. They currently have 24 paid members from 5 counties and they continue to plan educational events for both youth and adults in an effort to promote the goat industry and produce a quality product.
Record #: 29 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-01
POW: E6
Location: Alexander
Person Reporting: Rogers, Lindsay E
This past year under the coordination of Lenny Rogers, the Alexander Extension Center placed a large Energy Conservation Exhibit at the Alexander County Fair. An Extension Agent and a County Commissioner both manned the exhibit each night. Items displayed included: an exhibit by Foothills Biodiesel; a "Tighten up Around the Home" heat conservation exhibit; two light meters showing the savings between compact florescent lights and standard lights; a display of various energy saving devices; 2 different rainbarrells and information on their placement and savings; a local building supply with energy efficient windows, insulation and siding; and a hybrid vehicle. This large exhibit area educated hundreds of interested citizens that took home great energy savings ideas and information.
Record #: 30 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-01
POW: 4H-2.4
Location: Alexander
Person Reporting: Rogers, Lindsay E
This year under the guidance of Lenny Rogers and Suzanne Rhinehart the Alexander Extension Center offered an Advanced 4H20 class for prior participants of previous years' regular 4H20 classes. Students performed a more advanced macro-invertebrate sampling of stream insects to access the quality of various streams. A wildlife fisheries biologist shocked several streams to show the variety of fishery life in them. Students canoed 2 rivers, sampling water, cleaning up trash and viewing aquatic plants and animals. Also students spent one day on Lake Hickory taking water samples and using various water sampling equipment and meters. Other nutrient analyses were run by the students on the various water samples at the end of the week.
Record #: 31 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: F5
Location: Alexander
Person Reporting: Mosley, Margo
In order to receive federal funds, NC schools are now required to include HACCP into their food safety program. HACCP is a proactive, prevention-based approach to preventing foodborne illness. As a part of this mandate, Child Nutrition Assistants (CNAs) must receive at least four hours of training. In Alexander County, Extension Family and Consumer Sciences provided this training which included basic food handling, hygiene, and sanitation practices. Forty-one Child Nutrition Assistants from ten Alexander County schools attended. These schools have a student enroll of 5,610. As a result of this training CNAs have increased their knowledge about basic food safety practices and are better prepared to support the School HACCP Plan. In addition, an unsafe practice (improper cooling) was identified and solutions recommended. Since this training, this school has now changed their procedures and implemented food safety recommendations for cooling, averting a potential outbreak of salmonellosis.
Record #: 32 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-29
POW: A4
Location: Alexander
Person Reporting: Brown, Allison
Black Shank Disease, a soil-inhabitating fungus, has caused economic loss to tobacco producers in Alexander County for several years. This disease can wipe out fields completely when not treated properly. Until this year one local tobacco producer has had problems with black shank disease in several of his tobacco fields. Once a field is infected with the disease it can persist there for many years. Upon using North Carolina Cooperative Extensions recommendations, he applied Ridomil Gold in his previously identified problem fields to prevent outbreaks of Black Shank. By using Ridomil Gold at the recommended rate and adhering to the advised timing of application, he saved approximately $9000.00 this year. Many producers dislike using this product because of expense, but this growing season made many realize that they canÕt afford not to use it.
Record #: 33 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: 4H-3.2
Location: Alexander
Person Reporting: Rhinehart, Suzanne N
The first ever Alexander County Kids Vote was held on Tuesday, November 4th at all 16 voting precincts in Alexander County with 1,480 youth voting. Kids Vote 2008 was organized the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service –Alexander County 4-H Program and by Rachel Rogers, local 4-HÕer as her project for attending Citizenship 4-H NC Focus. Individual class awards were given to classroom with the highest percentage of students voting. The winning classroom had 19 out of 22 students (86.36%) participating in Kids Vote 2008. Over 75 volunteers helped make Kids Vote 2008 a success. They volunteered over 450 hours during this project manning the Kids Vote voting booths. Even though 43% of adult voters in Alexander County voted during early voting, 56% of parents surveyed commented that they were bringing their children back to vote even though they had already voted. Kids Vote 2008 was a great success and a
Record #: 34 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: F1
Location: Alexander
Person Reporting: Mosley, Margo
Seven percent of Alexander County residents are diabetic. Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in AC. Two important lifestyle behaviors for diabetes control are physical activity and weight management. Both behaviors are stressed in ExtensionÕs Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less program. One participantÕs doctor attributed her success in reducing her blood glucose levels to this program. Her specific goals were: lose ten pounds and increase activity in order to improve blood glucose level. She more than surpassed both goals, losing an average of a pound per week and increasing her activity to at least 30 minutes per day every day, plus adding strength training. She reduced her blood glucose level of 100-185 to 75-115, reduced blood pressure from 130/80 to 120/70 and reduced her waist line from 42 to 34.5. According to the participant: ÒItÕs a great program! I more than met my goals!Ó
Record #: 35 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: F1
Location: Alexander
Person Reporting: Mosley, Margo
According to the NC Center for Health Statistics, 30 % of Alexander County youth are overweight or obese, 74% are not getting enough vegetables, and 37 % are not getting enough fruit. Healthy eating Across North Carolina was a series of 10 interactive lessons for 48 third graders at the countyÕs only school with greater than 50 % free/reduced lunch participation. Lessons covered food safety, nutrition and physical activity. As a result of the program, 45 % improved their knowledge of nutrition, 34 % improved their knowledge of food safety, and 91 % indicated they had made a positive behavior change related to nutrition and eating habits. Teachers reported they observed students drinking more water and selecting more fruits and vegetables at lunch.
Record #: 36 of 2840
Date: 2008-02-04
POW: F1
Location: Alleghany
Person Reporting: Peeler, Sherrie
Macon County gets slimming start for 2008. Seventeen ladies are reducing their risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes by enrolling in Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less. New strategies they have incorporated into their lifestyles include: Rethinking their beverages, eating fewer calories, and moving more. Participants report a weight loss of up to 2 pounds per week.
Record #: 37 of 2840
Date: 2008-04-30
POW: A1
Location: Alleghany
Person Reporting: Stancil, George
A beef cattle producer in Alleghany County saved over $1000 by soil testing. He heard about the costs of fertilizer and the value of soil testing at an Extension meeting. After soil testing, he was able to reduce his costs by more than $1000 over the suppliers recommendation.
Record #: 38 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-26
POW: CRD-3.2
Location: Alleghany
Person Reporting: Isner, David
Leadership development training has been identified as a priority strategy by the county Extension Advisory Council, elected officials, and community leaders as a means to enhance community leadership capacity. The Alleghany County Center of Cooperative Extension responded by designing, marketing, and delivering the Alleghany Leadership Development Program (ALDP), a leadership training program for existing and emerging local leaders. Twenty-two participants representing the community hospital, two County departments, one Town department, businesses, and volunteer organizations received certificates of program completion. Local funding partners for ALDP included Alleghany County, Town of Sparta, Blue Ridge Electric, Alleghany Memorial Hospital, several businesses, and individuals. NC State University, through Extension Community Resource Development, 4-H and Family and Consumer Sciences State Programs, contributed funding and personnel resources. Completed program evaluation conveyed a 93 % response of participants relaying gains in new skills, knowledge, and competency improvements useful to them in current or future leadership roles.
Record #: 39 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: CRD-1.5
Location: Alleghany
Person Reporting: Isner, David
In the mountain region of North Carolina, Cooperative Extension and the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association (NCCTA) partner to deliver educational programs to Christmas tree growers. The annual summer meeting and field tour is an example, rotated among host counties in partnership with county Extension centers. The Alleghany County Christmas Tree Association (ACTA) has a reoccurring problem providing an adequate facility for the summer meeting when serving as the host county. There was risk that Alleghany may not be able to host the 2008 NCCTA summer meeting. The Extension agent in Alleghany County, serving as the executive secretary of the ACTA, was asked to explore options and make a recommendation. An assessment of a local YMCA camp confirmed adequate facilities and services for the NCCTA summer meeting. Following much negotiation among stakeholder partners, arrangements were finalized to provide an outstanding facility for the NCCTA summer meeting hosted in Alleghany County
Record #: 40 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: CRD-3.3
Location: Alleghany
Person Reporting: Isner, David
The Alleghany Center of Cooperative Extension seized a unique opportunity to address local priorities of enhancing natural resource and agriculture education and community partnerships addressing volunteer, leadership, and organizational development. Extension collaborated with a local landowner and the Soil and Water Conservation District, to establish and create an operational and management strategy for the River Side Natural Resources and Agricultural Education Property (RSNRAEP). The Riverside Advisory Board was chartered and will bring individuals with natural resource management and agricultural expertise together for the purpose of pursuing the vision and mission of this easement and protected property. . The Board mentors to local students, allowing observation of Board processes and decision making, provides resource management expertise, evaluates property project compatibility, identifies projects which have demonstration and education components and align with the vision statement, identifies project implementation strategies and resources needed, and assists with project resource acquisition and implementation when possible.
Record #: 41 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: E6
Location: Alleghany
Person Reporting: Isner, David
Landowners may be provided natural resource management suggestions from well meaning advisors, but that are not practicing resource management professionals. Following ill fated advice may lead to unwarranted costs and not achieving resource management objectives for the landowner. This circumstance was the case for a woman who contacted the Alleghany Center of NC Cooperative Extension before committing to expensive pond renovation and timberland site preparation advice given by a contractor. Following a site assessment by the county agent, sharing of educational materials, and discussing alternate strategies for correcting pond problems and meeting long term forestry objectives, the landowner chose not to implement the contractorÕs advice. Her savings exceeded $15,000. An intangible outcome was the pond was not drained and earth work not undertaken during the time when family vacation visits and enjoyment of the stream fed pond and home place surroundings were planned.
Record #: 42 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-03
POW: F3
Location: Alleghany
Person Reporting: Gordon, Jacquelyne
More than 130 million households were eligible to receive Stimulus Payment checks this year based on 2007 income. People who DO NOT normally file tax returns (i.e. retirees, disabled veterans, railroad retirees, etc.) may not have been aware of their eligibility or how to file if eligible. The NC State EmployeesÕ Credit UnionÕs participation in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA) offered (and will continue to offer until October 15), Òfree filingÓ to those individuals and families not accustomed to filing returns. Cooperative Extension Alleghany Center partnered to promote this Program through a variety of media efforts (radio program and newspaper article), verbal announcements at a number of public meetings, and one-on-one telephone inquiries. Through this collaborative and networking effort, it is estimated that, presently, 120 people in the community have saved approximately $18,000.00 in tax preparation fees and refund loans.
Record #: 43 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-03
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Alleghany
Person Reporting: Pardue, Amy L
Public speaking is a life skill that many youth and even adults sometimes struggle with. It has been proven that with the ability to communicate effectively, great things can be accomplished. The Alleghany County 4-H County Activity Day as well as the Northwest District Activity Day help youth to develop these essential skills. This year Alleghany had 12 participants at County Activity Day where 100% of youth delivered educational speeches ranging from How to milk a Dairy Goat to Creating an Adventure with Computer Animation. 42% of these were first time participants. Five youth participated in the Northwest District Activity Day against 13 other counties. 80% of participants received a gold or silver medal and the opportunity to continue to state level competition in Raleigh. Alleghany County will continue to offer these types of opportunities to help youth to prepare for a future where verbal communication skills are crucial.
Record #: 44 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-03
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Alleghany
Person Reporting: Pardue, Amy L
Even though Alleghany County is a rural county, youth in the county are not necessarily aware of the agriculture and livestock that are around them. This year Alleghany County hosted a farm animal day for all second graders throughout the county to help increase knowledge of farm animals. 100% of the second grade classes participated with one hundred and fourteen youth participating in stations on beef, dairy, equine, goat, sheep, feed, by-products and veterinary science. Evaluations were positive stating that most youth had learned something about farm animal that didnÕt know before they attended and that 100% of teachers would like to participate again next year.
Record #: 45 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-12
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Alleghany
Person Reporting: Pardue, Amy L
Being tapped into Honor Club is one of the highest honors that a 4-Her can receive. Recently one Alleghany County 4-Her recieved this honor due to her dedicated service to the 4-H program, leadership, moral standards, 4-H activities and project achievement. Less than one-half of 1 percent of North Carolina 4-HÕers are selected for membership each year.
Record #: 46 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-12
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Alleghany
Person Reporting: Pardue, Amy L
Recently seven youth from Alleghany County attended 4-H camp at Millstone. Three of the seven had never been to camp. All youth participated in variety of new activities including canoeing, horseback riding, low and high ropes course and archery. Due to the exciting new adventures they had, several youth are working towards starting an archery club in the county.
Record #: 47 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-13
POW: 4H-1.3
Location: Alleghany
Person Reporting: Pardue, Amy L
Farms are a great place for children to work and play but they can also be places where they can be seriously injured or killed. Homes in general hold many dangers to youth including but not limited to fire risks, household chemicals and what to do when a stranger contacts you online or on the phone. One way Alleghany Cooperative Extension along with Ashe Cooperative Extension is addressing the need to help youth learn about staying safe and healthy is by offering a 4th grade Rural and Community Safety Day. This year 124 4th graders attended the event where they learned about farm animal, water, gun, environmental, household chemical, fire and ATV safety as well as the dangers of strangers and farm equipment. According to pre/post test results, youth showed an 11% improvement. Adult evaluations showed that teachers agreed this was a learning experience and appropriate for their age level.
Record #: 48 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A1
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Melton, Richard V
The utilization of value added calf sales continues to be a way for Anson County beef cattle producers to increase their income. In 2008, 800 calves were marketed through value added outlets with the assistance of the Anson County NCCE Center and NCDA. Those outlets offered Anson County producers over $300 per head added value or a total of $240,000 over traditional weekly sales.
Record #: 49 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-27
POW: F1
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Rywak, Janine B
Over $2.1M of AnsonÕs CountyÕs Medicaid dollars were attributed to overweight and obesity last year. The obesity rate of children ages 5-11 in the county is 25%. Continually targeted by health groups as a prevalent issue in the county, Cooperative Extension conducted the Promoting Healthy Eating Across NC with third grade students at Wadesboro Primary School. A total of 65 students in five classes participated in the ten week program. Curriculum, lessons and demonstrations addressed eating healthier, increasing physical activity and food safety. Each child received recipe handouts, workbooks, story books and an interactive CD with games. Pre and post test scores revealed a 48% increase in knowledge, while written comments indicated students planned to practice more of the healthy habits they had learned. In addition, teachers welcomed the opportunity to implement more nutrition curriculum in their lessons, as part of the state-wide initiative towards healthier schools.
Record #: 50 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-27
POW: A1
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Melton, Richard V
While the use of estrous synchronization and artificial insemination of beef heifers has grown for the last six years, there has been very limited application to mature commercial beef cows in Anson County. However, this breeding season 5 herds with 231 brood cows were synchronized and artificially bred based on recommendations from the Anson County Center of N.C. Cooperative Extension. Past work has shown due to improved genetics artificially sired calves can be worth as much as $150 per head more than naturally sired calves. With a 60% conception due to single A.I. service, that could translate to over $20,000 of added market value.
Record #: 51 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-27
POW: A1
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Melton, Richard V
Seventeen beef herds were assisted by the N.C. Cooperative Extension Anson County Center in evaluating 731 brood cows for production efficiencies. Sixty-one of those brood cows were identified as high cost producers and culled. The result was a production costs savings of $6,800.
Record #: 52 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-27
POW: A1
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Melton, Richard V
Adding value to calves by weaning, vaccinating, age and source identifying, handling in accordance with Beef Quality Assurance standards and marketing through organized sales is one way that beef producers can increase their returns per calf. At present, the N.C. Cooperative Extension Anson County Center has assisted 20 producers in preparing 660 calves for potential value added sales. That assistance has included proper shot site selection and administration, vaccination program evaluation, proper animal handling techniques and nutrition recommendations.
Record #: 53 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A1
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Melton, Richard V
The efficient utilization of forages is one area in which most commercial beef herds can improve their management. As a result of previous educational programs and following recommendations from the Anson County Center of N.C. Cooperative Extension, three beef producers followed a controlled, intensive grazing program with 71 brood cows involved. Those cows grazed on 88 acres of stockpiled fescue for approximately 120 days. As a result, those three producers saved 232 bales of hay or $8,120 in feed costs as well as $2400 in labor and equipment expenses. They were also able to utilize acreage that would have been grazed for hay production. That acreage generated 290 bales of hay or $13, 050 worth of hay for future use. During the fall of 2008 they also consulted with three more producers about utilizing the system on their farms.
Record #: 54 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-29
POW: A15
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Marshall, Aimee
The addition of fruiting plants in the garden can be a rewarding experience, until the tree or shrub becomes large, unmanageable, and leaving the fruit out of reach. Two fruit tree pruning/training classes, and one muscadine pruning/training class were held between February and March to help homeowners properly manage their young plantings throughout the year. We also dicussed the importance of disease and insect scouting, fruit thinning, and pruning tools sanitation. 20 people attended the classes and had the opportunity to practice learning on central leader and open center trained trees, as well as rejuvenating a muscadine vine. Surveys gathered afterward showed that all participants felt confident they could help a friend or neighbor train and prune their fruiting tree or grape vine.
Record #: 55 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-29
POW: A15
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Marshall, Aimee
Last yearÕs drought and rising county water rates sparked greater interest in water conservation practices, particularly rainbarrel construction. In response, the Anson County Cooperative Extension service held 3 rain barrel workshops to instruct 30 people on how to make and use their own rain barrels using roof water runoff from their house. Together, these 55 gallon barrels will capture 1,650 gallons of rain water for irrigation of landscape and vegetable gardens, washing the car or dogs, and as pet water sources.
Record #: 56 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-2.4
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Blount, Roshunda
Like other schools across the state, Anson County elementary schools were lacking opportunities for hands-on science instruction. The emphasis on math and reading had prompted teachers to drop out of the annual 4-H Embryology Program. But science was still important and due to new requests this year, Anson County 4-H offered the program to all k-3 elementary classes, instead of the traditional 3rd grades. With the assistance of the area poultry agent, this yearÕs program started with a county-wide training for all first time teachers teaching the curriculum. Fifteen teachers and classes participated, introducing 330 students to embryology. Feedback from teachers indicated that in addition to enjoying the program, it was educational for the students and they would like to participate next year. One first grade teacher stated, ÒThe students were really involved, and learned a lot about the incubation period. They really enjoyed it.Ó
Record #: 57 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-1.2
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Blount, Roshunda
During 2006, approximately 12,402 juveniles across the state had complaints that were deemed efficient to be heard in the court system. Of these youth, 7,677 were already on some type of supervision. These numbers show a recidivism rate of 62% statewide. Anson CountyÕs 4-H Youth Promise program targets these juveniles referred through the court system. The GovernorÕs One-on-One Mentoring, Structured After School and Community Service/Restitution programs hold youth accountable for their actions that landed them into the juvenile system. 4-H Youth Promise provides a structured safe-haven for youth during critical after school hours. During these hours, youth receive tutorial and academic assistance as well as curriculum designed to improve interpersonal and life skills in order to target risk factors. As a result, 4-H Youth Promise clientÕs only had a recidivism rate of about 10% for the 2006 year, a number significantly lower than the state rate.
Record #: 58 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-1.2
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Blount, Roshunda
Court ordered youth entering the Anson County 4-H Youth Promise GovernorÕs One-on-One Volunteer Program come with a variety of problems. Most issues prevalent are low self-esteem, poor grades and attendance in school, peer pressure and the lack of leadership skills. One-on-one volunteer and youth experiences are designed to turn these negative behaviors around, and the results have been positive. For example, through participation in the program, one teen not only improved his grades and started attending class on a regular basis, but also graduated from high school last year. He attributes his turnaround to the positive impact that his mentor played in his life. He reports, ÒMy mentor really taught me to be responsible for my actions.Ó Recently, the youth has decided to join the Job Corps to further pursue his career possibilities.
Record #: 59 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: CRD-2.1
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Rywak, Janine B
Anson CountyÕs farm income estimates for 2006 were $136,365,232, big bucks for a rural economically distressed county. However, offices that serve Anson County ag producers are not housed together, and the current buildings do not adequately provide for educational programs. These issues, and the added county-wide need for meeting facilities, prompted the Anson Cooperative Extension Advisory Council to request that the staff begin asking for a new center. The formation of a study group led to meetings, tours of other facilities and a grass-roots initiative to advocate for new facilities. With a $16,500 grant from Farm Bureau, Pee Dee EMC, and the County of Anson, a consultant was hired to conduct a feasibility study and facility program to design and present a floor plan for a new Agri-Civic Center. The pre-architectural rendering will be presented to the Anson County Commissioners with a request to pursue funding for a new facility.
Record #: 60 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-15
POW: CRD-1.3
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Rywak, Janine B
Many rural counties strive to infuse outside dollars into the local economy. One avenue lies in special events that promote tourism, such as the annual Anson Ag Expo and Fair. Cooperative Extension organizes and hosts the event each year, assisted by a planning committee and partner agencies. The 2008 festival utilized 90 volunteers for a week of events that included the Farm-City Week Banquet with 168 in attendance, and 60 youth in the 4-H Livestock Show showing 82 animals. The week involved a fair with 108 participants and 297 entries, an expo with 23 vendors, 72 ag posters, Kiddie Tractor Pull, antique tractors, and educational exhibits. Sponsors contributed over $16,000, and approximately 1300 were in attendance throughout the week. The event has lived up to its potential as a tourism draw, since it is now posted as an annual offering in publicity calendars everywhere, including the local telephone book.
Record #: 61 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-15
POW: CRD-1.2
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Rywak, Janine B
Anson County received its 21st Centuries designation in 2007 and underwent an in-depth economic development scan in the process. Earlier, the county had contracted with the Sanford Holshouser Business Development Group to conduct an economic development study. Both projects pointed to the same conclusion. Anson lacked a Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) Program. Research indicates that the best opportunity for job creation is through the expansion of existing businesses. Cooperative Extension was named by the Anson Economic Development Corporation to chair a committee to address BR&E. Working with South Piedmont Community College, the Anson County Chamber, the Town of Wadesboro and the countyÕs Economic Developer, teams have been formed to implement this program. Members visit companies, conduct interviews to gain insight into needs and issues, and assist in networking businesses to resources. In addition, since there was no formal appreciation event, two companies are recognized during ExtensionÕs annual Farm-City Week.
Record #: 62 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-15
POW: 99
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Rywak, Janine B
Anson hired its first County Agent in 1908, making Extension work 100 years old. To commemorate, Cooperative Extension implemented a series of activities that included: a timeline of employees with dated corresponding events in Extension, the state and nation; fall elected official newsletter, made to look like an old newspaper; slide show of old county photos, showing Extension through the years; celebrations with County Commissioners at ExtensionÕs Report to the People, annual Farm-City Week Banquet and the Anson Ag Expo & Fair; and a window display uptown with enlarged old photos. An earlier article announcing the 100-year mark was picked up by a local newspaper, which then requested individual articles specific to program areas through the years to be run as a series throughout the year. Finally, AnsonÕs 100 years of Extension work was also celebrated on the county website. The commemoration has led into 4-HÕs centennial celebration beginning 2009.
Record #: 63 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Blount, Roshunda
In an outreach effort, 4-H Youth Promise conducted their first ever, Christmas Community Service Project. Due to after-school lessons on service to your community, staff and youth of 4-H Youth Promise felt this event would be a great opportunity to learn by doing. Youth and staff collected can food goods from within the county and delivered them to the Anson Crisis Ministries to be given to less fortunate families. The youth and staff also went to the center to help hand out the items collected. From partaking in this community service project participants learned the joyful feeling of helping others especially during the holidays. Youth are eager to learn about other community events in which they can lend a helping hand throughout the year.
Record #: 64 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Blount, Roshunda
The Master ACE Volunteer Program is designed to increase the quality of program delivery for 4-H members in North Carolina. Two Anson County 4-H Volunteer Leaders completed their core competencies for Bronze level in 2007. As a result of these leadersÕ achievements, four more volunteers completed their bronze competencies in 2008 and the two initial volunteers completed their silver level competency. Because of this program, volunteers have gained skills to train and teach adults the core competencies, plus teach youth life and leadership skills for their personal growth in Anson County. Program results included 190 youth reached in six high quality workshops taught by these volunteers.
Record #: 65 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: 99
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Blount, Roshunda
4-H is a worthwhile, memorable program that has touched many lives through the years. With the 100th birthday celebration of 4-H in North Carolina beginning in 2009, Anson County 4-H took the opportunity to round up past volunteers, 4-HÕers, and parents to celebrate its centennial kickoff. The centennial planning committee consisting of three volunteer leaders, 4-H alumni, County Extension Director and 4-H Agent planned events for the kickoff. The local newspaper also assisted by running articles to help locate past members. Names and addresses were compiled to send out initiations for the event, which also initiated the creation of an alumni database. A total of 81 individuals attended the Anson County 4-H Centennial Kickoff on December 20, 2008. 4-H was depicted from the past, present and future in skits, fond memories, scrapbooks and displays. Future events to celebrate 4-H were also shared during the evening.
Record #: 66 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A9
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Marshall, Aimee
The Anson Cooperative Extension Service hosted a forestry dinner meeting on Woody Biomass at the Stanly County AgriCivic Center. The meeting was led by Extension Forestry specialists. The program hosted 56 private forest landowners from a 12 county area of NC. The programÕs goal was to provide education and materials to promote economic opportunities related to renewable energy derived from woody biomass. 88% of landowners increased their understanding of these issues. Attendees were able to talk to the specialists and ask about emerging markets and policies. They also learned about local markets and potential profit margins of the industry as it develops.
Record #: 67 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A15
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Marshall, Aimee
The town of Morven had only $350 in the bank yet the mayor wanted to elicit town pride by landscaping the center of town in order to attract new businesses to the community. The mayor contacted Anson CES for assistance in landscaping a section of the town in time for their winter festival. After speaking to the town board at their monthly meeting, a beautification committee of 8 citizens was formed. This paved the way for five 3-hour long field days in which the county agent taught the committee about landscape design, plant selection, soil sampling, soil amendments, plant spacing, irrigation, and weed control. The volunteer committee can now maintain the plantings year round. By working with local businesses the committee succeeded in having 95% of proceeds donated, saving the town $3,605 in plants, supplies, equipment, and labor.
Record #: 68 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A10
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Marshall, Aimee
Aquatic weed control, pond and fisheries management are common questions in a rural county where many own recreational ponds. Environmental conditions, nutrients, sedimentation, contaminated boating equipment and other causes can exacerbate pond problems leading to imbalanced fish populations, fish kills, and invasive weeds. In order to address these problems, a two-hour pond management class helped 25 private landowners and wildlife managers identify ways to improve their pond environment and fisheries habitat through chemical, cultural, mechanical, and biological control methods. This training saved the group about $5000 in failed weed control attempts as they learned the importance of matching weed identification to a particular control method. Participants gained a greater understanding of available tools and felt more comfortable taking an integrated long-term approach to manage their pond.
Record #: 69 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A1
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Melton, Richard V
The selection of replacement heifers that will breed in a limited breeding season and calve unassisted is essential to the long-term profitability of commercial beef cattle operations. Twenty-one Anson County beef producers were assisted by the Anson County Center for NCCE in evaluating 324 potential replacement heifers for reproductive tract soundness and pelvic area. As a result of those evaluations 115 of those heifers were culled. Economically those producers saved $10,700 in feed costs, $900 in breeding expenses and potentially $5,300 in veterinary costs.
Record #: 70 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A1
Location: Anson
Person Reporting: Melton, Richard V
Small, part-time commercial cattle operations are similar to most other small businesses in that they have limited ability to lower their input costs. However, when they band together to group purchase inputs such as minerals, breeding supplies, forage seed and supplemental feed they can see substantial unit cost savings. Utilizing information from the Anson County Center for NCCE, 44 local beef producers saved $21,000 in input costs in 2008.
Record #: 71 of 2840
Date: 2008-02-01
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Blackburn, Linda
Families continue to have greater need for afterschool. As the need for care becomes great so does the need for assistance in paying for afterschool. Subsidy dollars through CCR&R had not been available since the beginning of the school year. Ashe County 4-H Afterschool personnel working in partnership with the Child Care Resource and Referral(CCR&R)Agency was able once again to award eligible families subsidy dollars that will allow families funds for afterschool care. Twenty three children greatly in need if afterschool was enrolled in the 4-H Afterschool programs in January assisted by subsidy dollars to pay their fee.
Record #: 72 of 2840
Date: 2008-02-07
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Kelleher, Michael
During the holidays, there were service men and woman in foreign countries who were away from their loved ones. There were also many children of service men and woman who had to deal with the sadness of not having their parent(s) with them during the holidays as well. The 4-H Migrant Education Program, Cooperative Extension and the 4-H Afterschool Program at Mountain View Elementary school, made small holiday cards for these people. The challenge was getting them to the people for which they were intended. The 4-H MEP did not know what the protocol was for such a thing. It just so happened that Neil Nethery who was in the National Guard, was doing a presentation at the 4-H Afterschool Program at Blue Ridge Elementary, when Damian Kelleher, 4-H Program Associate, Migrant Education, asked Neil if he had any suggestions. He knew just who to send the cards to. They
Record #: 73 of 2840
Date: 2008-03-12
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Kelleher, Michael
In some portions of the Spanish speaking community it is acceptable for one spouse to physically abuse the other. The 4-H Migrant Education Program wanted to do what ever they could to help Spanish speaking victims of domestic violence find the help they needed. The local domestic violence shelter in Ashe County called, A Safe Home for Everyone, wanted to better serve the migrant and Spanish speaking community as well. In 2003, the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, the Ashe County 4-H Migrant Education Program and A Safe Home for Everyone, worked together to solve this problem. ASHE has a lifeline cell phone program which they have been running for years. The organization distributes donated cell phones to victims of domestic violence. They also give out a small card with local emergency contact information on it as well. The 4-H Migrant Education Program used to help collect cell phones as
Record #: 74 of 2840
Date: 2008-04-27
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Thompson, Drury
Middle School students in Ashe County often make career path decisions during these critical years indicating a need to provide a variety of experiences and relationships that enhance future thinking about the benefits and accessibility of college attendance as well as encouraging college planning as they approach high school. Planned recreational interaction featuring team building activities with college students has been a successful medium for building aspirations and positive mentoring relationships leading to college attendance . This April, 2008, in an on-going partnering with Ashe County Cooperative ExtensionÕs 4-H afterschool program at Ashe County Middle School, students from Appalachian State UniversityÕs Recreational Planning Class engaged 24 seventh and eighth grade students in an Òon campusÓ experience at the University which focused on using critical thinking and problem solving in a game highlighting campus resources. The middle school youth were impacted by increased positive attitude and aspirations concerning college attendance.
Record #: 75 of 2840
Date: 2008-04-28
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Kelleher, Michael
Because of the language barrier, many migrant youth are considered at-risk of not graduating and having low test scores. One of the ways that the 4-H Migrant Education Program deals with this problem is by enrolling migrant school aged youth in the 4-H Afterschool program. In collaboration with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Ashe County Center, the 4-H Migrant Education Program, the Ashe County School system and the 4-H Afterschool Program, migrant youth improved NCEOG scores over a period of time. One of the most impressive scores was from Lizbeth Silva, who excels in mathematics. In the 2004/ 2005 school year, Lizbeth Silva did well on her 2007-2008 school year EOG scores, as a result of one on one tutoring. Through consistent tutoring by the MEP and Afterschool staff, LizbethÕs Reading NCEOG scores, increased by two points and her Math NCEOG scores increased by 97 points.
Record #: 76 of 2840
Date: 2008-04-28
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Kelleher, Michael
The 4-H Migrant Education tutor, brought it to the attention of the 4-H TRAC Coordinator, who brought it to the attention of the 4-H MEP Director, Data Specialist and Recruiter, that two of their migrant youth missed two weeks of school due to lice. In collaboration with the 4-H Migrant Education Advisory Team and the Ashe County Board of Education, one of the MEP Team Members, who was a Farmworker nurse, volunteered to go to the house to investigate. The Farmworker nurse had worked with the family before. She said she saw no lice, only nits. The mother of the two girls cut their hair and the Farmworker nurse treated their hair. The Farmworker nurse and family gathered all the stuffed animals and put them in garbage bags. They also vacuumed the carpet to get rid of any lice eggs which may have landed in the carpet. The girls were
Record #: 77 of 2840
Date: 2008-05-27
POW: A1
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Davis, Bryan
Scouting for insects is an integral component of Integrated Pest Management in Christmas tree production. This practice prevents unnecasary pesticide applications and detects problems before crop damage occurs. Most Christmas tree pests are very small and require close examination to be detected when scouting. A spring farm visit by an area NCCES technician led to substantial savings for an Alleghany county grower. While doing follow up scouting from late winter treatments on farms totaling over 150 acres, no spring pests were observed. This allowed the grower to skip a planned pesticide application on these farms. The cost per acre to treat these farms would have been over $90. This led to a savings of over $13,000 for this farmer in pesticide expense and labor costs.
Record #: 78 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-26
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Smith, Deborah
Many at-risk youth face challenges socially that can effect their development at school and at work. Life skills in social graces and manners are instrumental in developing youthÕs self confidence and increasing self esteem. Youth enrolled in the 4-H Ashe Youth Connection Program, North Carolina Cooperative Extension – Ashe County Center, have the opportunity to attend an Annual Formal Dinner to learn social skills which can be helpful as they interact with family members, friends, teachers and other adults. As a result of one youth attending a formal dinner and learning a variety of social skills, she organized a dinner with the help of her family and invited her mentor as the special guest. This youth did not only learn skills for one dinner, but has demonstrated time after time she can use these same skills for the rest of her life.
Record #: 79 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-27
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Smith, Deborah
Taking the time and recognizing individual positive contribution back to society can be challenging for Òat-riskÓ youth. Monthly group activities sponsored by the 4-H Ashe Youth Connection Program, North Carolina Cooperative Extension – Ashe County Center, provide opportunities for youth to participate in road clean up activities and gardening projects at a local Farm Museum. Participating youth are exposed to the value of short term volunteering that produces long term impacts in the community. As a result of planting new seeds in a garden, one youth commented that she will be able to see how seeds become flowers with a little time, water and sunshine. Because of her efforts, she can identify with an activity that has made a difference in her life and one the community will greatly benefit from.
Record #: 80 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-27
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Kelleher, Michael
The storage garage located on the campus of Ashe Family Central was cluttered and needed maintenance for safety reasons. The Ashe County Parks and Recreation and Ashe Family Central sometimes shared the space with 4-H on occasion. Recognizing that the 4-H Summer Parks Program was less than a week away and in order to prevent any accidents, the entire Ashe County 4-H staff worked together to clean the storage garage. As a result, there were no accidents reported the entire summer. There was extra room for the 4-H Summer Parks Program to store extra materials which they did not need or have room for.
Record #: 81 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Lew, Maria
243 students in the Ashe County Schools are below grade level in reading, math, and/or writing, or are English Language Learners, and attend the 21st CCLC 4-H Teach-Reach Academic Challenges after school program regularly. The majority of TRAC students struggle to achieve grade level writing skills and many do not have parents that attended or completed college. To enhance their writing skills and college awareness, the Appalachian Pen-Pal program was developed for TRAC students by the TRAC Director. TRAC students in kindergarten through eighth grade may participate, and receive a pen-pal for the academic semester from Appalachian State University. All ASU students that participate are completing a required number of service learning hours. Through letter writing, picture sharing, and ASU-TRAC after school visits, students in Ashe County receive individual attention as they practice their writing skills and become more familiar with opportunities to enhance their college and career goals.
Record #: 82 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Lew, Maria
Lack of parental involvement at school activities is a challenge faced by schools and educational programs due to transportation and childcare issues, parentsÕ limited familiarity with the schools, and programming that does not engage the target audience. Each spring the 21stCentury Community Learning Center 4-H Teach Reach Academic Challenges in Ashe County partners with individual schools and teachers, Parent-Teacher Organizations, and local businesses to offer an evening of dinner, youth activities, and informative sessions for parents/guardians, which we call Ô21stCCLC 4-H TRAC Family Education Nights.Õ On April 22, 2008 over three-hundred people attended the family education event at Westwood Elementary that offered a wide range of interactive education sessions for families. On April 1, 2008 over one-hundred families attended a family event at Mountain View Elementary. Over twenty Hispanic parents attended a special program in Spanish that evening, offered in collaboration by the TRAC Director and ESL Teacher.
Record #: 83 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Lew, Maria
Over three-hundred students in kindergarten through eighth grade that are below grade level in math, reading, and/or writing, or are English Language Learners, are enrolled in the 21stCentury Community Learning Center 4-H Teach-Reach Academic Challenges program. These students struggle to make academic progress during the school year, and benefit from college awareness and mentoring opportunities to enhance their self-esteem and motivation to succeed in school. On April 28, 2008 a group of TRAC students, all English Language Learners in grade four through eight, attended a campus visit to Appalachian State University. The trip was a collaboration among the TRAC Director, her students in Learner Diversity (CI3000), the Campus Resident Student Association, and an Assistant Professor of Geography. The TRAC students received hands-on training with GIS software, toured the campus, enjoyed lunch with ASU students, and gained an increased awareness of higher education opportunities for their future.
Record #: 84 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Lew, Maria
Hispanic and Migrant high school youth face the greatest drop-out rates of all students, due to the cultural, linguistic, academic, and social challenges that make their educational experience extremely challenging. In an effort to support these students, the TRAC Director recruited and trained a NC-ACTS Americorps volunteer (and student at Appalachian State University) to provide direct services to eight Hispanic and English Language Learners at Ashe County High School (ACHS). Both the TRAC Director and Americorps volunteer provided individual tutoring to these youth during the school day to enhance their literacy skills and English proficiency. At the end of the school year, the TRAC Director arranged a brief campus visit and celebratory dinner for the youth and volunteer at Appalachian State University. The students have become more familiar with resources available to support their academic success in high school and motivation to achieve their college and career aspirations.
Record #: 85 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Lew, Maria
Over eight-hundred students in the Ashe County Schools are below grade level in reading, math, and/or writing. These students, along with all English Language Learners, are eligible for the 21st Century Community Learning Center 4-H Teach-Reach Academic Challenges after school program. TRAC provides academic enrichment, tutoring with a certified teacher, life skills, a daily snack, recreational activities, and transportation. TRAC is offered in partnership with the Ashe County Schools. In 2007-2008 a total of 396 students were enrolled in TRAC, with 243 attending thirty days or more. 96% of parents surveyed in May 2008 felt their child had improved their academic performance and reading, writing, and math skills because of the 21stCCLC 4-H TRAC program. Of sixty-six teachers surveyed, they indicated that the TRAC students showed the greatest improvement in turning in their homework, participating in class, and academic performance.
Record #: 86 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Lew, Maria
Plaza Comunitaria is an educational program developed by MexicoÕs National Institute for Adult Education. Native Spanish speakers aged sixteen and older can complete their Mexican elementary and secondary education through online programming. The TRAC Director has attended three trainings offered by INEA, in order to implement and coordinate Plaza. On June 12, 2008 we celebrated the opening of La Plaza Comuntiaria en Ashe, which is offered in partnership with Wilkes Community College, Ashe Campus. The TRAC Director/Plaza Coordinator recruited and trained a bilingual volunteer Assistant Coordinator, and recruited two Hispanic high school youth to complete required community service hours by volunteering at the opening of Plaza. Three representatives from the Mexican Consulate in Raleigh attended the inauguration and have provided ongoing technical assistance for the program. Marketing and recruiting of Plaza is an ongoing effort in collaboration with local businesses and organizations serving the growing Hispanic population in Ashe County.
Record #: 87 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A7
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Boylan, Richard
Extension Combines Information With Implements To Improve GrowersÕ Profitability: The New River Headwaters Alternative Agriculture Program of NCA&TSU has spent several years educating area growers on the season-extension and weed-control advantages offered by plastic mulches. During 2008, this information Ôtook root,Õ as four growers new to plasticulture and several experienced farmers made use of the NCA&T bedder-mulcher to prepare their fields for fruit and vegetable production. Growers using the attachment for the first time reported that the beds formed easily, and the results will greatly decrease their weed-control expenses while improving yields and quality. One grower reported that compared to laying plastic mulch by hand over his squash patch, he saved more than sixteen hours of labor costs. Several area-growers further reduced both their costs and environmental impacts by purchasing a biodegradable cornstarch-based Ôplastic,Õ that eliminates clean-up and disposal costs at the end of the season.
Record #: 88 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A7
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Boylan, Richard
Extension Facilitates Independence and Expansion of The Ashe County Farmers Market: Thanks to its successful shelter expansion and Grand Re-Opening of 2007, the Ashe County Farmers Market (ACFM) approached 2008 in an excellent position, with more growers, more diversity of products, and more enthusiasm by vendors than ever before. What it lacked was an appropriate governance structure to effectively manage this growth. Extension worked with volunteers from the ACFM to explore options for incorporation and governance. Extension then facilitated a series of meetings to discuss the possibilities, ensuring that all voices were heard and all stakeholders represented. The process successfully arrived at a consensus for a non-profit corporation with an elected board of directors. Thanks to ExtensionÕs support and guidance throughout, the ACFM was able to open its doors for the 2008 season with the continuity of a seasoned manager and the flexibility to act as an independent entity.
Record #: 89 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A7
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Boylan, Richard
Commercial Organic Certification Class Opens Opportunities for Growers – North Carolinians consume far more organic fruits and vegetables than North Carolina growers produce. An opportunity exists for NC growers to enter this expanding market, but significant obstacles stand between an interested grower and a successful certified-organic operation. To assist area growers in navigating the path toward certification, NCA&TSU Cooperative Extension designed and offered a class on certified organic vegetable production for new and transitioning growers. The class covered organic soil, insect, disease, and weed management strategies, with an emphasis on effectively documenting such practical on-farm techniques into the requisite farm plans and field records. Participating growers received extensive print resources for future in-field reference, as well as a CD containing resources on organic IPM Practices. All participants favorably rated both the class and resource materials. During 2008, three new farm operations in the New River Headwaters Area entered certified-organic production.
Record #: 90 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A7
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Boylan, Richard
Community Resource Development by Extension Enhances Resources Available to Growers: Even as economic and development pressures constrain many farms in the region, the New River Headwaters Alternative Agriculture Program of NCA&TSU Extension works with growers of various crops to address identified needs and secure resources for growth and continuing farm viability. During 2008, the program achieved a broad range of successes that enhanced opportunities for small farms throughout the region. Examples include working with the New River Organic Growers (NROG) cooperative to secure more than $30,000 of new grants for shared-use equipment and enhanced marketing. Extension also helped steward the funds secured by earlier grants to NROG, facilitating the process of selecting an efficient and appropriate truck to purchase. Additionally, the program continued the popular shiitake mushroom spawn distribution program of NCA&T, and assisted a Watauga beekeeper in obtaining an Ag Options grant to improve production efficiency.
Record #: 91 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A7
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Boylan, Richard
Seed Swap & Farmers Market Expo Combine for Expanded Outreach and Impact: The Ashe County Seed Swap has become an annual spring event that brings out gardeners to link with Extension for information and swap seeds for the growing season ahead. However, the Seed Swap did not always draw growers from area small farms who also could benefit from the event. To broaden the base of attendance, Extension worked with the Board of the Ashe County Farmers Market to combine the Market Expo (where member-growers network, review the market rules, and jury potential crafts) with the Seed SwapÕs traditional activities of exchanging seeds, plants, and growing tips. The resulting Seed Swap & Market Expo drew more than seventy participants to the Ashe Family Central Community Center, who variously traded seeds, attended classes on preserving heirloom varieties, networked, and prepared for a successful season ahead.
Record #: 92 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-02
POW: A3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Young, Charles M
Cooperative Extension, Ashe Center encouraged and assisted 3 youth from Ashe to attend 4-H Horsemanship Camp. This week long camp puts youth with their horses through a training program that teaches improved riding skills, increased knowledge about horses, and develops the work ethic required to care for horses on a daily basis. Each youth learned all aspects of horse husbandry, from feeding to veterinary care to heat management to cleaning the stalls. At the end of the week, all youth exhibited increased confidence and improved riding ability, as well as the knowledge that they had handled the responsibility of caring for their horse all week. One youth was invited to attend the 4-H Southern regional competition as a result with his interaction with the camp program.
Record #: 93 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-02
POW: A1
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Young, Charles M
Cooperative Extension, Ashe Center has planned a youth livestock show during the Christmas in July Festival for the past 13 years. Due to a property ownership transfer, we lost our location. A committee was formed to explore other options, and a local business man donated property for an agricultural Expo. We worked through the University and Agriculture Foundation to make the donation possible. The property is now being used to host a variety of agricultural related events including horse shows and livestock shows. The Friends of Ashe County Agriculture committee was formed to provide guidance and help oversee the long term project, with plans to expand to include a covered arena and show ring.
Record #: 94 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-16
POW: F5
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Shepherd, Carolyn
The northwest area of the state has historically shown the highest radon levels in North Carolina. Radon gas, the second leading cause of lung cancer, can reach unsafe levels in homes. Testing for radon is the only way to know if levels exceed the safety standard. In collaboration with the Division of Radiation Protection, Cooperative Extension, Ashe County Center Family and Consumer Sciences made available free radon test kits for Ashe County families. Seventy six kits were distributed. As a result, 20% of the results showed elevated levels of radon gas. Over healf of these families requested additional information on how to reduce radon levels in their homes.
Record #: 95 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-16
POW: F2
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Shepherd, Carolyn
The increasing cost of energy has families and community leaders developing strategies to conserve energy without sacrificing comfort. Through collaborative efforts of the County of Ashe, Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative and Cooperative Extension, Ashe County Center Family and Consumer Sciences, over 400 families have requested and received information on energy conservation and 25 energy kits with energy saving devices have been distributed and used. Over $8000.00 has been saved as a result of the Ashe County Energy Committee's implementing and promoting energy saving practices in county buildings.
Record #: 96 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-28
POW: A9
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Tucker, Della J
Marketing farm products is often a challenge for farmers. The North Carolina Department of Agriculture partnered with the Wal-Mart Corporation to hold a marketing meeting for North Carolina Farmers. The Ashe County Center for North Carolina Cooperative Extension and 3 Ashe County farmers attended the training held in Raleigh. The Ashe County Extension Agent helped to create a display for the growers and worked with the farmers to market their goods to Wal-Mart. Our meeting also educated Wal-mart managers about the environmental qualities of farm grown trees and solutions to tree display. Educating Wal-mart managers on the benefits of the real Christmas tree will help to increase sales and sustain the Christmas tree industry across North Carolina.
Record #: 97 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-28
POW: A15
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Tucker, Della J
Mountain View Elementary School teachers needed a living classroom to teach children about sustainable agriculture, growing plants, and ecology. The Ashe County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension partnered with parents from the school to write a grant to purchase a greenhouse for the grounds. After receiving the $1000 grant Ashe County Extension, Mountain View Elementary School Teachers, and parent volunteers built the greenhouse and several raised beds. These will be operational by the beginning of the school year and ready for the educational benefit of our youth.
Record #: 98 of 2840
Date: 2008-08-06
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Thompson, Drury
There are limited out of school activity resources for youth in the Ashe County community and working parents have difficulty accessing those resources that exist. The Annual New River Canoe Race is a fundraising event sponsored by Cooperative ExtensionÕs 4-H to support afterschool services and summer camp scholarships. The event generated approximately $3200.00 in revenue for these scholarships through the support of local businesses and individual donors. The 84 boats represented a wide participants including canoe enthusiasts, novices and families. The afterschool scholarship is matched by the school for all students of the Ashe County Middle School to access programming. Collaboration strongly impacted the challenge of ÒlatchkeyÓ youth of working parents facing distances and gas prices between work and the school. This comprehensive inclusion plan in afterschool practically addresses youth at risk through accessible supervised activities made available from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm during the week.
Record #: 99 of 2840
Date: 2008-08-06
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Thompson, Drury
Migrant families in Ashe County have difficulty connecting their children to assimilation and aspirations to further education including college aspirations. 4-H Cooperative Extension in a grant with 21st Century Community Learning Center afforded a hands on experience for 17 Hispanic migrant youth of 4-H Summer Parks in July. The event included participation in a college based Geography class, tour of college life centers such as the library, dormitory, bookstore and student union. Youth interacted with and questioned university students and faculty. The migrant youth connected with various partners in the system and increased their knowledge regarding college life, expectations, and future planning. These 3rd to 6th grade students shared their acquired learning and reinforced aspirations with family members. Engaging students and their families of diverse cultural background enhanced their ability to acquire new skills with purpose and direction, adopting relevant modalities for more efficient use of resources in the community.
Record #: 100 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-09
POW: A9
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Tucker, Della J
River Ridge Tree Farm is a key cooperator with the Ashe County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension (NCCE). River Ridge has partnered with NCCE for Educational Programs in 2008 for other farmers and practices sustainable farming practices learned from NCCE programs. River Ridge Tree Farms represented the NC Christmas Tree Association in the 2008 National Christmas Tree contest where they were named the National Grand Champions. River Ridge Farms presented President and Mrs. Bush with the White House Christmas Tree on November 30, 2008. This is the second year in a row that an Ashe County Christmas Tree has been displayed as the official White House Christmas Tree. Ashe County has boasted 6 National Christmas Trees winners, more than any other county in the United States.
Record #: 101 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-09
POW: A9
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Tucker, Della J
The NC Division of Parks and Recreation employees expressed a need for forest and landscape maintenance training and pesticide license recertification credits. The Ashe County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension created an educational program about Integrated Pest Management (IPM) of the Nursery, Forest and Landscape that fit the needs of the rangers as well as area nursery and landscape professionals. The 15 professionals in attendance received an IPM manual, an exceptional training, and 2 hours of private and commercial pesticide credits. As a result of the training the rangers recertification requirements were meet and 70 % of respondents are using IPM at there work to control pest problems.
Record #: 102 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-09
POW: A9
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Tucker, Della J
Ashe County has seen a dramatic increase in woodland subdivisions over the past 5 years. According to Dr. Toddi Steelman, NCSU, ÒNorth Carolina has intensively developed areas vulnerable to wildfire disasters and is one of the top five states in the nation with the highest rate of housing increase in the areas that face the highest wildfire risk. The Ashe County Planning department looked to the Ashe County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension to provide information regarding wildfire to local government agencies. In May 2008, Ashe County Cooperative Extension provided an educational program in cooperation with NCSU and the NCFS on the NC Firewise Program. Attendees included representatives from county planning, the local Fire Marshall, emergency management, and local fire departments. As a result of the training Ashe County Planning department has added the NC Firewise information to the subdivision information packet and wildfire awareness has been raised.
Record #: 103 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-09
POW: A15
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Tucker, Della J
The National Christmas Tree Association and FedEx team up every Christmas season to bring farm grown Christmas trees to the families of American soldiers both at home and abroad. Ashe County farmers Cline and Ellen Church donated the use of their Christmas tree loading yard to facilitate the pickup of donated Christmas trees from area growers to be delivered to Fort Benning, GA and Fort Bragg, NC, by FedEx. The Ashe County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension was played a key role in coordinating with local farms to make certain that the 650 pledged trees arrived at Cline Church Nursery on time for pickup. Due to the efforts of Cooperative Extension, the Ashe County Christmas tree growers and the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association over 1,200 donated trees, valued at over $18,000 were sent from Ashe County to our military families.
Record #: 104 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-09
POW: A9
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Tucker, Della J
The National Christmas Tree Association and FedEx team up every Christmas season to bring farm grown Christmas trees to the families of American soldiers both at home and abroad. Ashe County farmers Cline and Ellen Church donated the use of their Christmas tree loading yard to facilitate the pickup of donated Christmas trees from area growers to be delivered to Fort Benning, GA and Fort Bragg, NC, by FedEx. The Ashe County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension was played a key role in coordinating with local farms to make certain that the 650 pledged trees arrived at Cline Church Nursery on time for pickup. Due to the efforts of Cooperative Extension, the Ashe County Christmas tree growers and the North Carolina Christmas Tree Association over 1,200 donated trees, valued at over $18,000 were sent from Ashe County to our military families.
Record #: 105 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-10
POW: A9
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Davis, Bryan
Fraser fir seedlings are a preferred food source in many areas for deer. This leads to increased production costs and lost tree quality for farmers. Extension research and demonstrations have shown that damage can be eliminated or reduced by applying repellents to the seedlings at proper intervals. Commercially available repellents are most commonly used at a cost of 70-90 dollars per acre, per application. In most areas three applications are needed to protect young trees throughout the winter leading to an annual cost of 200-300 dollars per acre. Alternative "homemade" repellents consisting of egg powder, blood and casein have been evaluated and show equal protection as commercial products. These alternative repellents are applied at a cost of less than 10 dollars per acre, per application. This leads to an almost tenfold decrease in repellent costs per acre for growers, while still protecting seedlings.
Record #: 106 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: A9
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Davis, Bryan
The continued adoption of better groundcover management practices by Christmas tree farmers has led to thousands of acres of fields with stands of clover. This clover provides benefits to farmers in that it reduces weed competition resulting in reduced herbicide applications. The clover also provides free nitogen to the trees. This is important in a time in which farmers are pressured with increased fertilizer costs. Fertilizer applications normally cost approximately 300 dollars per acre for material alone. Ongoing Extension demonstrations are evaluating nitrogen inputs from clover compared to nitrogen provided by fertilization. After three years of evaluation at three sites with clover groundcover each farm is showing very positive and consistent results. Each site shows almost equal levels of nitrogen in trees receiving no fertilizer and trees receiving full rates of nitrogen fertilizer. This can save growers 100-300 dollars per acre in fertilizer costs.
Record #: 107 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-19
POW: A7
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Boylan, Richard
Extension Enhances Farmers Market Opportunities: The two main Farmers Markets within the New River Headwaters Area Alternative Agriculture Program region continued to grow both their memberships and customer bases during 2008. Extension contributed to these successes via educational outreach and resource development partnerships. In Ashe County, the MarketÕs Tomato Day succeeded in attracting plenty of customers with a tasting contest and a Plant Clinic which Extension helped to plan, publicize, and implement. Extension helped connect the Watauga County Farmers Market (WCFM) to connect with LeafLightÕs EBT project, which has provided an Electronic Balance Transfer machine and training to the WCFM Manager. This will enable growers of the WCFM to begin accepting Food Stamps in 2009, enhancing market opportunities for farmers while opening-up the WCFM to a new group of customers who will benefit from fresh and nutritious local foods.
Record #: 108 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-19
POW: A7
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Boylan, Richard
Successful Education in the Field: Farming is already a risky enough business without making unwarranted changes. For growers to embrace new crops, management strategies, and production techniques, they need to directly observe working models. Extension simultaneously demonstrated organic production, crop rotation, farmscaping, and new tomato varietiesÕ increased disease resistance in a multi-faceted demonstration plot at the Upper Mountain Research Station. During two field days (in June and August), more than 150 growers learned weed management with plastic mulches and alleys of cover crops, organic fertility, how high-biomass smother crops can control weeds in fallow fields, and how farmscape plants can be managed for beneficial insect habitat, while also evaluating how newer varieties of tomatoes perform in such a system. The specialist, agent, and technicians who collaborated on the demonstration were on-site during both field days, which provided growers with education about a comprehensive management system in a time-efficient manner.
Record #: 109 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: F4
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Shepherd, Carolyn
Agencies and systems often have gaps in services due to limited resources. The use of trained volunteers can fill the gaps and provide resources that would otherwise not be available. Extension and Communtiy Association volunteers in Ashe County have provided the equivalent of over 45,000.00 in 2008. A few of these services include assisting with educational programs, developing, publishing and selling a cookbook with proceeds to begin a local Family and Consumer Science endowment, and providing resources for the domestic violence shelter and local sharing centers.
Record #: 110 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: F1
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Shepherd, Carolyn
Addressing the issue of obesity in children through more education in Ashe County was a need identified in a countywide health survey. North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Ashe County Center, Family and Consumer Sciences provided "Color Me Healthy" training for 18 preschool teachers,a program that provided resource kits valued at 80.00 each and strategies for incooperating heathy eating and increased physical activity in their classroom lessons. Evaluation reflected that all participants planned to use knowledge gained to teach 170 children this year. Participants reported that the teaching kits were the best resource they had available to them to address children's health.
Record #: 111 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: F4
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Shepherd, Carolyn
A large number of households in Ashe County depend on private wells and springs for drinking water, with many of these being older and unprotected from contamination. Cooperative Extension, Ashe County Center Family and Consumer Sciences in partnership with Jefferson Water Services and Ashe County Health Department,23 volunteers screened 318 samples of water from 167 private water supplies serving over 200 families. As a result, all participants gained knowledge about nitrate levels and presence of coliform bacteria in their drinking water. 28% of the participants whose water had problems took action to improve their water quality per Extension's recommendations. 25% took additional measures to protect or improve their drinking water source to prevent contamination.
Record #: 112 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: A1
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Shepherd, Carolyn
Developing life skills has been identified as a high priority for youth in Ashe county needs assessments. Through collaborative efforts of the Triad Chef's Association, a local chef Cooperative Extension Family and Consumer Sciences and 4-H in Ashe County, 10 children participated in Chef and Child, 16 hours of hands on learning abot nutrition, food preparation, and food safety. Evaluations refletced that all participants gained knowledge they thought beneficial to them. Eight of the participants reported repeating skills learned at home.
Record #: 113 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: A13
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Young, Charles M
Cooperative Extension, Ashe Center has a long running Safety Field Day program for all of Ashe and Alleghany Counties 4th graders and the High School Agricultural classes. These Safety Days reach 500 4th graders and over 140 high school students with a variety of safety demonstrations by volunteers and other agencies. This year, as a result of the long term success of the field days, a high school from Surry County asked to be involved. The teacher, a former Alleghany student that had been through the program, initiated the effort to include his classes in the program because he thought it had been valuable when he was in high school. This added 40 students to the program this year.
Record #: 114 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: A13
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Young, Charles M
Cooperative Extension, Ashe Center was able to organize a 4-H Shootings Sports club for the first time. The 4-H Winchesters have been meeting monthly and learning the basics of firearm safety, marksmanship, and the responsibility that working with firearms requires. The club normally has 12-15 middle school age youth participating. One of the youth made the commitment to participate in the state tournament, even though it meant that he had to miss a rescheduled football game.
Record #: 115 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: A1
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Young, Charles M
Cooperative Extension, Ashe Center has planned a youth livestock show during the Christmas in July Festival for the past 13 years. Due to a property ownership transfer, we lost our location. A committee was formed to explore other options, and a local business man donated property for an agricultural Expo. The property is now being used to host a variety of agricultural related events including horse shows and livestock shows. The Friends of Ashe County Agriculture committee was formed to provide guidance and help oversee the long term project, with plans to expand to include a covered arena and show ring. This committee has raised over $21,000 that has been used to purchase corral panels for a show ring, a building for a concession stand and other capital improvements.
Record #: 116 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-27
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Smith, Deborah
The 4-H Ashe Youth Connection (AYC), a NC Cooperative Extension – Ashe County Center Youth Development Program is aware of competitive mentoring programs charging fees for participation. Volunteering is a way of daily life for our AYC mentors, making a difference in a childÕs life and an investment of time and talent towards the future of Ashe County. Mentors have tutored, introduced new insight, encouraged positive results and Òhave been thereÓ for youth to develop necessary skills to achieve and promote success. As a result of their dedication and commitment, AYC mentors volunteered 1045.1/2 hours in service of redirecting young lives. These hours were multiplied by a dollar value based on the Independent Sector, North Carolina 2008 rate, indicating the significance to society at $19,978.00. AYC is based on research and implementation of recommended Òbest practicesÓ for mentor programs and will continue to be a viable resource for youth.
Record #: 117 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-27
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Smith, Deborah
The 4-H Ashe Youth Connection (AYC), a NC Cooperative Extension – Ashe County Center Youth Development Program recognizes the need to educate and guide youth towards a healthy life style implementing proper food choices and physical activity. The AYC program was awarded funds to conduct a Health Camp for its mentors, mentees and volunteers. The camp collaborated with local hospital, school and Department of Social Services guest speakers. Participants benefited by Òhands onÓ learning strategies that are researched based and have high margins of success. Mentors were empowered to repeat these activities with their mentees during the term of the mentorship up to one year. As a result, long term results were achieved by establishing goals in support of a healthy weight reducing chronic illnesses, injury and disease. Ultimately, this will lead to reduction in health care costs, increased longevity, greater productivity and improved quality of life.
Record #: 118 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Blackburn, Linda
Students proforming below grade level in the schools in Ashe County is problemic for children and for families. Ashe County 4-H Afterschool working with each of the four Ashe County Schools and the families of students below grade level implemented a plan for supporting academic learning in the afterschool program. Of the 396 children/youth enrolled in the program 21% moved from not proficient to proficient or above. Approximately 50% imporved at some level.
Record #: 119 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Blackburn, Linda
Summer time care is a great need for families in Ashe County. Many of the families this year were having a hard time finding monies to pay for our 4-H Summer Parks Program, an eight week, five day a week day camp. Subsidy dollars were not available and there were very limited scholarship dollars. Ashe County 4-H approached the Ashe County Commissioners and ask for scholarship monies. They unanimously voted to grant the program $30,000. This allowed 50 families (76 children) to enroll in the 4-H Summer Parks Program that assured familes a safe place for their children. Children were a part of a high quality youth development program instead of being home alone.
Record #: 120 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Blackburn, Linda
Afterschool in North Carolina is all over the spectrum as far as quality of programs offered and much of this is due to the professional development of staff in these programs. Several years of conversation around the topic of a need for a professional development track for afterschool professionals finally resulted in many different state agencies. that work with afterschool, forming a task force committee to develop a Professional Development System for Afterschool Professionals in North Carolina. The purpose of the task force is to identify and address the training needs that would offer these professionals support to provide quality programming for our school age children and youth. As co-chair of this Task Force we are well under way to this end. The goal of the committee is to improve the quality of afterschool in North Carolina.
Record #: 121 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Blackburn, Linda
Homework completion is a problem for many of our children in Ashe County schools many times due to the inability of parents to able to assist their children with their homework either from lack of ability or from lack of concern. Ashe County 4-H Afterschool implemented a plan in conjunction with the schools to offer a homework track in the 4-H Afterschool Programs. Of the 396 students enrolled teachers report that 75.76% improved in homework completion which also resulted in improvement in class participation.
Record #: 122 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Blackburn, Linda
AShe County 4-H Afterschool Program has long had a plan to work with participants on improving their behavior as well as helping participants learn life skills. A large percentage of the participants have academic struggles and behavior problems. Working with the classroom teachers the afterschool programs focused on participants behavior management plan. Classroom teachers reported that 63% had improved their behavior.
Record #: 123 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-15
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Miller, Jennifer
The current economic status makes it increasing difficult for county 4-H programs to provide programming to families at little or no cost. Low income families are unable to utilize the educational programs available because of financial restraints. Each year the ChildrenÕs Trust Endowment Fund awards grants to support youth programming that will enhance life skills and personal growth. In 2008 the Endowment awarded $2,400.00. Ashe County 4-H submitted three-grant proposals. Each proposal was funded. The Ashe County Friends of Agriculture received $1,300.00 to host a hands-on fitting and showmanship-clinic for youth. 4-H Ashe Youth Connection was awarded $800.00 to host a health camp (in collaboration with Ashe Memorial Hospital, Ashe County High School and Mountain Hearts). The Ashe County 4-H Home School Club received $400.00 to develop landscaping at Ashe Family Central. These grant-dollars made it possible for youth to participate in opportunities that might not have otherwise been possible.
Record #: 124 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-15
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Miller, Jennifer
As the demand for volunteers increase it becomes increasingly difficult to find dedicated 4-H volunteers. The ChildrenÕs Trust Endowment Volunteer Committee works tirelessly year round to raise unrestricted grant funds for Ashe County Partnership for Children and Ashe County 4-H program participants. These funds are devoted to programs that enrich the quality of life for children. In 2008 the committee raised a record high of over $20,000.00 at the Annual Valentine Dinner, Dance and Auction. Their continued dedication and effort toward the children of Ashe County is evidenced by the endless hours dedicated to Endowment Fundraising.
Record #: 125 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-15
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Miller, Jennifer
Studies indicate that todayÕs youth are lacking in life skill development that will assist in preparing them for their future. A fifteen year old Ashe County youth participated for the first time in the 4-H Horsemanship Camp at Millstone 4-H Center in Ellerbe, North Carolina. At the 4-H Camp their were four leaders and Dr. Bob Mowrey, an equine specialist from North Carolina State University, who attended and watched all 73 participants ride and accessed their Horsemanship abilities. The Ashe County youth was invited to represent the state of North Carolina in Breakaway Calf Roping at the Southern Regional Horse Show with participants present from 17 states. Experiences such as these are crucial in the development of a youthÕs self-esteem and drive them to accomplish their future goals.
Record #: 126 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-15
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Ashe
Person Reporting: Miller, Jennifer
In a world of video games, cell phones and text messaging, the suggestion of communing with nature is becoming an increasingly lost one. Richard Louv explores this dilemma in his book, ÒLast Child in the Woods.Ó He coined the term Ònature deficit disorderÓ to describe the trend towards indoor activities for children. A residential camp setting is essential in helping children gain independence, developing social skills and group development. Camp is the single most influential tool available for educators to give children a greater sense of self. On June 29-July 4, 2008 three youth, ages 8-14, spent an adventurous week in the sand hills of Ellerbe, North Carolina building life skills such as team work, crucial thinking, responsibility, personal safety, problem solving, leadership and citizenship while making friends for a lifetime. Ashe County 4-H continues to promote the importance of outdoor education to the youth of Ashe County.
Record #: 127 of 2840
Date: 2008-04-07
POW: F1
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Magner, James
In Avery County the adult obesity rate is 60-65% of ALL adults. Avery County Extension has helped 164 people lose 774 pounds in the first 13 weeks of the Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less Program. One participant has been able to quit taking their acid reflux medication due to losing 15 pounds, another is talking with their Doctor about coming off their high blood pressure medicine because they have dropped 15 pounds. Three individuals have lost over 20 pounds, and all are looking forward to their annual check-ups.
Record #: 128 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-12
POW: F1
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Magner, James
The Avery County Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less had 164 people lose over 914 pounds in a safe healthy manner in twenty weeks. The program was offered for $20 for the entire twenty weeks. This saved participants $220 dollar a person when compared with a local commercial weight loss program that charged $12 a person, per meeting. This added up to a savings of over $36,000 in program fees for all participants.
Record #: 129 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-2.2
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Buchanan-Hughes, Debra
Six elementary schools and two middle schools participated in a 5 week embryology unit. 420 eggs were incubated. Participants had lessons in life cycle, embryo development, brooding boxes, pet care and responsibility, food sources and enterepeneurship.
Record #: 130 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-2.2
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Buchanan-Hughes, Debra
Six elementary schools and two middle schools participated in a 5 week embryology unit. 420 eggs were incubated. Participants had lessons in life cycle, embryo development, brooding boxes, pet care and responsibility, food sources and enterepeneurship.
Record #: 131 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A9
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Moody, Jerrold T
Due to the poor market conditions of Christmas trees a marketing working group was developed to investigate marketing. Each member of the group is working on developing a marketing plan to implement on their own. At the end of the 4 sessions the attendees will have all the necessary tools to develop their own marketing plan and will understand the forces that affect the industry.
Record #: 132 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-11
POW: A1
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Keener, Adam C
North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Avery County Center, hosted the first Coggins Clinic for the High Country Horse Club. Over 30 horses where tested for coggins, and owners where educated on the effects, and transmission of the disease. Other services where available as needed. As a result of this one owner saved over $200 on travel and services. Members of the Horse Club where very pleased with this clinic and are looking forward to future events.
Record #: 133 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-12
POW: F1
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Magner, James
Car crashes are the number one cause of death in NC for children under the age of 14, and the number two reason for hospitalizations. The median cost of a hospital visit due to a crash is $11,303. The Avery County Family Consumer Sciences/4-H Extension Agent is the coordinator of the Avery County Safe Kids Chapter. Through this program 42 car seats were distributed in 2008 to low income families at half price (16 Hispanic), this resulted in a $933 savings for the family. More importantly each family was instructed in how to properly install and use the seat. Studies show 80% of car seats are improperly installed. The good news is the risk of death and major injury drops by 71% when a child is properly secured in a correctly installed car seat.
Record #: 134 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-12
POW: F1
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Magner, James
The 2008 Avery County 4-H Summer W.O.W. (Wonderful Opportunities Waiting) Program enrolled 185 children, and had an average daily attendance of 87. Close to 60% of these children were low income or identified as at-risk (county wide 70% of all elementary children were eligible for free or reduced lunch). In the past, many of these children did not bring a lunch to the summer program because the family lacked the food, or the lunches they brought were extremely unhealthy and consisted of the 4 C's(chips,cookies,cakes and cokes). To correct these problems the Avery County 4-H program applied and was accepted as a participant in the NC Summer Food Service Program. As a result The 4-H program was able to access $18,883 in new dollars to serve a free, nutritious breakfast,lunch and snack to all summer participants. In all a total of 7772 meals were served to low income children.
Record #: 135 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-12
POW: A1
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Magner, James
Only 20 counties in North Carolina have children with a greater obesity problem than Avery County. In order to help address this problem Avery County Cooperative Extension participated in the NCSU Food Stamp Nutrition Education Program: Promoting Healthy Eating Across North Carolina. The program's goal was to facilitate knowledge and positive behavioral change in nutrition and physical activity of the student's and their families. This was done through a series of classes on nutrition and food safety. The results from the program indicated that 59.4% of students improved their overall knowledge of nutrition, but more importantly 77.8% indicated that they have made positive behavior change related to nutrition and eating habits. One teacher commented that the students were trying different foods and requesting salad for lunch in the cafeteria.
Record #: 136 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A9
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Moody, Jerrold T
Many tree growers are experiencing problems in getting their trees to the market. The old method of waiting for buyers to visit has changed into more modern methods of attracting and retaining customers. In the summer of 2008 15 growers attended and completed three marketing classes where they learned how to plan their business, segment their markets, attract new clients, and retain old ones while making their presence felt. Due to this 5 new retail outlets were developed for the 2008 Christmas Tree sale Season, and 3 new websites were developed. 30% of attendees felt that these classes helped them directly with one or more aspects of marketing their trees. These fifteen growers represented approximately 950 acres of trees
Record #: 137 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A16
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Moody, Jerrold T
At the Avery County Fair, all students from kindergarten to 8th grade attended twe educational days at the fair. During these days children experienced livestock, plants and crafts. The entire staff provided educational opportunities in beekeeping, how to shear a sheep, how to deal with wildlife, how to recycle, how to take care of livestock, and how to preserve food. All of the educational discussions allowed for out of the box discussions between teachers and students. Students were taught where their food comes from and how we process wool.
Record #: 138 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A3
Location: Avery
Person Reporting: Keener, Adam C
Working in conjunction with the 4-H afterschool program, the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, Avery County Center, was able to host the first annual Avery County Fair Poultry Show. With over 20 entries, children where able to display the great wealth of knowledge they had gained while working the the County livestock agent during the embryology program delivered during to over 70 students.
Record #: 139 of 2840
Date: 2008-03-28
POW: A1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Ambrose, Gaylon
n November of 2007 an Ag Extension Agent conducted hands on demonstrations of locally grown crops and their origin, use, and value to children and adults at two farm heritage activities in the region. These activites included corn shelling and grinding into corn meal, wheat grinding into flour and cotton ginning. These activities reached over 3,250 young and old alike by increasing their knowledge of agriculture and their dependence on it.
Record #: 140 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-21
POW: F1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Chase, Susan
Maintaining weight loss after bariatric surgery is the result of "staying on track" with diet and lifestyle modification. It has been shown that weight gain can begin two years after surgery. In the case of the post-Roux-en-Y gastric bypass patient, this is when"dumping syndrome" can taper off and sugary foods are more tolerated without negative effects. Old food habits can return when there is a higher caloric intake. Area physicians are now referring morbidly obese Gastric Bypass Surgery patients into Extension's Gastric Bypass Support Group to learn about proper nutrition, diet and exercise. Extension is providing these individuals the nutritional support and nutrition education to reduce future risk for regaining weight after surgery, and maintaining a healthy weight in order to live a healthier more active life. To date over 180 people have gained reliable nutritional education through Beaufort County's Gastric Bypass Support Group reducing their risk of regaining the weight they have lost and the prevention of further medical obesity complications. 27 people have reported no weight gain or maintaining their desired weight due to knowledge gained at the meetings.
Record #: 141 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-21
POW: F1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Chase, Susan
Seventeen nurse aides (all female) working with the Aging Unit of Department of Social Services providing home health have been trained in using the Women Living Healthy Women Living Well CD. All seventeen nurse aides have indicated that they are more mindful of what they eat, and are making positive health behavior changes in their own diets and exercise plans because of information gained through the Women Living Healthy Women Living Well training. They are encouraging their patients and families to eat a healthier diet and to exercise more in order to enjoy good health and happiness for life. All seventeen nurse aides want to be healthy, fit role models for their family members and patients. These nurse aides are distributing Extension's nutritional pamphlets to their patients and the patients' family members in order to further emphasize the importance of good nutrition. To date over 200 different individuals have received health, nutrition related information to begin positive behavior modification to make a positive difference in their heart health.
Record #: 142 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-21
POW: F2
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Chase, Susan
When body image is impaired, it can really interfere with your ability to lead a full, satisfying, healthy life. Due to leadership and strong encouragement from members of the Gastric Bypass Support Group, one member had the courage to assess the degree to which her negative body image was interfering with her day-to-day life and goals. She completed her GED 18 years after she quit high school. She was one of 4 that graduated with honors in the GED program. She has applied to Pitt Community College's nursing program and is anxiously waiting for her acceptance letter--she is now enrolled in Pitt Community College's nursing program.
Record #: 143 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-04
POW: F5
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Chase, Susan
After receiving less than satisfactory results in one of our local rural hospital's kitchen during their initial accreditation process, the Public Information and Staff Educator from the hospital contacted the Extension office for us to offer food safety education to their entire kitchen staff. Due to the kitchen staff being educated in safe food handling techniques and putting their food safety knowledge to work, the kitchen received glowing reviews during their accreditation process and according to the Public Information and Staff Educator passed inspection without a single demerit. The hospital is now accredited. The food service workers have improved their operational food safety practices and patients eating at the hospital are no longer at risk for a possible food-borne illness outbreak.
Record #: 144 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-21
POW: F1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Chase, Susan
Staying active is a powerful way for women to reduce their risk of heart disease. Extension has had two reports of exercise lowering blood pressures. Both women were taking two blood pressure medications. These two women started the Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less program a little over 3 months ago. Their doctors were very pleased that they had started a program that was giving them the skills they needed to change their eating and physical activity habits. As a result of information gained in Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less, these two women's doctors took them off one of their medications. Their goal is to soon be completely off the other one.
Record #: 145 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: F1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Chase, Susan
The more overweight you are, the greater your risk of heart disease. Hypertension can be controlled by diet, exercise and stress management. One of our Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less program participants had good news from her doctor. Not only has she lost weight, but her blood pressure was normal for the first time in a long time. No longer is she having to visit her doctor every two weeks having her blood pressure checked. After six months she reported still maintaining a normal blood pressure through eating a healthy diet and daily exercise.
Record #: 146 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-26
POW: A1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Ambrose, Gaylon
In the spring the Ag Extension Agent received five urgent calls from homeowners alarmed about large swarms of honeybees taking up residence in or near their homes. This provided the agent the teachable moment to the homeowner about the honeybee biology, economics, and contributions to agriculture. In addition, this also provided a link to local beekeepers. Within hours 4 of 5 bee swarms were removed from concerned homeowners and into the possession of grateful beekeepers.
Record #: 147 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-26
POW: A1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Ambrose, Gaylon
In the winter and spring 2008 a significant infestation of Hessian fly was discovered the region's wheat crop. Hessian fly is a serious, but erratic insect pest of wheat. An estimated one-third of the regions wheat crop, 25,000 acres, was potentially impacted. Workshops and scouting schools were conducted by the local CES. As a results of these programs the wheat crop received remedial treatments. On-farm-test results found a 9 bu/a yield increase in wheat treated with insecticides in the presence of Hessian fly. This 9 bu/a increase in yield resulted in an $13,500,000 gain in income to the regions wheat farmers if the wheat had not been treated.
Record #: 148 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-26
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Hinsley, Louise L
To grow up to be competent, coping, contributing adults; children must develop life skills. Beaufort County 4-H helps children to develop life skills through subject matter programs such as the 4-H livestock show and Community 4-H Club level programs. In the winter of 2008, 4 showmanship clinics were held to demonstrate skills to 49 participating youth. Their completed record books speak strongly of their knowledge and skills gained.
Record #: 149 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-26
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Hinsley, Louise L
Many youth lack basic writing and organizational skills needed to excel in school and future employment. Project project records are one way that 4-H helps strengthen planning, writing, and goal setting. In 2007, we had 136 4-H projects turned. At the January 2008 our trained adult volunteer leaders set the goal to have 100% of their members working on project records throughout the year. Over 450 project records were distributed throughout the county to 4-H Club leaders and ultimately 4-H Club members. In their January and February meetings 436 members recorded goals for the 2008 year.
Record #: 150 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-26
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Hinsley, Louise L
Educational programs for youth provided by the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service can have a lasting impact on the life of the youth. Often it is several years before the youth realize the impact 4-H participation has made on his or her life. Recently former 4-H'ers have visited our center and have expressed how confident they have been in college in leadership roles because of the officer training and presentation skills they gained in their 4-H Career. "4-H does really take you places!"
Record #: 151 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-27
POW: A15
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Darkow, Ann P
The Beaufort County Master Gardener Program made great strides in 2008. After training 18 additional volunteers for a total of 54, we were able to maintain a question and answer tent on every Saturday morning at the Farmers Market. We also started the "Beaufort County Master Gardeners" Website and the "Inner Banks Gardener" Newsletter. Funds generated from various projects is being used to create a "Teaching Garden" area at our office as well as purchase some needed reference materials for "Master Gardener Hotline". Water conservation methods have constructed in the garden and are being utilized by the public.
Record #: 152 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-27
POW: A2
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Darkow, Ann P
26 Master Gardeners learned about the importance of agriculture through a series of visits to local farms. Through their interaction with farmers growing sweet corn, field corn, cotton, and tobacco, the Master Gardeners learned about how crops are grown and harvested, and gained a new appreciation for the importance of this $100 million per year industry to Beaufort County. This educational effort was important since the attendees were not natives of this county or North Carolina, and were not raised in a farming environment. After this experience, these people had a far greater understanding of and appreciation for agriculture.
Record #: 153 of 2840
Date: 2008-08-29
POW: CRD-4.1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Darkow, Ann P
Due to the frequency and severity of recent Hurricanes and the increasing Hispanic population in Beaufort County, Cooperative Extension partnered with the Beaufort County Management Department to provide educational information on disaster preparedness for Hispanic audiences. Eight Cooperative Extension brochures in Spanish were reproduced by a grant obtained by Emergency management and were distributed to 500 Hispanic families, thus giving them important information to help them be prepared for future disasters.
Record #: 154 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: F5
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Darkow, Ann P
Foodborne illness and food safety are of great importance to food-related businesses. Due to the extreme cost of a single case of foodborne illness outbreak, businesses are encouraged to train their staff on ways to combat this problem. Fifty food service employees recently attended ServSafe training. The training was presented in partnership by the Beaufort County Cooperative Extension Service and the Beaufort County Environmental Service. Successful certification in this 16 hour food safety course enables the businesses to be eligible for 2 additional points on their environmental health sanitation grades. The class had a 90.90% passing rate, with an average passing score of 89.44, and an average class score of 87.33.
Record #: 155 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: F4
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Darkow, Ann P
Beaufort County farm wives have been involved in a variety of educational programs. The farm wife is often the critical person who is responsible for carrying the message home or getting something done that concerns the family. The annual Farm Wives Night Out program provided educational programming on successful interaction techniques. Awareness and knowledge was increased. This group of women work hard to improve the lives of the farm families in Beaufort County.
Record #: 156 of 2840
Date: 2008-08-29
POW: F1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Darkow, Ann P
As the population ages, they face additional health concerns. Early screening and prevention are the key to detecting illness/conditions before they can become life threating. Two, four-hour health screenings were held for 112 senior adults. They received bone density, blood pressure, carotid artery, and cholesterol screening for a low cost, in-one-place event. Several chronic conditions were diagnosed for the first time, and participants followed up with a physician to help ensure their health.
Record #: 157 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: F1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Darkow, Ann P
Safety is always a major concern on the farm. The 2008 Beaufort County Farm Safety Day Camp involved 67 youth and 30 adults, including presenters, parent monitors, coordinators and staff. The day provided an extensive educational experience for the attendees on health & safety issues in an rural/agricultural environment. Wide spread awareness is one result of this program which hopefully will prevent an accident/fatality from occurring.
Record #: 158 of 2840
Date: 2008-08-29
POW: CRD-1.2
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Darkow, Ann P
Tourism is an important component of the Economic Development plan for Beaufort County. Beaufort Cooperative Extension in partnership with the State Arts Council, the Gold Leaf Foundation, and others is inventoried Agri-Cultural Tourism sites to be included in a web-based tour of Eastern NC. A total of 54 Beaufort County sites have been selected and photographed for inclusion in the internet site. This has resulted in additional exposure and enhanced business for them as well as other local business.
Record #: 159 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-19
POW: E4
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Darkow, Ann P
Pesticides are used on farms and around homes in Beaufort County. Unfortunately, many homeowners and farmers do not know the proper methods of disposing of their pesticide containers. Many have developed the habit of disposing of these containers in improper ways, putting themselves and others at risk. The Beaufort County Cooperative Extension Service along with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture's Pesticide Division held a pesticide disposal day to allow both homeowners and farmers to bring out any unused, empty, or unwanted pesticides to be disposed of in an environmentally friendly way. At the conclusion of the pesticide disposal day, 152 containers, or 1,947 pounds including 3 bulk drums of unwanted chemicals were disposed of properly. Because of the success of the pesticide disposal day, plans are to continue having it on a yearly basis.
Record #: 160 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-24
POW: A1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Ambrose, Gaylon
Records for the most recent year, 2007, report that 10,577 pounds of plastic pesticide containers were recycled in Beaufort county. There were only nine other counties in North Carolina that recycled more. The impact of this program means that over 10,000 pounds of plastic pesticide containers were disposed of in an environmental friendly method and that over 10,000 pounds of plastic materials avoided being dumped in our land fill.
Record #: 161 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-24
POW: A1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Ambrose, Gaylon
Records for the most recent year, 2008, report that 1,947 pounds of pesticides were collected at a "Pesticide Disposal Day" in Beaufort county. The impact of this pesticide disposal program is that almost one ton of unused pesticides were remove from Beaufort county homes, farms, and business and are no longer a threat to humans, wildlife, water, soil, and air.
Record #: 162 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-24
POW: A1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Ambrose, Gaylon
Maintaining a profitable agriculture has been identified as need for area farmers. Agents and Specialist of the Blackland area conducted a 5 county road show where the theme was "Maximizing Profits". The educational program was on topics such as "Managing Soybeans in a Soybean/Soybean Rotation", "Managing Insects in Corn and Soybeans", and "Breaking Yield Barriers for Profit". Thirty seven Beaufort County farmers when surveyed indicated as a result of the educational programming they would implement the practiced discussed in their farming operation this year.
Record #: 163 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-24
POW: A1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Ambrose, Gaylon
Maintaining a profitable agriculture has been identified as need for area farmers. Agents and Specialist of the Blackland area conducted a 5 county road show where the theme was "Maximizing Profits". The educational program was on topics such as "Managing Soybeans in a Soybean/Soybean Rotation", "Managing Insects in Corn and Soybeans", and "Breaking Yield Barriers for Profit". Thirty seven Beaufort County farmers when surveyed indicated as a result of the educational programming they would implement the practiced discussed in their farming operation this year.
Record #: 164 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-24
POW: A1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Ambrose, Gaylon
Maintaining a profitable agriculture has been identified as a need for area farmers. Cotton is being farmed on a large proportion of the farmland in Beaufort and Hyde Counties. The agriculture agents in Hyde and Beaufort Counties conducted a 2 county meeting on cotton production practices to improve profits. The educational program topics where insect management, production management, weed management, and the 2007 on-farm tests results. Five Beaufort County farmers when surveyed indicated as a result of the educational programming they would implement the practiced discussed in their farming operation this year.
Record #: 165 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-20
POW: F1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Chase, Susan
Today's parents are more worried about childhood obesity than they are about bullying and substance abuse. Car accidents and school violence didn't even make the 2008 list of top ten health concerns compiled by C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, which conducted the national poll. When the elementary schools in Beaufort County were approached about Extension offering the nutrition education program, Promoting Healthy Eating Across North Carolina to their third graders, all Elementary Schools in the county requested the program which clearly shows that school personnel and other adults are very concerned about the problem of childhood obesity and its causes. This year's nutrition program will target Northeast Elementary in the far eastern part of our county. Teachers have many mandatory requirements to meet end of grade testing criteria. This is a huge commitment from the school that they are allowing Extension ten weeks to present this nutrition education program to their students in order to help stop the obesity epidemic.
Record #: 166 of 2840
Date: 2008-11-03
POW: F5
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Chase, Susan
A homeowner thought he was going to have to replace vinyl siding on the northern side of his home because he was unsuccessful at removing what he thought to be mold off his vinyl siding house. Brown stains remained on the vinyl siding after he pressure washed his house. Instead of it being mold, it turned out to be a fungus. Because of information gained through Extension, the homeowner now knows not to use mulch when landscaping around his vinyl siding because the mulch is what is harboring the fungus, and he knows how to safely remove the fungus off the side of his house. Thanks to knowledge gained, this man has saved money (around $4,000.) and time on not having to replace his vinyl siding and improved the value and appearance of his home.
Record #: 167 of 2840
Date: 2008-11-05
POW: F5
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Chase, Susan
By July 1, 2006, USDA required that all schools have in place a food safety plan based on process HACCP principles. Schools that did not meet this mandate were in jeopardy of losing their federal funds. This national mandate affected Beaufort County Schools. Cooperative Extension had been asked by the NC Department of Public Instruction to provide HACCP training to Child Nutrition staff across the state. Cooperative Extension agreed and developed a HACCP plan as well as provided training and technical support to staff on how to implement the plan. All Beaufort County Cafeteria Managers have been trained in Phase 1 requirements. This month Phase 2 training took place, again all cafeteria managers have been trained and technical support will be provided to make sure the plan is being implemented correctly. Now they are in compliance.
Record #: 168 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-10
POW: F3
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Chase, Susan
After almost seven months after completing the Money In/Money Out Series 9 people living on a very limited income have reported making regular contributions to a savings account of at least $10. per month. At the end of a one year period, these people will have at least $100. more in savings than when they started. Their debt load will be at least $300. less than it was when they started because they are paying more than the minimum payment on at least one credit account, and they are charging no more than they can pay in full at the end of the month. Six people have reported not charging anything else on their charge accounts.
Record #: 169 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Hinsley, Louise L
Youth need opportunities to develop essential life skills and the Beaufort County 4-H clubs provides many venues of this growth. Seventeen 4-H clubs reach over 350 youth with at least one hour of experiential, life skill building programming per month.
Record #: 170 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Hinsley, Louise L
County, District, State and National 4-H participation strengthens life skill development in Beaufort County 4-H youth. In the Summer of 2008 50 youth attended BJ Penn 4-H Camp, 98 youth attended Summer Day Camps (4-H Camp Wannagoma! and 4-H Critter Camp), 22 youth participated in 4-H presentation program. Some of these on the District, State levels and one was the Grand Champion at the Southern Regional Horse Show.
Record #: 171 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: 4H-2.4
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Hinsley, Louise L
4-H School Enrichment is huge in Beaufort County with 25% of the state kits purchased by Beaufort County Schools. 72 teachers have been trained to market 4-H as they teach hands-on science in their classrooms reaching over 1,548 youth. Teacher surveys indicate that as a result of this program their students increased their homework scores, class participation and noted that their students enjoyed the 3 dimensional learning experiences.
Record #: 172 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Hinsley, Louise L
Civic responsibility, leadership and volunteerism are all buzz words in today's media. In Beaufort County 4-H these are core words to define the various roles our trained 4-H club leaders, trained 4-H club officers and 4-H club members. In 2008 this involved 190 adult volunteers, 72 youth serving as club officers and over 350 club members working together as they learned and practiced good civic deeds either by modeling,leading,or serving their fellow citizens in their communities.
Record #: 173 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: 4H-3.2
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Hinsley, Louise L
Youth need educational arenas to develop and practice leadership. The 4-H program motivates leadership development through conferences, retreats, meetings, community service projects, and events such as the 4-H Achievement Night. Over 275 adults and youth have gained leadership skills through 4-H club community service projects, NC 4-H Congress, NE District Retreat, State Council Conference, NC 4-H Citizenship Focus, NC 4-H Ambassadors and the Beaufort County Achievement Program.
Record #: 174 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: CRD-2.1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Darkow, Ann P
Beaufort County Cooperative Extension has established a successful partnership between itself, Master Gardeners and the City of Washington to establish a Community Garden on land adjacent to the Extension Center. A five year lease was obtained and site work is in progress. The Community Garden will offer low-cost plots that will be available in the Spring of 2009.
Record #: 175 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: A15
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Weyhrauch, Tanya
Land next to the Beaufort County Extension Center is the site of the new Horticulture Demonstration Gardens. The Master Gardeners built the vegetable garden, rain shelter and the composting demonstrations in the summer of 2008. A committee has been formed and a design has been drawn for the future Native Garden. These demonstration gardens are available to the public as an educational tool and are to be used in education programs by the Extension Agents and Master Gardeners.
Record #: 176 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: A15
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Weyhrauch, Tanya
To magnify the horticulture education outreach, Beaufort County Master Gardeners assist county residents by means of a hotline and information center, a booth at the farmers market, newspaper articles, demonstrations and workshops. During 2008 there were 63 Master Gardener Volunteers who provided 1977 volunteer hours of service, 932 hours of training and travel time, made 1488 face to face contacts, and raised over $4,000 in fundraisers and training fees; a contribution of $60,755 to the Cooperative Extension program.
Record #: 177 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-28
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Corey, Kimberly
Limited Resource youth and families face many challenges that can benefit from enhancing life skill development.Cornerstone 21st Century After-School Care Program has recently become a member of the Beaufort County 4-H Program. Cornerstone currently serves a diverse and limited resource population within the county. 86 youth ranging in ages 11-14 will be participating in life skill development through 4-H programming and activities. Cornerstone 21st Century After school Program is also a chartered 4-H Club. In addition, the Church where the program is housed has interest in forming a 4-H Club with their youth program.
Record #: 178 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-28
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Corey, Kimberly
Limited Resource youth and families face many challenges that can benefit from enhancing life skill development.Belhaven Boys& Girls Club currently serves a diverse and limited resource population within the county. 36 youth ranging in ages 10-14 will be participating in life skill development through 4-H programming and activities. The Belhaven Chapter has also become a chartered 4-H Club. In addition, 3 Adult Volunteers will be providing leadership. This relationship has resulted in future plans to add the Washington Boy & Girls Club in February, 2009
Record #: 179 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-29
POW: A1
Location: Beaufort
Person Reporting: Ambrose, Gaylon
Maintaining a profitable agriculture has been identified as need for area farmers. Agents and Specialist of the Blackland area conducted a 6 county road show where the theme was "Maximizing Profits". The educational program was on topics such as "Managing Soybeans in a Soybean/Soybean Rotation", "Managing Insects and Diseases in Corn, Wheat and Soybeans", and "Breaking Yield Barriers for Profit". Sixty Beaufort County farmers when surveyed indicated as a result of the educational programming they would implement the practiced discussed in their farming operation this year.
Record #: 180 of 2840
Date: 2008-04-24
POW: F1
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Morris, Mary
Most of the more than 1 million cases of non-melanoma skin cancer diagnosed yearly in the United States are considered to be sun-related. Sun exposure is an occupational hazard for farmers in North Carolina and across the nation. At this years annual Cotton meeting I was asked to present on Skin Cancer. I invited Carol West from the American Cancer Society, she presented on skin cancer facts and I presented on Skin Cancer prevention. There where 90 farmers there that heard our message. A few weeks later our Agriculture Agent came to let me know that because of our presentation one of the farmers had gone to the dermatologist to be checked. He had several suspicious skin areas removed and tested. All of the test came back non-cancerous. The farmer expressed to our Agriculture Agent that we had impacted his decision to go to the Doctor.
Record #: 181 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-27
POW: A4
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Rhodes, Richard
Wheat acreage in Bertie County has increase from 1483 acres in 2006 to over 8,000 acres in 2008. Growers needed current research information concerning varieties, nitrogen management, and insect and disease identification and control. This information was provided through the use of an on-farm variety test, newsletters, field crop conference, two workshops were conducted on nitrogen fertilization rates and timing. Farm visits were made to aid growers in determining the need to treat for insect or disease infestations. This resulted in 14 farmers that had a total of 3163 acres of wheat treating 948 acres with a fungicide to control powdery mildew. By treating these infested field research shows and average yield increase of 10 bushels per acre. At current market prices these growers increased their incomes by approximately $56,900 by following spray recommendations. In addition growers saved approximately $44,300 by not treating unnecessarily.
Record #: 182 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: A4
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Rhodes, Richard
To remain economically viable growers need to select varieties that will produce high yields and quality crops and adopt recommended production practices. Research information on corn, cotton, peanut, soybean, and wheat is provided to growers through a various of educational methods which included: newsletters, internet, newspaper, meeting, workshops, on-farm visits, and on-farm testing. During the 2008 cropping year a total of 22 on-farm tests have been established across Bertie County. These test include 7 corn, 6 cotton, 1 peanut, 1 wheat,and 3 soybean variety tests, corn nitrogen management and seeding rate, stink bug management in cotton, and peanut disease control. A total of 48 growers and agri-business personnel had the opportunity to view many of the on-farm tests and discuss plots with Extension Specialist and the local Extension staff during a tour held for August 11, 2008.
Record #: 183 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: E8
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Rhodes, Richard
Private and commercial pesticide applicators are required to earn pesticide re-certification credits in order to maintain their applicator's licenses. To assist pesticide applicators, the Bertie County Extension Center conducted nine training opportunities for 60 private applicators to receive 2 hours of safety training. In addition 124 private pesticide applicators received 2 hours of specialized pesticide training in the areas of field and horticulture crop production. A total of 49 commercial pesticide applicators had the opportunity to earn a total of eleven hours of re-certification credits by participating in pesticide training programs held in Bertie County.
Record #: 184 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A4
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Rhodes, Richard
Cotton producers in Bertie County require timely weather information to make critical planting decisions regarding their cold sensitive cotton seed. To assist growers in determining if conditions were safe to plant this office provided a daily weather forecast of expected temperatures and DD-60's through a call-in number. By using this weather information line growers could avoid in many cases planting in adverse weather conditions. A savings in seed cost alone of approximately $22,500 would be realized by this service if replanting was avoided on just 5% of the cotton acreage.
Record #: 185 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-2.1
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Odom, Bettina L
Of the 30 Bertie County youth who participated in one of the 4-H presentation orientations,nine youth planned and presented a presentation at the NED 4-H District Activity Day held at Conway Middle School in Northampton County. Seven of the youth earned gold medals,one earned a silver medal and one received a participation ribbon. Four Cloverbuds also presented and earned participants buttons and ribbons. All of the gold and silver winners are eligible to compete at NC 4-H Congress.
Record #: 186 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-2.2
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Odom, Bettina L
Bertie County 4-H teens and adult volunteers have a great appreciation for the experiences that they have received in leadership development this program year. Four Bertie County teens and one adult volunteer leader attended the National 4-H Conference at the National 4-H Center in Chevy Chase Maryland March 30-April 3,2008. They had an opportunity to have input in recommendations about future programming efforts that will influence meeting the needs of youth from various segments of society. The delegates are conducting a recycling project as their back home community service project.
Record #: 187 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: F1
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Morris, Mary
Obesity is on the rise for adults and children in North Carolina and quickly becoming the #1 health risk. Bertie County Cooperative Extension Service sponsored \"Step Up To Better Health\" a AARP walking program that promotes walking. Our teachers and staff in the Bertie County School system have access to walking trails built for the students that are not being used. Walking started on April 1st and lasted for 10 weeks participants received pedometers, weekly newsletter, and a walking log. At the end of the 10 weeks the participants turned in their walking logs kept the pedometers and were entered into a drawing for a wellness prize. 11 participants turned in walking logs.The winner wrote ÒThank you for organizing this walking program. It gave me the motivation I needed to not only walk but to eat better. Since beginning this program I have lost 21.4 pounds but most importantly I feel better.Ó
Record #: 188 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: F1
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Morris, Mary
Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less is a North Carolina Cooperative Extension program to teach participants how to loose weight through mindful living. Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less Bertie County program began on February 5, 2008 and lasted until May 13, 2008. This 15 week long program focused on being more mindful of our lifestyles and making a long-term commitment to lifestyle changes and not being on a diet to loose weight. Some of the program areas were counting calories, portion sizes, moving more, eating more fruits and vegetables to name a few. Bertie County Cooperative Extension partnered with the Bertie County YMCA we had 23 participants sign up and over the 15 week long program 10 participants lost a total of 114 pounds overall. Our biggest looser was 20 pounds lost by one individual.
Record #: 189 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: F1
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Morris, Mary
Bertie County participated in the grant awarded to North Carolina Cooperative Extension ÒPromoting Healthy Eating Across North CarolinaÓ this program focused on teaching 3rd grade students about making healthier choices. Family and Consumer Science Agents were asked to choose a school in our county that had over 90% free lunch participants. In Bertie County all of our public schools fall under these criteria, Colerain Elementary was selected. In total 50 students participated in the 10-week program. Each week students learned about a different topic during their health lesson. Topics included Food Guide Pyramid, Label Detectives, Rethink Your Drink and Food Safety. The students participated in activities, prepared snacks and taste tested foods. There was a pre and post test administered students increased their knowledge of healthy foods and food safety 50%.
Record #: 190 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-1.1
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Odom, Bettina L
For many families,identifying financial resources to use for activities and events can be a challenge in Bertie County. The Annual 4-H Strawberry Sale was held as an effort for youth to earn cash toward scholarships to use for 4-H activities and events. Profits from the sale was $2000.Youth participants can select the event where they want to designate their funds. This year participants were excited about their entrepreneurial experience.
Record #: 191 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A1
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Searcy, Jacob
During the months of April, May, and June, August, and October; Cooperative Extension hosted cattle sales at Carolina/Virginia Stockyard with the help of Gerda Rhodes, Jeff Copeland, Gary Hansen, Al Cochran, CL Sumner, and myself. We helped 7 producersÕ sale 410 head of cattle. The sale of the calves brought $218,722.51 to the producers.
Record #: 192 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A15
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Searcy, Jacob
During the months of April, May, and June; I conducted a 15 min, 25 min, and 1 hr horticulture program for the kid (ages 4-12) at DavisÕ Kids College in Hertford County. I explained to the kids the basics of botany then I had them plant seed and transplants in their garden. All of the kids said they learned something and they are interested in gardening and would like to do more next year.
Record #: 193 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A1
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Searcy, Jacob
In the month of February, Travis Burke, Jeff Copeland, and myself; conducted a horse program at the Chowan CES to help horse owners in the area with managing hay demands for the up coming year and travel requirements for horses. There were 29 people in attendance. All guest agreed that the program was beneficial. In addition, 15 people said they would enjoy having another program on training horses and nutrition and 13 people said they would like to see a future program on pasture management. A number of people said they were going to sign-up for the North Carolina Horse Council.
Record #: 194 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: E4
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Rhodes, Richard
There are approximately 86,000 acres of cropland in production each year in Bertie County. Farming activities on this acreage generates a tremendous number of plastic pesticide containers each year. To assist growers in the disposal of these containers this office maintains two collection sites. During 2008 over 4000, 2.5 gallon plastic pesticide containers, were ground for recycling.
Record #: 195 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: A4
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Rhodes, Richard
Bertie County farmers produced 9,585 acres of peanuts during 2008, that generated farm income in excess of 7 million dollars. To maximize the yield, quality, and income peanut producers received from their crop the Bertie County Cooperative Extension Center conducted two Peanut Maturity Clinics. Some 18 growers, accounting for 20% of the peanut acreage in the county, participated in the maturity clinics. Research has shown that growers can loose between 4 and 19 pounds of pod yield per acre per day by digging too soon. The peanut producers that participated in the clinics had a potential increase in gross income of $2,100 to $10,200 for each day peanuts harvest was delayed until optimum crop maturity.
Record #: 196 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: 99
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Rhodes, Richard
The Bertie County Extension Staff planned and conducted an Energy Fair in response to the recent N.E. District "Green Initiative". Energy conservation, alternative fuels, and water conservation were the major themes during the day long event. The NCCCS BioNetwork provided an $1000.00 dollar grant to Piedmont BioFuels to bring their biodiesel unit for display and demonstration during the fair. Seminars were conducted during the day to address energy conservation and biofuels technology an adoption. Over 60 people participated in event. Staff members sold and served lunch plates to raise approximately $750 to fund the cost of conducting the fair, with $350 of the amount available for program supplies and expenses being available for future program efforts.
Record #: 197 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: F1
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Morris, Mary
Years of research have confirmed the importance of breastfeeding for the optimal health of infants, children and mothers. Bertie County In-Home Breastfeeding Support program began in March 2008. Participants sign up in the hospital after delivery. Home visits are scheduled to offer education and help with any problems, questions or concerns the mother may have. In 2008 from March –December 52 new mothers signed up for the program, 48 have continued to breastfeed and 50% have breastfed 6 months or more. For families and the WIC program it cost $100-$125 per month to purchase infant formula, that is a cost of $1200-$1500 for babyÕs first year. The in-home breastfeeding program has saved Bertie County families and the WIC program $4800-$6000 per month for the cost of infant formula for the first year, not to mention the long term advantages to the baby of breast milk.
Record #: 198 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: A4
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Rhodes, Richard
Timely weather and pest information is needed by farmers if they are to make proper management decisions. To assist growers in the timing of planting and harvesting the Bertie County Extension provides daily weather reports through a recorded telephone message. In addition this Extension staff member manages 5 blacklight traps and 4 volunteers to monitor the annual bollworm flight in the county. Bollworm trapping generally runs from July 15 through September and moth catches are reported daily to growers. Grower use this information to time their crop scouting and potential bollworm control measures. Peanut producer are also provided timely disease advisory information and recommendations through this same telephone messaging system.
Record #: 199 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: A4
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Rhodes, Richard
The production of corn, cotton and soybeans on approximately 70,500 acres in Bertie County generates approximately 25 million in farm income annually. It is crucial farmers select varieties that produce high yielding and high quality crops to insure their economic viability. To assist growers in this area this Bertie County Extension staff member conducted 7 corn, 6 cotton, and 3 soybean variety on-farm tests during 2008. Yield data has been taken on the variety tests and reported to area farmers and agri-businesses. Through this local testing program crop varieties have been selected by area farmers, which could increase the average of corn, cotton, and soybean yields by 5 percent or more. Through proper variety selection net farm income has had the potential to increase by approximately 1.25 million dollars.
Record #: 200 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: 99
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Rhodes, Richard
During the 2008 summer semester the Bertie County Extension Office was asked to host a summer intern in the undergraduate program from the Department of Agriculture and Extension Education at NC State. At the beginning of the internship the intern was not considering a career with the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service. After 12 weeks of working with Bertie County staff in planning and conducting educational programs this individual now seeks employment with this organization.
Record #: 201 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: F1
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Morris, Mary
Greater Wynns Grove Baptist Church implemented the ÒEat Smart Move More Weigh LessÓ program July thru Oct 08. 32 signed up, 22 completed the program in Oct. Participants paid extra for registration and pooled their money for a grand prize of $500 for the biggest loser. The group had great success, all participants lost or maintained weight, 4 participants lost 20 pounds, and the biggest loser lost 46.75 pds. This participant began at 383 lbs and was an insulin dependant diabetic. Initially this participant could not walk around the church track, by the end of the program she was walking three laps. Her insulin intake was reduced by 20 units after 7 weeks. Studies show 10% weight loss shows reduction in Chronic Disease, Ms. Elaine lost 12% therefore reduction in chronic disease resulting in immediate reduction in her insulin intake.
Record #: 202 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A5
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Searcy, Jacob
In the month of January, I made a pesticide recommendation with the help of Al Cochran to Mr. Gardner of Martin County, which saved his collards from the diamond-back moths. Mr. Gardner valued his 2008 collard crop at $2,000 and showed his gratitude for Bertie Extensions help by bring our office some collards.
Record #: 203 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A1
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Searcy, Jacob
The Hertford-Northampton 4-H Livestock Show and Sale is an opportunity for youth and their families to raise a steer, hog, lamb or goat. Many of the participants do not come from a livestock background and of those that do, most choose to show a different species than what is raised on the farm. This year, 38 youth exhibited their animals after raising them for at least two months. The families learned about the livestock industry, including feed, medications and withdrawal times while the youth learned responsibility and record keeping. The animals received $21,600 above market price for their animals. Four youth were awarded college scholarships.
Record #: 204 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A1
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Searcy, Jacob
Pitt County host an event called ÒHay DayÓ where farmers can learn about new forage techniques and technologies. This year, I was honored to be asked to serve on the planning committee for Hay Day and even though my role was minimal, I was able to help. Bertie County had three people who attended and received continued pesticide credits.
Record #: 205 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A4
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Searcy, Jacob
Tobacco purchasing companies are concerned with high levels of Tobacco Specific Nitrosamine (TSNA) in the tobacco crop. One possible reason is cracked heat exchangers in curing barns. The cooperative extension has access to a CO2 meter if anyone is interested in having their barns checked. Tobacco purchasing companies suggest farmers test their barns every year. This year I had 5 producers ask me to check the CO2 levels of their barns. I checked a total of 65 barns and found 4 which needed to have their heat exchanger fixed. The farmers where then able to fix their barns which saved their tobacco from being sold at lower grades.
Record #: 206 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A4
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Searcy, Jacob
Bertie County had two tobacco test plots this year: one was with Sid Copeland and the other was with Burgess Urquhart. The goal of these two-test plots was to measure the amount of Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV) in the sample areas. Kat Cherry was the grad student who conducted the research and complied the data. Her research showed tobacco farmers that TSWV infections were lower this year possibly due to the dry weather and that the use of products like ÒAdmireÓ in the greenhouse and after transplant help prevent TSWV infection from thrips which helped the farmers reduce their losses due to TSWV.
Record #: 207 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A4
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Searcy, Jacob
Hertford County had one tobacco test plot this year with Michael Morris. The goal of this test plot was to measure the amount of split worms in the area and what could lead to them being drawn to the area. NCSU Entomologist, Hannah Burrack conducted the research. Her research show local tobacco farmers that split worms were not a major concern to the 2008 tobacco crop and the farmers had no reason to spray for them.
Record #: 208 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A15
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Searcy, Jacob
The Bertie Beekeepers asked me to proctor their Master BeekeepersÕ test in August. There were two parts of the test that needed to be proctored. The first part was a written test and the second was a hands-on test. Twelve of the seventeen Beekeepers took the test and all twelve pasted
Record #: 209 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A15
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Searcy, Jacob
During the months of September, October, and November; I conducted a basic gardening course with the help of the Bertie Master Gardeners. The first class was Botany with Byron Simonds as one of the guest speakers. OctoberÕs class was one Diagnosing Plant Diseases. And the final class was on Winter Gardening with guest speakers and MGV Gaynor White and Bill Tibbs. Seven people received 2 hrs of pest credits and two MGV were able to earn 5 volunteer hours each.
Record #: 210 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A15
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Searcy, Jacob
In September I was asked by Northampton County to help with a pesticide course for turf and ornamental license holders. My portion of the course was to explain soils and the movement of pesticides through the soil. Eight people received 2.5 hrs pest credits after completing this course.
Record #: 211 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A9
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Searcy, Jacob
During the summer, I was asked by the Tree Farmers Association to serve on a committee to help plan a NE Tree Farmers Field Day. The field day was held in October and consisted of two sections: 4 hrs of classroom time and 2 hrs of field time. My responsibilities were to advertise, arrange transportation, and be the contact for those who wish to attend. About 45 people attended the event and about 8 people received 5 hrs of Forestry Certification Credits.
Record #: 212 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A15
Location: Bertie
Person Reporting: Searcy, Jacob
The Bertie Master Gardeners (MGV) has had impact in the community helping to meet the horticulture knowledge need. This year the MGV raised over $600.00 at their annual plant sale. This money was used to cover the MGV expenses and cover any expenses for educational events. The Bertie MGVs offered two educational events this year: the annual Bertie Master Gardeners Reunion and the Bertie Basic Gardening Course. The group still has a surplus of funds to be used in 2009. As Master Gardeners, the Bertie MGVs earned atleast 20 volunteer hrs each. This year the group volunteered 3,856.22 hrs of work to the community at a value of $57,843.30 (3,856.22 x $15). The Bertie MGVs have proven to be a useful asset in the community.
Record #: 213 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: CRD-3.3
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Dockery, Dalton B
The Bladen County Advisory council has been semi-active for several years. They are a vital part of Extension and provide information regarding the needs of Bladen County. Two meetings were held that focused on the duties and role of the advisory council. Also how the council could have a more active role in Extension. Ten council members attended and provided input on ways to improve the advisory council. Based on feedback and direct observation the advisory council has become more active and played a vital role in helping to plan several of our extension functions. The council will continue to meet twice a year.
Record #: 214 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-19
POW: A1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Spearman, Rebecca
Due to time and travel constraints, it is sometimes difficult to have specialists attend producer meetings. Bladen County Cooperative Extension partnered with 6 counties to use web technology to allow producers to hear knowledge speakers. Four meetings were held in Bladen County. Speakers were located in Virginia, Missouri and Raleigh for their presentations. Topics included Bermudagrass and Forage Management, Drought Management for Horses, Heifer Management, and Plants Toxic to Livestock. Ninety-two producers attended the meetings. Over 90% of participants were satisfied or very satisfied with the overall quality of the training. Over 35% of the participants said they were going to change their management practices due to attending one of the meetings. Some new practices include using soil tests to fertilize pastures, changing current forage program, sampling forages prior to feeding, and changing heifer management. Extension will continue to use new technology to bring research based information to producers.
Record #: 215 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-19
POW: CRD-4.1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Spearman, Rebecca
Bladen County Cooperative Extension and The Bladen County Animal Response Team (CART) were asked by several local businesses to plan and organize a Pet Wellness Event. The event included reduced cost rabies vaccines, reduced cost microchips, and educational booths on health care, emergency preparedness, grooming, skin care and more. Twelve CART volunteers helped with planning and running the event. Volunteers created a flier, a newspaper advertisement, and an article to promote the event. A local veterinarian donated his services. Over 50 rabies vaccines and 23 microchips were given at the event. Volunteers served in leadership roles before and during the event. Extension and the CART team volunteers are planning the third annual Hurricane Preparedness Expo to educate citizens about the importance of being prepared and having a plan before hurricane season gets here.
Record #: 216 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-19
POW: A2
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Spearman, Rebecca
Bladen County Cooperative Extension, Bladen Soil and Water Conservation District, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA Farm Service Agency, Bladen County Planning Department, Cape Fear Farm Credit, Bladen County Farm Bureau, and the Bladen County Livestock Association worked to develop an ordinance for the Bladen County Voluntary Agricultural District Program. The County Commissioners approved the ordinance on June 4, 2007. An Agriculture Board consisting of five farmers was appointed in September of 2007. Applications were accepted starting in October of 2007. Eleven farms representing 2,916 acres have been approved for the program. Four agriculture organizations donated $900 to establish a budget for the program. The Agriculture Board requested and received $2,000 from the County Commissioners to put signs up at county entrances on major roads informing people that Bladen County has a Voluntary Agriculture District. The Board will continue promoting the importance of being in a Voluntary Agriculture District.
Record #: 217 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-19
POW: A1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Spearman, Rebecca
Bladen County Cooperative Extension works closely with the Bladen County Livestock Association to educate producers on important topics. Some purposes of the association are to educate producers through guest speakers and communicate producersÕ positions on issues and the financial impact of livestock production on the countyÕs economy with elected officials. Membership has increased by 25% since 2004. The Association is very supportive of Extension both monetarily and with their time. Members volunteered over 150 hours in 2007. Members volunteered with the swine and beef station for AgÕem Up - an agriculture field day for third graders. They supplied pigs, cattle, panels, and equipment. The Association has supported Extension by purchasing a forage probe tip, sponsoring a bermudagrass trial plot, and helping sponsor the Voluntary Agriculutre District Program and AgÕem Up Day. Extension and the Livestock Association will continue to work together to educate and support the farmers of Bladen County.
Record #: 218 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A4
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Harrelson, Ryan
The research that is being conducted by NC State University has one thing in mind; to help producers grow better crops more efficiently. With the challenges that todayÕs producers face, high input costs and low sales price, it is import that the information addresses these issues. With the aid of NCSU crop specialistÕs three crop production meetings (corn and soybean, cotton, and peanuts) were held for the farmers in Bladen County and surrounding counties. A total of 314 producers representing an estimated 21,000 acres of crops attended these meetings and received the latest research based information to use on their farms. The average cost savings reported by producers for the knowledge gained by the information presented at the meetings were $10-20/acre resulting in an average savings of $420,000 for producers in Bladen County. These production meeting are held every year and the topics are based on our clientele needs
Record #: 219 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A2
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Harrelson, Ryan
Bladen County Cooperative Extension, Bladen Soil and Water Conservation District, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA Farm Service Agency, Bladen County Planning Department, Cape Fear Farm Credit, Bladen County Farm Bureau, and the Bladen County Livestock Association worked to develop an ordinance for the Bladen County Voluntary Agricultural District Program. The County Commissioners approved the ordinance on June 4, 2007. An Agriculture Board consisting of five farmers was appointed in September of 2007. Applications were accepted starting in October of 2007. Eleven farms representing 2,916 acres have been approved for the program. Four agriculture organizations donated $900 to establish a budget for the program. The Agriculture Board requested and received $2,000 from the County Commissioners to put signs up at county entrances on major roads informing people that Bladen County has a Voluntary Agriculture District. The Board will continue promoting the importance of being in a Voluntary Agriculture District.
Record #: 220 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A4
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Harrelson, Ryan
With the changing technologies in equipment used by farmers today, the applications of the equipment become limited for use due to the lack training for the producer. A producer in Bladen County recently purchased equipment with GPS planting monitors on them. These monitors can aid the farmer in yield counts and plant population based on a program set by the planter. By helping the producer we opened a new door for planting practices that will be implemented next year and will be cost effective for them in the years to come. The total cost that the equipment will save the producer due to correct planting rates and row widths has been estimated at 27 dollars per acre when planting no till corn. We are in the process of organizing a short course for the producers for them to see all the benefits of using GPS systems on their equipment.
Record #: 221 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A9
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Dockery, Dalton B
With the loss of the tobacco quota system many farmers are looking for alternative crops to supplement their current income. Based on information from the Farm Service Agency and the North Carolina Department of Forestry (NCDF), there are many local farmers who own forest land in Bladen County. The North Carolina Extension Service, Consulting Foresters Group and the NCDF in a collaborative effort held a workshop that focused on the process of producing, managing and selling timber. Over 45 participants as well as specialist attended this workshop. Through direct observation and random surveys, many of the participants didnÕt realize there were resources available that could help them to make decisions about production and profitability of timber. Participants have saved thousands of dollars and continue to increase the value of their forestry land. Based on the need, forestry educational programs will continue to be offered.
Record #: 222 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A15
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Dockery, Dalton B
Turfgrass pest related problems have become a problem in Bladen County due to drought stress over the past two years. Numerous calls come into the Extension office related to this problem. The Bladen County Extension Director in partnership with the Bladen County Master Gardener Volunteers held a workshop that focused on specifically identifying these pest problems and possible control measures. Sixteen participants attended the workshop. Based on direct feedback participants will implement proper control methods to reduce pest problems in turfgrass. Approximately $20 dollars per participant will be saved for a total of $240 dollars. Efforts in this area will continue based on clientele needs.
Record #: 223 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: CRD-2.1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Dockery, Dalton B
The need for better inter-agency teamwork and more visibility of programs was identified by the Bladen County Extension Advisory Council. The Bladen County Cooperative Extension Service Director, the Farm Service Agency Director, Bladen County Planner and the Soil Conservation Director met regularly to discuss strategies for improving inter-agency teamwork and visibility of all programs. A building breakfast was held and staff members from each office attended. It was stressed by each agency director to importance of working together for the betterment of Bladen County citizens. Through direct observation and informal feedback moral has increased and agencies are making an effort to partner on projects when possible to save tax dollars. In conclusion, directors will continue promote the importance of working together and the promotion of all programs.
Record #: 224 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: F1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Cain, Sandra R
Approximately 63% of adults in Bladen County are overweight (CDC, 2005) which increases their risk for cardiovascular disease, hypertension, stroke, and diabetes. ÒEat Smart Move More Weigh LessÓ is a 16 week weight management program that stresses healthy eating and physical activity. Nineteen participants lost 125.5 pounds. In addition to the weight loss and increased physical activity, participants reported decreases in their BMI. Positive aspects of the program included group support and interaction, motivation, and practical information. Efforts in this area will be continued.
Record #: 225 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: F1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Cain, Sandra R
Bladen CountyÕs rate of overweight children ages 5-11 is 36.9% compared to the state rate of 24.5% (NC-NPASS 2005). Sixty percent of overweight children, 5-to-10-years-of-age, have at least one cardiovascular risk factor such as high cholesterol, elevated blood pressure or increased insulin level. In an effort to stress the importance of making healthy food choices, N.C. Cooperative Extension, in collaboration with Bladen County Schools, Bladen County Health Department and Bladen HealthWatch, conducted ÒMarch Madness.Ó Eighty-seven (87) classrooms with 1,561 students and staff members participated in the ÒGimme FiveÓ challenge striving to eat at least five fruits and vegetables per day for one week. Three hundred seventy four (374) students actually met the challenge. Rosters indicated that one school had 100% participation. With the continuing increase in youth obesity, efforts in this area will be continued.
Record #: 226 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: F1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Cain, Sandra R
In 2007, 16.3% of the youth in Bladen County, ages 2-18, were considered overweight with another 15.1% at risk of becoming overweight. Limited resource families often lack the knowledge and skills to provide nutritionally sound diets. Seventy-nine (79) limited resource children attend the two Head Start Centers in Bladen County. In an effort to educate children at an early age, monthly programs are conducted at both Head Start centers. Progams and activities include learning about MyPyramid, proper handwashing, healthy snacking, the importance of breakfast, learning to eat new foods and the importance of fruits and veggies. Children complete handouts and a healthy snack is prepared and served. Recipes are sent home to parents. Children have learned to identify healthy foods vs. junk foods and put them into the correct category on the pyramid and are willing to try healthy snacks.
Record #: 227 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-03
POW: 4H-1.1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Shaver, Angela
Bladen County youth are 10% above the state average relating to childhood overweight and obesity. Cooperative Extension 4-H and FCS programs collaborated with county partners to write an Eat Smart Move More grant for $14,000 to support the Mission Possible: Get Fit For Life! Day Camp. This week long experience for youth ages 5 to 12 at-risk of developing Type II Diabetes taught youth how to prepare healthy snacks, to read food nutrition labels and to become more active. As a result, according to post surveys, 97% (33) youth aspire to be physically active at least 60 minutes everyday,100% (34) participants aspire to eat fruits and vegetables everyday, and 74% (25) understand that watching TV and playing video games are not good physical activities. With these positive results, we intend to secure grant funding to offer this camp again in 2009.
Record #: 228 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-03
POW: 4H-1.1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Shaver, Angela
Childhood overweight and obesity is a problem in Bladen County. Our youth are 10% above the state average with regards to these issues. For the past three years, Cooperative Extension 4-H and FCS programs have offered the Mission Possible: Get Fit For Life! day camp along with several community partners. Of the 14 youth that have participated all three years, 29% have decreased their Body Mass Index (BMI) and 21% have maintained the same BMI. With these positive results, we will continue to offer the Mission Possible: Get Fit For Life! day camp for youth ages 5 to 12 at-risk of developing Type II Diabetes.
Record #: 229 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-10
POW: A4
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Harrelson, Ryan
Peanut acreage in Bladen County in 2008 increased by 380 acres from the previous year due to higher contract prices and available land leases. One of the major management decisions for peanut farmers is when to harvest. Bladen county extension in cooperation with the Crop Science Department at NCSU held a ÒPod BlastingÓ field day to measure peanut maturity. Thirty six farmers attended the pod blasting and brought 93 samples for testing. Farmers were able to better estimate when to begin digging peanuts for harvesting, some as many as 10 days later than they expected. An estimated 78% of the peanut acreage in the county was represented at the field day. This resulted in an increased gross income of $11,300 per farmer that participated.
Record #: 230 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-10
POW: E8
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Harrelson, Ryan
The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services conducted a Pesticide Disposal Collection Day at the Powell Melvin Agriculture Service Center on October 15, 2008. Cooperative Extension was responsible for publicity, promotion and on-site assistance for the event. At the collection, approximately 47 individuals delivered 69 pesticide containers which held 623 pounds of pesticide. The pesticides that were collected either had become expired or were no longer useful to the owner. Proper disposal improves human safety in homes and on farms in Bladen County. Disposal was provided to farmers and homeowners free of charge. This service would have cost an estimated minimum of $5.00 per pound if it had been conducted by a private company.
Record #: 231 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-10
POW: A2
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Spearman, Rebecca
Bladen County Cooperative Extension partnered with ten other organizations to hold the third annual AgÕem Up Field Day for third graders. The primary purpose was to increase agricultural literacy. Over 60 volunteers helped lead fun, hands-on activities focusing on agriculture. 25 local FFA students taught at the different stations. Over 425 students and 50 teachers and parents attended. A pre and post test showed that there was a 30% increase in knowledge. Sponsors donated $2000 and over $1500 in goods and services. Volunteers spent over 650 hours representing over $7,800 in volunteer hours. The committee established a classroom project fund for the third grade teachers to request funds to implement an activity as an extension from the field day in their classrooms. This year 3 teachers were awarded $140 to provide additional agriculture related teaching. The committee is already planning for next year's field day.
Record #: 232 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-10
POW: E1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Spearman, Rebecca
Animal waste management is a large part of livestock production in Bladen County. Producers must comply with many rules and regulations to protect the environment. Bladen County Cooperative Extension provides assistance to certified operators on sludge management, irrigation calibration, record-keeping, manure sampling, non-discharge general permits and nutrient management plans. Extension provided 11 hours of continuing education credits in 2008. A ten hour initial certification was held training 25 producers on how to manage their animal waste systems and helping them obtain a license. Extension assisted six producers to complete their sludge surveys on 12 lagoons and eight producers on calibrating equipment systems saving them over $6,000 by completing the tasks themselves. Producers are kept up-to-date with the laws, maintain their license, and protect the environment.
Record #: 233 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-10
POW: A3
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Spearman, Rebecca
The livestock skillathon contest expands a youthÕs livestock knowledge through a contest with major areas that include a written exam; visual identification of feedstuffs, breeds, meat cuts, and livestock equipment; hay judging; and meat judging. Bladen County has seven youth on the livestock skillathon team. Monthly practices are held to prepare the youth for three state level contests. Interactive and hands-on training have increased the teamÕs knowledge of livestock. The members have had a great year. The members increased their scores by over 15%. The senior teams have had a first, second, and two fourth place finishes. Four of the senior individuals had seven top ten placings at the three contests. Monthly practices are being scheduled to help them learn more next year.
Record #: 234 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-11
POW: F1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Cain, Sandra R
Many people in Bladen County live at or below the poverty level. In many cases, these families include senior citizens. These limited resource families need to acquire knowledge, skills and changed behavior for nutritionally sound diets. Seventy-four senior citizens enrolled in the Food Stamp Nutrition Education Program. 50% of participants improved their overall knowledge of nutrition while 58% improved their overall knowledge related to food budgeting. 66% reported positive behavior change related to food budgeting and 97% reported that they intend to eat more fruits and vegetables. 70% intend to engage in physical activity for 30 minutes 5 days a week.
Record #: 235 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-12
POW: 4H-2.4
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Shaver, Angela
North CarolinaÕs competitiveness in the global economy as well as the future of local economies depends upon a workforce competent, innovative, and entrepreneurial in use of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skills and broader skills such as problem solving, systems thinking, and teamwork. NC Cooperative ExtensionÕs 4-H Program in Bladen County offered a series of STEM classes during their annual Summer Academy. During these six sessions, youth learned about electricity, mechanics, environment, and chemistry. Forty-seven youth participated in 23 hours of instruction and increased their knowledge of viable STEM career pathways. One of the participants expressed an aspiration to start their own business. 4-H gave these youth the opportunity to explore STEM career pathways in which they are interested to determine for themselves if this could possibly be their future profession. 4-H hopes to continue offering these type of learning opportunities next summer.
Record #: 236 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-12
POW: 4H-2.1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Shaver, Angela
It is not enough for young people to gain literacy; they must develop the technological skills required to succeed in the global economy. ItÕs not sufficient for young people to know how to operate machinery; they must be able to compose a resume and develop a business plan. Three Bladen County 4-HÕers participated in the NC 4-H Application, Resume and Interview (ARI) Program. Through their participation, these youth increased their knowledge regarding employability skills and set career goals. As a result, one of these 4-HÕers earned a trip to National 4-H Conference in Washington, D.C. This trip will enable this 4-HÕer to explore other career pathways and scholarship opportunities to further his education.
Record #: 237 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-12
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Shaver, Angela
In Bladen County there is always the need to improve youth leadership skills. As older youth age out of the 4-H program younger youth will have the opportunity to fill leadership roles and they need to be prepared. For the past two years, Bladen County 4-H has provided an intensive leadership development program for their County Council Officers. Not only have these youth increased their knowledge and skills in leadership, but they have learned to conduct effective meetings and become effective organizational leaders. These youth have also planned, developed and implemented a Parliamentary Procedure workshop. In addition, these leaders have encouraged other youth to participate in the election process through running for county and club level leadership positions. As we continue to experience success with this leadership program, we hope to expand the program to include club officers in the future.
Record #: 238 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-12
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Shaver, Angela
Youth need adult role models to teach leadership skills that will enable them to make positive decisions. Through three basic volunteer trainings held this past year, twenty-four participants increased their knowledge of volunteering. In addition, a total of 42 volunteers acquired the skills needed to serve as a volunteer. Bladen County 4-HÕs two hundred and thirty-four adult and youth volunteers provided over 3,000 hours of service to our community. Thirty-six of these volunteers are now serving in new roles within NC Cooperative Extension and the community. 4-H hopes to expand upon these results as they develop their volunteer training program.
Record #: 239 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: CRD-2.1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Dockery, Dalton B
As urban and rural areas grow closer together problems often arise because of the differences in cultures. The Bladen County Cooperative Extension Service in partnership with Kwanis sponsored a Farm City Week banquet. One hundred and sixty-five participants attended the banquet. The purpose was to educate, promote and celebrate the differences between rural and urban America. Also to bring leaders together to look at how different issues might be solved. Based on feedback from participants several have stated they did not realize how much agriculture benefits rural areas and their feelings toward rural communities have changed. We will continue building these partnerships next year.
Record #: 240 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: CRD-2.1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Dockery, Dalton B
Agriculture awareness was identified by the Extension Advisory Council as a need in Bladen County. The Bladen County Cooperative Extension Service, the Farm Service Agency and Soil Conservation partnered and sponsored an Agriculture Appreciation Day. The purpose was to recognize agriculture and its importance to Bladen County. Over 250 participants attended this annual event. Based on participant feedback they really enjoyed the inter-agency partnership and learning the importance of agriculture to the County. We will continue to sponsor this event on an annual basis.
Record #: 241 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-29
POW: F1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Cain, Sandra R
The obesity rate among youth has risen drastically in the past 20 years. In 2005, 16.3% of the youth in Bladen County, ages 2 - 18, were considered overweight with another 14.5% at-risk of becoming overweight. Participants, ages 5-12, identified by school nurses and/or medical providers attended ÒMission PossibleÓ a week long day camp, June 16 - 20, sponsored by Cooperative Extension and collaborating partners. Campers learned about Diabetes and how it relates to obesity. They were taught valuable lessons in physical activity, nutrition and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to help lower their risk of complications resulting from the diagnosis of Type II Diabetes. Other topics included reading the nutrition label and portion control. Of the 2007 campers returning in 2008, 16% decreased BMI and 54% had unchanged BMI. Family members attended a health screening on the last day and will continue to be involved with quarterly
Record #: 242 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-29
POW: F1
Location: Bladen
Person Reporting: Cain, Sandra R
Approximately 63% of adults in Bladen County are overweight (CDC, 2005) which increases their risk for cardiovascular disease, hypertension, stroke, and diabetes. Of the Bladen County and Bladen County Hospital employees responding to a survey, 59% do not exercise on a regular basis. The Bladen County Employee Walking Campaign ran four months in 2008. A walking trail was measured out at each county building. The one hundred sixty-eight (168) employees who participated in the program walked a total of 7287 miles. As a result, employees are now walking on their breaks and during lunch. In addition, a health and wellness sub-committee has been to look at increasing programs and activities for employees.
Record #: 243 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-25
POW: A16
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
The North Carolina Department of Agriculture in partnership with the Cooperative Extension Service has made an effort to increase the awareness of the public on buying locally grown produce. Buying locally grown produce can mean better nutrition, better quality and better flavor because the produce is often fresher and allowed to reach full ripeness and maturity. Each year county and regional fairs offer an opportunity for groups to enter exhibits which promote ÒGot to be NC/Goodness GrowsÓ in North Carolina. Agent Barkley presented information to 150 second grade students on the importance of Brunswick CountyÕs agricultural crops to North Carolina and to the local economy. As a result, students increased their knowledge of North CarolinaÕs agricultural production how Brunswick County contributes. Exhibits for the local regional fair are being planned for this fall to create more awareness on the importance of buying locally grown produce.
Record #: 244 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-25
POW: A15
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
Brunswick County Master Gardeners have raised $20,000 dollars from two spring plant sales. The funds help us carry on extension outreach programs and are used to further enhance the development of the Botanical Gardens. A new $5000 trailer has been purchased and donated to the county for use in extension programs. Other funds will be dispersed as needs arise. The Master Gardener Association has also designated an additional $7000 from the plant sale to add new plants and hardscape to the Brunswick Botanical Garden as a training resource for the Master Gardeners.
Record #: 245 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-25
POW: A15
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
Master Gardeners provide five local newspapers with weekly articles and also contribute to local community newsletters. Garden shows have attracted several thousand participants at each of the three shows conducted this spring. Citizens increased their gardening and plant care knowledge due to master gardener volunteers conducting plant clinics at these shows. They also provide clients with extension literature and other resources available from the Cooperative Extension Service. As a result our organization becomes more visible and this has become a great marketing tool for Cooperative Extension. The value of exposure/advertisement and complimentary booth space are tangible in kind services offered by the shows and by attending we increase awareness of extension programs that are available to the public.
Record #: 246 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-25
POW: E8
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
Pesticide education recertification and training programs for farmers and green industry personnel were conducted by a collaborative approach among horticulture agents from Brunswick, New Hanover, and Pender Counties. Our Annual Pro Day seminars were held in February to offer pesticide recertification credits for Commercial and Private License holders. Each person signing a pesticide recertification credit sheet showed that we had over 250 signatures for commercial credit and private license recertification. Overall, 5 hours of pesticide education was provided by the team of agents from New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender Counties. The Recertification and Licensing programs have made an impact on applicators applying pesticides in a safe manner that protects themselves and the environment. This has resulted in less harmful health affects during mixing and applying pesticides thus cutting down on medical costs and loss time from the job.
Record #: 247 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-25
POW: A15
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
In recognition of many years of outstanding support; educational planning and implementation, and dedication to the landscape industry and involvement with the North Carolina Landscape and Nursery Association, David Barkley was awarded the Kim Powell Friend of the Industry Award from the North Carolina Landscape and Nursery Association at the 2008 Green and Growing Show held in Greensboro, NC. David throughout his career has reached out to the industry to develop educational opportunities to train not only the commercial industry personnel in landscape design, installation and management but also he has reached out to the consumer. He has helped with the establishment of two of the areaÕs gardens installed as training resources; the New Hanover County Cooperative Extension Arboretum in Wilmington and the Brunswick Botanical Gardens located at the government complex in Bolivia.
Record #: 248 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-25
POW: E8
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
At the request of Ag Mart, Agent Barkley responded to their need for training Hispanic field workers in the proper handling of pesticides to protect themselves and the environment. A translator was used and 35 workers were given two hours of pesticide training which satisfied the Worker Protection Standards for the Environmental Protection Agency. Ag Mart had a lawsuit filed against them in the past and they are always looking for ways to improve their image while also helping their workers with important safety instructions. Ag Mart also participates in our pesticide container recycling program and is the largest contributor to this valuable service. This is just another example of their commitment to work with the community in solving environmental issues.
Record #: 249 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-25
POW: A15
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
Southeastern North Carolina has suffered from a long drought period over the past two years. Several municipalities implemented irrigation and other water restrictions due to the deficits in rainfall amounts. One of the municipalities sought the Cooperative Extension Services help and placed an order for 45 rain barrels which the master gardeners were constructing from recycled industry barrels. Staff members and volunteers developed a prototype model and then went into the production of barrels to meet the needs of the municipality along with requests from the public. The barrels are sold at a reasonable price to recoup our cost and to make a little profit to keep buying more materials for future barrels. This project has made a tremendous impact for the Bald Head Island Community which is very limited in water resources. They are now more equipped to cope with future drought conditions.
Record #: 250 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-25
POW: A15
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
Brunswick County Extension Service has been developing ÒThe Coastal GardenerÓ as a marketing tool to encompass a broad range of programs, seminars and media productions to serve the citizens of Coastal North Carolina. In collaboration with the Brunswick County Master Gardeners, a program was developed to train master gardeners and the general public. Youth were involved to provide lunch to the participants and this also became a fund raiser for 4H programs. The seminar entitled ÒDesperate Plants, Husbands and HousewivesÓ was attended by 85 participants and was a huge success. The focus of the program was to help clients deal with a variety of stress problems plants encounter. This was a timely topic due to weather extremes our clients had just faced and was broad enough to cover things which are likely to happen to plants in the future. Impacts: lower water use, recycle natural resources, cost savings, funds raised.
Record #: 251 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-27
POW: F3
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Stanley, Pearl W
Brunswick County Medicare/Medicaid Beneficiaries(29) needed help to enroll in the 2008 Medicare Prescription Drug Program. Extension partnered with the Department of Social Services and Brunswick County Seniors Resources, INC. to help beneficiaries analyze their prescription drugs to find the best of fifty-two available plans to cover their medications at the best price. The cost of 30-day supply of prescription drugs before enrolling in Medicare Part D Plan was $15,244.07. The cost of prescripition drugs after enrolling in a PDP was $1,025.53 for 30 day supply. The savings on drugs after enrollment were $14,218.64. Extension will continue to help Medicare Beneficiaries enroll in the best prescription drug plan.
Record #: 252 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 99
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Hight, Philip
Despite the economic slow-down, Brunswick County continues as one of the top 20 fastest-growing counties in the United States. Concerns about the effect of stormwater on water quality ranked at the top of issues identified during 2007's environmental scan. To better address these issues, a request for an environment and natural resources agent was included in the 2008-2009 county budget. Funding was approved for this position that will be shared by Brunswick and New Hanover counties. Interviews were held in June, 2008 including two strong candidates. Because of the critical nature of this position, Extension administration agreed to use discretionary funding. The top candidate was offered and accepted the position with a start date of August 1, 2008. These educational efforts should further strengthen Cooperative Extension's role as a valuable partner in Brunswick County.
Record #: 253 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 99
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Hight, Philip
Development of the Brunswick Botanical Garden continues as an educational resource for the green industry, Master Gardeners and homeowners. Since 2003 over $50,000 in private donations and thousands of hours of volunteer time have been invested. By 2007, it was obvious that reliance on volunteer labor was limiting the garden's appearance and future development. A request for a full-time technician position was included in the 2008-2009 budget and was approved. The hiring of an individual with AAS in horticulture should ensure the continued development of the Brunswick Botanical Garden as an important regionial educational resource.
Record #: 254 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A15
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Hight, Philip
Development of the Coastal Gardener brand in southeastern North Carolina continues with Cooperative Extension's mass media efforts. The hour-long, Coastal Gardener live, call-in radio program reaches 15,000 to 20,000 households each Saturday morning from Onslow to Duplin counties and south near Myrtle Beach, S.C. The weekly television segment now airs on Wilmington's NBC affiliate (WECT TV-6) and has enjoyed an expansion of its audience to between 25,000 and 30,000 households. Programming emphasis is to provide research-based information in an easy-to-understand format.
Record #: 255 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A6
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Hight, Philip
One Brunswick County nursery has traditionally sold exclusively to mass merchandisers. In fall, 2007 this grower was informed that his agreement had been terminated after the early spring, 2008 shipments. Using some of our contacts in the nursery business, he was able to find buyers for $45,000 worth of existing inventory. In addition to help with marketing, Cooperative Extension has assisted him with liner selection and cultural practices (pruning, irrigation, weed control, etc.) that will produce the higher-quality plant he needs for his new customer base. This grower is also diversifying his operation to include strawberries and vegetables to improve cash flow and add to his revenue stream.
Record #: 256 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: CRD-1.1
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Warner, Martha W
In April, Cooperative Extension co-hosted a two-day conference for 62 participants to increase awareness and provide education for local and regional elected officials and community leaders about the expanding field of entrepreneurship. The conference served as a catalyst in fostering discussion, networking, collaboration, and renewing and creating new partnerships in an effort to stimulate local and regional entrepreneurial opportunities and economic development. The South Brunswick Islands Committee of 100 provided $7,400 as financial support. Don Betts, Director, e2e Works, Georgia Institute of Technology and lead conference presenter/consultant stated, ÒI travel all over the world talking and working with groups about entrepreneur development and have attended and hosted numerous conferences on the subject. I must say that your conference was the absolute best one I have ever seen done by a local or regional group. In fact, it was really better than most of the state-wide events I attendÓ.
Record #: 257 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: CRD-1.1
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Warner, Martha W
The Frink family, a local entrepreneurial family benefited from Cooperative ExtensionÕs resources and educational outreach. As a result of attending the Entrepreneurship Conference, the husband and wife team gained insight and information especially from Secretary of State, Elaine Marshall. ÒShe spoke of real life problems faced by businesses and consumers, as well as encouragement of new ideas and investments in our community. We thoroughly enjoyed interacting with such a diverse group, and having the opportunity to make new contacts with other professionals with similar philosophies on growing our businesses in Brunswick County. Additionally, thank you for all the help and information you have given me and my family concerning such wonderful opportunities for scholarship, professional experiences, and enrichment activities. I have always heard and read about Cooperative Extension, but never really realized how active and important the agency is in our communityÓ.
Record #: 258 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: CRD-2.1
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Warner, Martha W
"Thank you for all the information you have given me and my family concerning opportunities for scholarship, professional experiences, and enrichment activities. Your help with my son, Sam, on his senior project helped him to develop a business plan and realize what is involved in turning a hobby (kayaking) into a business. He also earned a $500 scholarship for a Farm-City Week essay that he would never have known was available if you had not provided the information. Both sons will experience the General Hugh Shelton Leadership Challenge Program this summer at NC State University because of your efforts. They will learn skills that will help them in decision making and become leaders amongst their peers. Sam will make contacts that will provide support during his freshman year at NC State and John will benefit as he currently needs help in making the right choices and planning for his future.
Record #: 259 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: CRD-2.1
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Warner, Martha W
Preserving farmland and local agricultural heritage has consistently been identified as a top priority by Brunswick County citizens and leaders in recent years. In January there were five Brunswick farms with the distinct honor of being recognized as a Century Farm -- having continuous farm ownership by a family for 100 years or more. Through local efforts, thirty-two additional Brunswick Farm Families were honored and recognized on March 14, by Extension personnel and Commissioner of Agriculture Steve Troxler during a luncheon ceremony attended by 175 guests. Several Century Farm family members and elected officials participated on the program. Five local donors contributed $2,500 to host the event. The Century Family Farm effort and event was particularly significant due to the rapid growth and development Brunswick County has experienced in recent years (2nd fastest growing County in the State and 17th fastest growing County in the Nation in 2007).
Record #: 260 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: CRD-1.1
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Warner, Martha W
Technical assistance with business start-up was provided to Travis and Lindsay Hewett in the development of Lockwood Folly Marketplace, a new retail store, which will promote locally-grown, naturally-raised food products, local art, an assortment of gift items and blooming plants. The clients have benefited from local foods workshops and a variety of resources including educational publications for business plans, associations and retailers with a common purpose and contacts from a variety of professional backgrounds. Cooperative Extension also hosted a focus group meeting with local citizens to solicit feedback regarding the business plan, inventory and marketing. Additionally, assistance was provided in the development of a $50,000 grant submitted to the NC Rural and Economic Development Center for building reuse and renovation. Planning is on-going for the grand opening and holiday season in fall 2008 and for future phases II and III of the operation.
Record #: 261 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Wooten, Blair E
Brunswick County 4-H Advisory CouncilÕs expressed a desire to continue providing agricultural education to children due to the countyÕs rapid growing urban society. North Carolina Cooperative Extension utilized their ÒEmbryology in the ClassroomÓ program to help reach this desire. The 4-H school enrichment program has seen an extreme success during the 2007-2008 school year. Geared towards second grade, the program has helped over forty-eight classrooms teach students about the life cycle, basic knowledge of chickens, & experience hands-on learning. Due to the success and popularity of the program, a donation of $550 was given towards the program for the 2008-2009 school year, with sixty-nine classrooms are already signed up to participate. One teacher made the comment that she decided to continue teaching in the 2nd grade classroom just because of the embryology project and that she felt it was the best thing she offered in her classroom all year long.
Record #: 262 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-1.2
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Wooten, Blair E
Rising daycare costs present a problem for many parents. However, North Carolina Cooperative ExtensionÕs 4-H summer program has provided a perfect solution for many. With thirty-two activities and more than 40 days of planned events averaging under $11.00 per day, the 4-H program has a lot to offer parents, especially county employees who can bring their children to work and drop them off at the 4-H office. Educational activities included visits to museums, historical locations, gyms, dance studios, arboretums, nature centers, the planetarium, the aquarium, and much more. Surfing, horse-backing riding, pottery-making, scrapbooking, cake-decorating, & jewelry-making are a few added extras. The programÕs educational environment provided a positive replacement for latch-key children and many county employeesÕ summer childcare. The Brunswick County 4-H summer program offered a fun, educational alternative to childcare, saving parents an average of $750 for the ten weeks of summer.
Record #: 263 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-11
POW: F3
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Stanley, Pearl W
From July 2007 to May 2008 Brunswick County Seniors' Health Insurance Information Program Volunteer Counselors (21) have been trained to deliver Medicare educational information to beneficiaries. Counseling Reports revealed a total of 931.48 hours at $18 per hour equal $16,766.64 dollar-value of service rendered. Volunteers held counseling sessions with 569 clients and Outreach activities reached 9,544. Forty educational activities were implemented on the laws and regulations of Medicare, Medicaid and Medigap Insurance. Beneficiaries received assistance with Medicare Parts A, B, C, D and the Medicare Savings Programs. Extension will continue to provide Medicare Education to all recipients.
Record #: 264 of 2840
Date: 2008-08-24
POW: F3
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Stanley, Pearl W
Senior citizens and disability Medicare Beneficiaries in Brunswick County have been provided greater peace of mind by joining the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Program. Since the time of enactment November 15, 2005 until June 2008,379 beneficiaries have saved $110,885.97 for a 30-day supply of prescription drugs. Before the Medicare Part D Progrm the full cost of a 30-day supply over this period of time would have cost $142,726.91. After beneficiaries joined a Medicare Part D Plan those same drugs cost $31,841.03 (cost savings $110,885.97). Extension will continue to help beneficiaries understand the cost benefit of Medicare Part D.
Record #: 265 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-20
POW: E7
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Mitchell, Nicole
Non-point source pollution is the number one water quality concern for coastal ecosystems with 75% of North Carolinians living near a polluted stream. The majority of containments found in waterways come from polluted stormwater run-off. Brunswick County Cooperative Extension provided an educational program to Holden BeachÕs Community Watch Group on water resources and stormwater management. Fifteen participants received hands-on education during an ÒEnviroscapeÓ demonstration and PowerPoint presentation. Participants stated they gained new knowledge regarding water quality and quantity issues and now plan to install stormwater best management practices within their community. Due to interest of participants and program value, presentations will continue with Holden BeachÕs Community Watch Group regarding preventing polluted run-off and other coastal environmental concerns.
Record #: 266 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-10
POW: F3
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Stanley, Pearl W
Senior citizens and disability Medicare Beneficiaries in Brunswick County have been provided greater peace of mind by joining the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Program. Since the time of enactment on November 15, 2005 until August 2008, 384 (192 limited resource beneficiaries)have saved $112,638.10 for a 30-day supply of prescription drugs. Before the Medicare Part D Program, the full cost of a 30-day supply over this period of time would have cost $144,795.75. After beneficiaries joned a Medicare Part D Plan those same drugs cost $32,235.74. Extension will continue to help beneficiaries understand the cost benefit of Medicare Part D.
Record #: 267 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-10
POW: F3
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Stanley, Pearl W
People from all walks of life are being affected by the economic downturn. From January-August 2008 participants (78) in Financial Management and EFNEP Progam workshops developed written budgets, financial goals, and tracked their spen ding to improve their financial status and provide the basic needs (food, shelter and clothing) to their families. Individuals(20)participating in the NCSAVES Week (February-March) committed to saving an average of $96.00/month for twelve months for a total savings of $23,040.00 a year. EFNEP participants' performance tracking system revealed 37% increased food safety practices and 48% changed their food resource management. Financial Literacy and the EFNEP Program will continue to be available for citizens in Brunswick County.
Record #: 268 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: E7
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Mitchell, Nicole
Non-point source pollution is the number one water quality concern for coastal ecosystems with stormwater runoff being the top polluter of North CarolinaÕs coastal water. North Carolina Cooperative Extension provided an educational program to Holden BeachÕs Community Watch Group on water resources and stormwater management. Fifteen participants received hands-on education during an ÒEnviroscapeÓ demonstration and PowerPoint presentation. Participants stated they gained new knowledge regarding water quality and quantity issues and now plan to install stormwater best management practices within their community. Due to interest of participants and program value, presentations will continue with Holden BeachÕs Community Watch Group regarding preventing polluted runoff and other coastal environmental concerns.
Record #: 269 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: E8
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Barkley, David V
Pesticide container disposal utilizes land resources which are becoming limited. A pesticide container recycling program has been developed in Brunswick County to reduce the amount of containers ending up in the landfill. The program is a joint venture with CES, NCDA and the Solid Waste Management Department in Brunswick County. An NCDA grant provided funds for the extension office to build a storage facility for collected containers. USAg Recycling, Inc. comes twice a year to grind and haul away the grounded plastic for recycling purposes. The amount of space saved each year amounts to the size of a small house occupying approximately 6400 cubic feet. Pesticide programs conducted each year offer participants a chance to become a partner in the recycling effort. Rejection of containers has been an obstacle. Through the efforts of the extension service the number of rejected containers was reduced from 240 to 4 this year.
Record #: 270 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: F1
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Burgess, Myra W
Success Story - December 2008 At my most recent class, I noticed that my participants had various sugary soft drinks. After I taught the class on ÒMaking Smart Drink ChoicesÓ, a small refrigerator was donated to the classroom. Ever since then, they have been drinking bottled water, making a smarter choice!
Record #: 271 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A5
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Hight, Philip
Nursery growers in the southeastern United States have seen sales drop by 30 to 50% in the second half of 2008 due to slowing development and world-wide economic concerns. While some growers are cutting back or shutting down operations, two Brunswick County nurseries, with the help of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service, have stepped up their efforts to better control costs and improve quality. These nurseries have modified pruning practices and instituted water, soil and plant tissue sampling to better manage their fertility and irrigation programs. Improving quality and controlling costs allows them to be more competitive in these difficult times and enhances their ability to take advantage of future economic upturns.
Record #: 272 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A15
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Hight, Philip
Urbanization in southeastern North Carolina has made consumer horticulture an important part of North Carolina Cooperative Extension's educational programming. Mass media efforts are an integral component of these programs and also serve to market Cooperative Extension to large audiences. Each week agents in Brunswick, New Hanover and Pender Counties are reaching over 75,000 households with timely, researched-based information through local radio, television and print media.
Record #: 273 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A16
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Wooten, Blair E
In today's food markets, many members of society, especially children, don't have a good understanding of where their food comes from. In most minds, eggs & milk simply come from the grocery store, and the farmer that raised the chicken and the dairy cow that produced these products are often forgotten or even unknown. However, from November 17th through 24th, over 750 students learned the real facts. The Brunswick County 4-H office and Brunswick County Master Gardener Volunteers of North Carolina Cooperative Extension joined together with Funston Farms to offer 3rd graders a chance to learn about plants and animals during their Life on the Farm fieldtrips. Educational classes included lessons on plant growth & usage, soils, composting, economics, plant reproduction, and farm animals. They even had the opportunity to take a hayride tour learning about crops, cows, & pigs.
Record #: 274 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-1.1
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Wooten, Blair E
According to a new report by Trust for America's Health (TFAH), North Carolina has the 5th highest rate of overweight youth (ages 10-17) at 19.3% percent while the US average rolls in at 14.8%. In a society where statistics show that one out of every three kids in America is overweight and most kids get very little physical exercise because they are stuck behind a computer, television, or video game, North Carolina Cooperative Extension is fighting to make a difference. Environmental scans conducted in the county showed a need to tackle childhood obesity, so Brunswick County 4-H offered an extensive, educational summer program for kids called 4-H Express that provided 42 days of activities and over 31 events to attend. Although the summer program contained a large variety of activities from trips to farms, zoos, parks, museums, greenhouses, and more, there was a huge focus on physical activity and fitness.
Record #: 275 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Wooten, Blair E
Many teens seem to struggle with self-acceptance & lack the confidence to publicly speak to a crowd of people or even give a presentation among their own peers. Through the efforts of 4-HÕs life skill building programs and providing social outlets for youth, one 4-H child in particular has blossomed from a shy, quiet girl that once refused public speaking into an active leader in the Brunswick County 4-H Program. Over the last two years, this youth has become a strong competitor at 4-H District Activity Day giving public presentations. She has become president of the horse club, a county and state fair showman, a 4-H County Council member, a Fashion Revue participant, and co-chair of the countyÕs 4-H Centennial Committee. Her mother stated that Ò4-H has definitely helped my daughterÕs developmental growth and encouraged her to actively participate in opportunities throughout the community.Ó
Record #: 276 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: E5
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Wooten, Blair E
ÒGoing greenÓ and being environmental friendly is a strong push in todayÕs society, especially in Brunswick County. Youth joined together under the North Carolina Cooperative Extension 4-H program to embark on a world of environmental education learning experiences with their new community club. Learning through doing, becoming leaders, practicing team work, and developing presentation skills through environmental education is all part of the clubÕs mission. Although the club has only existed for three months, displaying educational booths at the county fair and science fair exhibits & displays are just a few of their accomplishments. Competing in environmental competitions such as the Envirothon, the state 4-H WHEP (Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Program) contest, a wildlife drawing contest, and local, district, & state level Soil & Water Conservation competitions are just a few of their aspirations for the spring.
Record #: 277 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-05
POW: F3
Location: Brunswick
Person Reporting: Stanley, Pearl W
SHIIP Volunteer Counselors (21) have been trained and certified in Medicare laws and regulations to help recipients of Medicare understand the basics of the program. Counseling reports revealed (1,383) counseling hours at $19.51/hr. equal $26,982.00 dollar-value of service rendered. Volunteers informed Medicare recipients of the changes in 2008 Medicare Parts A, B, C and D. Many of the recipients have reported a better understanding of how Medicare works. Volunteers will continue to be recruited , trained and certified to delivery Medicare Education.
Record #: 278 of 2840
Date: 2008-03-31
POW: F3
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Ostergaard, Nancy
Maintaining a home is not in many homeowners ability which can result in the home deteriorating and not holding its market value. To assist homeowners to increase their knowledge of basic home maintenance and become capable of making their own repairs the Buncombe County Extension Center offers a five-series Basic Home Maintenance Course. The course is available to all residents in the county desiring to become proficient in home repair. Recently a course participant reported she had replaced a leaking faucet in her kitchen as a result of what she had learned in the class saving both a plumbers visit and conserving water during our drought. The same homeowner also reported having a gas leaked fixed as a result of the class. Once the leak was repaired she no longer suffered from the headaches experienced prior to the repair. The latter may have saved her life from CO poisoning.
Record #: 279 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-06
POW: A7
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Stone, Amanda
The honey bee is responsible for pollinating billons of dollars worth of agricultural crops and is in danger of dying from diseases, pests and loss of habitat. Buncombe County Bee Keepers Chapter in cooperation with NC Cooperative Extension, Buncombe County office sponsored a free beginnerÕs bee keeping school to recruit, educate and encourage new and current bee keepers about the basics of keeping honeybees. 424 people registered for the school, 277 people attended the school, and 160 people completed the state exam and became certified bee keepers of North Carolina. The 2008 Bee School had the largest attendance of any bee school ever held in Buncombe County. Dr. David Tarpy, State Apiculture Specialist said Òthis is the best bee school in the nationÓ. Continuing education will include monthly club meetings, a mentor program, an advanced bee school and field days.
Record #: 280 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-19
POW: F1
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Carter, Sharon
A Harvard Medical School study found that children who eat meals with their family are twice as likely to eat the recommended number of fruit and vegetable servings, drink more milk and less soda and consume less fried foods. Add the creation of family traditions and values, and improved social, behavioral and academic skills, and it is easy to see why EFNEP encourages participants to overcome barriers that keep their children from the family table. During one Buncombe County EFNEP class, participants shared reasons why their families were not eating together. One blamed laundry heaped on the kitchen table; another held the dogs eating in the kitchen responsible. After initiating suggested solutions, both participants proudly reported that family mealtimes had been reinstated in their homes. Accolades were given to EFNEP's Table Topper for prompting children's involvement and helping them realize the benefits described in current studies.
Record #: 281 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-19
POW: F1
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Carter, Sharon
Good Housekeeping Institute states, learning to cook..."is easier when someone is shown, step-by-step, how to prepare a recipe." The EFNEP Nutrition Program Assistant in Buncombe County recently taught students in a local community college human resource program just that, how to prepare recipes step-by-step! When beginning the EFNEP series, a pregnant women confessed that because she did not know how to cook, she and her three-year old child often ate fast food. To encourage this single mother to start cooking meals at home, the PA taught her meal planning and shopping skills, and demonstrated food preparation techniques. By graduation, the mother reported that she had become a better meal planner, gorcery shopper and cook. She and her child were eating at fast food restaurants less often because she was preparing healthy meals at home...she credits her success to learning how to read a recipe!
Record #: 282 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-19
POW: F4
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Ostergaard, Nancy
As the new Extension and Community (ECA) liaison in the county the Extension agent was finding the numbers diminishing as the current members were aging out of their Association. Seeing the need to recruit new and younger members, announcements were placed on various internet list servs utilized by younger women. A brainstorming session was held to introduce the younger women to ECA and the overall programs of the Buncombe County Cooperative Extension. As a result of the introduction session and invitations being extended to the myriad of ECA activities the overall membership in the county ECA program has increased by 10% since February 2008 and continues to grow. The Extension Center is also seeing new and younger individuals attending the workshops offered.
Record #: 283 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: A15
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Blue, Linda G
After the extended drought in 2007 and 2008 many home gardeners have become aware of the need to conserve water. After receiving several calls from citizens wanting to know where to purchase rain barrels, the Buncombe County extension agent and Extension Master Gardener volunteers arranged 2 truck-load sales for 80 gallon rain barrels. A feature newspaper story and other promotion helped to raise awareness of the potential for water conservation by collecting rain water. As a result of the sales 594 rain barrels were distributed to about 400 area residents. If each barrel was filled and used only 2 times a month from March through October, a conservative estimate of 760,000 gallons of water could be saved.
Record #: 284 of 2840
Date: 2008-11-19
POW: A15
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Blue, Linda G
As the population of Buncombe County has grown to over 218,000, the demand and need for reliable gardening information has continued to increase. In 2008 Extension Master Gardener Volunteers offered all-day garden schools in spring and fall. The target audience was new gardeners and those new to Buncombe County. Information was provided on plant selection, planting practices, common pest problems and landscape maintenance. Over 230 local residents attended and evaluations indicated the participants found the information very useful.
Record #: 285 of 2840
Date: 2008-11-19
POW: A15
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Blue, Linda G
Home gardeners need a source of reliable, environmentally sound, gardening information. Although the Extension Master Gardener hotline office provides assistance to many residents who call or bring in problem samples, not everyone can get to the Extension office during regular business hours. To help meet this need, Extension Master Gardener volunteers provide a Plant Clinic two Saturdays each month from April through October at the WNC FarmersÕ Market. In 2008, 600 local residents were assisted with their gardening problems.
Record #: 286 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Clayton-McGlauflin, Mary
Participation in Buncombe CountyÕs 4-H Achievement Program continues to increase each year, with 189 participants at our most recent event and 100 percent of the countyÕs 4-H clubs providing exhibits of their past yearÕs activities. Planning and implementation of the program was done primarily by the teen executive board of the 4-H County Council under the guidance of the 4-H agent, and public officials, including two county commissioners, two state representatives, and the district director for Senator Heath Shuler, helped present awards to outstanding leaders, clubs and junior and senior 4-H members.
Record #: 287 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Clayton-McGlauflin, Mary
Involvement in 4-H Lifeskills and Leadership programming continues to increase in Buncombe County. Participation in 4-H presentations nearly doubled over the course of one year, and the quality of the presentations also increased. The number of Buncombe County 4-HÕers who qualified for the State 4-H Horseshow more than doubled this year, and Buncombe County had the largest delegation of participants at the West District 4-H Horsemanship Clinic. Eighty-nine people attended this yearÕs 4-H Fashion Revue/Craft Fair and Talent Showcase, and 13 4-HÕers participated in a six-session Dog Obedience Training workshop series. The 4-H Gardening Project has grown to 28 families in 2008, from its beginnings five years ago, and we now have a Novice Horticulture Judging Team. Volunteer leaders are also participating in leader trainings in greater numbers, and we are experimenting with conducting 4-H training on-line to reduce travel and time costs for our leaders.
Record #: 288 of 2840
Date: 2008-11-17
POW: A1
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Bradley, Jeff K
Keystone Camp, a summer camp in Transylvania County with equine emphasis, called our office with pasture management questions. They were worried about having enough hay to feed their horses through the winter and locating additional hay with this year's drought. On my recommendation, they overseeded a portion of their pastures with annual rye for grazing and implemented a rotational grazing system. They called to tell me their success. They normally fed 475 bales of hay throughout the winter. By implementing the strategies I recommended they extended their grazing and fed only around 200 bales. At $7.00/bale that is a savings of $1225. In addition to the hay savings, they had a labor savings on the weekend of not having to pay someone to feed the horses.
Record #: 289 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A1
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Bradley, Jeff K
As a continued effort to assist drought stricken farmers in Buncombe, Henderson, and Transylvania Counties, I assisted farmers in locating feed supplies from Texas and Arkansas. Hay was available to farmers from a research station in a neighboring county, but was low quality and at a high price. I assisted farmers in locating hay, arranging transportation, and provided them with forms to fill out to receive reimbursement from the NC Hay Relief Effort. This was done in cooperation with Buncombe County Soil and Water and farmers saved nearly $25 per bale. We brought in 24 tractor trailer loads of hay from Texas and Arkansas. Farmers indicated to me that they would not have made it through without the help of our office.
Record #: 290 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-21
POW: F1
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Hohenstein, Catherine
Food Safety is more of an issue in Buncombe County. Food borne illnesses contribute to increased visits to the emergency room and doctor's offices and missed days from work each year. These illnesses are nearly 100% preventable if safe food handling practices are applied during storing, preserving, preparing and serving foods, especially for older adults and young children. Cooperative Extension planned and delivered educational programs to one-hundred people on food safety, produce safety, safe lunches, canning and food preservation. From program surveys, participants plan to adopt practices that will decrease the chance for food borne illnesses. The expected decrease in illnesses will result in decreased visits to the doctor, emergency room and missed days at work and also result in less economic strain for families and the whole community. Buncombe County is involved in educational efforts to increase safer handling of fresh produce in our area by producers and consumers.
Record #: 291 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: F1
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Hohenstein, Catherine
Buncombe County is concerned with the rates of overweight and obesity in adolescents and adults. Obesity contributes to rising medical costs due to its contribution to diabetes, heart disease and other chronic health conditions. The Buncombe CountyÕs Cooperative ExtensionÕs Family and Consumer Science Agent partnered with the county health center, to conduct Students Eating Smart and Moving More program at Erwin Middle School. Eleven families attended all the programs with students and parents participating. All families indicated that they were making changes in eating and physical activity. At least forty-five people benefited from increased activity with a potential cost savings annually of $63,540 as the children reach adulthood. Other benefits included self esteem building components and family relationship components. Participants stated they learned Ònew ways to prepare mealsÓ, Òmy daughter eats broccoli now when roastedÓ, Òplan activitiesÓ, to eat veggies and fruits moreÓ , and Òportion controlÓ.
Record #: 292 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-21
POW: F2
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Hohenstein, Catherine
Families are under stress and can be separated due to inappropriate parenting techniques. Sixteen parents and guardians who were referred through DSS and/or the court system attended Parenting Matters, an eight week long, parenting education program. Nine completed the program while all indicated benefits from the sessions they attended. Their knowledge of parenting stress and appropriate parenting techniques increased. The impact was seen through decreased stress felt by parents and improved interactions with children. An understanding of appropriate child behavior and decrease parental stress can result in a decrease risk for child abuse. ParticipantsÕ statements of what they would do new were Òstop and thinkÓ and Òcommunicate betterÓ. With the reduction of family stress the risk for abuse and neglect of children were reduced, and many parents were able to be move towards being reunited with their children.
Record #: 293 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: F1
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Hohenstein, Catherine
Families have increased eating out and using prepackaged foods. Both of these are associated with eating less vegetables and fruits and eating larger portions. Cooperative Extension conducted a series of four classes which were offered in the evening and daytime, in order to reach more participants. These classes covered healthy ways to prepare foods from scratch and ways to plan more meals to eat at home. The classes were, Basic Cooking and Planning Meals, Basic Sauces, Marinades and Soups, Bread Making, and Cooking with Herbs. The classes had eighty-participants and evaluations indicated that participants would eat more meals at home, eat more vegetables and fruits, prepare and eat more whole grains and plan to use more herbs this year. All of these would lead to better maintained weights and decrease in health risks.
Record #: 294 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-21
POW: F1
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Hohenstein, Catherine
In Buncombe County 51.9% of adults were overweight or obese in 2007. Fifty-four people attended one or more of the Families Eating Smart Moving More programs. Thirty-seven people attended Portion Control programs and eighteen people completed the sixteen week weight management program, Eat Smart Move More Weigh Less, with all but two losing weight. One hundred-three women attended Women Living Healthy Women Living Well. All of these participants gained knowledge and changed behaviors to eat healthier and be more physically active. These lifestyle changes will result in a decrease in weight gained and may lead to the prevention of costly diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and stroke. The economic benefit for preventing excess weight is $1,533 per person per year in North Carolina.
Record #: 295 of 2840
Date: 2008-08-28
POW: A6
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Stone, Amanda
Green industry professionals want education on integrated pest management (IPM). The Buncombe County office of North Carolina Cooperative Extension offered a series of five classes held throughout the summer of 2008 that addressed IPM. Using a hands-on approach, the classes taught disease, insect and weed identification. Control recommendations for these pests were taught based on an integrated pest management approach. Participation for all five classes totaled 110. According to surveys given at the end of each class, 95% of participants rated the overall quality of the training as Òvery satisfiedÓ. 95% of participants indicated a gain in knowledge and they would implement the IPM practices they learned. Participants commented on how much they enjoy the live samples, ability to ask questions and learn from each other. Due to such a high demand for IPM education, this series of classes will be offered again in 2009 to the green industry.
Record #: 296 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-04
POW: A6
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Stone, Amanda
Green industry professionals in North Carolina seek obtaining the Certified Plant Professional certification (CPP) offered by the North Carolina Nursery and Landscape Association (NCNLA). CPP is a written and plant identification test that seeks to recognize proficiency in the nursery workforce, upgrade the status of the nursery professional, and provide the public with a means of identifying qualified nursery professionals. Through a team effort of Buncombe, Henderson and Haywood counties and NCNLA, the CPP short course and exam is offered each year in western North Carolina. In 2008, 40 students registered for the short course, 28 students took the certifying exams and 20 students passed the exams becoming Certified Plant Professionals. Students say Òthis certification makes us more competitive in the job market and creates opportunities for career advancementÓ. The CPP short course will continue to be offered each year to upgrade the status of the green industry professional.
Record #: 297 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-29
POW: F5
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Ostergaard, Nancy
A homeowner contacted the Buncombe Extension Center concerned he had to replace his furnace filter weekly because of the amount of soot present. This is contrary to ExtensionÕs recommendation of checking the filter monthly during the heating season and replacing when necessary. After an in-depth conversation with the homeowner it was determined he had recently began burning a candle on a frequent basis. The housing agent suggested he stop the candle burning and see if his filter remained clean. In a follow up conversation the homeowner acknowledged he no longer had the soot problem and was physically feeling better. As a result of the recommendation from the agent the homeowner not only was saving the money from filter replacement but more importantly was saving his lungs from the soot exposure.
Record #: 298 of 2840
Date: 2008-11-17
POW: A1
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Bradley, Jeff K
With the economy taking a turn for the worse this year, I had several calls from folks wishing to increase their farm income with minimal input. One farm in particular had an existing structure that could be utilized for raising chickens for egg production. I walked them through the process of preparing the house, locating birds, locating feed supplies and they took off with it. They bought birds that were ready to produce and in two months time added nearly $300 to their monthly income by selling locally produced eggs at a tailgate market. They indicated that they were appreciative of the time I spent with them and plan to expand their operation in 2009.
Record #: 299 of 2840
Date: 2008-11-17
POW: E8
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Stone, Amanda
Regulations by the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide & Rodenticide Act are enforced in North Carolina by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture (NCDA) and require farmers who apply pesticides and those who apply pesticides for payment (commercial) to become certified and obtain recertification credits in order to remain a certified licensed pesticide applicator. Each year, North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Buncombe County Center in cooperation with NCDA offer pesticide recertification trainings for those farmers and commercial pesticide applicators desiring to maintain their certification. During the period of January 1 – September 30, 2008 thirty-six hours of pesticide recertification trainings were offered. A total of 325 pesticide applicators attended these recertification trainings. 95% of participants rated the overall quality of the trainings as Òvery satisfiedÓ. Recertification trainings will continue to be offered each year by North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Buncombe County Center in order for pesticide applicators to maintain their certification.
Record #: 300 of 2840
Date: 2008-11-17
POW: A3
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Bradley, Jeff K
As an ongoing effort to maintain a strong youth livestock program in Buncombe County, we trained a livestock judging team this year - actually two teams. The teams consisted of 14 junior 4-H members who met on a regular basis from April-July to hone their skills in all aspects of livestock judging. The teams competed in a regional contest in Hickory and the State contest in Rocky Mount. We competed in both contests last year and made a decent showing. This year our teams made Buncombe County proud by improving on their performance from last year, with a few of our individuals placing in the top five in the state in certain categories. We are making strides with these youth and look forward to an exciting year next year.
Record #: 301 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: A15
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Blue, Linda G
Due to rising grocery prices and concerns about food safety, increasing numbers of Buncombe County residents have become interested in learning to grow their own vegetables. To address the increasing demand for information a lecture on Starting a Fall Vegetable Garden was offered at the public library. Over 105 participants came to learn the basics of starting a garden and planting the cool season vegetables. Of those who completed evaluations, 95% improved knowledge of growing vegetables in multiple seasons and 80% indicated they intend to grow some cool season vegetables as a result of the class.
Record #: 302 of 2840
Date: 2008-11-21
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Clayton-McGlauflin, Mary
Buncombe County showed a marked increase in both the number and quality of 4-H presentations during 2008. Ten 4-H'ers competed in county-level presentation competition, and all ten qualified to compete at district. Eight of those chose to compete at district and all won either gold or silver medals, qualifying them for State Presentation Finals. Buncombe County 4-H'ers brought home a gold medal, a silver medal and a bronze medal from state presentation competition. In addition, we had the top-scoring Novice Horticulture Judge in the state, a third-place winner of the NC 4-H Photo Contest, as well as a gold medalist and two silver medalists in project records.
Record #: 303 of 2840
Date: 2008-11-21
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Clayton-McGlauflin, Mary
Buncombe County 4-H had a member who served as a West District 4-H Council Officer in 2007-2008 and was elected State 4-H Council Officer for 2008-2009. In addition, one of Buncombe County's 4-H'ers was inducted in the North Carolina 4-H Honor Club, and our newly elected County Council President participated in the recent State Council Conference. New to our county 4-H program, he demonstrates a great deal of enthusiasm and with our current state officer setting an example and mentoring him and other younger 4-H'ers, we have the potential for more state officers in the near future.
Record #: 304 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-21
POW: F1
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Hohenstein, Catherine
Food borne illnesses contribute to increased visits to the emergency room and doctor's offices and missed days from work each year. These illnesses are nearly 100% preventable if safe food handling practices are applied during storing, preserving, preparing and serving foods, especially if followed by those handling and preparing foods for others. Cooperative Extension delivered educational programs to one hundred-seventy-one people who work in school cafeterias on food safety and the School Nutrition ProgramÕs HACCP program. From program worksheets, participants plan to adopt practices that will decrease the chance for food borne illnesses. Cooperative Extension also co-developed a food safety program for recipients of food for MANNA Food Bank and trained sixty people from those agencies. The expected decrease in illnesses will result in decreased visits to the doctor, emergency room and missed days at work and also result in less economic strain for families and the whole community.
Record #: 305 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A15
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Blue, Linda G
There is a nation-wide concern for childhood obesity as well as childrenÕs lack of participation in outdoor activities. School gardens can serve as a valuable resource to introduce children to the natural environment and increase interest in eating fresh vegetables. But funding for such projects is a major impediment in many school systems. In response to this concern, Buncombe County Extension Master Gardeners have implemented a School Garden Grants program. The program uses funds from targeted fundraising activities to support gardening programs in schools by helping to fund the creation or expansion of school garden projects. In the 2007 and 2008 school years, $3,000 was distributed to 9 schools, enabling 1600 students to experience the outdoor classroom.
Record #: 306 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: A15
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Blue, Linda G
As the population of Buncombe County has grown to over 218,000, the demand and need for reliable gardening information has continued to increase. In response to this need Extension Master Gardener Volunteers are trained by the Extension Agent to assist gardeners with environmentally sound horticultural information. The Master GardenersÕ SpeakersÕ Bureau has expanded ExtensionÕs ability to reach Buncombe County citizens by presenting 64 programs. In 2008 this group has included 23 volunteers who have presented educational programs to 2400 people. This program was critical to the effort to extend the resources of NC Cooperative to many more people than one extension agent could provide alone.
Record #: 307 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: CRD-3.1
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Blue, Linda G
As the population of Buncombe County has grown to 218,000, the influx of new homeowners not only increases the demand for reliable horticulture information, but also increases the potential environmental impacts of inappropriate gardening practices. In response to this need Extension Master Gardener Volunteers are trained by the Extension Agent to assist Buncombe County residents with diagnosing problems and learning about environmentally sound gardening practices. In 2008, 111 volunteers assisted over 6,000 people and contributed over 8,000 volunteer work hours, the equivalent of 4 full time employees. An elected Steering Committee functions to better manage the organization and operation of this large group of volunteers. This group of volunteers was critical to extending the resources of Cooperative Extension to better serve the citizens of Buncombe County.
Record #: 308 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-29
POW: A14
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Ostergaard, Nancy
Correctly identifying a household pest and determining the BMP for its control has several impacts. The homeowner not only can alleviate the unwanted pest but can also save financially when using the proper control method, protect the environment by reducing pesticide use, and not expose themselves to unnecessary pesticides. During 2008 the Buncombe County agent answered over 300 phone inquiries, appeared on a television segment, and wrote two articles reaching over 3000 homeowners on specific insect identification and control.
Record #: 309 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A6
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Stone, Amanda
The Green Industry in Buncombe County has significant economic and environmental impact. Demand for accurate and current information on landscaping and nursery production is high and the supply is low. The Buncombe County Center of Cooperative Extension publishes a monthly Commercial Horticulture Newsletter that is mailed to over 600 subscribers in the county and surrounding counties. It is also available online. Articles include information on best management practices, grower spotlight, educational events and useful tips. In an end-of-the-year 2008 evaluation, 95% of respondents indicated that they read most of the articles and are very satisfied with the content. Subscriber feedback attests to the newsletterÕs impact: Òthe newsletter inspired me to support local nurseries; I have reduced pesticide usage and attend more educational trainings; I am more conscious of my impact on the environmentÓ. Due to the demand, the newsletter will continue to be published monthly.
Record #: 310 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A6
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Stone, Amanda
The Green Industry Specialized Advisory Committee of Cooperative Extension, Buncombe County office, identified a local need among the industry. The educational need is correct pruning techniques for the landscape and nursery. Spanish interpretation of the program is also needed. The Buncombe County office in cooperation with Haywood & Henderson County Extension offices and the Nursery Crops Specialist at the Mountain Horticulture Crops Research and Extension Center held a workshop to address the need. Sixty professionals attended the program, nine of which were Latino and benefited from the Spanish interpreter. End-of-workshop evaluations indicate that 98% of participants gained knowledge and intend to use the skills learned in their profession. Participants attest to the programÕs impact: ÒI can provide a more professional and educated service to meet my customerÕs needs and expectations; Thank you for the extra effort to provide the training in SpanishÓ. The pruning workshop will be offered in 2009.
Record #: 311 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A7
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Stone, Amanda
The honeybee pollinates billons of dollars of agricultural crops and is in danger of dying from diseases, pests and loss of habitat. Buncombe County Beekeepers Chapter (BCBC) in cooperation with NC Cooperative Extension, Buncombe County office raised enough money from local businesses to purchase twenty-five bee hives complete with honeybees. Each hive with bees has a dollar value of $300. These hives were awarded as scholarship hives to the top students of the 2008 Western North Carolina Beginner Beekeeping School. The scholarship hive winners received mentoring by experienced beekeepers and were encouraged to attend the monthly club meetings. As a result, several of these new beekeepers are now teaching others about keeping honeybees, one is serving as a Director of BCBC and lastly we are conserving honeybees and providing people with an opportunity to keep honeybees for generations to come. Scholarship hives will be awarded at the 2009 Beekeeping School.
Record #: 312 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: F3
Location: Buncombe
Person Reporting: Ostergaard, Nancy
Reaching individuals in an urban setting may require innovative methods of delivering educational programs. During 2008 the housing and environmental Family and Consumer Science agent had over 338 programs shown on the Buncombe County Government Television channel. Among the myriad of topics addressed were sun safety, removing mold, saving energy in the home and self protection against mosquitoes. The length of the various informational shows varied from a short PSA to over an hour. The total programming effort for the year was 2896 minutes or over 48 hours of programming. As a result of this method of program delivery the Buncombe Extension Center not only reached additional individuals but it also was an added marketing tool for what Extension offers in Buncombe County to our residents.
Record #: 313 of 2840
Date: 2008-03-06
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
A total of 28 Burke county Master Gardeners traveled to the Southern Spring Show in Charlotte on February 29 to participate in Master Gardener Day at the show. They attended gardening seminars on the Great Garden Stage and walked through the show stopping at the Extension Learning Center that was manned by master Gardeners. This experience gave them an idea of just how extensive and vital the Master Gardener program is here in NC and they were impressed.
Record #: 314 of 2840
Date: 2008-03-06
POW: E8
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
A total of 58 private and commercial pesticide applicators completed either two or 4 hours of recertification credits on February 19. These applicators learned about safety nad other topics that help them to be more efficient and to keep themselves and the environment safe from unneeded pesticides. By following best management practices they save money when applying pesticides correctly.
Record #: 315 of 2840
Date: 2008-04-07
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
As water restrictions continue, different methods of gardening are necessary. Raised beds are efficient and give a large return on their investment. 23 Burke County residents gathered to learn how to construct a raised bed and how to use the bed wisely. They received a materials and cost sheet as well as planting guides as they participated in the construction of a 4 foot by 12 foot raised bed. The bed can be watered with a hose or drip irrigation which is within water restriction guidelines.
Record #: 316 of 2840
Date: 2008-04-07
POW: E8
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
Pesticide recertification classes were held with 26 applicators attending one or both of the sessions for two hours of credit for each session. Participants reviewed safety guidelines as well as transportation and recycling issues. Each applicator that is recertified means a safer environment for the citizens of Burke County as well as the applicators.
Record #: 317 of 2840
Date: 2008-05-01
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
After almost a year of planning and work, the Burke County Master Gardener Volunteer Association completed a community garden, located at the Extension office. Twenty five raised beds were completed and offered to Burke County gardeners who had no place to garden. The beds are all taken and plants are up and growing, providing gardeners with a great source of fresh locally grown food to put on their tables.
Record #: 318 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-18
POW: CRD-1.5
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Williams, Spring A
A year of hard work paid off on April 24 as more than 60 Master Gardeners, County officials, Extension personnel, advisory council members, and other key stakeholders throughout the county met to celebrate the completion of The Master Gardener Volunteer Community Garden and the Report to the People. A ‰ÛÏVine Cutting‰Û ceremony was held on site at the Extension office to officially open the growing season for twenty five community gardeners. Followed by a program from the Extension staff entitled, "Something to Sprout About....Seeds of Change in Burke County Extension." This program shared what the added benefits of the community garden being located at the Burke County Agricultural Building would provide, along with sharing many accomplishments in Extension during the past year. Sharing the partnerships and program accomplishments of Extension in Burke County continue to provide citizens with knowledge and opportunities available throughout the county.
Record #: 319 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-18
POW: CRD-2.1
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Williams, Spring A
Many non-profit organizations often struggle with Staff Development issues. Cooperative Extension can provide essential training, tools, and techniques for groups to enhance their staff development opportunities through Community Development. A local non-profit contacted Cooperative Extension staff to provide a Professional Development Retreat for their organization to include Team-Building, Communication Strategies, and Strategic Planning to enhance and improve their agency. The retreat was held over a two-day period providing a variety of professional development tools, techniques, and hands-on activities. The non-profit organization reported the retreat had provided them with additional information and guidance, as well as helped the staff grow as a team. Since the retreat the organization has improved teamwork and communication helping them to become more efficient and providing a positive work environment.
Record #: 320 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-23
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
Pesticides available to homeowners change often and it is difficult to know what the stores carry. Morganton Hardware ordered a specific list of pesticides for home gardeners the agent recommended. The agent did two inservice trainings with store employees to teach them what to recommend to their customers. Sales of the products and customer satisfaction have been overwhelming at the store and the agent hopes to involve additional stores next season. The partcipating store said that it increased sales $150 to $400 per day.
Record #: 321 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-25
POW: F1
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Summers, Eleanor
Improving the nutritional diet of seniors with limited resources often contributes to better health, a sense of well-being and savings in dollars spent on health care. Residents of a local Section 8 housing complex attended a workshop to learn about benefits of healthier foods and eating foods that have benefits to improving blood pressure, heart maintenance, and reduced diabetic complications. 12 women and 2 men received a week of healthy menus featuring basic mixes that could be used to prepare meals. More than 50% of participants prepared and froze basic mixes or shared with other residents within the first two weeks following the workshop. Residents made a commitment to eat fruits and vegetables with high nutritional value for better health.
Record #: 322 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-25
POW: F1
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Summers, Eleanor
Families in the community who have at-risk children can benefit from services of community agencies that provide in-home visits. Cooperative Extension responded to a request for nutritional in-service training for staff in a four-county area that work with women who are pregnant or have children from birth to eight years of age. Through two workshops in partnership with the agency, 30 members of the staff received training in interpreting the USDA MyPyramid, assessing nutritional status of clients, and promoting physical activity for families. Extension educational materials were provided during the training to provide reinforcement for staff and for use with clients.
Record #: 323 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: 4H-2.2
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Davis, John
Burke County Cooperative Extension and Burke County 4-H identified building future life skills and educating youth about entrepreneurship as issues to address in 2008. In collaboration with Western Piedmont Community College and NC REAL, Burke County 4-H hosted Youth Entrepreneurship Camp which had 25 middle school students to participate. Of the 25 students, all 25 reported knowledge gained in the areas of entrepreneurship, marketing/advertising, managing finances, and customer service. All participants also expressed interested in continuing to learn more about entrepreneurship by coming to future camps and by taking business classes later in their school careers.
Record #: 324 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-27
POW: 4H-1.3
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Davis, John
Upon finishing the National 4-H Council ATV Safety Grant in April, Burke County Cooperative Extension and Burke County 4-H continue to identify proper ATV safety education for youth as a major need in our county. Through the ATV Safety program, more than 500 youth and adults have been reached so far in 2008. Through Burke County 4-H, five adults and five youth have been rider certified by completing the ASI ATV RiderCourse this year as taught by Burke County 4-H instructors. The Burke County 4-H ATV Safety program continues to distribute information and knowledge to the general public at various community events.
Record #: 325 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A1
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Pollard, John D
With ongoing drought, forage availability continues to be a problem for livestock producers. Cool season grasses become dormant, and fail to provide adequate forage when producers need it most. Cooperative Extension worked with producers to provide education on alternative forages, and best management practices for pasture management. Twelve producers established perennial warm season grass pastures, and thirteen others used warm season annuals to fill a gap in their forage program. These warm season grass pastures have saved producers an average of $1350.00 in feed costs alone, for a total savings of $33750.00. There will be additional value in savings as cool season grass pasture vitality has been enhanced and its duration extended due to reduced grazing pressure during this long dry period.
Record #: 326 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A1
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Pollard, John D
Coccidiosis is a major problem in the small ruminant industry. A number of local producers suffered multiple outbreaks with considerable losses. The problem was that the animals were being treated for worms without consideration of coccidiosis. Cooperative Extension recognizing the problem, worked with producers to get animals submitted for necropsy and utilize the diagnosis to begin correcting the problem. Cooperative Extension helped producers make management changes that were less conducive to coccidiosis and to use more effective prevention and control methods to limit on farm losses. In all, nine producers were affected, and they indicated that new management procedures and prevention protocols saved them an average of $575.00 for a total savings of $5175.00. Additionally, improved feed efficiency and weight gains from less coccidiosis added an estimated 1570 lbs. of additional weight, equal to an additional $218.00 to the producerÕs bottom line.
Record #: 327 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-1.3
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Lamb, Carol
I assisted our 4-H Agent in organizing and coordinating an ATV Safety Clinic at an ATV Dealership in Burke County and for a local middle school group. Increasing ATV Safety Awareness (especially youth) throughout Burke County has been a successful endeavor I've been working with all year.
Record #: 328 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A1
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Pollard, John D
With input costs continually rising and cattle prices dropping, cow-calf producers in Burke County are facing a critical crossroads. Record high feed and fertilizer costs are challenging many producers as they make decisions for the future. Balancing stocking rate with a sustainable grazing system has complicated both short and long-term decision-making. Recognizing this crisis, Extension teamed with Natural Resources Conservation Service to provide programming to help producers establish and maintain a sustainable forage program. The Livestock Agent developed an outline and slide program, educating producers on the value of soil sampling, pasture establishment and maintenance, inter-seeding legumes, and rotational grazing. In Burke County, 24 producers attended, and 20 stated they would definitely soil test. 18 producers indicated they would reduce stocking rate in order to be more sustainable and 9 producers adopted rotational grazing, and renovated pastures with NRCS cost-share money, for a total cost savings of $ 52,531.00.
Record #: 329 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-30
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
Home lawns have suffered over the last couple of years and homeowners don't know how to help their lawns. A fall lawn care workshop was held at Morganton Ace Hardware on Saturday, September 13 with 42 homeowners in attendance. Fall seeding, fertilization and weed control was covered and a good portion of the time was spent answering specific questions. this is a good venue because of access to lawn products and equipment.
Record #: 330 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-30
POW: E8
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
Two pesticide recertification classes were held in September giving both private and commercial applicators the opportunity to earn credits. Many categories were offered credits and attendance was excellent in both sessions.
Record #: 331 of 2840
Date: 2008-11-07
POW: A15
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
A program was presented by the agent in co-operation with Burke Soil and Water Conservation to homeowners who live on Lake James. The program targeted safe landscaping practices for homes located on the water water and also showed some alternative watering techniques involving cisterns, soaker hoses, rain gardens and drought tolerant plants. Twenty three homeowners from two Lake James developments attended the meeting. Hopefully some programs for the homeowners associations will stem from this workshop.
Record #: 332 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-03
POW: E8
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
In an effort to complete Burke County's obligation to the Pesticide Container Recycling Grant, 75 rinse nozzles, along with an instructional video about how to use the nozzle and information with recycling site locations was mailed to Burke County nurserymen and landscapers. We hope that this information will be used to train employees and also to encourage them to use these recycling sites. Although nozzles and information has been available at pesticide trainings, etc. it is hoped that this additional information and video will give growers and landscapers a gentle push in the right direction.
Record #: 333 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-03
POW: CRD-1.1
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Williams, Spring A
In 2008 Burke County created an Entrepreneurship Task Force for the county. Working with this committee, the Burke Cooperative Extension staff stepped up to the plate offering a variety of entrepreneurial training opportunities, from a youth day camp to starting an ag-based business. One youth participating with her father attended several trainings and decided to start their own business of boarding and training horses. With the skills and knowledge gained through Cooperative Extension, they developed their own marketing video and linked it to their website to help market their business.
Record #: 334 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-03
POW: CRD-3.2
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Williams, Spring A
The Burke County Extension Advisory Council has several working committees. One advisory member on the Education working committee identified the need for science resources for the youth in the county. She worked closely with Burke Extension staff and advisory members to create "The Science Neighborhood." This notebook is packed with science, math, and other educational resources available to public, private, and home school teachers throughout Burke County. In addition, to market "The Science Neighborhood," she set up meetings with the Extension staff and School administrators to discuss the project and how best to utilize this valuable resource. This advisory member used her leadership and advocacy skills to promote and provide Extension resources throughout Burke County.
Record #: 335 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: F1
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Summers, Eleanor
Burke County Cooperative Extension provided staff training in nutrition and food safety for The Family, Infant and Preschool Program (FIPP) using the Eat Smart Move More curriculum. Thirty staff from Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, and Alexander met in Morganton to learn about using the USA food pyramid in coaching and family support for clients with whom they work in family support programs for pregnant women and children birth through eight years of age. Both nutrition and physical activity curriculum was developed as resources for staff to use as professional development.
Record #: 336 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: F1
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Summers, Eleanor
Research has shown that the healthy habits youth learn when they are young stay with them as adults. Good nutrition, the importance of being active and knowledge of food safety practices are key concepts youth need to learn at a young age. Sessions with "Be Healthy with New Health AttitudesÓ for youth in three age groups were offered in workshops through local African-American churches. Ninety percent of participants set goals for making healthy food choices, increasing physical activity, and reading food labels. All participants learned safe food handling and hand washing techniques.
Record #: 337 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: F1
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Summers, Eleanor
High School seniors in Burke County are required to complete a senior project as criteria for graduation. A student and her mentor contacted the Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent to obtain resources needed to learn about nutrition and food safety. As a result of resources provided in menu planning, nutrition, food safety, financial resources and chronic disease prevention, the student developed a cookbook and improved her daily living conditions at home with her family unit. The graduating senior is Latino and the mother of a toddler. She is living with an extended family and now teaching her family by setting a positive example in applying lessons she learned.
Record #: 338 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-22
POW: E8
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Teasley, Donna
Consumers depend on Extension to make pesticide recommendations. These recommendations come from the MC Ag Chemicals Manual. The problem is that most retailers don't carry the chemicals that the agent recommends so the consumer ends up using something that doesn't work. The agent researched brand names of chemicals that matched the chemical recommendations from the Ag Chemicals Manual and invited garden retailers to a breakfast to talk about these pesticides. A handout was given to participants with chemical and brand names so that retailers could order the proper pesticides for their customers.
Record #: 339 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Davis, John
This year 80 Burke County 4-Hers participated in the livestock programs through our community fairs. Forty-five youth participated in the 4-H Youth Goat Show and 35 youth participated in the 4-H Cattle Show. These youth also exhibited their 4-H project animals. The importance of the livestock program stems from its focus on hands-on learning where responsibility and proper planning are key. Youth set goals for their livestock projects and plan their 4-H schedule to suit. All 80 4-Hers exhibited positive life skill development from working in the livestock program. These 4-Hers have displayed a positive attitude and skill change towards goal setting, communication, problem solving and critical thinking.
Record #: 340 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Davis, John
This year Burke County Cooperative Extension and Burke County 4-H participated in Family Night with Burke Mental Health Partners to promote the benefits of time together with the family unit as well as our diverse community. At this event, Burke County 4-H marketed directly to families in attendance focusing on minority populations within the community. Over 400 families received 4-H materials to introduce them to the programs available. Of these families, 30 have began attending 4-H meetings and become involved in 4-H programs. This event introduced Cooperative Extension and Burke County 4-H to populations that are not normally reached in traditional 4-H settings. This event has worked to positively diversify the Burke County 4-H program and teach Burke County 4-Hers and volunteers about our diverse community.
Record #: 341 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A1
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Pollard, John D
With reduced margins in the livestock industry, producers are seeking ways to minimize costs and maximize profits. Fertilizer costs have soared to record highs, and producers are struggling to keep pastures productive, yet hold costs down. Cooperative Extension, realizing this need, sponsored a workshop on keeping fertilizer costs down. Extension received monetary support from Southern States and an industry agronomist presented a segment on getting the most for the fertilizer dollar. 49 livestock and hay producers attended. 37 indicated they gained knowledge that would help them reduce costs, and 23 indicated the knowledge gained would be useful to their management plans. Surveys of attendees indicated this information would save them an average of $10.00 per acre. With the average farm size of 73 acres, this equates to an estimated savings of $35,770. By using soil testing and precise fertility management, these producers will position themselves to survive in todayÕs marketplace.
Record #: 342 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A3
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Pollard, John D
Livestock is vital to North Carolina's economy, and our farm population is aging. By developing life skills and a knowledge of livestock management in our youth, we are able to instill an understanding and appreciation for agriculture in future generations. Cooperative Extension planned and hosted a Youth and 4H Goat and Cattle Show at the 2008 Burke County Fair and a livestock exhibition at the 2008 Drexel Community Fair. The events brought in forty-three Burke County Youth who were able to exhibit their project animals, learn through competition, and develop management skills that will carry over into their chosen careers. Time management, goal setting, critical thinking, problem solving, leadership, and sportsmanship were all key benefits of this program. Knowledge gained by these youth will be of value throughout their lives, not only personal skills, but also the appreciation and understanding of animal agriculture, and the career pathways it creates.
Record #: 343 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-05
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Burke
Person Reporting: Lamb, Carol
During the months of Sept., Oct., & Nov. I worked weekly with a group of 35 youth and parents exploring the many aspects of Burke County 4-H. During this time participation in our 4-H program increased by approximately 7 families.
Record #: 344 of 2840
Date: 2008-03-31
POW: 4H-1.1
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Jones, Heather R
The health of children is a concern in Cabarrus County, NC as 16% of children in the county are overweight. Cabarrus County Cooperative Extension is making programming addressing the issue of overweight and obesity a priority. Cabarrus County 4-H offered a class ÔMission NutritionÕ for children seven to twelve years old. The class included four, two-hour sessions and topics covered included exercise, food groups, food portions and how to eat healthy while eating out. At the end of the session, 63% of the children reported that they would spend at least 60 minutes a day exercising as a result of the class. Additionally, 100% of the children answered correctly that whole milk has more fat than skim and that it is important to eat breakfast. Sixteen children participated in all four sessions and each increased knowledge about making healthy food choices.
Record #: 345 of 2840
Date: 2008-05-02
POW: A15
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Goforth, David J
Cooperative Extension and Master Gardener Volunteers coordinated a herb festival that attracted 8200 customers and 65 vendors increasing total vendor gross income by $160,000. In addition there were educational displays. 7 educational seminars reached 200 people. Five non profit organizations conducted fund raiser at the festival.
Record #: 346 of 2840
Date: 2008-05-07
POW: F1
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Outen, Pamela C
North Carolina Cooperative Extension, Cabarrus County Center, partnered recently with the new NC State Fruit and Vegetable Science Institute at the NC Research Campus in Kannapolis, NC to kick off their inaugural series of educational classes open to the public. The series entitled "Discovering Nature's Possibilities" kicked off on April 9 with the program "Eating Smart at Home" attended by 125 people. This program offered simple solutions and tools for planning, shopping, fixing and eating more meals at home. Extension encourages people to eat at home because people who eat at home eat more fruits and vegetables and less fat. One participant stated, "The tools and ideas received tonight will make it so much easier to plan and feed my family at home."
Record #: 347 of 2840
Date: 2008-05-12
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Jones, Heather R
Americans are spending less time outdoors and children are suffering from Ônature-deficit disorderÕ as they are disconnected from the natural world. In an attempt to connect children with the natural world, Cabarrus County Cooperative Extension/4-H partnered with the West Cabarrus YMCA to do a butterfly project in the second and third grade after-school program. Participants in the program had the opportunity to watch live caterpillars change into butterflies. The participants observed the caterpillars, chrysalis, and butterflies in an enclosed habitat before releasing the butterflies outside. Thirty-nine children completed a survey at the completion of the project. Ninety-five percent of the children answered they would now throw trash in a trash can so butterflies may have a healthy habitat and 77% of the children reported they will share something they learned about butterflies with someone else. The children learned facts about butterflies and to appreciate butterflies in nature.
Record #: 348 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-09
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Bollenbecker, Beverly H
4-H'ers learned many life skills at First Assembly Afterschool program in Cabarrus County by completing 4-H project records. Forty-five afterschool 4-H'ers completed at least one 4-H project record during the school year. They learned how to manage their time and set goals for their project record. All forty-five reached their goals set with their project records. Some for the first time gave a 4-H presentation on their record book to parents and afterschool 4-H'ers. Each 4-H'er made a display and presented their project record during a 4-H Extravaganza Night. Forty-three out of 45 said they will complete another 4-H record again next school year. All 45 said they learned time mangement skills, how to set and achieve goals set, and how to communicate better with adults and their peers.
Record #: 349 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-10
POW: A1
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Pless, Carl D
Urban growth is rapidly covering what was formerly farmland with asphalt and houses. Extension worked with a Cabarrus County Commissioner appointed Agricultural Advisory Board to continue to inform farmland owners of the opportunity to participate in an Agricultural District and an Enhanced Agricultural District. Currently, over 150 landowners have placed over 11,000 acres into the program in which they agree to continue using their land for agricultural, horticultural or forestry purposes rather than development for the next ten years. About 60 percent of the land is enrolled in the enhanced program. For land to continue to be used for agricultural purposes, farmers must continue to make a profit. With the support of these groups, an application for grant funds to build a livestock slaughter facility has been given partial funding by the NCDA Ag Development and Trust Fund. This will allow local livestock farmers to market directly to the growing
Record #: 350 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-10
POW: A2
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Pless, Carl D
Children in Cabarrus County do not know much about agriculture and agribusiness or about the source of the food that they eat. Extension and over 150 farmer, agribusiness, Master Gardener, Future Farmers of America and home school student volunteers hosted Agribusiness and Environmental Sciences Conservation School Days on September 8-10 during the Cabarrus County Fair to help twenty six hundred sixth grade students learn how farmers practice good stewardship of soil, water, air and forest resources as they use soils and plants to provide feed for animals and raw materials for agribusiness to provide the products that provide the nutrition and clothing for human beings. Students participated in fifty five interactive leaning stations. The Agribusiness and Environmental Sciences Conservation School Days Program was recognized for its effectiveness in educating children by winning 1st place, for fairs under 100,000 in attendance, in the International Association of Fairs competition of innovative program
Record #: 351 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-10
POW: A2
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Pless, Carl D
Average age of farmers in Cabarrus County is 58. There are very few young farmers. Youth are being introduced to agriculture through showing livestock at the Cabarrus County Fair. Three dairy cattle owners provided the dairy animals for six Future Farmer of America youth and four younger children to train to lead for show, prepare for show and exhibit at the Dairy Show at the Cabarrus County Fair. Two beef cattle owners provided beef animals for three Future Farmers of America youth and three younger children to train to lead for show, prepare for show and exhibit at the Beef Show at the Cabarrus County Fair. One youth showed sheep at the Cabarrus County Fair. These children not only gained confidence as their abilities in handling animals increased, but they gained self esteem and enjoyed the experience as they also received ribbons and premiums to support their FFA activities or
Record #: 352 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-10
POW: A1
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Pless, Carl D
Agricultural producers in Cabarrus County average a farm gate gross income of over 18 million dollars annually. Most of it comes from the sale of agricultural commodities that leave the County for processing or adding value and then are shipped back as food items. County Commissioners are interested in a developing a more sustainable food supply within the County. An Agricultural Summit attended by over 100 interested people was held of April 22 to discuss possible ways of developing a more sustainable local food system. Ideas included the development of a local slaughter facility for cattle, goats, sheep and swine that would allow producers to retail market rather than sell commodities.
Record #: 353 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-20
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Jones, Heather R
Childcare workers are presented with a challenge of providing interactive, educational activities for youth during summer months. Cabarrus County Cooperative Extension/4-H partnered with Logan Community Daycare in Concord to offer ÔManners Matter,Õ a 4-H curriculum, to children in grades kindergarten through fifth grade. Two teachers were trained to use the curriculum and the youth were led in activities from the curriculum throughout a six week period. The activities included how to use table manners, how to act in a public place, speaking nicely to others and using polite body language. One teacher reported the youth exhibit manners at mealtimes since having participated in the manners classes and an extension associate observed the youth using manners during another program. Through observation and self-reporting, the 35 African-American and Hispanic youth who participated in the activities learned life skills such as conflict resolution, self-motivation and communication skills.
Record #: 354 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: A15
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Goforth, David J
A new farmers market at North Carolina Research Campus was developed for farmers. 15 farmers were able to sell at this market between May and September. This brings the total of local markets developed by Extension for local farmers to 5 markets on 4 different sites.
Record #: 355 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: A1
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Goforth, David J
Extension helped Piedmont Farmers market prepare to extend thier season. With Extensions guidance new rules were developed and doors purchased and installed at the market building. The market remained open for an additional two months which increase the income of 10 vendors.
Record #: 356 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: A1
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Goforth, David J
A presentation on edible landscaping was developed and presented at 7 different venues to a total of 230 people. This included Stowe Botanical Garden, Southern Spring Show, Greater Charlotte Home and Garden Expo, Ideal Home Show, North Carolina Research Campus, and 2 local garden clubs. Participants indicated they learned to choose appropriate species and varieties of edible plants for their landscape.
Record #: 357 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Jones, Heather R
The Cabarrus County Cooperative Extension /4-H and Logan Community Daycare in Concord, NC partnered to provide a program for a group of youth in an afterschool program during fall 2008. The program was conducted by the 4-H Agent and took place one hour a week for eight weeks. With the guidance of the afterschool teachers, the curriculum ÒGrowing on My OwnÓ was used. At the conclusion of the session, 94% of the youth reported that as a result of the class they would plan to achieve a goal and 88% reported they would help others. Out of the 17 youth surveyed, 15 stated the class and activities during the classes were very good. The two teachers were present the entire program and conveyed they thought the program was very good as well. Teachers were exposed to 4-H curriculum as the 4-H agent modeled how to use the curriculum.
Record #: 358 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: F1
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Outen, Pamela C
The Cabarrus County nutrition director, Tina Farmer, asked NC Cooperative Extension, Cabarrus County Center to teach school food service workers about proper food handling and serving procedures. All 225 school system cafeteria workers attended a four hour training session which was offered at six different times during 2008. Completing the HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points) training helped workers provide students safe food in Cabarrus school cafeterias.
Record #: 359 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: F1
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Outen, Pamela C
In Cabarrus County the combined percentage of overweight and obese is 62.5% of all adults.NC Cooperative Extension, Cabarrus County Center partnered with the county wellness program to address this need by providing a 14 week program focused on healthy eating and physical activity. Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less was held at a downtown location during the noon hour. Information regarding nutrition and physical activity education was shared weekly, with 21 participants completing the program and losing a total of 257.4 pounds.Nine people lowered their blood pressure and thirteen moved to a lower Body Mass Index (BMI). Increased portion control, more mindful eating, increased fruit, vegetable and fiber consumption and a more careful reading of labels were the most consistent behavior changes reported.
Record #: 360 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: F1
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Outen, Pamela C
Older adults participating in the Logan Congregate Nutrition Site were the target audience of a sixteen week program FCS:Promoting Healthy Eating Across North Carolina during 2008 in Cabarrus County,NC. These adults were found to have an inadequate amount of calcium, fruit and vegatables and fiber in their diets. NC Cooperative Extension , Cabarrus County Center presented this weekly program sharing information on nutrition, food safety, budgeting, and physical activity. Thirty two participants were enrolled in this program, and 100%completing this program responded that their overall knowledge of nutrition had improved, and that they were consuming more fruits and vegetables. 87.5%are now comparing unit prices when choosing the most affordable product and 68.8% plan to use loyalty cards and coupons to save money.
Record #: 361 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: F1
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Outen, Pamela C
The summer of 2008 saw an increased interest in food preservation in Cabarrus County,NC. NC Cooperative Extension, Cabarrus County responded by offering Basics of Home Canning Classes and Introduction to Home Canning classes as well as dial gauge pressure canning testing and exhibits on canning and drying at local farmer's markets.The 32 participants in the canning classes learned to can using a water bath or pressure canner. One participant , who had never canned before, captured several first place canning awards at the local Cabarrus County Fair using skills he learned in the canning classes!These classes and educational outreach efforts teaches the skills and confidence needed for safe home canning while saving food dollars for families.
Record #: 362 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: F1
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Outen, Pamela C
NC Cooperative Extension, Cabarrus County has continued partnering with Cabarrus Family Medicine to offer the series of classes Families Eating Smart Moving More once each quarter during 2008.Classes focus on planning meals at home, adding physical activity to your daily routine, eating smart on the run and watching less televison. Through this ongoing effort to fight obesity families are making changes in their lives by improving their diet and activity level. One mother, Michelle Ronacher recently reports that she and her son completed this program several years ago and it made "a huge impact on my overweight son.He now chooses to walk more and take the stairs. He helps me make a grocery shopping list every week and he helps me grocery shop for what we need.We eat a lot more fruits and veggies instead of junk snacks, and we only have a soft drink as a special treat".
Record #: 363 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: F1
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Outen, Pamela C
The Cabarrus County Governmental Channel 22 has provided a new form of mass media education for NC Cooperative Extension Cabarrus County's Family and Consumer Sciences program. The first segment of Eating Smart appeared in late November 2007, and six additional programs have been taped during 2008 by the FCS agent. Each segment is aired several times daily reaching a viewing audience of over 80,000. Segments have focused on quick,easy,and nutritional recipes using sesonal foods and simple preparation techniques. A citizens telephone survey of 402 people between the September 24-October 8,2008 time period confirmed that 27% were aware of Eating Smart and of those aware of the program,they gave the program a rating of 5.6 on a 1-9 rating scale. Anything above a 5 rating is considered a success. 45% of the surveyed participants were between the age of 18 and 24 years of age,a population that we usually do not reach
Record #: 364 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: F2
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Outen, Pamela C
Partnerships allow small agencies to come together to offer the entire community day long educational events and opportunities. The NC Cooperative Extension Program, Cabarrus County joined the Department of Aging and Carolinas Medicial Center - Northeast to offer the annual Senior Health and Wellness Day in March 2008.This event was attended by over 1,000 seniors who benefitted from health screenings, exhibits, and active living demonstrations. Also in March, Cooperative Extension and the Cabarrus County Extension and Community Association teamed with Cabarrus Partnership for Children and other children's agencies to offer the 13th annual Coming Together for Children Conference for over 800 day care teachers and parents. Participants benefitted from workshops, exhibits and award recognitions.
Record #: 365 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A1
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Pless, Carl D
Cabarrus County Commissioners have the vision of a more sustainable community. They want food produced locally to be available to local folks. The average farmer age is 58. With few exceptions, local farmers do not produce vegetables and fruits for sale. Extension is joining with other county departments to start a Small Farm Incubator on property donated to the county. In October, the existing sod and weeds were rotary mowed and immediately rotovated into the soil. Calcitic lime, colloidal phosphate and stockpiled turkey litter was tilled into the soil. A rye, crimson clover and hairy vetch cover crop was established. A dozen individuals have completed applications to be participating farmers. They will attend classes in early 2009 to learn about soils, production, marketing techniques and develop a business plan to grow nutrient dense, insect and disease resistant, high quality produce,before farming one half acre plots.
Record #: 366 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A1
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Pless, Carl D
Cabarrus County Commissioners have the vision of a more sustainable community. They want food produced locally to be available to local folks. Cattle have been the countyÕs largest income producer for quite a few years. The closest slaughter plant is an hour and a half. Extension assisted the county in the successful application for a NCDA Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation grant to add a livestock slaughter plant to an existing meat processing plant. The process of obtaining water, waste water and construction permits is underway. When the plant becomes operational, local farmers can market direct to consumers, institutional buyers and restaurants fresh, natural, forage or grain fed beef, pork, lamb and goat. Extension conducted several educational meetings to help interested farmers determine if direct marketing meat should be a part of their production enterprise.
Record #: 367 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A2
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Pless, Carl D
Students lack understanding of the connection between farmers producing food on living soils and high quality, nutrient dense food products. Extension professionals and others presented round table discussions for 230 ninth grade students during the Carolina Living Green Exposition held at the Cabarrus Arena and Events Center. Extension discussed the relationship between living soils and the production of high quality, nutrient dense, insect and disease resistant, high quality produce. Groups of students rotated to a new topic every 25 minutes. The last three rotation times had to be shortened. Extension was not aware of the schedule change. ExtensionÕs discussion was not finished in time for the next rotation. The students in this shortened program group requested to stay to hear the rest of this presenterÕs discussion rather than to rotate to another topic. The teens were genuinely interested in what it takes to produce higher quality, nutrient dense food products.
Record #: 368 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Bollenbecker, Beverly H
North Carolina Cooperative Extension partners with afterschool programs throughout Cabarrus County to provide quality training to child care professionals. Cooperative Extension provided 82 hours of instruction during the 2007-08 school year. More than 450 afterschool professionals took advantage of Cooperative Extension's expertise in offering 4-H curriculum training. These professionals then provide more than 3,600 youth hands-on programs using 4-H curriculum during afterschool hours.
Record #: 369 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Bollenbecker, Beverly H
Studies show that when youth engage in leadership opportunities they are more likely to be active in their communities as adults. One way 4-H can provide afterschool 4-H'ers with leadership opportunities is to elect club officers. To make sure officers understand their duties, a 4-H Club Officer's Retreat is provided. A total of 212 club officers and their families attended this reteat. When surveyed, 87% of the parents are more familiar with 4-H and appreciate their child being a part of such a rewarding organization.
Record #: 370 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Cabarrus
Person Reporting: Bollenbecker, Beverly H
In collaboration with Child Care Resources, Inc., Cabarrus County Cooperative Extension co-sponsored a morning-long conference for afterschool professionals. The conference was held on October 16, which was a day set aside for communities to be aware of the importance of afterschool. Lights On Afterschool is celebrated nationally each year in October. Eighty-two afterschool professionals attended the morning-long conference. Ninety seven percent of the afterschool teachers surveyed would like to see this conference offered again next year. One professional from Bethel Kids:Plus stated "This is the best workshops I have been to in a long time. Thank you so much for honoring us as professionals. The quality of workshops you offered was outstanding. You have given me the motivation and wisdom to continue in afterschool care."
Record #: 371 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-26
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Schuszler, Jeanette D
The Saddle Club and the Equestrian team have continued to grow in numbers and in quality. This year Caldwell county had the most entries it has ever had in the SW District horse show. We had 8 riders, plus 5 youth that went to observe. Including parents, and teachers, we had a total of 25 representing Caldwell county at the show. This is a great % increase, as we have only had rider qualified to attend the district show for the past 3 years.
Record #: 372 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-16
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
The Caldwell County Extension Center trained thirteen 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 $5400.00 to Caldwell County.
Record #: 373 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-12
POW: CRD-3.2
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
Five 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 peroid. Extension networked with WPCOG and NRCS in the application of these moneys in the Harpertown community of Caldwell County. The land clearance project alone was valued at 120,000.00. Also, qualifying homes in this Africian/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. Volunteers continued to spray and mow for control of weeds and kuduz, value to community $1000.00
Record #: 374 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-16
POW: E7
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
Water quality has been identified as a problem in the Lower Creek watershed. A city park (Wilson Park) has a small tributary that flows into lower creek. This small tributary is an eye sore, a maintenance headache, and a water quality problem. To help improve this the Caldwell Extension Center and the NC State University College of Biological & Agricultural Engineering (BAE) in cooperation with the City of Lenoir developed a plan. The plan is to restore the tributary stream to a stable, functional stream. The NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) awarded $120,000 to implement the project. The project is currently in the construction phase and will be finished in early summer of 2008. The project goals are to improve water quality, provide education, and increase aesthetics of the park.
Record #: 375 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-12
POW: E7
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
Water quality has been identified as a major problem in the lower creek watershed. To help the City of Lenoir, the Caldwell Extension Center and the NC State University College of Biological & Agricultural Engineering (BAE) in cooperation with Caldwell County developed a storm water management plan. The plan is to convert three acres of developed floodplain to a functional wetland. Flowing into this wetland is a 120 acre neighborhood. The NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) through the Clean Water Management Trust Fund has awarded $770,000 toward this project. The project is currently in the design phase. Construction will begin in the spring of 2008 and the project will be monitored for 5 years to determine its impact on water quality. The neighborhood is excited for the project to begin.
Record #: 376 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-18
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
A homeowner visited the Caldwell County Extension Center needing help reading his Soil Sample Report form NCDA. The agent explain how to read the report and how to use the information it contained. The gentleman was surprised and happy to learn that his lawn didn't need ANY lime, seems like a "big box store" had just sold him $160.00 worth of bagged lime. He returned it and got his money back, thus saving the $160.00.
Record #: 377 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-18
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
The design of low maintenance landscapes and productive home gardens are important to Caldwell County homeowners. The need for information in a timely manner is of upmost concern. The Center provided horticultural information to 2500 clients, 235 phone calls were answered with a per call value of $40.00 (Total value,9400 $). Application of knowledge gained increased individual land value by an estimated amount of $2000.00 and vegetable garden production value by $950.00.
Record #: 378 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-19
POW: E4
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
Waste management and recycling are areas of major interest and concern of the Caldwell County Commissioners. The Caldwell County Co-operative Extension Center continued to lead the county's recycling educational programs. Reduction realized during the first six months included: Mixed paper...1777.5 tons, Cardboard...2050 tons, Aluminum cans...52.7 tons. Project Hero resulted in 5775 gallons of used motor oil being recycled.
Record #: 379 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-19
POW: F5
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L
The CDC and FDA have recently been quick to respond to the tomato produce Salmonella,outbreak. The Caldwell County FCS agent was conducting a food safety class at the same time and this provided an opportunity to introduce class members with the resources and specialists at NC State and Cooperative Extension. A class of 18 students put into practice best management practices. One student posted the time and temperature logs provided and instructed the staff on their use. The student also posted Extension Business Card by the phone for her staff to call with food related questions. Great Marketing opportunity.
Record #: 380 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-19
POW: F4
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L
North Carolina population demographics have changed dramatically since 2000. The population grew in many rural areas as well as urban. The different groups of people from different cultures continues to present community misunderstandings and conflicts. As a member of the Diversity Catalyst Team from Caldwell County services were requested by another county to provide diversity workshop for employees of a social services department of Vance County. 125 employees will be provided a two hour training.Two agents will provide the training with an average cost of $95.00 dollars for four sessions plus travel expenses provides service for $1,032. Market value is 250.00/person or $31,250 A savings of 30,000 dollars to local government.
Record #: 381 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-25
POW: A6
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Adkins, Craig R
Greenhouse and nursery producers are faced with decreasing profit margins with increases in fuel, fertilizer and daily operating expenses. A day-long program on Alternative Energy Practices for the Green Industry was attended by 48 growers exploring new and innovative methods for reducing operating costs in their businesses. All (100%) of the participants surveyed indicated an increased awareness on new, cost-saving technologies or practices that could be implemented at their businesses. Of the 48 growers, 26 plan to adopt at least two of the cost-saving practices in 2008.
Record #: 382 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-25
POW: A6
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Adkins, Craig R
Small and limited-resource farmers continue to explore alternative or value-added crops for their agricultural enterprises. One area of potential growth in the foothills and mountain regions of North Carolina is boxwood production. A 1/2 day program was held by the NCCES agent for 33 individuals exploring the feasibility of starting or expanding into boxwood production. Of the 33 participants, 29 have diversified or expanded into this nursery enterprise. As a result, 23 are very optimistic and 6 optimistic about the future sustainability of the family farm.
Record #: 383 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-26
POW: 4H-1.1
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Schuszler, Jeanette D
Debbie Cox, FCS Agent, and Jeanette Schuszler, 4-H Agent, worked as a team to teach "healthy eating and food safety" to 3rd graders at Valmead Elementary School. As a result of a grant, we were able to work with 3 classes of 3rd graders, meeting with each class a total of 10 times. At each meeting, we took healthy snacks for the children, discussed appropriate nutrition information and/or food safety issues at each class. Both the principal, the teachers, and the youth were very positive in their evaluations. The children gained knowledge in order to change their snacking habits.
Record #: 384 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-26
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Schuszler, Jeanette D
A new volunteer discussed with me the possibility of starting a 4-H Dog club. We began the club with an open meeting, attended by 15 people. It was decided to set a schedule of events, beginning with a series of free dog training to attract new members. Other events completed have included: Bark in the Park, a demonstration by show dogs and owners,and community service with the Humane society. This is a good example of a project started by local need and input.
Record #: 385 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-26
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Schuszler, Jeanette D
One of our Caldwell County 4-H youth offered, and presented, a program to our Cloverbud club on robotics. The program was very well done, and as a result, one of the parents invited the youth to come to their school and present the program to the 5th graders. As a result, this 4-H robotics presentation reached 50 additional youth. The presenter also received the gold medal in Science and Technology at DAD.
Record #: 386 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-26
POW: 4H-3.2
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Schuszler, Jeanette D
Three teens recently attended the NC Citizenship Focus in Raleigh. They went as a group to visit each of their senators and representatives. At each meeting, they decided that a different youth would be "in charge" of the conversation and questions. I attended with them, but only as an observer. the congressmen were very impressed by their knowledge,ideas, and questions, as well as by their poise and excellent manners. The youth were very positive and enthusiastic about what they learned. Two of the three youth plan to apply o become pages, and they are all working on a presentation about their experiences for the 4-H county council and for the county commissioners.
Record #: 387 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-26
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Schuszler, Jeanette D
The teachers and guidance counselor at William Lenoir Middle School have continued to be very enthusiastic about the 4-H enrichment clubs in 4 7th grade classes. children have gained skills in: ATV safety, science, tobacco prevention, internet safety. Evaluations from teachers and from youth were very positive, and they have invited us to continue next fall.
Record #: 388 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-26
POW: E8
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H
Plastic pesticide containers can be recycled in Caldwell County. There are two manned convenience sites in the County that accept empty pesticide containers. The County recycling program has been in place for ten years. There has been significant worker turnover both at the County convenience sites and on local farms. To help educate the new folks about the container program Extension partnered with Caldwell County and the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (NCDA&CS). Convenience site workers were trained at a dinner meeting on what is and is not acceptable. Farmers and farm works are being trained at pesticide recertification meetings. They are being provided pressure rinse nozzles so they rinse all pesticide residue from the containers. The funding for these initiatives is through NCDA&CS Pesticide Environmental Trust Fund (PETF). This training is reducing the number of rejected containers by the container recycler. Each rejected container costs the County $4.27 in landfill space.
Record #: 389 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-01
POW: A6
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Adkins, Craig R
A nursery grower was experiencing problems with his 2008 Japanese maple crop. When plant dieback and leaf drop occurred the grower was facing a potential loss valued at $65,000. The grower contacted the NCCES agent, and the problem identified as a combination of foliar blight disease problems. Once appropriate control measures were implemented, the grower was able to turn the crop around. As a result the grower will be able to market 100% of the 2008 crop.
Record #: 390 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-01
POW: A6
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Adkins, Craig R
A small greenhouse grower was experiencing mid-season problems with his 2008 poinsettia crop. When plant decline and stunting occurred the grower was facing a potential loss of sales valued at $28,000. Profits from the sale of the poinsettias are used each year by the grower to buy fuel and supplies for his spring crop of bedding plants and potted foliage plants. The grower contacted the NCCES agent, and the problem identified as a combination of cultural and nutritional problems. After appropriate production practices were implemented, the grower was able to turn the crop around. As a result, the grower sold 85% of his 2008 crop for $23,800. Income generated from poinsettia sales will now be used to purchase supplies and to heat the greenhouse this winter so that the grower will be able to offer crops to the public in the spring.
Record #: 391 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-02
POW: A6
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Adkins, Craig R
Nursery growers in the foothills are growing over 300 species of ornamental plants. Each year new species and cultivars are added to nursery inventories. This practice increases the potential that new and emerging pests may be introduced into the foothills. 426 growers and employees attended IPM seminars and on-farm scouting programs to learn techniques for scouting nursery fields for existing and emerging pest problems. 118 growers participating in the 2008 program realized a savings of $1,062,000 on chemical, labor and equipment costs by adopting and implementing IPM on 4,538 acres planted in ornamental plants. Those participating in the 2008 program have indicated that implementing IPM helped them to produce quality plants by staying on top of potential pest problems.
Record #: 392 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-02
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Adkins, Craig R
Commercial and municipal landscape professionals are often delegated to be responsible for ornamental plant selection, planting and maintenance. This often results in the over planting of select ornamental species in the landscape. As a result, this leads to potentially widespread insect, mite and disease infestations. In addition, environmental and cultural problems often exist due to improper plant selection for the planting sites. The NCCES agent presented workshops and trainings for 214 individuals on proper plant selection and maintenance for landscape plantings. Those in attendance were surveyed and 175 (82%) indicated that they plan to diversify future plant selections for landscapes, and implement updated maintenance practices. Potential results include an increase in plant varieties installed, and a diminished likelihood of widespread pest infestations at these landscape sites.
Record #: 393 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-02
POW: A6
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Adkins, Craig R
A concern with the public in regards to the landscape industry is the offsite movement of sediment, fertilizers and pesticides. To address this concern a series of workshops on landscape IPM and Best Management Practices were held for 297 landscapers and their employees. This series focused on innovative BMP and IPM techniques for the landscape. 97% of surveyed participants increased their knowledge on the prevention and management of pest problems through non-chemical methods. To date, 88% of surveyed participants have implemented one or more of the recommended practices resulting in a savings of $110,925 in chemical and labor costs. Those practices related to IPM have resulted in less pesticides being applied to the environment, and has created an awareness among 99% of the landscapers and employees surveyed on how to become better environmental stewards.
Record #: 394 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-03
POW: A6
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Adkins, Craig R
Municipalities and field nurseries in the foothills region share the same water source used for public consumption and agricultural production. Lake Rhodhiss in the Catawba River Basin has been identified as a threatened watershed from the off-site movement of sediment into the watershed. To encourage growers to continue to protect this watershed as environmental stewards, the NCCES agent trained 171 growers and employees on conservation Best Management Practices (BMPs) for field nurseries. As a result, 76 nurseries have adopted and implemented onto 6,820 acres one or more BMPs such as permanent cover crops, grassed waterways, filter strips, nutrient and pest management plans, and field borders to minimize offsite movement of sediment, pesticides and fertilizers into the Lake Rhodhiss watershed. 2,000 acres were soil sampled and fertilized according to NCDA and NCCES recommendations. Six growers installed Agrochemical Mixing Facilities to eliminate potential offsite movement of pesticides into the watershed.
Record #: 395 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-02
POW: A6
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Adkins, Craig R
Greenhouse growers have lost crops and potential profits due to improper selection of appropriate control methods for insect, mite and disease problems. 78 growers were trained on greenhouse crops IPM. 88% or 68 growers have made an attempt to integrate IPM techniques into their production systems. 76% of those trained are now applying fewer pesticides to crops and the environment. 97% of the trained growers have an increased awareness on being a better environmental steward. Results have included: an improved profit return through chemical savings; an increased awareness of the judicious use of chemicals; a lessened potential for pesticide resistance in the greenhouse; an enhanced familiarity with IPM scouting and monitoring techniques; a beneficial weapon for a grower's arsenal against pests; and a quality product demanding premium prices.
Record #: 396 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-10
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
Many home gardeners contact the Caldwell County Extension Center seeking information on plant selection, cultural practices, and pest control. The Ag-Succotash Newsletter is mailed to an average of 365 county residents each month. Based on a face to face survey of 65 random subscribers 99.8 percent indicated the newsletter increased their knowledge and 70 percent indicated it helped them save time or money. Increasing their knowledge of environmental stewardship, they learned: correct fertilizing practices (80%), correct pruning (65%), selecting plants suited to the location (90%), mulching (90%), soil testing (55%), and pest identification (75%).
Record #: 397 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-10
POW: A16
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
The Caldwell Extension Center was approached by several 4-H Leaders who saw the need for training 4-H'ers in basic Horticultural techniques. Nine 4-H youth and 4 leaders learned the proper methods of planning, building, maintaining, and harvesting from a home vegetable garden. They learned how: to do and use a soil test, what varieties best suited for our area, scouting for insect/disease problems and treatment, composting, plus weed ID and control methods. All participants stated they now have a better understanding of benefits, rewards ($850.00 value of normal home garden) and satisfaction coming from doing home gardening.
Record #: 398 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-10
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 homelandscape by $1800.00.
Record #: 399 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-10
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
The Caldwell County Extension Center was approached again this year by the City of Lenoir Economic Development Council for help with planting the planters which are part of the redevelopment effort of the "down town" area. Eleven Master Gardeners and the Extension Agent spent a Saturday morning planting the 29 planters lining the streets of the city. During this time, they also trained 4 city workers on the proper planting and care of the plants. Value to the City of Lenoir was approximately $2000.00.
Record #: 400 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-10
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
*Thirteen people attended and completed the Master Gardeners training. Over five hundred volunteer hours with a value of $8,750.00.00 was returned to the community. Five Master Gardeners conducted a "Super Summer" 4-H program...valued at $1500.00. T Five Master Gardeners volunteered to serve as judges at Caldwell County Fair...value $350.00.
Record #: 401 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-10
POW: E4
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
From a meeting with the Caldwell County Water Department and the City of Lenoir, it was determined that the need existed to educate local citizens about the need to reduce their water consumption due to the recent drought. The Caldwell County Extension Center arranged for an educational TV program in cooperation with both the County and Lenoir to address things people can do to reduce their water usage. Also, the Extension Center submitted 5 different news articles to local print media. From these effects approximately a 7% reduction in water usage by the residents of Caldwell County was achieved.
Record #: 402 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-12
POW: A7
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L
A local farmer approached the Caldwell County Center Agriculture and Family and Consumer Sciences Agents to learn how to process rabbits on his farm to increase his income. This part time farmer is also disabled so his 20 acres provides much needed resources for he and his wife. The Extension agents made a connection with a local processor in a neighboring county to assist with the removal of the rabbit hide. Additionally, the NC State Food Science Meat Specialists helped to develop a formula for sanitizing the meat prior to freezing the meat to comply with safe food handling practices. Processed rabbits sold for $9.00 per pound and each carcass was approximately 4 lbs. and his first order was a delivery of 400 carcasses giving him additional income of $3,600 dollars. The collaborative effort of the local resources and campus specialist helped this local farmer improve his value added products.
Record #: 403 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-12
POW: F1
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Cox, Debbie L
Caldwell County has 3 schools with an 80-90% of students receiving free and reduced meal programs. The loss of jobs in the area (8.3% unemployment) has many families on limited incomes and a need for additional food security has local agencies with a great demand placed on their budgets. The local school nutrition program continues to meet the need but additional resources are always welcome. The Caldwell County Center provided a 10-week program on nutrition to one low-income school third grade class providing 383 educational contacts. (3 classrooms in all with a total of 45children 84% of the school receives free and reduced lunch) 95.8% of the students indicated they have made positive behavior changes related to nutrition and eating habits. 43% of the students improved their knowledge of healthy drinks. The largest improvements were in the increased percentage of children understanding more about the value of fruits and vegetables. While
Record #: 404 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-16
POW: CRD-1.1
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
The Caldwell County Extension Center is a memeber of the County's Alternative Energy Team. After a meeting, Commissioner Green inquired about the possibility of producing canola here in Caldwell County. Agents with the Caldwell Center found a local cooperator, who was interested in being part of a on field trail for canola. The Caldwell Extension Center contacted Specialists at North Carolina State and obtain seeds to plan 7 acres in canola. Seeds were planted and at end a respectable yield of 40 bushels per acre was obtained. Plans are for increase acreage next year and possible more products and actual production of oil to be use in production of bio-diesel.
Record #: 405 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-16
POW: CRD-1.2
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 two additional 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 45 pounds per day of solid waste is being removed from the waste stream.
Record #: 406 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
* The need continues to exists for the education of 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 of Commerce a Farm/City Week Tour 2008 was conducted. Fifteen participants visited an Angus Cattle Farm, Bio-Diesel plant and a constructive storm water land. 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.
Record #: 407 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
After serving as judges for the Caldwell County School System Beautification Contest, 3 Master Gardeners recognized the need for developing a basic Horticultural Workshop for the Schools principals and maintenance personnel. The goal of the workshop was to provide training in proper soil testing, pruning, mulching and plant selection and maintenance. The Caldwell County Extension Center and the Caldwell County School System developed a 3 hour workshop and presented it to 25 school employees. A post class survey indicated that 95% of those present intend to use at least one of the things they learned in developing this years landscaping plans. Value to School System estimated to be $30,000.00.
Record #: 408 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: E7
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H
Water quality is a problem in the lower creek watershed. To help the Caldwell Extension Center and the NC State University College of Biological & Agricultural Engineering (BAE) in cooperation with the City of Lenoir and Caldwell County developed a plan. The plan is to convert three acres of developed floodplain to a functional wetland. Flowing into this wetland is a 120 acre neighborhood. The NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) through the Clean Water Management Trust Fund has awarded $770,000 toward this project. The project is complete will be monitored for 2 years to determine its impact on water quality. The neighborhood is excited for the project to begin.
Record #: 409 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: E7
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H
Water quality is a problem in the lower creek watershed. A city park (Wilson Park) has a small tributary that flows into lower creek. This small tributary is an eye sore, a maintenance headache, and a water quality problem. To help improve this the Caldwell Extension Center and the NC State University College of Biological & Agricultural Engineering (BAE) in cooperation with the City of Lenoir developed a plan. The plan is to restore the tributary stream to a stable, functional stream. The NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) awarded $120,000 to implement the project. The project goals are to improve water quality, provide education, and increase aesthetics of the park.
Record #: 410 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: E7
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H
Water quality is a problem in the lower creek watershed. Almost 2 million local & State dollars were invested in 2008 to improve the lower creek watershed. To make the most of this investment the local Extension Center took representatives from the City of Lenoir to five regional water quality projects. Investing time visiting other projects helped the local and State dollars have greater impact. This was a crucial step to getting all partners to understand what the projects were and how they would improve the natural resources.
Record #: 411 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A1
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H
Quality beef calves do not capture their full value when sold through the weekly livestock auctions. To help cattlemen receive the full value of their calves North Carolina Cooperative Extension partners with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and livestock marketers to have special graded cattle sales. At these sales, cattle buyers can purchase entire pens of USDA graded animals. When compared to weekly livestock auctions, these cattle average $14-20 per head more. This year 2200 head were marketed locally through the graded sales. The graded sale provide local farmers with an additional $37,000 dollars of farm income.
Record #: 412 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: E2
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H
A new product is being marketed to farmers. The product claims to increase crop yields by improving fertilizer utilization. To help local growers evaluate this product an on-farm corn test was conducted with a local farmer. The test showed no yield increase when using this product. Product cost when using the labeled rate is $17.50 per acre. Caldwell County grows 900 acres of corn. By not using this product, a potential savings of $15,750 dollars was realized for local growers. Although one test seldom provides a conclusive answer, other unbiased research data from across the State provided growers enough information to make an informed decision. The local test was a cooperative effort by local farmer John Looper, the Caldwell County Extension Center, and Southern States.
Record #: 413 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A2
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H
A complicated relationship exists between agricultural businesses, county land use, and the urban environment. To help citizens of Caldwell County better understand these relationships the Caldwell County Extension Center, the Caldwell County Chamber of Commerce, and the Caldwell Public Information Office celebrated National Farm-City Week by producing an educational television program. This program was broadcast to 52,000 viewers and shows modern farm life on a beef cattle farm. The program showed the need for farms from an economic, aesthetic, and food supply view point. This yearly effort helps citizens understand how their food is produced and the economic benefits of working farms.
Record #: 414 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: E7
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H
North Carolina has been in a drought for the past two years. Water restrictions have been implemented by the city of Lenoir. Rain harvesting is an idea used by many civilizations throughout the world, but not the United States. The Caldwell Extension Center and the Caldwell Soil & Water District have been helping local individuals and businesses successfully implement rain harvesting systems. In 2008 eight systems were designed. Harvested rain water can be used for non-potable uses such as irrigation, vehicle washing, and flushing toilets. These eight systems will store a combined total of 22,000 gallons and have the potential to capture over a half million gallons per year. These projects are not only practical demonstrations, but will provide a water bill savings of about $2,000.
Record #: 415 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A2
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Nagy, Seth H
The recent media attention of the honey bee disappearance or Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) has local citizens interested in the problem. Many land grant universities are working together to solve the problem. To help citizens understand what is being done, the Caldwell Extension Center in cooperation with the Caldwell Public Information Office produced an educational television program. This program was recorded at the North Carolina State University Apiculture (Bee) Research Center. Dr. David Tarpy, Apiculture Extension Specialist at NCSU, was interviewed about CCD and he showed the current bee research being done at North Carolina State University. This program was broad cast to 52,000 viewers.
Record #: 416 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A15
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
The recent media attention of the honey bee disappearance or Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) has local citizens interested in the problem. Many land grant universities are working together to solve the problem. To help citizens understand what is being done, the Caldwell Extension Center in cooperation with the Caldwell Public Information Office produced an educational television program. This program was recorded at the North Carolina State University Apiculture (Bee) Research Center. Dr. David Tarpy, Apiculture Extension Specialist at NCSU, was interviewed about CCD and he showed the current bee research being done at North Carolina State University. This program was broad cast to 52,000 viewers.
Record #: 417 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: E7
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Caldwell, Allen E
North Carolina has been in a drought for the past two years. Water restrictions have been implemented by the city of Lenoir. Rain harvesting is an idea used by many civilizations throughout the world, but not the United States. The Caldwell Extension Center and the Caldwell Soil & Water District have been helping local individuals and businesses successfully implement rain harvesting systems. In 2008 eight systems were designed. Harvested rain water can be used for non-potable uses such as irrigation, vehicle washing, and flushing toilets. These eight systems will store a combined total of 22,000 gallons and have the potential to capture over a half million gallons per year. These projects are not only practical demonstrations, but will provide a water bill savings of about $2,000.
Record #: 418 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Schuszler, Jeanette D
Communities in Schools of Caldwell County asked 4-H to teach life skills to youth in the middle school/after school programs. Topics were selected for 4-H meetings at each of 4 middle schools, two times per month. CIS agreed to designate a portion of their grant money to finance these 4-H classes. The partnership has worked very well for Nov and Dec. A new schedule has been set to continue the program through April of 2009 teaching approximately 80 youth skills in nutrition and health, decision making, goal setting, and environmental ed.
Record #: 419 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Schuszler, Jeanette D
Caldwell 4-H has continued to encourage youth to participate in and learn about civic responsibility. As this was an historic election year, several clubs invited public officials to come to speak and answer questions. One club helped tell the community about the importance of registering to vote. As a result of our strong focus on citizenship, we had a larger than usual number of teens attending 4-H Congress in 2008; three attending citizenship focus, and one youth running for and winning a district office. All of the participating youth said that they gained in knowledge about the electoral process.
Record #: 420 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Schuszler, Jeanette D
Volunteers in Caldwell county have taken an active role in developing the horse council for the new West Central District. An average of 10 volunteers from Caldwell have been present at each meeting; one is treasurer, one is horse show chair, and one is helping chair the horse bowl. The bowl will be held in Caldwell county. This is a 500% increase in Caldwell's participation over last year in the SW district.
Record #: 421 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-1.1
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Schuszler, Jeanette D
Outdoor physical activity is a real need for children whose parents work away from home during the summer.Caldwell 4-H offered 28 summer "classes" in 2008, plus away camp and Congress. The total enrollment was 489. Horse camps, hiking, ropes course, biking trips, and canoeing offered the outdoor environment, plus the physical exercise that these children needed. 100% of parents who replied to the evaluation said that their children had a positive learning experience during the 4-H summer programs.
Record #: 422 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-1.1
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Schuszler, Jeanette D
48 middle school youth participated in 4-H nutrition workshops. As a "pre-test" in one session, 98% of the youth said they would never eat broccoli and did not like broccoli. During the class discussion of the importance of calcium and vegetables in their diets, they all tasted (and helped make) broccoli and cheese. At the end of class all but 3 (of the children who would not eat this dish before), agreed that they did like it fixed in this way, and would plan to include it in their future meals.
Record #: 423 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Caldwell
Person Reporting: Schuszler, Jeanette D
In preparing for public speaking and for 4-H presentations, several young 4-Hers participated for the first time. They attended training and practice sessions, then county day. 4 of these youth went on to do well at District Day. One 9 year old boy won the silver medal in his division at Congress his very first time doing a presentation.
Record #: 424 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-1.3
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
Eastern North Carolina has a large proportion of hunting and wildlife opportunities. Youth need to learn about the importance of hunter education and environmental stewardship. The Carolina Shooters 4-H Shooting Sports Club has been actively organized for 3 years. Although, membership has fluctuated, club members still meet weekly for hands-on learning of shooting sports, firearm safety, critical thinking, decision-making, and responsibility skills; all essential life skills for youth development. Youth have also learned proper range etiquette and safety. Since January 2008, approximately 75% of the active club members have learned practiced the fundamentals in shotgun, rifle, pistol and archery. Youth have spent over 80 hours on the range developing the skills necessary to compete in the State 4-H Shooting Sports competition. Over 200 volunteer hours from more than 5 adult volunteers have been committed to assisting these youth in skill development. Due to the vested interest that the local citizens
Record #: 425 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-2.1
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
Camden County is deemed one of the most limited resource counties in the state. Its youth population is approximately 2000 youth. Approximately 15 to 20% of the youth are reached through various 4-H programming efforts. One long time Camden County 4-H'er was recently awarded the WAVY TV 10 Hampton Roads Young Achiever Award. Camden County is adjacent to the Virginia/Hampton Roads border and local television stations are aired from Virginia. Tori Sawyer was interviewed for the evening newscast and talked about how 4-H and other educational activities had impacted her life to want to work in the agricultural field later in life. The Hampton Roads area has a viewing audience of over one-half million people. Tori has since attended a Hampton Roads Young Achiever Awards Luncheon where she received a $1000 savings bond to use towards her college tuition. Tori plans to attend NC State University in the fall semester
Record #: 426 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
Over the past decade Camden County has had limited participation in public presentations. Therefore, 15 youth were recruited to participate in the Northeast District Activity Day held in Northampton County. The 15 youth representing Camden 4-H were: 2 Cloverbud 4-HÕers, 1 4-H Entertains, & 11 4-H presentations (one being a team presentation). Out of the 11 presentations, there were 7 gold medalists and 3 bronze medalists. Six presentations will be presented at NC 4-H Congress in July. As a result, there was over a 100% increase of participation on the district level since 2007. Parents and volunteers now realize the value of public presentations as an essential life skill for youth development.
Record #: 427 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-2.4
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
S.T.E.M. are major components for the future of youth who are seeking an employable future. Since these areas are below the level of success of students in other countries, it is essential that programs be developed to address these needs. Sixteen counties of the Northeastern District organized a three-day/two-night summer science camp for youth rising 4th – 8th grade. Biotechnology and space education are the two areas of focus. Camden County recruited 6 youth and 1 adult volunteer to participate and assist with the annual science camp. Through one-on-one interviews with the participants, 100% of the participants involved stated they enjoyed camp and learned something new about biotechnology, space exploration, or science, in general. The adult volunteer was very excited about the biotechnology camp and has offered to assist in the future with planning and implementation of the camp. This is evidence of how S.T.E.M. can be made exciting for
Record #: 428 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
Due to the limited resources available in Camden County, it is difficult to recruit and maintain the needed volunteers which are necessary for successful programming. Three Camden County 4-H Volunteers attended the Spring Northeast District 4-H Volunteer Leaders Association meeting and training held in April. This was the first out of county training for any of these volunteers. The volunteers were trained on 4-H presentations and public speaking. One hundred percent of the volunteers stated that they increased their knowledge 4-H presentations and public speaking. In addition, they stated that they enjoyed partnering with other volunteers and requested additional trainings in the future. These volunteers were willing to recruit other volunteers for 4-H long-term commitments.
Record #: 429 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-3.2
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
The North Carolina Legislature was considering ending recurring funding for the Juvenile Crime Prevention Program in North Carolina. Camden County receives Juvenile Crime Prevention Council grant monies, which partners with Camden 4-H. Two Camden County youth who participated in these affected programs developed a powerful slide show. The program was presented at a Program ManagerÕs forum, which included Secretary George Sweat and also over 200 people. The presentation generated a standing ovation by all present and a huge Òpat on the backÓ from Secretary Sweat. As a result, the video has been seen by over 100 other JCPC affiliates and was a determining factor in getting recurring funds for fiscal year 2008-2009. Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (JCPC) funds provide valuable services for youth throughout North Carolina.
Record #: 430 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-3.2
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
Civic duty and responsibility for youth is critical. This is very important as a life skill for the future of our region and North Carolina. One Camden County teen 4-HÕer attended Citizenship NC Focus in Raleigh. Kimmie Greene represented Camden County and worked on a local youth issue, to re-build the Treasure Point 4-H & Youth Camp. This initiative was part of her plan during CNCF. As a result, Kimmie will be participating on the planning team to re-build the cabin which was destroyed as a result of arson in November 2006. Her experiences will shape her future direction through her leadership of other 4-HÕers in Camden County.
Record #: 431 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: F2
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
Childcare providers are required to maintain a specific number of credit hours in order for the childcare business to operate and remain certified. The Albemarle Child Care Conference, sponsored by NC Cooperative Extension, Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Hertford, Tyrrell and Washington Counties helps to provide child care providers with credit hours by offering an one-day conference with workshops such as curriculum, licensure, handling medicines, safety, food and nutrition, etc. During the 2008 childcare conference, a workshop entitled Ò4H Curriculum in the Day CareÓ was offered. Twenty-seven childcare providers participated in the hands-on workshop. There were 25 surveys completed who participated in the 4-H workshop. Eighty-four percent of the respondents stated that the workshop was very useful.
Record #: 432 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: F4
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
There are over 1000 senior citizens in Camden County. In June of 2008, a Senior Adult Health Fair was conducted at the Camden Senior Center. Approximately 50 senior adults participated in the half-day event. Information was presented to seniors about the Senior Health Insurance Information Program, Medicare, Medicare Part D and the new Preventative Benefits offered through Medicare. One hundred percent of the participants shared how the information was of benefit to them. In addition, nearly $10,000 was saved as a result of SHIIP consultations and information provided to the seniors. This program has been an excellent benefit to the seniors in Camden County.
Record #: 433 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A4
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Powell, Mark
The input costs of growing soybeans is on a constant rise. In cooperation with University specialists and seed companies, Cooperative Extension was able to sponsor a soybean production meeting, a crop fertility meeting and also have a soybean variety demonstration in the county. Over 40 soybean producers were able to benefit from the educational material and data. Through improved varieties, proper fertilization and planting, insect and weed management, and marketing, producers can reduce their input costs and increase profit. The average producer stands to increase profit by at least $13,000. Producers stated that they would like to continue these annual educational meetings.
Record #: 434 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: A15
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Powell, Mark
Higher fertilizer costs can lead citizens to plant less gardens. Cooperative Extension partners with NCDA to provide free soil sampling and proper fertilization training to gardeners. Camden helped 24 gardeners to reduce fertilizer need though soil sampling and educational trainings. All 24 participants have continued to soil sample and apply correct amounts of fertilizer. They have saved over $2500 as a group. Participants encourage their neighbors to soil sample.
Record #: 435 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: E8
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Powell, Mark
There are quite a few pesticides applied on crop in Camden County. This means there are quite a few pesticide containers that are put into our landfills. Cooperative Extension partners with NCDA to set up container recycling sites throughout the county. Over 1000 pounds of pesticide containers where collected from producers to recycle. This saves space in landfills and also helps save resources to produce new containers. Camden will continue the program and encourage more producers to participate.
Record #: 436 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: 4H-1.2
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
Camden CountyÕs total juvenile population, as of 2007, was 1,482 youth between the ages of 6 and 17. According to the census data, we had only 16 incidents involving Class I or less offenses. The Camden County Teen Court, which tries misdemeanor or less offenses, has heard five cases since January, one of which was a courtesy to Currituck County. All Teen Court defendants successfully completed their recommended sentences within 45 days, well shy of the 90 days allowed. One member of CROWN Kids, a group of at-risk youth, joined the 4-H District Activity Day to play guitar for 4-H Entertains. He will also be attending the 4-H State Camp at Betsy-Jeff Penn this summer. The CROWN Kids, as a group, have completed over 12 hours of community service, after school hours, since January. Due the success of these program, the local board of commissioners and county government have
Record #: 437 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: 4H-1.3
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
The CDC estimates that food borne diseases cause approximately 76 million illnesses, 325,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths in the United States each year. Together, Camden and Pasquotank County 4-H & Family Consumer Science staff plan and organize a 5-day, 35 hour day camp for youth ages 9 to 13 entitled, ÒCulinary Academy.Ó During the 5-day workshop, 32 youth participants received hands-on experiences in working in a kitchen, learning about health and nutrition, food & kitchen safety, & meal preparation. Based on a survey given to the students, 100% stated they learned how to prevent food borne illnesses in the kitchen based from the information provided in the workshops. Youth also stated they would be more careful when using sharp kitchen utensils.
Record #: 438 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: 4H-2.1
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
Camden County has been deemed a 21st century county due to its lack of economic development and such a high limited resource population. The county also has one of the highest tax bases of the state and with the number of limited resource families and high property tax rates, it is hard for 4-H families to afford many of the district and state level 4-H trips. At the Northeast District Activity Day, 7 Camden 4-HÕers qualified to attend NC 4-H Congress, with 11 4-HÕers actually attending. All 11 4-HÕers came together and completed 2 fundraisers where they raised over $2,000 to go toward the county registration fees for NC 4-H Congress. No child had to pay more than $50 of its own to attend this state level trip. By working on these fundraisers, the 4-HÕers have learned how to effectively make a profit and work together as a team.
Record #: 439 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
Due to lack of resources for youth to be active during the summer vacation days, Camden 4-H and Camden Youth Services (JCPC) sponsors a 6-week summer day camp experience for youth at no charge. Campers participate in special interest workshops, as well as recreational activities such as arts & crafts, team sports, archery, and special field trips for youth ages 5 to 12. Over 75 youth participated in the 6-week summer day camp. Youth were able to develop more social skills, record-keeping skills, teambuilding skills, problem solving skills, etc. Based on an online survey to parents, 73.3% agreed that their child learned new skills and subject matter through this day camp, while 20% somewhat agreed, and 6.7% disagreed. One parent stated, ÒThis program has been very enjoyed by my daughters and I hope that it continues as my youngest looks forward to this every year.Ó
Record #: 440 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: 4H-2.4
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (S.T.E.M.) are major components for the future of youth who are seeking an employable future. NC 4-H provides opportunities such as the 4-H Electric Project and NC 4-H Electric Congress for youth who would like to explore more of the S.T.E.M. components. In 2007, two Camden 4-HÕers have completed 4-H Electric Projects. One of these 4-HÕers was selected to attend NC 4-H Congress in July of 2008. This is a 100% increase in participation in this state event over the past 5 years. This 4-HÕer has completed another 4-H Electric Project Book for 2008 and is working on a cumulative record.
Record #: 441 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
Camden is a county of few recreational resources for the youth. Since June of 2008, one new 4-H Club has been organized and 3 new 4-H volunteer leaders have been successfully trained. Camden now has six active 4-H clubs, with 8 total club leaders. Since their training, the 3 new club leaders have logged in more than 70 volunteer hours together since October 2008.
Record #: 442 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: 4H-3.2
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
Due to Camden CountyÕs lack of recreational resources and to increase the potential of county funding through state and federal grants, Camden County Extension along the new county parks & recreation department worked together with students from East Carolina UniversityÕs Recreation and Leisure Studies Department to complete a master comprehensive plan. Over 20 Camden County 4-HÕers took an active part in participating in this plan by attending public forums, focus group meetings, completing school surveys, and talking with other citizens about the needs for park & recreational facilities in Camden County. Based on the findings, the ECU Students stated there was a 75% approval for a large community center as well as to re-build the Treasure Point 4-H Camp Site. Camden Extension Office is currently working to complete a CAMA grant to re-build the shoreline and add a pavilion with a value of approximately $200,000.
Record #: 443 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: F2
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
Through collaboration with the ÒMore at 4Ó Program in Camden County, the Family Consumer Science Extension Agent worked with the classes to learn more about germs and how to properly wash hands to eliminate as many germs as possible and not to spread them. Approximately 48 four year olds participated in the ÒGlo-GermÓ activity. Each child successful washed their hands using the proper hand washing techniques that were taught. The child care providers also stated they learned how to better teach hand washing techniques to their new students.
Record #: 444 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: F4
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
Based on the current census, Camden County has a population of 9,271, of that 11.6% are senior adults, ages 65 and over. To date for the 2008 year, a collaborative effort of the NC Cooperative Extension along with the Camden County Senior Center Director reached another 10% of the senior population in reference to enrollment in the Medicare Prescription Drug Plans. Together over 500 hours have been spent working with senior adults and enrolling them into various prescription drug plans.
Record #: 445 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A4
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Powell, Mark
Input costs for corn production are at an all time high. Camden Cooperative Extension held a corn production meeting and field days, with university specialists, to train farmers on ways to increase production efficiency. Thirty-five corn producers learned ways to increase production and reduce input costs. Producers increased profit by an average of 5 dollars per acre. They plan to attend future meeting and field days to learn new techniques.
Record #: 446 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A15
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Powell, Mark
Homeowners often use lawn services to maintain their lawn at a cost. Camden Cooperative Extension helped homeowners understand that lawn maintain does not have to be expensive and much of it can be done by the consumer. Camden Extension taught 45 homeowners basic maintenance strategies that include proper watering, fertilization, and mowing. All homeowners used the strategies to reduce the cost of maintaining their lawns by an average of $150. Homeowners recommended Extension to others for help on their lawns.
Record #: 447 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: E8
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Powell, Mark
Private Pesticide applicators need re-certification every three years to maintain their license. Camden Cooperative Extension provided interactive trainings to encourage learning from the required re-certifications. Twenty-four applicators attended trainings where they were allowed to participate in hands-on training activities. All attendees got involved in the trainings and learned safety and application information. All participants are now applying pesticides more correctly and safely. The trainings were well received and asked to be continued in the following years.
Record #: 448 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: 4H-1.2
Location: Camden
Person Reporting: Barco, Danelle
When school is out and kids are unsupervised, there are few programs available in Camden County to keep them out of trouble. The Cooperative ExtensionÕs Juvenile Crime Prevention Council (JCPC) program works with the SheriffÕs Department to provide volunteer opportunities that not only keep kids out of trouble, but also provide some necessary services at no cost to the community. CROWN Kids, a group of students Òat riskÓ of becoming delinquent, regularly participate in Community Service activities in conjunction with the SheriffÕs Department. Fourteen volunteers have participated in various activities since July, including mulching flowerbeds, removing patches from uniforms, assembling gift baskets and handing out food at Community Safety Day. These youth spent 60 man-hours working with SheriffÕs Deputies in positive, mutually beneficial ways. 100% of participants have since volunteered for similar activities, not only decreasing their time spent unsupervised but also increasing their appreciation for law enforcement officials.
Record #: 449 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-02
POW: A15
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Edwards, Anne
Many individuals who live in Carteret County homes with lawns, yards and gardens do not know how properly to utilize and maintain those spaces in order to reduce costly inputs and maximize returns. Cooperative Extension offered an extensive training course through the Master Gardener program which provided instruction on soils, plants, insects, diseases, native and adapted species, ornamental trees, lawns, environmental impacts, vegetables, and fruits. 18 students each received over 40 hours of training in 2008, and 100% passed a comprehensive written exam given at the end of the class. 13 continue as active volunteers 6 months later.
Record #: 450 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-02
POW: A15
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Edwards, Anne
Citizens of Carteret County are faced with a number of challenges relating to the environmentally sound establishment and maintenance of their lawns and gardens. Individuals moving to the county are unfamiliar with the soils and weather, and how they impact plant selection and long term lawn and garden planning. With the proper knowledge in hand, these citizens can use their yard as an environmentally sound place of natural beauty which enhances their physical environment, provides a place for exercise and relaxation, provides some healthy food for the family, and otherwise enhances their lives. Cooperative Extension has helped make this possible by responding to over 500 Horticulture related telephone and email questions in the first half of 2008.
Record #: 451 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-02
POW: A1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Edwards, Anne
Citizens of Carteret County are faced with a number of challenges relating to the environmentally sound establishment and maintenance of their lawns and gardens. Individuals moving to the county are unfamiliar with the soils and weather, and how they impact plant selection and long term lawn and garden planning. With the proper knowledge in hand, these citizens can use their yard as an environmentally sound place of natural beauty which enhances their physical environment, provides a place for exercise and relaxation, provides some healthy food for the family, and otherwise enhances their lives. Cooperative Extension has helped make this possible through face to face contacts, both in educational group training sessions and one on one office and/or home visits, with over 700 Carteret County residents in the first half of 2008.
Record #: 452 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-02
POW: A15
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Edwards, Anne
Counties and their citizens may not be able to efficiently or effectively obtain available knowledge and information unless organizations in a county share resources and coordinate programs. In addition, Carteret County Cooperative Extension does not own any land for Horticulture projects. The Cooperative Extension Horticulture program in Carteret County is working to enhance its effectiveness and the number of citizens it reaches by partnering with others who have land and who provide education to the general public. Working partnerships have been continued and further developed in 2008 with the Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, the Core Sound Museum and Heritage Center at Harkers Island, The Curb Market in Morehead City, and the Beaufort Historic Site in Beaufort. Master Gardeners already have public, educational gardens at each of these sites.
Record #: 453 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-02
POW: A15
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Edwards, Anne
In an effort to reach an audience that may prefer internet information to more formal training, and who may prefer a more personal, casual form for gathering information, Consumer Horticulture in Carteret developed a blog site that discusses the day to day management, problems, successes and joys of producing food in your own backyard. This blog, titled Sound Harvest, has consistently maintained a subscriber base of approximately 54 individuals, and, in addition, receives approximately 40 to 50 live hits per day. This allows Cooperative Extension to reach a large number of individuals, daily, with information they otherwise may not receive.
Record #: 454 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-02
POW: CRD-1.3
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S
Tourism in Carteret Co. accounted for 269.56 Millions of dollars in expenditures in 2007 and employeed 3170. Recognizing the importance of tourism to the area, Cooperative Extension partnered with the Carteret Co. Chamber of Commerce to offer NC Hospitality. The eight of the nine participants that completed the program indicated on the evaluations that the class exceeded their expectations and increased their knowledge of hospitality and customer service. They all said they would recommend the class to others.
Record #: 455 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-02
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S
Carteret County Schools, in an effort to reduce drop out rates, held a six week "Leadership Camp" for rising 9th and 10th grade students that were considered at risk. The FCS and 4-H agents were asked to partner with the schools in this project. The FCS agent used the HS Financial Planning and the NC Hospitality curriculum. The two agents also used the Real Colors with the group to help them better understand themselves and others. Evaluations indicated that the majority did feel they learned skills that they could use in the Hospitality program. They also indicated when questioned a better but limited understanding of money management. Twenty-nine of the original 40 completed the summer program.
Record #: 456 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-03
POW: F1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S
As grocery prices rise, participants in Luz Willis, Extension EFNEP Assistant in Carteret County North Carolina, EFNEP Families Eating Smart Moving More classes are quick to apply what they are learning in class to their daily lives. Participants report planning meals, making grocery lists, and buying store brands when they are less expensive. They report saving a minimum of $60 per month on their grocery bills, and as a result have more money for other necessities for their families
Record #: 457 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-03
POW: F1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S
An EFNEP participant in Carteret County, North Carolina told Luz Willis, Extension EFNEP Program Assistant the she has benefited greatly from the EFNEP program. Since she enrolled in the program, she learned about food safety so now she no longer leaves her meat to defrost at room temperature or her eggs out of the refrigerator. She has also learned about fat content in foods and now pays close attentions—especially when buying ground meat. She now buys meat with ten percent fat or less instead of the 25 percent and her family is now consuming more ground turkey since she now knows it is lower in fat.
Record #: 458 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-03
POW: F1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S
An EFNEP participant in Luz WillisÕ WIC on-site nutrition class commented to a Health Department employee that she had learned a lot about choosing healthy drinks during Mrs. WillisÕ class ÒMaking Smart Drink ChoicesÓ. Mrs. Willis, Extension EFNEP Program Assistant in Carteret County, NC created a visual that really caught the attention of participants when she put 17 teaspoons of sugar into empty soft drink bottles to show participants how much sugar is contained in a cola drink and a Power-Ade drink. Using the visual and the nutrition facts label, participants were surprised that there was so much sugar—which Mrs. Willis explained were Òempty caloriesÓ in many of the drinks they consume on a regular basis. This participant pledged to make healthier drink choices for herself and her family.
Record #: 459 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-03
POW: F1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S
Former EFNEP participants may participate in EFNEP if they have a qualifying event. Such was the case when Luz Willis, Extension EFNEP Program Assistant in Carteret County re-enrolled a participant from several years ago who is now pregnant with her third child. This participant shared with Mrs. Willis how much she had gained from the class taken several years ago and expressed how much she was learning from the new curriculum. During the lesson on pregnancy, she learned about the importance of nutrients and especially iron, calcium and folic acid. The participant wants to improve her diet during pregnancy and plans to apply the new knowledge for her other two children too.
Record #: 460 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-03
POW: F1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S
Luz Willis, Extension EFNEP Program Assistant in Carteret County has a large number of Mexican participants in her EFNEP classes. Recently, a pregnant participant who is from Mexico, said she had found the classes very helpful, since she was pregnant with her first baby and had no relatives close by for support. She told Mrs. Willis that being in a strange country away from her mother and sister who could give her advice was very hard. She told Mrs. Willis that she has benefited a lot from the EFNEP lessons especially the eating healthy during pregnancy lesson and the breastfeeding lesson. She gave birth to a healthy seven-pound baby that she is successfully breastfeeding and credits EFNEP classes with her success.
Record #: 461 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-03
POW: F1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S
A recent phone call from a Kentucky Family & Consumer Science Agent in Louisville, Kentucky to Luz Willis, Extension EFNEP Program Assistant in Carteret County, allowed her to share the successful collaboration between Extension and the WIC department in Carteret County. This partnership, less than a year old, allows Mrs. Willis to work with WIC and Prenatal clients at the Carteret County Health Department and has nearly doubled her teaching contacts since last year this time. The collaboration with WIC in Carteret County is the result of an addendum to the WIC Plan of work and the bi-lingual ability of Mrs. Willis in teaching the EFNEP lessons to these young families.
Record #: 462 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-03
POW: F1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S
Women often gain too much weight during pregnancy and often more with each successive pregnancy, and it is difficult to loose once the baby is born. EFNEP teaches participants about weight gain and encourages participants to eat a healthy diet, rich in nutrients, yet as low in calories as possible. Luz Willis, Extension EFNEP Program Assistant in Carteret County recently graduated a participant who told her she did not gain nearly as much weight with her second pregnancy, due to what she had learned in EFNEP classes. She said this was because she had cut down on her sugar intake, increased her fruit and vegetable consumption and was now drinking more water and being more physically active. During her first pregnancy she had gained 40 pounds, but this time she gained only 25. She gives credit to the EFNEP program for being more healthy and also for having a
Record #: 463 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-08
POW: A15
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Edwards, Anne
Families have become interested in local food production as a means of reducing their carbon footprint, enhancing the quality of their food, and managing pesticide and other inputs used on the fruit and vegetables they consume. Gardening techniques are very specific to the particular soils and climate of a given region. 64 individuals in Carteret County have enrolled in a year long class to learn about vegetable gardening 12 months of the year in coastal North Carolina. Students will learn about the importance of organic matter, composting, and proper fertilization based on soil test results, the identification and control of garden pests, month by month, and the various food crops they can plant and harvest each month. 3 of the 12 classes will focus on nutritional value, cooking, and preserving of fresh produce. The skills learned in the class have allowed families to reduce their carbon footprint by producing some of their food locally, and to control the freshness and quality of their vegetables, while also controlling the types and amounts of pesticides and other additives in this part of their food. In addition, participants and their families have increased outdoor exercise as they prepare, manage an harvest their produce.
Record #: 464 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-08
POW: F5
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S
The family medicine cabinet is the primary source of drugs for today's teens. Cooperative Extension and other Healthy Carolinians of Carteret Co. partners joined with the Sheriff's department to address this issue. A drug drop-off event was held at the five Food Lion stores in the county. Members of the sheriff's department and/or local police departments accepted the drugs. Healthy Carolinian members provided educational materials and an example of using a tackle box with a lock to store your drugs. Over 40,000 pills and other drugs such as vials of morphine were collected and properly disposed. It is easy to put unused medications aside, forget about them, and not miss them if they are taken. This campaign increased awareness, provided education, proper disposal, and assured that these drugs would not be misused. The plan is to hold drop off events annually.
Record #: 465 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: F3
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S
Estate planning is an issue many put off or think that it is not necessary for them. Forty-two participants attended programs offered by NC Cooperative Extension explaining the importance of estate planning and the issues that need to be considered. Participants ranged from young adults to senior citizens. Each session generated lively discussions of the issues. Participants at each session stated issues were presented that they had never considered. Participants left with an understanding of the issues they needed to discuss with their families and the steps they needed to take to make an estate plan that would carry out their wishes.
Record #: 466 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: 4H-1.1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S
Childhood obesity is a concern in Carteret County. NC Cooperative Extension partnered with Beaufort Elementary School and participated in the start-up year of NCSU's Food Stamp Nutrition Education Program for third grade students. The program targets schools that have at least 50% of the students eligible for free or reduced lunch. Educational programming related to nutrition, food safety, and physical activity. 102 third graders participated. Pre and post-test indicated that 59.3% of students improved their overall knowledge of nutrition. 72.9% improved knowledge of food safety. 33.9% improved knowledge of healthy drinks. 16.9% improved knowledge of fruits and 13.6% improved knowledge of vegetables. 92.6% of students indicated they have made positive behavior change related to nutrition and eating habits. Teachers thought the program was beneficial for the students and reported observing students making healthier choices and bringing fruit for snacks and lunch.
Record #: 467 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: F1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S
Everyone agrees that childhood obesity is a major concern in this country. Coastal Community Action solicited help from NC Cooperative Extension to address this issue. CCA is the administrative unit for Head Start in Carteret, Craven, Jones, and Pamlico Counties. Color Me Healthy training was conducted for 64 Head Start teachers serving 936 students. Evaluations indicated that the teachers found the materials easy to use and innovative. They indicated that they plan to use the materials including the parent newsletters in their classrooms.
Record #: 468 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: F1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Bell, Regenia S
Today's high school students who are on a college bound tract often are unable to fit Family and Consumer Sciences courses into their schedules. A local high school senior realizing or lack of culinary skills chose to learn to cook to fulfill the requirements for a senior project. She asked the Carteret Co. Family & Consumer Sciences agent to be her mentor in this project. The student recruited six of her friends to form a Teen's In the Kitchen class. The class met for 2-1/2 hours for six weeks. The classes focused on menu planning, food preparation, and food safety. Focus was placed on adding fruit and vegetables to the diet. At the end of the program, the students demonstrated increased skills in all areas and indicated an increased confidence level in their culinary skills.
Record #: 469 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-05
POW: A5
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Harris, A R
As a result of the NC Cooperative Extension Service's effort in Carteret County, the organization of a 20 member "Bogue Sound Watermelon Association was formed and have received over $415,000 grants to build a melon packing facility to recieve, pack and ship their produce. The members have increased their production and sales over 100% in the last year. Property has been donated bu the local Electric Membership Coop for the land to place the facility. Sales have increased over $250,000 in the past year.
Record #: 470 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-13
POW: F1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Willis, Luz M
As grocery prices rise, participants in Luz Willis, Extension EFNEP Assistant in Carteret County North CarolinaÕs, EFNEP Families Eating Smart Moving More classes are quick to apply what they are learning in class to their daily lives. Participants report planning meals, making grocery lists, and buying store brands when they are less expensive. They report saving a minimum of $60 per month on their grocery bills, and as a result have more money for other necessities for their families.
Record #: 471 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-13
POW: F1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Willis, Luz M
March 2008 An EFNEP participant in Luz WillisÕ WIC on-site nutrition class commented to a Health Department employee that she had learned a lot about choosing healthy drinks during Mrs. WillisÕ class ÒMaking Smart Drink ChoicesÓ. Mrs. Willis, Extension EFNEP Program Assistant in Carteret County, NC created a visual that really caught the attention of participants when she put 17 teaspoons of sugar into empty soft drink bottles to show participants how much sugar is contained in a cola drink and a Power-Ade drink. Using the visual and the nutrition facts label, participants were surprised that there was so much sugar—which Mrs. Willis explained were Òempty caloriesÓ in many of the drinks they consume on a regular basis. This participant pledged to make healthier drink choices for herself and her family.
Record #: 472 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-13
POW: F1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Willis, Luz M
March 2008 An EFNEP participant in Luz WillisÕ WIC on-site nutrition class commented to a Health Department employee that she had learned a lot about choosing healthy drinks during Mrs. WillisÕ class ÒMaking Smart Drink ChoicesÓ. Mrs. Willis, Extension EFNEP Program Assistant in Carteret County, NC created a visual that really caught the attention of participants when she put 17 teaspoons of sugar into empty soft drink bottles to show participants how much sugar is contained in a cola drink and a Power-Ade drink. Using the visual and the nutrition facts label, participants were surprised that there was so much sugar—which Mrs. Willis explained were Òempty caloriesÓ in many of the drinks they consume on a regular basis. This participant pledged to make healthier drink choices for herself and her family.
Record #: 473 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-13
POW: F1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Willis, Luz M
July 2008 A recent phone call from a Kentucky Family & Consumer Science Agent in Louisville, Kentucky to Luz Willis, Extension EFNEP Program Assistant in Carteret County, allowed her to share the successful collaboration between Extension and the WIC department in Carteret County. This partnership, less than a year old, allows Mrs. Willis to work with WIC and Prenatal clients at the Carteret County Health Department and has nearly doubled her teaching contacts since last year this time. The collaboration with WIC in Carteret County is the result of an addendum to the WIC Plan of work and the bi-lingual ability of Mrs. Willis in teaching the EFNEP lessons to these young families.
Record #: 474 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-13
POW: F1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Willis, Luz M
April 2008 Former EFNEP participants may participate in EFNEP if they have a qualifying event. Such was the case when Luz Willis, Extension EFNEP Program Assistant in Carteret County re-enrolled a participant from several years ago who is now pregnant with her third child. This participant shared with Mrs. Willis how much she had gained from the class taken several years ago and expressed how much she was learning from the new curriculum. During the lesson on pregnancy, she learned about the importance of nutrients and especially iron, calcium and folic acid. The participant wants to improve her diet during pregnancy and plans to apply the new knowledge for her other two children too.
Record #: 475 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-14
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Cahoon, Patricia G
In 06-07 Carteret County Schools had an 8.13% dropout rate for students with Individual Education Plans compared to an overall rate of 4.93%. To reverse this problem the Twilight Academy was developed for 40 9-12 graders who were classified as at-risk. NCCES and Carteret County 4-H and FCS agents collaborated with the system for 6-weeks to provide Extension programs 2 ½ hours daily, 4 days a week. 4-H taught leadership skills and students learned problem-solving strategies, speaking during crucial conversations, team building and understanding of their abilities through self-assessments. Evaluations revealed that 67% of the students changed their understanding of being a leader and are now prepared to step into that role. On the evaluation, one student commented that Ôprior to the class, he did not see himself as a leader, but now recognizes that he has the potential to positively affect others by following the concepts he learned.Õ
Record #: 476 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-14
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Cahoon, Patricia G
Carteret County continually loses businesses that provide opportunities for social interaction for youth to the development of homes and condominiums. Statistics show that youth need positive social interaction with other youth and the positive influence of an adult. 4-H works to improve life skills for all youth by identifying the needs of the community and training volunteers to establish new clubs in areas not currently served. Two new clubs now reach youth in remote Atlantic through an after-school program and Brandywine Bay, an untapped population of youth. A total of 47 new members are learning the life skills through research-based curricula. According to one new volunteer in Atlantic, Ôthe youth look forward to the day they have 4-H meetings and according to teachers are performing better in school.Õ She also stated that she is impressed with the potential of 4-H to positively influence students and especially those classified as at-risk.
Record #: 477 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-14
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Cahoon, Patricia G
Carteret County 4-H and Big Sweep identified the need to help clean the waterways to prevent the thrash from creating environmental issues and becoming a danger to wildlife habitats, a vital part of our coastal county. In 2008, 573 youth and adult volunteers learned first-hand the negative impact of trash on the wetlands by collecting 10 tires, 4 appliances, filled 144 bags weighing 5,878 lbs over 92 miles. Working 1,116 volunteer hours at $19.51, that is a savings for the county of $21,773.16.
Record #: 478 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-14
POW: 4H-2.4
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Cahoon, Patricia G
According to the NC Standard Course of Study objectives, second graders are required to learn the life cycle of a living animal and will be tested on their knowledge at the end of the year. Teachers have limited resources and recognize NCCES and Carteret County 4-H as a reliable and valued resource of school enrichment. 4-H supplies incubators and eggs to all schools, a savings of $3,265. Students are responsible for caring for the eggs while learning the life cycle of a chicken beginning with the embryo, ending with the baby chick. Using the 4-H Embryology curriculum, teachers incorporate math, science and language arts in the embryology project. This year 92% of the students were able to identify the stages of growth, development and hatching process, and care for the baby chicks. According to the teachers the hands-on participation taught responsibility and increased test scores.
Record #: 479 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-14
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Carteret
Person Reporting: Cahoon, Patricia G
When given the choice of speaking in public and dying, national statistics show that 67% of adults would elect to die. With North Carolina Department of Public Instruction implementing the requirement of a senior project, leads to an issue of helping students learn to speak in public at an early age. Carteret County 4-H professionals and volunteers work with 4-HÕers to help them learn to speak before an audience at an early age. Members develop poise and skills needed to successfully deliver a presentation that requires research and practice before a panel of judges. Presentations help youth overcome the fear of public speaking and also perform well enough to advance to district and state competition. Because of this experience many parents have stated that they recognize the value 4-H provides for these youth to overcome the challenge of speaking in public and better preparing for them for their senior project.
Record #: 480 of 2840
Date: 2008-01-25
POW: 4H-1.3
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Boaz, Brandi
The Safe Sitter program, which is taught through the Caswell 4-H, mission is to improve the welfare of young children by increasing the ability of young adolescents (11-13) instructed in safe and nurturing childcare techniques. To enhance the lives of young adolescents by providing the opportunity to acquire competencies in rescue skills, basic first aid and nurturing, safe child care techniques. In 2008 this will include being Basic Life Support Certified. This fall/winter Jennifer Eastwood, 4-H Advisory Council member and Safe Sitter instructor wrote and received a grant for $2,400 to be used to fund two instructors to become Basic Life Support certified and to purchase mannequins to use in the class. Mannequins were previously borrowed from our local EMS and were in disrepair. This is a wonderful example of how 4-H advisory council members can see a need and step-up to solve that need in our community.
Record #: 481 of 2840
Date: 2008-01-29
POW: A1
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Knight, Joseph E
Copper deficiency is being recognized in Piedmont North Carolina as one of the most common disease problems in beef cattle herds especially from last year's drought with limited pasture grazing. As a result from an Extension Cattlemen's Meeting in December 2007 on Cattle Nutritional Requirements in Drought Times, one Caswell County beef cattle producer requested Extension help because he had five cows to die and others get sick in January. With the expertise and recommendations from the Caswell County Extension Center, the farmer's problem was identified as a copper deficiency problem and the problem was corrected. Potential deaths and/or production loss of the other 35 head of cattle was avoided because of this action.
Record #: 482 of 2840
Date: 2008-01-29
POW: A1
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Knight, Joseph E
Livestock producers frequently seek less costly feed alternatives because conventional feedstuffs are often expensive. During periods of the 2007 drought and feed shortages here in Caswell County, these feed alternatives became very attractive and made the difference between keeping cattle producers in or out of business. After an Extension educational cattle meeting was conducted, Extension recommendations helped producers obtain cotton gin trash at no cost with only transportation involved. One producer was feeding his 40 cow-calf herd at a total of $28.57 per day with cotton gin trash, whereas, before it costed him $58.00 per day to feed the entire herd on extra hay alone to help during the winter feeding months. This was a $29.43 per day savings with total savings of $2,737 over the three-month winter feeding period.
Record #: 483 of 2840
Date: 2008-02-07
POW: A1
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Knight, Joseph E
Horse owners continuously strive to find ways to reduce healthcare and management costs in their herds in 2008. Each year the Caswell County Cooperative Extension and the Caswell County Horsemen's Association provide an equine health clinic for local horsemen in February. The clinic offers vaccinations and Coggins Testing for horses at a reduced rate with the help from one of our local veterinarians and the clinic promotes proper herd health management practices. Also the farm call fee is waived for participants. This year 39 horses were tested and vaccinated which saved owners a total of $2900 from on-farm veterinarian costs.
Record #: 484 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-27
POW: F1
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Patterson, Sonya
Childhood overweight has been identified as one of the critical issues needing to be addressed across the state of NC. As a means of addressing this issue in Caswell County, the FCS agent conducted 10 nutrition/food-safety classes for third graders in two of the counties elementary schools. The program was made possible through the Food Stamp Nutrition Education (FSNE)grant. Based upon post-test evaluations and parent and teacher feedback forms, more than 50% of the children have shown improvements in getting more physical activity, making better food and beverage choices, and reading nutrition facts labels.
Record #: 485 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-27
POW: F4
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Patterson, Sonya
As a part of the Extension and Community Association's (ECA) Spring District Activity Day, Dr. Bob Williamson who recently retired as a Natural Resource Specialist from NCA&TSU, presented a program on water quality entitled "Clean Water Begins and Ends with You. As a result of that program many of the ECA members have reported measures they have began taking to preserve water and some have also had their water tested for possible contaminants that could be harmful to their health. As a result of this program ECA members can educate others on the importance of clean water and water conservation with the end result being millions of gallons of water preserved and improved health from not consuming "dirty" water.
Record #: 486 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-27
POW: F1
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Patterson, Sonya
As I was in the local county Food Lion store one day shopping for items for my Food Stamp Nutrition Education (FSNE) classes that I was preparing to teach to the third graders at my assigned schools. I happened to see one of my students there shopping with her dad and she had a huge bag of sugar in her hand. Her eyes got extremely big when she saw me as if she was in trouble for having the sugar. She said "Mrs. Patterson, I can't believe my dad is making me get this sugar because I know we are not supposed to eat a lot of this!" I was so impressed that the classes had made such a huge impact. I told her that it was ok to have a little sugar but just to consume it in moderation.
Record #: 487 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-27
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Boaz, Brandi
4-H Summer Camp $275, the memories you make at 4-H Summer Camp PRICELESS. This year we had two youth who desperately wanted to attend camp to being making these memories, but who's families did not have the funds to send them. Being a United Way agency we were fortunate to be able to give one youth a scholarship through our camp scholarship fund. However, finding funding for our other camper was more difficult. We were fortunate however to be able to find funding through the PEMC 4-H golf tournament to sponsor this child's trip to camp. The mother was so excited that she cried when I told her. With funding we were able to give $1,035 the youth from our economically distressed county to help with their camp fees. Now these youth will be able to make friends and memories in 4-H that will be with them for a lifetime.
Record #: 488 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-27
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Boaz, Brandi
This spring Caswell 4-H was asked to be involved in a wonderful opportunity the Piedmont Electric Membership Corporation 4-H Golf Tournament. We accepted and knew hard with hard work we could accomplish our goals while I was on maternity leave. Our goal was to contact local businesses find sponsorships for holes at the golf tournament, door prize items and attend a few meetings. Rickey Williams, Agriculture Agent stepped up to the plate finding a hole sponsor and several door prizes. Tonya Wingate, 4-H secretary also did a stellar job in keeping in constant contact with the golf tournaments organizer to make sure that everything was going smoothly. When I returned on May 27th I was able to walk into the tournament (May 28th) with my 4-H volunteers feeling confident that Caswell 4-H had done their part. We had an extremely successful tournament and were rewarded with $2,671 donation.
Record #: 489 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: CRD-1.1
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Knight, Joseph E
Economic development is very important in a Tier I economically depressed county like Caswell, which was majority tobacco dependent for an income generator before the government buyout program. In order to keep the economy of the County strong, Extension has partnered with local and state government officials to expand current industry and to recruit and provide information to new industry interested in the county. One major part of this initiative is to promote the value of agriculture to the county. Extension has become a respected and important part of this development team with a seat on the Board of Economic Development and has been involved with recruitment efforts in $435,700 of Golden Leaf Funds through the Golden Leaf Community Initiative Forum for the Value-Added Meat Processing Project at Matkins Processors, Inc. This will enable 110 plus livestock producers to generate a net return to their farms by 2 million dollars.
Record #: 490 of 2840
Date: 2008-08-12
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Boaz, Brandi
Seeing a young person go outside their comfort zone and succeed is one of the most rewarding parts of working in 4-H. This summer Caswell County 4-H was given the opportunity to choose a 4-Her to attend the National Institute of Cooperative Education in cooperation with Piedmont Electric Membership Corporation. This five-day event gave youth from around the nation the opportunity to demonstrate leadership skills, learn about cooperatives and have fun meeting new people from around the United States. Clarie, a Caswell 4-Her, attended this event with reservations about not knowing anyone. After attending Claire had such a great time, increased her leadership skills and now has a better feel of how we all can work together to accomplish a single goal. This conference was a great success in the eyes of the youth attending and her parents who saw the positive change in their child first hand.
Record #: 491 of 2840
Date: 2008-08-12
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Boaz, Brandi
Camp is a way to gain instant rewards as a 4-H agent. This year we had two young ladies who wanted to attend 4-H camp, but because of financial difficulty did not think this was possible. We located local funding ($450) for these two young ladies to attend 4-H camp at Betsy-Jeff Penn. The rewards of watching these two young ladies flourish in a safe and educational environment was priceless. The girls made friends with youth from across the state. They had the opportunities to try new things such as canoeing and rock climbing which they had never experienced before. I believe I enjoy summer camp as much as the kids attending because of the ability to see those light bulbs come on for the first time when they try a new adventure. Both girls and the other campers we sad to leave but excited about returning in 2009.
Record #: 492 of 2840
Date: 2008-08-12
POW: 4H-1.3
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Boaz, Brandi
"I didn't know you had to know so much to be a babysitter, but IÕm glad IÕm learning it!" 12 year-old Laurel states. This is just one of the many comments we get in our two-day Safe Sitter course taught through 4-H Summer Fun. The program, taught in cooperation with 4-H, FCS and our local Health Department, is a medically accurate course teaching youth CPR for infants and children. In addition giving youth information on entrepreneurship skills for their babysitting business, coping techniques for children and safety information for the sitter and the children. This hands-on course is completed when youth pass a strenuous written, oral and practical tests. Laurel and our other four course participants passed with a 98% or higher. During our graduation ceremony youth present their rescue skills to the family and friends gathered. Safe Sitter produces better sitters today, better parents tomorrow.
Record #: 493 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-02
POW: 4H-1.3
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Boaz, Brandi
When you teach a 4-H program you rarely see the impact it has on a child's life. I personally experienced this when I left my child with a young man who had taken our babysitting course. This was his first sitting job after the course. He came prepared as he was taught in the course and I was very impressed. Returning, I questioned him as I saw his mother standing with my child. He told me the circumstances and he had done exactly what he was taught. He had to call in reinforcements for his first job but it showed great character and responsibility for him to contact his mother for help in this situation. Sometimes youth don't have the perfect experience but show more maturity in how they deal with obstacles. I was proud to say that he learned a portion of these skills in 4-H.
Record #: 494 of 2840
Date: 2008-10-10
POW: A1
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Knight, Joseph E
With requests from local cattlemen for the fifth year a "Bull Soundness Clinic" was conducted by the Caswell County Extension Center with 9 bulls being tested and 15 cows palpated. The adoption of this breeding management practice has allowed these cattle producers to have a narrow window for their calving season with more desirable and available marketing opportunities for their feeder cattle. One of the nine bulls failed the soundness exam and all open cows were culled from the herds. By the cattlemen knowing this information, they were able to save at least $35,000 from the sale of feeder calves with on-time and at least 85% calf crops verses no calves from unbred cattle with no income.
Record #: 495 of 2840
Date: 2008-11-13
POW: F4
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Patterson, Sonya
Our Soloman Lea ECA club visits a local rest home at least four times each year. This year the club took each resident a new coat or sweater. Although it was not cold enough to wear them yet, each resident sat in their new coat or sweater and did not want to take them off. One of the residents said to them, with tears in his eyes, that it was the only piece of clothing he had ever received that still had the tag on it. It was such a tremendous sense of pride for the Soloman Lea club members to witness bringing joy to someone for something that most of us take for granted.
Record #: 496 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: F1
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Patterson, Sonya
The FCS Agent in Caswell County collaborated with partners from other local county offices to implement a county wellness plan. At the initial planning meeting each agency representative was given the task of spreading the word to assigned county employees. At our kick off event held on October 21st, we had over 80 participants in attendance and they were all eager to begin learning ways to improve their overall health. They were given a passport to track their progress towards better health and the participant(s) with the most points will win nice prices provided by the county's insurance provider in the spring of 2009. Improved health is a win win for everyone as it will decrease the cost of medical insurance as well as decrease the potential for developing chronic illnesses such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease and cancer.
Record #: 497 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A10
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Williams, Ricky
Each year the Extension Service receives many calls on aquatic weed control. In 2008, the Extension Service conducted an Aquatic Weed Management Program that had 60 people to attend. Five people that attended the meeting gained knowledge and skills that allowed them to successfully identify and treat the weeds in their pond.
Record #: 498 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: A4
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Williams, Ricky
The Extension service has always promoted the use of wet bulb thermometers to control the ventilation of bulk barns. With the cost of fuel in 2008, this practice was utilized by more farmers that ever before. Five Farmers that used wet bulbs reduced fuel consumption by 15%, with an average consumption of 360 gals. per cure, they saved 54 gals. per cure or $111.78. Total savings $16,767.00.
Record #: 499 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: E8
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Williams, Ricky
In 2008 23.5 hours of pesticide training was offered to producers in Caswell County. Two hundred fourteen people attended the training. Sixty were recertified in Caswell County. Contact hours in Caswell County was 240.
Record #: 500 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A1
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Knight, Joseph E
Caswell area feeder cattle producers need assistance in marketing feeder cattle to obtain higher market prices than typical weekly auctions provide. With this in mind the Caswell/Alamance Beef Alliance (Central Carolina Cattlemen) was developed last year and provided this opportunity to 5 cattle livestock producers with alike genetics. 288 head were marketed on this organized pre-conditioned sale this second year coordinated by Extension while networking with Champion Cattle Company. 288 head of cattle were sold that netted $226,188.28 in sales with an average of $785.13 per head sold. A $43.88 per head increase from last year sales was obtained. An analysis of this marketing effort revealed producers received a premium of .13 cents/lb. more over the weekly Lynchburg, Virginia state-graded auction prices. Educational objectives that Extension recommends were showcased and this sale had a price setting trend that maginified impacts of increased profitability by 30,528 dollars.
Record #: 501 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Boaz, Brandi
Giving back to our troops and getting a wonderful feeling. This year the Caswell County 4-H and the Bartlett Yancey FFA worked together with the 4-H Operation Military Kids to send cards and candy to our troops in Iraq. In just a few days we were able to send 243 cards and 20 bags of candy to the 449th Army Unit stationed at Camp Stryker. This was a wonderful experience for the youth and adults involved. To make it more memorable we received a postcard from CPT Verdi that said, "Thank you very much for the Christmas cars. Thank the team that worked very hard putting together this package. I ensured all the cards and good were shared with the other members of the 449th. Thank you for all your support!" This was an exciting moment knowing that our soldiers appreciated our cards as much as we appreciate them.
Record #: 502 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: 4H-1.1
Location: Caswell
Person Reporting: Boaz, Brandi
To promote physical activity in youth and help teachers in their requirement for physical classroom activity. We have started the Mileage Club. Mr. Wood, 4th grade teacher said this about the program, "My fourth graders really are enjoying the walking program. Some of them even try to get double their laps in by running. They have enjoyed the different seasonal charms for their shoes. The trees are really cute. Thanks for sharing this program with our grade level here at Oakwood. It has given me a chance to walk with my students and talk with them ,which builds a relationship outside of the classroom. It's always nice to get some fresh air and we all need the exercise for our health. Thanks again!" We believe that this is a positive program and hope to expand it into the entire school and hopefully the county in the coming years.
Record #: 503 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-29
POW: 4H-3.1
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Mull, Donna H
Julian, a 17-year old high school student, was offered a part-time job as a result of his volunteer work through 4-H. Julian volunteered weekly as a teen mentor with at-risk middle school students involved in an after-school substance abuse prevention program. In addition to providing a positive male teen role model, he assisted youth with homework and answered their questions about coping with peer pressure and middle school stresses. A teacher at the school, who was also involved with the program, was so impressed with the responsibility and maturity demonstrated by Julian in the volunteer role that she offered him a part-time job in their family business. Julian, who has never worked, is hoping to use the extra money to save for future college expenses.
Record #: 504 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-29
POW: 4H-1.2
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Mull, Donna H
Fifty-five 6-7th grade students completed LifeSkills II during after-school. Students had been referred by school staff and identified as at-risk for future substance use and/or school suspension. One program component involved homework assistance and tutoring. At the program beginning, students reported a C-average grade in classes. Following the 12-week program, students reported a B-average. According to teacher surveys, prior to the program 10 percent of the participating students were "average" students. After the program, 80 percent of the students, were rated as average students based on academic performance. An increased number of students completed homework assignments, behaved appropriately in class, and demonstrated improved ability to resist negative peer pressure. LifeSkills was funded by grant of $20,000 from the Governor's Crime Commission.
Record #: 505 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-07
POW: F1
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Daniels, Glennie
According to CDC 24 million people in the US have diabetes, 6 million do not know they have it, and 57 million have prediabetes. African-American and Asians are at high risk for the disease. Cooperative Extension in Catawba County collaborated with Minority Women for Change volunteers and Catawba Valley Medical CenterÕs Center for Diabetes Control to present ÒDiabetes: Choices and Challenges.Ó More than 70 African-American, Asian, Hispanic, and Caucasian women attended the seminar. Surveys indicated that 53 learned something new about preventing diabetes; 52 learned something new about living with diabetes; 21 will attend additional training; and 8 will host a workshop in their communities. A multi-session workshop is planned for the fall.
Record #: 506 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-28
POW: F1
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Daniels, Glennie
Catawba County Community Assessment data indicates approximately 11,000 of the countyÕs children/youth are overweight. To address the issue Cooperative Extension offered programming to third graders at one of the countyÕs schools. Forty-three third graders participated in a ten-week program to improve consumption of fruits and vegetables and to increase physical activity. Pre, post, and delayed post evaluations indicated a greater interest in tasting new foods. Children reported increased interest in new foods; teachers reported students read food labels and made healthier choices for lunch and snacks; and parents reported increased variety in foods eaten at home and more time spent playing outside. At the invitation of the principal and staff, the program will be repeated in the 2008-2009 school year.
Record #: 507 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-29
POW: F1
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Daniels, Glennie
Catawba County Health Partners Community Assessment data indicates that 19% of the countyÕs youth age 2 to 18 are overweight. To address the issue twenty one school nurses participated in a Sybershop train-the-trainer workshop led by Cooperative ExtensionÕs family and consumer sciences agent. During the school year two hundred twenty-six middle and high school students participated in the afterschool program led by the school nurses. Surveys indicated that students made better food selections in the school cafeteria and healthier snack choices as a result of the program. Seventy five CDs were distributed to health, allied health, FCE and other teachers for continuing use with students in classroom and afterschool activities.
Record #: 508 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-29
POW: F2
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Daniels, Glennie
National Family Caregivers Association statistics indicate that 840,345 North Carolinians spend 924,000,000 hours annually caring for friends and family members. Approximate value of the care is $9,165,000,000. To provide needed caregiving and self-care skills, Cooperative Extension offered a six-session educational series. In written evaluations participants indicated increased knowledge and practice of self-care techniques. As a result of the classes, an education/support group for family caregivers was formed. Thirty-one family caregivers have participated in the monthly sessions and have indicated an increased awareness of the stages of caregiving; have learned to create a care plan, a task management plan, and a safer home environment. The participants indicate a greater awareness of available county resources and have begun to use them. The group has plans to continue with added support from the Council on Aging, The Family Caregiver Program and the local hospital.
Record #: 509 of 2840
Date: 2008-07-29
POW: F5
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Daniels, Glennie
The FDA reports that Americans eat nearly 25 percent of their meals away from home, and each year 76 million Americans experience foodborne illness. In North Carolina there are more than 25,000 food service establishments employing approximately 250,000 people. Without proper training in the area of food safety, foodservice workers could commit errors that might result in foodborne illness. In cooperation with Environmental Health, Catawba County Cooperative Extension offered learning opportunities to food service personnel. Ninety-five persons completed Serving Safe Food, a sixteen-hour training course, and indicated an increase in learning of proper food handling practices as measured by pre/post written tests. Seventy-three participants passed an examination and received national certification. Follow-up surveys indicated that 15 participants made one or more improvements in food handling practices in their establishments. Class participants represented seventy-one businesses with a potential savings of $1,775,000 in lost revenue due to prevention of foodborne illness outbreaks.
Record #: 510 of 2840
Date: 2008-09-15
POW: A1
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Carpenter, Jeff S
Cooperative Extension assisted 30 beef producers in organizing the first local Beef Quality Assurance Graded Feeder Calf Sale held on August 14, 2008. Extension held 3 informational and planning sessions with producers, market operators and NCDA marketing staff to define the vaccination protocol and weaning requirements. CES staff helped schedule the processing and electronic ID of calves for age and source verification. Of the 723 calves that were marketed, CES captured performance data and preconditioning costs on 150 calves from 6 different farms. Based on that data the participating producers received an additional premium of $77 per head over the value of the same calves sold at weaning for a net total increase of $55,671 (after preconditioning expenses).
Record #: 511 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: A3
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Carpenter, Jeff S
Cooperative Extension continues to provide local youth with high quality learning experiences in the 4-H livestock program. In 2008 the local livestock judging team again won regional contests in Wilson, Rocky Mount and Hickory North Carolina and captured the state title for a 3rd consecutive year in 2008. Catawba County had the top 2 high scoring senior individuals and the high scoring junior individual in statewide competition. These team members went on to finish 1st at the NC State Fair Judging Contest. A total of 12 young people participated in the program and three competed for spots on the team to represent North Carolina in national competition. These members lead North Carolina to a 2nd place finish at the Eastern Regionals and 4th at the SE REgionals. Two of these members went on to represent our state at the National Contest and one of these finished 15th nationally.
Record #: 512 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-01
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Mull, Donna H
Over the past two years, Catawba County 4-H'ers received college scholarships totaling $225,000. They credit the experience they gained in public speaking, leadership, special interests, and honors earned through 4-H as key reasons they were successful in receiving scholarships. Two of the students would likely not have attended 4-year colleges without the financial support provided by these scholarships.
Record #: 513 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: A1
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Carpenter, Jeff S
Cooperative Extension has assisted the local cattlemen's association in evaluating mineral supplementation programs and needs for local herd conditions. Specialists at NCSU provided guidance for members to solicit bids from manufacturers for a high quality mineral supplement. In 2008 these members utilized 821 bags (20 tons) of this product which should aid in improved health status, reproductive performance and increased weight gain. The cumulative savings on similar products offered at retail is approximately $3200 for these producers.
Record #: 514 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Mull, Donna H
Twenty-three youth participated in the 4-H Mini-Garden program. The program was designed to introduce youth to the hobby of gardening and help them learn the basics of how to plant and care for a garden. As a result of their participation, 72 percent of the youth reported increased knowledge about planting a garden and 63 percent reported increased understanding about conditions needed for plant growth. Children reported spending an average of 32 hours working outside in the garden when they typically would have been inside doing something less active. Based on records from their gardening project books, the children's gardens produced vegetables valued at more than $1500, resulting in a savings of that amount in grocery costs for the family.
Record #: 515 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: 4H-2.4
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Mull, Donna H
Forty-one youth participated in a multi-county week-long summer science discovery camp involving Gaston, Catawba, Lincoln, and Cleveland counties. The camp allowed youth to learn about a different science topic each day to enhance their interest in science-related project work and build critical thinking and problem solving skills. NCSU Extension specialists collaborated to provide instruction. Based on pre and post surveys, more than 70% of the students improved their knowledge of plant science, soils, poultry science, forensics, and using a map and GPS unit as a result of participation. Prents liked that the camp featured a variety of different topics and also encouraged youth to continue independent learning by conducting an experiment and entering the 4-H science fair later in the Fall. 100% of the families reported that the camp provided a positive summer learning experience and they would recommend it to other families.
Record #: 516 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-30
POW: F3
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Daniels, Glennie
The National Endowment for Financial Education and the Community Action Partnership indicate that limited resource individuals struggle to pay bills and provide food and clothes for their families much less afford home ownership. Cooperative Extension FCS provided money management information to Habitat for Humanity potential homeowners. Using skills developed in educational sessions, thirteen participants were able to reduce their debt by $6251.93 and save $2164.95 within a three-month period. This achievement enabled the families to move forward toward their goal of home ownership.
Record #: 517 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: E7
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Groves, Kelly M
Litter is a major issue in Catawba County. Litter has many negative effects including contamination of water and soil, diminished community pride, and reduced liklihood of attracting new businesses. In addition, paying city and state crews to remove litter from the roadsides is very expensive and time consuming. NC Cooperative Extension in conjunction with Keep Catawba County Beautiful organized Litter Sweeps in the spring and fall. Approximaley 200 people participated in community litter clean up efforts. These events saved the county and cities money and also helped to improve community pride.
Record #: 518 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: E7
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Groves, Kelly M
NC Coooperative Extension with cooperation from Keep Catawba County Beautiful encouraged and assisted the City of Hickory with the development and implementation of a city wide Adopt A Street program to help combat the problem of litter. Litter is a major problem in Catawba County and the city of Hickory. This program encourages individals and groups to voluneer to keep a section of a city street free of litter. To date twelve streets have been adopted. The volunteers have agreed to pick up litter from these streets a minimum of four times per year. This program will save taxpayers money and will help improve community pride.
Record #: 519 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: E7
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Groves, Kelly M
NC Cooperative Extension offered classes to teach individuals how to compost their yard and kitchen waste. Composting plays an important part in reducing the amount of solid waste burried in the landfill each year. Use of compost in the landscape can also help with water conservation and prevent soil erosion. Sixty percent of class attendees stated in surveys that they had built a compost pile and were actively using it to compost their food and yard waste.
Record #: 520 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: E7
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Groves, Kelly M
NC Cooperative Extension and Keep Catawba County Beautiful work together to help promote community beautification and responsible behavior regarding littering and recycling. A large portion of litter in Catawba County is plastic shopping bags. These bags are very light and are blown around very easily. Because these bags do not degrade they become a long lasting negative impact on the environment. This year, KCCB focused on eliminating the littering of plastic bags in the community by promoting the use of reusable shopping bags and encouraging the reuse, recycling and proper disposal of plastic bags. A slide presentation, display and a brochure were produced that presented the negative effects of plastic bag litter. Approximately 500 individuals learned about the negative effects of plastic bag litter and learned ways they can prevent littering of plastic bags.
Record #: 521 of 2840
Date: 2009-01-02
POW: A15
Location: Catawba
Person Reporting: Miller, N F
Eighteen new volunteers completed the required 50 hours of training necessary to become Master Gardeners and joined a core group of veteran Master Gardeners to provide over 1,060 hours of volunteer time worth an estimated $18,000. Projects included: a weekly Plant Clinic at the Hickory Farmers Market; renovation of the Billy Day Demonstration Garden and related landscaping at the SherrillÕs Ford Library; assisting with Backyard Composting classes; teaching Carolina Yards and Neighbors; building Rain Barrels and assisting with related educational programming through local municipalities; landscaping projects at local churches and schools, Hickory High School and South Newton Elementary; and judging of 4-H Mini-gardens.
Record #: 522 of 2840
Date: 2008-06-30
POW: CRD-1.2
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Groce, Samuel E
Chatham County was one of the counties to a grant through the NCDA&CS Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund to write and develop a Farmland Protection Plan for the county. This grant was in the amount of $35,000.00 with a match from the county of $14,700.00. This effort was a joint venture of the Chatham County Agricultural Advisory Board, the Chatham County Commissioners, Triangle Land Conservancy and Cooperative Extension. This money will be used to develop the plan that will help guide the land use plan for agriculture in Chatham County over the next several decades. The procurement of this grant was a result of the teamwork of several agencies and agribusiness leaders within the county.
Record #: 523 of 2840
Date: 2008-08-04
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Irby, Lauren N
Youth across the nation state speaking in front of large groups as one of the most predominant fears affecting them today. Studies have shown that the earlier a person conquers this fear, the more successful they are likely to be. The Chatham County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service 4-H staff organized a county 4-H Presentations Activity Day held in May for youth ages 5-19. All of the participants were able to complete their speeches/demonstrations and 50% of the youth in the competition were first time public speakers. All participants said they would be more likely to speak in public at other events after participating in Activity Day. One participant went on to compete at the District Activity Day and took Gold in her age division and then moved to the State Competition where she received Silver. The 4-H staff in Chatham County will continue to hold the competition.
Record #: 524 of 2840
Date: 2008-08-04
POW: 4H-2.4
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Irby, Lauren N
Teachers in Chatham County have stated that their students lack basic knowledge about growth cycles and other science skills, and have flagged it as a need in our public schools. The Chatham County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension 4-H staff partnered with a local hatchery to provide curriculum, materials and hatching eggs to four elementary schools in the county. Teachers stated the overall quality of the program was outstanding and that their students gained much or very much knowledge about growth cycles and science skills. Students improved their knowledge by 35% as measured by pre and post tests. The Chatham County staff hopes to reach more students next year by including more schools in the project.
Record #: 525 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-15
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Irby, Lauren N
Summer Camp has always been viewed as a traditional experience for youth that provides both educational experiences and a number of essential life skills. However, most of the youth in Chatham County were not able to attend 4-H Residential Camp due to a high demand each year. The Chatham County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension 4-H Staff decided to attend two weeks of residential camp at two different sites this summer and give 51 youth the opportunity to experience camp. All of the youth who attended these camps stated that they have a great time and learned a number of new skills including: archery, swimming, canoeing, and horseback riding. Also, 64% of youth reported that they learned valuable life skills including: problem solving, critical thinking, coping skills and conflict resolution. The Chatham County 4-H Staff looks forward to attending two weeks of residential camp in 2009.
Record #: 526 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-15
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Irby, Lauren N
The residents of Chatham County have faced major economic changes this year. With the economy officially entering a recession and the closing of one of the countyÕs major employers, several hundred Chatham residents have experienced layoffs and financial troubles. These problems often times keep families from participating in many forms of recreation, including 4-H Sumer Camp offered through the Chatham County Center of North Carolina 4-H Office. The summer camp program has traditionally been a common staple for most 4-H programs statewide. Chatham itself was able to take over fifty youth to residential camp last year, and was hoping for an even bigger year in 2009. After a news article was released, Chatham County 4-H acquired a donor for one complete camp scholarship this summer. This scholarship money will go cover all cost associated with camp. Chatham County looks forward to seeking more donors in this critical time.
Record #: 527 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-16
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Irby, Lauren N
Chatham County youth traditionally attend school, come home, grab a snack, and watch television for the remainder of the day. Occasionally they may throw in completing a bit of homework or studying for a test, but those are usually their daily routines. Chatham County 4-H has vigorously been trying to address this problem by getting the countyÕs youth out and involved in community clubs that offer a variety of educational experiences and the opportunity to meet new people and form new friendships. This year the Chatham County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension 4-H office has formed two new community clubs for youth with the help of some great volunteer leaders. Children have the option of participating in a rabbit club or horse club, in addition to existing clubs. All of our community clubs are planning on being very active in several events and programs next year.
Record #: 528 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-16
POW: 4H-2.3
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Irby, Lauren N
During the summer months, many Chatham County youth are often times left home alone due to the fact that their parents both work. Most of these youth find activities to do that are less than constructive during this unsupervised time. The Chatham County Center of North Carolina Cooperative Extension 4-H office has been holding two weeks of Jordan Lake 4-H Day Camp for several years. While at camp the 135 youth have the opportunity to experience several educational programs including: water safety, agriculture, health & fitness, recycling, and much more. Campers also have the opportunity to learn about different species of fish and go fishing with the Jordan Lake Wildlife Officers, as well as head to the NC Zoo for educational programming. Campers are given pre and post tests on what they have learned that week and this year the total knowledge gain was 50% for both weeks.
Record #: 529 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: A15
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Cooke, Albert
Extension Agents experience many home gardeners as untutored amateurs who may use water or fertilizers with unreasonable expectations or without understanding predictable results. Extension offered a 13-week series of classes to provide gardeners better guidelines for making decisions in the garden and landscape. 82 participants completed a pre-test; 49 completed the same test after 13 weeks allowing a measure of change in behavior. During the classes, the percentage that performed a soil test prior to applying fertilizers changed from 35% to 65%. Those evaluating plant needs prior to fertilizing increased from 14% to 86%. Those calculating the amount of fertilizer to apply increased from 32% to 68%. The biggest change was in those who evaluate plant needs prior to watering, increasing from 5% to 95%. As a group these gardeners have significant impact on water quality and quantity and with a little guidance can be much better stewards.
Record #: 530 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: A15
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Cooke, Albert
Untutored home gardeners often encounter plant problems with little understanding of the nature of the problem or how to avoid it. These problems may affect the value and appearance of their investment in landscape or the success of their efforts to grow food. Seldom is there remedial treatment to cure disease problems, which are more effectively prevented. Gardeners may spend time, resources, and effort using pesticides to little effect. Extension offered a class on plant diseases attended by 42 gardeners. After the class, 98% reported improved knowledge or how pathogens infect plants. 93% improved their ability to recognize non-pathological causes of problems. 85% intended to initiate proactive strategies to prevent plant disease. The other 15 % indicated they might. In addition to the 17% who already knew to use pruners for early removal of diseased plant parts, the remaining 83% intended to adopt that strategy.
Record #: 531 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: A15
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Cooke, Albert
The quality of a home lawn can have impacts ranging from affecting the value of a home to providing a place for young children to play safely to reducing exposure to ticks. Optimal management can affect the quality of the lawn including prevalence of weeds and incidence of disease. Unfortunately, many residents are not aware that different grasses require different management programs for optimal results. Consequently fertilizer applications may be poorly timed, and mowing height may be wrong for the specific grass. Extension offered a class on managing lawn grasses attended by 44 individuals. 93% of them demonstrated improved knowledge of differences in management for different grasses. 93% intended to begin fertilizing at the proper time. 97% intended to begin mowing at the recommended height. These residents are likely to experience more satisfaction and less problems with their lawns.
Record #: 532 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: A15
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Cooke, Albert
When new residents move Òto the country,Ó they often want to grow food crops. Their knowledge of what to grow and how is often limited. Gardeners may fail to select fruits or vegetables based on what is likely to succeed in their soil and climate. With such a poor foundation success may be elusive despite the investment of time, energy, and materials. Extension offered classes on growing vegetables and fruits with 51 and 52 attending. 94% demonstrated improved knowledge of what fruits to grow and how to select a site. 92% demonstrated an improved understanding of site requirements for vegetable crops. Only 10% were already planting locally recommended varieties but 86% intended to adopt those varieties. Only 14% used localized planting dates, but 82% intended to take those into account. Adopting such strategies with a proven record should set these gardeners up for success and improve their quality of life.
Record #: 533 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: A15
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Cooke, Albert
Trees, shrubs, and perennial flowering plants can improve the appearance and value of a home and offer much variety and pleasure to the home gardener. But gardeners often overestimate the fertility needs of these plants. When excess fertilizer is applied, rapid growth may be weak and spindly. Perennial plants may just fall over and look unattractive. Trees may break resulting in damage to property. Shrubs fertilized excessively often need repeated pruning. And excess fertilizer may find its way into surface waters creating more serious problems. Extension offered classes on growing landscape trees and shrubs and on growing annual and perennial flowers with 57 and 47 in attendance. 98% of those attending demonstrated an improved knowledge of fertilizing trees and shrubs. 88% indicated intent to base fertilization on plant needs. 73% indicated they would cut back of fertilizing perennial plants. Reducing fertilizer provides good results with less adverse environmental impact.
Record #: 534 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: A15
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Cooke, Albert
North Carolina experienced the worst drought on record in 2007. It became obvious that many gardeners lacked understanding of how much and how often to water and of strategies to maintain healthy plants without wasting water. Extension offered a class on growing trees and shrubs attended by 57. 94% demonstrated improved knowledge of reducing water use by grouping plants according to water needs. 89% demonstrated improved knowledge of irrigation with 70% reporting high or very high knowledge levels after the class. After the class 99% indicated they would select plants based on suitability to the site. 95% said they would irrigate based on plant needs rather than on a pre-determined schedule. Gardeners want to be proactive in water conservation. When they have knowledge they are empowered to put the desire into practice.
Record #: 535 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: A15
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Cooke, Albert
Weeds are the bane of a gardenerÕs existence and can detract from the appearance and value of property. Many gardeners prefer not to use herbicides for weed control but lack understanding of how to manage weeds well. When weed pressure intensifies, gardeners may despair and resort to an herbicide approach. Such an approach is often ill-advised and unsuccessful as weeds have reached a point that herbicides are least likely to be effective. Extension offered a class on weed management attended by 46 persons. 90% demonstrated an improved knowledge of how to control weeds without using herbicide products with 79% ranking their knowledge at high or very high. After the class, 79% indicated they would use a comprehensive weed management strategy. 87% said they would use two or more methods for weed control. With improved knowledge, gardeners are better able to achieve their goals with available resources.
Record #: 536 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: CRD-4.1
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Cooke, Albert
Accidents can be expensive for business and the landscape business has numerous hazards associated with transportation, machinery operation, hazardous materials, hand tools, ladders, heavy lifting, exposure to heat and cold, and working near roadways. Extension in Chatham County partnered with Industrial Extension to offer a safety workshop attended by 26 managers. While only 44% reported having an existing safety program, an additional 36% left intending to develop a program. Of those with safety programs, 78% indicated likely improvement in their programs. All of those attending indicated that they expected fewer injuries as a result of attending the program. That result is not only a reduced business expense but improved quality of life for employees.
Record #: 537 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: E3
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Cooke, Albert
Landscapers and grounds managers tend to fill their days with work and schedule little time for continuing education, especially when it does not include pesticide recertification credit. But these managers influence management of many properties. After an extended drought, 22 individuals showed up for a half-day program on water and the landscape. Such a group of experienced managers tends to be skeptical and slow to adopt emerging technologies. Nevertheless, 93% of them indicated that they had increased their understanding of the complexities of climate and drought. 34% indicated intent to further investigate new monitors for irrigation systems. Two testified that these new systems are improving water efficiency beyond that achieved by educated and experienced managers. 73% expected to improve their selection and management for turfgrasses, significant consumers of water. 60% expected to install rain gardens, a technique that optimizes use of water and reduces runoff of contaminants.
Record #: 538 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: A15
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Cooke, Albert
In rapidly developing areas, new residents find that topsoil has been removed, subsoil may be on the surface, soil compaction is a given, and soil structure is non-existent. There is no plant native to such soil and gardeners experience frustration attempting to grow vegetables or enhance their property appearance and value with landscaping. Experiencing difficulty working the soil, they blame soil texture (clay) or low fertility and lack understanding of the importance of soil structure or how to restore it to facilitate plant growth. After 78 participants attended a class on amending soil for successful gardening, 93% reported improved understanding of soil structure. 82% improved their knowledge of soil compaction and drainage and how to work with the soil. This new understanding was reflected in their behavior changes with 70% planning to thoroughly till areas prior to planting. 87% intended to add amendments to improve their soil.
Record #: 539 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-17
POW: A15
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Cooke, Albert
In rapidly developing areas, land that was previously managed by one knowledgeable farmer or forester, moves into management by many home owners with little or no training and experience in how to determine fertilizer need, schedule applications to benefit plants, or measure and calibrate fertilizer applications. Fertilizer is one source of nitrogen and phosphorous, the two most significant elements in impaired water quality in North Carolina. After a class on soil fertility attended by 70 individuals, more than 90% reported improved understanding of fertilizer and water pollution, having soil analyzed for fertilizer need, and calculating the amount of fertilizer to use. With this improved understanding, 93% indicated an intention to have soil analyzed. 78% intended to calculate the amount of fertilizer to use, and 97% planned to exercise care with fertilizer applications. Gardeners usually want to protect water supplies and will do so when they are given the appropriate knowledge.
Record #: 540 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: CRD-2.1
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Groce, Samuel E
Chatham County was one of the counties to a grant through the NCDA&CS Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation Trust Fund to write and develop a Farmland Protection Plan for the county. This grant was in the amount of $35,000.00 with a match from the county of $14,700.00. This effort was a joint venture of the Chatham County Agricultural Advisory Board, the Chatham County Commissioners, Triangle Land Conservancy and Cooperative Extension. This money will be used to develop the plan that will help guide the land use plan for agriculture in Chatham County over the next several decades. The procurement of this grant was a result of the teamwork of several agencies and agribusiness leaders within the county. Development of this plan will result in more funding at a lower cost-share between preservation agencies and the landowner becoming available
Record #: 541 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: CRD-2.1
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Groce, Samuel E
The Chatham County Center of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service hosted an international farm tour for Agriculture Education leaders from the PeopleÕs Republic of China. The delegation desired to see and understand the relationship between local government and the university outreach programs and how Cooperative Extension worked with small scale commercial agriculture. The Chatham County Assistant County Manager spoke to the delegation and they visited with a local dairy farmer and an organic vegetable farmer. Feedback from the delegation indicated that they obtained knowledge about conducting successful extension programming that they could take back to China to use to increase their agricultural production in their homeland.
Record #: 542 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: A3
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Groce, Samuel E
Chatham County, NC is the largest beef cattle county in the state of NC. Up until 4 years ago there was limited youth 4-H involvement through raising and showing of beef animals in Chatham County. During 2008 the Chatham Charging Champions 4-H Livestock Club members participated in 2 shows. There were 7 members who showed a total of 11 animals during the course of the 2 shows. These young people received over $1,100.00 dollars in support money and premiums for their efforts. Most importantly these young people indicated that these projects increased their self confidence and self esteem. Today, these young people who had to be encouraged to start a livestock project are now asking about and exploring other opportunities available to them through the 4-H livestock program.
Record #: 543 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: A1
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Groce, Samuel E
In the past 5 years, the fire ant population of Chatham County, NC has exploded. Homeowners as well as livestock producers are dealing with these stinging pests. Livestock producers are not only concerned about themselves but also about the well-being of their animals. Cattle run the risk of being stung if they graze too close to a mound or accidently step on a mound and the calves are particularly vulnerable to fatal stings by the ants. The Chatham County Center of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service conducted educational workshops that covered the biology and control of fire ants. Participants reported after the programs that 90% of them would exhibit more patience in waiting for control measures to work and 93% would first determine if a particular mound was one that needed to be treated, thus reducing the cost of control and the amount of pesticides used on their farm.
Record #: 544 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: A1
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Groce, Samuel E
During 2007 Chatham County, NC reached the D-4 (Exceptional Drought) level. The extended drought and accompanying heat wave led to an average of an 80% loss of forage crops in the county. Since the entire state was affected by this drought, state government funded a disaster plan to help reimburse farmers for some of the cost of replanting their pastures. As a condition of receiving funding farmerÕs were required to attend educational programming on pasture management. The Chatham County Center of NC Cooperative Extension offered workshops to meet these requirements. The 98 forage producers attending the workshops indicated that tools and information tips offered at these workshops would increase their farm productivity by an average of $750.00 per year in feed savings and increased production for a total county impact of $73,500.00.
Record #: 545 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: A1
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Groce, Samuel E
Many consumers in Chatham County, NC are interested in purchasing locally grown food and they also want to know who grew it and how they did it. In 2008 two new producers in the county have began marketing grass fed beef. Grass fed beef has been heralded by such organizations as the American Medical Association as being more heart healthy and having anti-carcinogenic properties. To increase the awareness of these farms and to introduce grass fed beef to potential customers who have not had the opportunity to eat this product, the Chatham County Center of the NC Cooperative Extension Service has featured these farms on farm tours and through sponsored meals at programs served the grass fed beef as the entrŽe for the meal. Producers have indicated that this education and publicity about their product has lead to increased sales and has resulted in an estimated $7,500.00 increase in sales.
Record #: 546 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-18
POW: E4
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Groce, Samuel E
Farmers in Chatham County, NC have faced disasters both natural and man-made. Eighteen months of drought, followed by high fertilizer and fuel costs, increased grain and feed costs and decreasing prices for livestock sales, along with tightening credit market have put many farmers into an extremely tight financial bind. There are some government safety nets that are available through the Farm Bill to help provide some protection to farmers. The Chatham County Center of the NC Cooperative Extension worked to educate producers about disaster programs and cost share programs that were available to them. As a result of the educational program and work with the Farm Service Agency and Natural Resources Conservation Service over $600,000.00 was paid to farmers in Chatham County through disaster and cost-share payments.
Record #: 547 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: E7
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
With the passage of House Bill 688, septic system installers must be certified in order to continue installing septic systems after January 1, 2008. The Chatham County Environmental Health Division and Cooperative Extension worked together to provide a safety training workshop with seventy septic system contractors and their employees participating. 59% of the participants gained much or very much knowledge about confined space entry. 79% indicated the knowledge gained would be useful to them. 51% of the participants gained much or very much knowledge about trenching and excavation safety. 88% indicated the knowledge gained would be useful to them. 85% will now change some work practice to work safer at the job site. These contractors had installed about 427 systems in Chatham with 49% conventional and 51% innovative. This workshop reached a new group of septic contractors with18% of them attending a Cooperative Extension workshop for the first time.
Record #: 548 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: E7
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
Most homeowners do not maintain their septic system and know little about its operation and maintenance. Forty-two homeowners participated in a homeowner septic maintenance workshop. 80% improved their knowledge about what a septic system is and how it works. 90% improved their knowledge about why septic systems fail. 75% learned why and when to pump septic tanks. 70% learned ways to conserve water. 98% gained knowledge about what to plant and not to plant over the septic field. 79% will now pump their septic tank as recommended. 37% will stop using septic tank additives. 14% will stop using the garbage disposal. 54% will adopt 1-2 practices to conserve water. 89% will monitor their septic system more closely for maintenance needs. The workshop was a joint effort between Cooperative Extension and the Chatham Environmental Health Division.
Record #: 549 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: E7
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
Many homeowners know little about maintaining and protecting their well. Fifty-two homeowners participated in a homeowner well workshop. 73% gained much or very much knowledge about groundwater and geology. 87% gained much or very much knowledge about well permitting and well construction. 81% gained much or very much knowledge about well abandonment. 87% gained much or very much knowledge about well water protection. 92% gained much or very much knowledge about well water testing. 91% indicated the knowledge gained would be much or very much useful to them. For 91% the workshop much or very much met their expectations. 98% rated the workshop as good or outstanding. The workshop reached a new audience. 50% had never participated in a Cooperative Extension workshop. The workshop was a joint effort between Cooperative Extension and the Chatham Environmental Health Division.
Record #: 550 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: E7
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
Site contractors and developers need to have a better understanding of the requirements of the county soil erosion control and sedimentation ordinance. Twenty site contractors and developers participated in a Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Contractors Workshop taught by the county soil erosion control staff. 68% gained much or very much knowledge about the Chatham erosion and sedimentation control ordinance. 68% gained much or very much knowledge about soil erosion control and sedimentation (SECS) inspections. 95% learned some, much or very much about SECS devises. 89% gained some, much, or very much knowledge about the SECS design manual and construction sequence. 83% gained some, much, or very much knowledge about NPDES requirements and 401/404 permits. 79% indicated the knowledge gained would be much or very much useful to them. This workshop reached a new audience. 53% of the workshop participants had never participated in a Cooperative Extension workshop.
Record #: 551 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: E7
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
Thirteen septic contractors, their employees and environmental health specialists participated in a septic system layout workshop taught by the North Carolina State University Soil Science Extension Specialists. 60% improved their knowledge about layout issues and defining the available area for the septic system. 70% gained knowledge about layout techniques. 80% gained knowledge about layout strategies. 60% gained knowledge about data and information management. 90% gained knowledge about advanced layout strategies. 100% said the workshop improved their septic design knowledge and skills. 92% said the workshop improved their septic installation knowledge and skills. 100% indicated the information presented would be useful to them. The workshop was a joint effort between Cooperative Extension and the Chatham Environmental Health Division.
Record #: 552 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: E7
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
Thirteen septic contractors, their employees and environmental health specialists participated in a septic system layout workshop taught by the North Carolina State University Soil Science Extension Specialists. 62% are able to better to identify and evaluate non-soil site constraints such as topography and man-made boundaries. 92% better understand techniques for efficient layout of on-site systems and better able to prepare site layout diagrams. 85% are more knowledgeable about field data collection during system layout and installation purposes. 85% can now make the most effective use of the land by maximizing layout efficiency and enhancing lot yield. 85% can better design and install a system that will be less likely to fail and thus better protect the environment. The workshop was a joint effort between Cooperative Extension and the Chatham Environmental Health Division.
Record #: 553 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: E7
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
Septic professionals must receive continuing education credits in order to be able to install and inspect septic systems. Proper installation and maintenance of pumps and floats is critical to proper operation of septic systems and necessary in order to protect the environment. Twenty septic professionals participated in the septic system pumps and floats workshop. As a result of this workshop, 84% of the participants are better able to install, replace or adjust basic pump system components. 89% are better able to troubleshoot pumps and control systems at system startup and beyond. 68% are better able to determine dosing volume in a pump tank. 58% are better able to set floats to proper level using float controls for demand dosed pump systems. 84% are better able to make sure there is enough emergency storage in the tank. 100% indicated the workshop met their expectations.
Record #: 554 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: E7
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
Septic professionals must receive continuing education credits in order to be approved to install and inspect septic systems. Proper installation and maintenance of pumps and floats is critical to proper operation of septic systems and is necessary in order to protect the environment. Twenty septic professionals participated in the septic system pumps and floats workshop. This was a joint effort by the North Carolina Cooperative Extension and the Chatham County Environmental Health Division. 95% of the participants increased their pump/control system installation skills. 100% increased their pump/control system troubleshooting skills. 100% are better able to install and maintain on-site wastewater pumps and control systems. 100% indicated the information presented in this workshop would be useful to them.
Record #: 555 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: E7
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
Proper installation and maintenance of pumps and floats is critical to proper operation of septic systems and is necessary in order to protect the environment. Twenty septic professionals participated in the septic system pumps and floats workshop. With a rating scale of very low (1), low (2), moderate (3), high (4) and very high (5), knowledge about pump system components, fittings and specifications increased from 3.5 to 4.3, knowledge about installation of basic pump system components increased from 3.4 to 4.3, knowledge about troubleshooting pumps and control systems increased from3.1 to 4.0, knowledge about pump setup in the tank increased from 3.6 to 4.4, and knowledge about float trees and suspended float setups increased from 3.7 to 4.5. 100% were satisfied or very satisfied with the quality of the workshop. 95% were satisfied or very satisfied with the relevance of the information to their needs.
Record #: 556 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: A9
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
With 60% of Chatham land (262,000 acres) in timber, it is important that timber owners maintain the health of their timber. Twenty-one forest land owners participated in a forest herbicide workshop taught jointly by North Carolina Cooperative Extension and BASF Chemical Company. These participants owned over 2,500 acres in five counties. As a result of the workshop, 72% of the forest owners are better able to control competitive vegetation in their timber stand. 78% are better able to control invasive plants. 89% are better able to know when and where to use forest herbicides. 83% better know the different forest herbicide applications. 94% better know what forest herbicide products are available. 100% indicated the information presented would be useful to them. 100% said they increased their knowledge about vegetative control and forest herbicides. 89% were satisfied or very satisfied with the relevance of the information to their needs.
Record #: 557 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: A9
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
With 60% of Chatham land (262,000 acres) in timber, it is important that timber owners maintain the health of their timber. Twenty-one forest land owners participated in a forest herbicide workshop taught jointly by North Carolina Cooperative Extension and BASF Chemical Company. These participants owned over 2,500 acres in five counties. With a rating scale of very low (1), low (2), moderate (3), high (4) and very high (5), knowledge about vegetative competition with pines and hardwoods increased from 2.4 to3.6, knowledge about how to control invasive plants increased from 2.4 to 3.6, knowledge about crop tree release increased from 2.5 to 3.6, knowledge about where and when to use forest herbicides increased from 2.2 to 3.6, knowledge about types of forest herbicide applications increased from 2.2 to 3.8. 100% of the participants were satisfied or very satisfied with the quality of the workshop.
Record #: 558 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: E6
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
If timber is harvested and local or state regulations and ordinances are violated, it can be very expensive to the landowner. Chatham County is in the process of passing a major corridor ordinance that could negatively impact timber harvest operations. Sixteen forest land owners participated in a forestry regulations and ordinances workshop. These workshop participants own 2,357 acres of timber land in a five county area. 58% gained much or very much knowledge about forestry regulations and ordinances. 64% indicated the knowledge gained would be much useful to them. 92% said the workshop much or very much met their expectations. 100% rated the workshop as good or outstanding. The workshop reached an audience that only occasionally participates in Cooperative Extension programs. For 92% of the participants, this was the only Cooperative Extension workshop they had attended over the past year.
Record #: 559 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: A9
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
With 60% of Chatham land (262,000 acres) in timber, timber is a major crop in the county. With difficult financial times, forest owners are looking for other ways to make money from their timber. Twenty-three workshop participants own 4,088 acres in a twelve county area. They received over $544,000 in their last timber sales. 77% of the participants gained much or very much knowledge about bio-char, a torrified wood heating product to burn with coal. 64% gained knowledge about the woody biomass markets. 27% gained knowledge about cellulosic ethanol. 57% gained knowledge about carbon trading. 48% indicated the knowledge gained would be much or very much useful to them. 77% indicated the workshop much or very much met their expectations. 95% rated the workshop as good or outstanding. For 71% of the participants, this was the only Cooperative Extension workshop they had attended over the past year.
Record #: 560 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: E6
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
Many youth do not understand that trees are an important crop and a renewable resource. Thirty-three youth attended a forestry wildlife day camp conducted by the Chatham Center of the North Carolina Cooperative Extension. There was a 46% increase in the number of correct answers on the post-test. 41% of the campers got perfect scores on the post-test. There was a 41% increase in the wildlife identification scores, 52% increase in animal track identification, 41% increase in tree leaf identification, 53% increase in snake identification, 24% increase in bird identification, and 67% increase in wood identification. Thirty agency personnel and volunteers helping with the program included Extension Forestry, NC Cooperative Extension, NC Forest Service, NC Wildlife Resources Commission, Chatham Beekeepers, Chatham 4-H, Edwards and Randolph Forest Management Group, ATC Panels, Moncure Plywood, San-Lee Park, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, US Army Corps of Engineers, and Chatham Extension Forestry Advisory Committee.
Record #: 561 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: A2
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
With less than 5% of Chatham CountyÕs population living on the farm and with more people moving in, residents are not aware of the diversity and importance of agriculture and industry. The eighteenth annual Chatham Farm and Industry Tour conducted by Cooperative Extension helped the 75 participants to become more aware of the importance of farming and industry. 85% gained a lot of knowledge about Chaudhry Halal Meats, an independent small scale goat, beef and poultry processing plant. 78% gained a lot of knowledge about Chestnut Hill Farm, a beef and poultry farm. 87% gained a lot of knowledge about Lindale Dairy, the countyÕs only organic dairy farm. 54% gained a lot of knowledge about Silk Hope Nursery. 35% gained a lot of knowledge about Silk Hope Winery. 100% rated agriculture as very important to the economy and quality of life in Chatham County. 73% rated the tour as outstanding.
Record #: 562 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: A2
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
Many small business and industry personnel in Chatham County are not aware of the diversity and importance of farming. Ten business representatives participated in the Leadership Chatham Farm Tour part of the Chamber of CommerceÕs six month leadership program. 80% gained a lot of knowledge about Chaudhry Halal Meats, an independent small scale goat, beef and poultry processing plant. 80% gained a lot of knowledge about HarlandÕs Creek Farm, a certified organic vegetable farm. 80% gained a lot of knowledge about Mellow Marsh Farm, a nursery specializing in native wetland plants. 80% gained a lot of knowledge about Chestnut Hill Farm, a beef and poultry farm. 80% gained a lot of knowledge about Lindale Dairy, the countyÕs only organic dairy farm. 100% indicated that agriculture is very important to the economy and quality of life in the county. 60% rated the tour as outstanding.
Record #: 563 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: A9
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
Fifty-four loggers participated in a ProLogger Training on best management practices to protect water quality. As a result of this training, 87% of the loggers will change practices to better protect water quality, 93% will better protect streamside management zones, and 93% will better control runoff during the timber harvest. 77% gained much or very much knowledge about best management practices to protect water quality. 74% gained much or very much knowledge about best management practices for streamside management zones. 67% gained much or very much knowledge about best management practices for planning stream crossings. 59% gained much or very much knowledge about ways to control and prevent fluid leaks and manage solid wastes. We are grateful to John Cecil with Moncure Plywood for teaching the session. We thank the loggers and Moncure Plywood for their commitment to protecting the water and soil resources of Chatham County.
Record #: 564 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: F4
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
Chatham County government recently upgraded the County GIS web site. This workshop was designed to teach the public about how to use the existing and new features of the GIS web site. Thirty-six Chatham web site users participated in the GIS Workshop taught by Jeremy Poss, Chatham County GIS Specialist. 97% gained much or very much knowledge about ways to search for land parcels. 88% gained much or very much knowledge about the different layers of data that are available. 70% gained much or very much knowledge about how to access property record cards. 97% gained much or very much knowledge about the different tools available on the GIS web site. 100% learned where to download Chatham County GIS data. 94% learned what different County departments have available on the GIS site. 15% of the workshop participants had never attended a Cooperative Extension workshop before attending this one.
Record #: 565 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-23
POW: F4
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Woolard, Glenn E
Chatham County government recently upgraded the County GIS web site. This workshop was designed to teach the public about how to use the existing and new features of the GIS web site. Thirty-six Chatham web site users participated in the GIS Workshop taught by Jeremy Poss, Chatham County GIS Specialist. 97% gained much or very much knowledge about the CountyÕs GIS web site. 76% indicated the knowledge gained would be much or very much useful to them. 97% rated the workshop as good or outstanding. 97% indicated the workshop much or very much met their expectations. This was the first time a workshop like this one has been offered in Chatham County. 15% of the workshop participants had never attended a Cooperative Extension workshop before attending this one.
Record #: 566 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A5
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Roos, Debbie L
Demand for locally produced apples exceeds supply. Many farmers who sell at farmersÕ markets are interested in diversifying into small-scale apple production. Heirloom apples are a logical choice given that they are locally adapted and favored by many consumers. Cooperative Extension conducted a sold-out workshop for 120 farmers who learned about variety selection, pruning, fertilization, pollination, pest management, and postharvest handling. In a post-workshop evaluation, 92% of participants rated the workshop as "excellent" or "outstanding". 98% responded they had gained ÒmuchÓ or "very muchÓ knowledge, and 100% said they felt better prepared to grow heirloom apples as a result of the workshop. Participants commented: I planted trees last fall and now feel more confident I can take care of them; so much great info from an experienced local grower so I know what to expect here; Chatham County is a great resource for small-scale growers – THANK YOU!
Record #: 567 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A5
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Roos, Debbie L
Farm record-keeping and accounting is a vital component of business success. Many farmers are intimidated by computer programs and/or do not know how to make them work for their farm business. Cooperative Extension conducted a workshop that taught 35 farmers how to better use QuickBooks for farm record-keeping and accounting. In a post- workshop evaluation, 92% of participants rated the workshop as "excellent" or "outstanding". 96% responded they had gained ÒmuchÓ or "very muchÓ knowledge as a result of the workshop, and 88% said they obtained knowledge that would make their farm more sustainable as a result of the workshop. Participants commented: I learned so much in this half day session that will make my accounting SO much easier – thank you so much; WOW – I wish I had taken this workshop years agoÉthis was wonderful and it will make a huge difference in my farm management.
Record #: 568 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: E3
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Roos, Debbie L
Organic farmers do not have a huge arsenal of pesticides in their toolbox to combat pests. Pest management in an organic system is very knowledge intensive and relies on cultural practices that prevent pests. Successful farmers have a keen knowledge of insect life cycles and behaviors that help in developing appropriate management strategies. Cooperative Extension conducted a workshop for 65 farmers to learn about the latest in organic pest management techniques. In a post- workshop evaluation, 95% of participants rated the workshop as "excellent" or "outstanding". 94% responded they had gained ÒmuchÓ or "very muchÓ knowledge as a result of the workshop, and 100% said they obtained knowledge that would make their farm more sustainable as a result of the workshop. Participants commented: the speaker had terrific depth of knowledge; well organized, very clear presentation, excellent resource notebook; fabulous info/photos/delivery; packed with info! DebbieÕs energy is encouraging and inspiring!
Record #: 569 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: E3
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Roos, Debbie L
Grafting vegetables to manage diseases is a common practice in many other parts of the world and is now receiving attention here in the U.S. Grafted tomato transplants are able to combine the high quality fruit of heirloom cultivars with the disease resistance, stress tolerance, and vigor of modern rootstock cultivars. Cooperative Extension conducted a hands-on Heirloom Tomato Grafting workshop for 55 farmers to learn about NCSU grafting research. In a post- workshop evaluation, 97% of participants rated the workshop as "outstanding" or ÒexcellentÓ. 100% said they had gained ÒmuchÓ or "very muchÓ knowledge, and 93% said this knowledge would make their farm more sustainable. As a result of the workshop, participants anticipated several benefits including fewer inputs (fertilizer, pesticides, propane), better disease resistance, and increased yields and income. Participants commented: I appreciated the access to deeply knowledgeable researchers/farmers; hands-on grafting practice was terrific; excellent handouts; so practical and applicable.
Record #: 570 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A5
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Roos, Debbie L
Demand for pasture-raised eggs and poultry is high in North Carolina. More and more producers are interested in incorporating pastured poultry into their existing operations to improve soil quality and crop fertility, expand markets, increase income, and enhance sustainability. Cooperative ExtensionÕs sustainable agriculture agent and area poultry agent teamed up to conduct a Pastured Poultry workshop for 55 farmers. In a post- workshop evaluation, 71% of participants rated the workshop as "outstanding" or ÒexcellentÓ. 90% said they had gained ÒmuchÓ or "very muchÓ knowledge and 74% said this knowledge would save or make them money. 84% of participants said what they learned about breed selection, biosecurity, forage and feed management, and flock management would make their farm more sustainable. Participants commented: Handouts, resources, etc. are terrific; expert presenters, wide range of topics; lots of good advice and opportunity to get questions answered; wonderful workshop!
Record #: 571 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A5
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Roos, Debbie L
Cooperative ExtensionÕs sustainable agriculture agent and area poultry agent teamed up to conduct a Pastured Poultry field day at a local farm for 50 farmers. In a post-workshop evaluation, 73% of participants said they had gained ÒmuchÓ or "very muchÓ knowledge. 58% of participants who did not currently have chickens said that they now plan on raising birds on pasture as a result of the workshop. 80% said what they learned would make their farm more sustainable and bring multiple benefits, including reduced need for inputs (fertilizer, pesticides, etc.), increased income, improved brooder management, and improved forage management. Participants commented: Being at the farm and having the opportunity to ask questions in a relaxed environment made this a great time; very good briefings on realistic problem-solving; getting an idea of how a successful chicken/egg operation runs from the nuts and bolts side was what I liked the best.
Record #: 572 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: E3
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Roos, Debbie L
2008 was a great year for fire ants. Cooperative Extension agents received a high number of calls and emails from farmers regarding fire ant problems. Many organic farmers who had never had fire ant problems before were seeing new mounds. Unfortunately, very little information exists on organic control of fire ants in North Carolina. In response to this immediate need, the Chatham County Center of NC Cooperative Extension developed a comprehensive new web page on Organic Fire Ant Management (http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/chatham/ag/SustAg/fireants.html). The web page includes information on fire ant biology and discusses organic control strategies including biological control, cultural practices, and organically approved pesticides. Farmers have indicated that the website has been extremely helpful in helping them keep fire ant populations in check.
Record #: 573 of 2840
Date: 2008-12-31
POW: A3
Location: Chatham
Person Reporting: Roos, Debbie L
Over one-third of the food we eat relies on bees for pollination. These bees – both honey bees and native bees – rely on farms and natural areas for forage and nesting sites. As Chatham CountyÕs population grows and significant acreage is cleared for new development, crucial forage and nesting habitat is lost. Local farms depend on forage habitat to sustain the pollinators and other beneficial insects that contribute to crop production and pest management. When pollinator species decline, crops are not fully pollinated, yields are reduced, and farmers suffer economically. If more farms and home gardens included forage and nesting habitat, pollinator species would benefit. Coop