Warren County Connection - December 2022

Warren County Connection

A Publication of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Warren County December 2022

Youth and Anxiety: Screening Is Essential

Young people ages 8 to 18 should all receive an annual screening for anxiety, according to a new recommendation by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, a volunteer panel of experts who make public health recommendations.

The goal is to identify mental health conditions earlier and direct youth to treatment that can help a problem from becoming worse.

The screening is important because it can be difficult for parents and caregivers to identify anxiety in children and teens. Young people may express worries verbally, but their anxiety can instead present itself as irritability or frustration. Anxiety can result in physical symptoms such as trouble sleeping, fatigue, headaches, or stomachaches. Research shows that half of young people with mental health disorders never receive a diagnosis or treatment.

Current data show that youth mental health has been on a downward spiral since the COVID 19 pandemic. Before the pandemic, nearly 8 percent of U.S. youth were diagnosed with anxiety. Recent surveys show that number has risen as young people coped with social distancing and then re entry into social situations. In a 2021 survey, more than 30% of U.S. high school students reported that their mental health was not good

most or all of the time. (This includes anxiety, but also other issues like depression and suicidal thoughts.)

The new recommendation will most likely result in anxiety screenings becoming a regular part of annual check ups. A variety of questionnaires can help medical providers identify young people who need further assessment and treatment. Such an assessment would help determine whether a young person is having a tough period or experiencing an on going mental health issue that affects their daily life.

For young people who are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, the standard treatments are therapy, prescription medications, or a combination of the two. The most common, evidence based treatment is cognitive behavioral therapy which can be delivered either in person or online. There is one prescription medication, a serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, approved by the (Continued on page 8)

In this issue:

Poinsettias What’s New With This Old Plant 3 Wrap It Up 4

The Pleasures of Indoor Gardening 5

Hosting a Food Drive 6 Hosting Holiday Meals on a Budget 7

Strengthening Family Bonds During the Holidays

8

Science has Proven … Or has it? 9

Family Budget Coaching 9 How Can My Pet Better My Health 10

Specialpoints ofinterest:

• Calendarof Events

Cornell University Cooperative Extension of Warren County

377 Schroon River Road Warrensburg, NY 12885

Phone: (518) 623-3291 or (518) 668-4881

Visit Our Web Site: www.cce.cornell.edu/warren

Who We Are

Nation-wide, thousands of people in each state tap into their state’s land-grant university research and know-how to make sound confident decisions concerning family, home, business, finances, and the future. In New York State, the land grant university is Cornell University.

The Cornell Cooperative Extension network brings you the expertise of Cornell University, other land grant universities across the country and locally based Extension Educators, volunteers, and other experts through such programs as: horticulture, youth and families, leadership, environment, food, nutrition & health, home environment, and financial management.

Staff

Dr. James Seeley, Executive Director

John Bowe, Interim Executive Director & Associate Team Leader

Dan Carusone, 4 H Natural Resources Coordinator

Roxanne Westcott, 4 H Family Living Educator

Rebecca Devaney, Community Horticulture Coordinator

Sharon Bellamy, Finance Manager

Amy Sabattis, Public Relations/Publications Manager

Michele Baker, Administrative Assistant

Chris Dittus, Administrative Assistant

Joe Phillips, Facilities Coordinator

Board of Directors

David Strainer - President

Jim Kneeshaw Vice President

Dan Bruno Secretary

William Hamelin Treasurer

Aimee Azaert

CheriLyn Dempsey

Lisa Earl

Maureen Folk

Ed Griesmer

David Little

Cynthia Muratori

Extension Service Committee

Chair Ben Driscoll

Daniel Bruno

Andrea Hogan

Brad Magowan

Debra Runyon

Please visit our website for more eventswww.cce.cornell.edu/warren

DECEMBER CALENDAR

12/8/2022

7:15 PM - 8:15 PM

4-H Adirondack Guides New Member Orientation

All interested youths and their families are encouraged to attend this information session. The 4 H Adirondack Guide program is open to youth 12 and over who have a specific interest in environmental and outdoor education. Programs are delivered in the field, as youth learn about local trees, birds, mammals, amphibians, and fish. Outdoor skills include basic camping and packing skills, map & compass, shelter building, and fire starting. When possible, we also include wilderness first aid and canoeing workshops. Pre-registration is required by calling CCE Warren at 518 668 4881.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Warren County 377 Schroon River Road Warrensburg, NY 12885

12/29/2022

1:30 PM - 3:00 PM

Ice Fishing Clinic

Join us for a fun-filled exploration of all the necessary elements of ice fishing; with a particular focus on safety. A day trip in either January or February is planned. In order to attend the day trip, youth MUST first attend the clinic on the 29th of December. Pre registration for the clinic is required. To register or to learn more about this or other Warren County 4 H programs, call 518 668 4881; or email Dan Carusone at djc69@cornell.edu, or Michele Baker at mlb222@cornell.edu.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Warren County 377 Schroon River Road Warrensburg, NY 12885

If you have special needs as addressed by the Americans with Disabilities Act and need assistance with attending these workshops, please make your needs known by the registration deadline. Reasonable efforts will be made for accommodations.

Poinsettias - What's New with this Old Plant

Sinclair Adam, Extension Educator, PennState Extension

a meristem mutation caused most often by UV light, but other mutagenic agents exist as well. Some of the speckled and flecked cultivars sold today were intentionally irradiated with gamma rays. More recently, hybrids are created by cross breeding with Euphorbia cornastra (also known as dogwood poinsettia), and a good deal of this hybridization is occurring in Japan. Photos of E. cornastra can be viewed at the United States Botanic Garden website (usbg.gov). In Japan, these plants are produced for spring sales, and much of the production is in pink cultivars. A hybrid group, named Princettia®, provides compact stature and more numerous bracts. Suntory Flowers of Japan has developed this series with a good range of colors, and most greenhouse operations in the Unites States are producing some Princettias®. Dummen Orange produces the J'Adore series of hybrids as well as the Luv U series (e.g., 'Luv U Pink'). All of these hybrid series are represented in most plant trial programs, and it is typical for a few of them to make the "Best of" lists in those trials.

There is a lot going on with new varieties of the holiday poinsettia, including plants with increased vigor, improved shape, and non traditional colors.

This traditional holiday plant comes from Taxco de Alarcon, an area in southern Mexico. The plant was used by the Aztecs for creating a purple fabric dye. They also used poinsettia's milky latex sap medicinally for fevers. The poinsettia was first brought to the United States in 1828 by Dr. Joel Roberts Poinsett who was the first American diplomatic agent in South America. The poinsettia is named for Dr. Poinsett. As an avid amateur botanist, Poinsett shared his find with friends, one of whom was John Bartram in Philadelphia. Bartram is credited with being the first to sell the plant commercially under the name of Euphorbia pulcherrima meaning "most beautiful Euphorbia". Dr. Jim Faust of Clemson University has a historical collection of poinsettias including 'St. Louis' which is over 6 feet tall. 'St. Louis' was the main variety sold in the 1920s. The species in Mexico can be upwards of 10 feet tall in the wild. In the 1930s new colors appeared. By the 1950s and 1960s the new varieties were mainly coming from the Paul Ecke Ranch in California where advances occurred in better leaf retention and shorter habits. These bushy, compact forms led to mass production and marketing.

Over 100 varieties of poinsettia are available to growers in the United States. Beekenkamp Plants, Selecta One, Dummen Orange, Syngenta Flowers, and Suntory Flowers are the main breeding companies. Many new varieties of poinsettia are actually sports of other cultivars. A sport arises as

New cultivars of poinsettias do not come out as rapidly or as numerously as do bedding plant cultivars. It can take a while for a new selection to gain market share and appear at your local greenhouse. Greenhouse growers typically do not want to have poinsettia inventories on hand beyond January 1st. Some companies are cautiously exploring out of Christmas season sales, particularly with some hybrids, especially those with non traditional coloration such as 'Autumn Leaves'.

Cultivars are bred for many valuable characteristics, including color, habit, vigor, compactness, and shape. Also important to growers is the plant's response time, which is the number of weeks it takes the plant to flower after it is subjected to the necessary number of hours of darkness.

New cultivars from Selecta One for 2021 include 'Brilliant White' which is a whiter white, with an 8 to 8.5 week response time. It is advertised to be easy to produce, with strong shippability characteristics, and pointed white bracts on a frame of medium to low vigor. Their Early Elegance™ series has 4 selections 'White', 'Marble', 'Pink', and 'Red'. This series works well for November sales, has medium to low vigor, and a response time of 7 weeks. 'Pink Champagne' is right in line with 'Christmas Cheer' and 'Christmas Wish' in terms of schedule, and features a unique rose on pink bicolor bract.

New for 2021 from Beekenkamp Plants, 'Virgo White' is a white poinsettia and is touted to have a strong V shape, and great color. 'Robyn Pink' is a sport of 'Robyn Red' with compact to medium vigor, a V shaped habit, and a 7 week response time.

From Syngenta Flowers, 'Biancaneve White' has a 7.5 to 8 week response time, medium vigor, and a V shaped habit. Three new cultivars in their Superba™ series 'Marble', 'Pink' and 'White' all have 8 week response times, V shaped habits, and medium vigor. 'Toro Red' has an 8 week response time, medium vigor, and a very V shaped habit.

From Dummen Orange, 'Viking Pro' is a red poinsettia with a bract shape similar to 'Viking', but more compact with dark green foliage, and an 8 week response time. 'Early Polly's Pink' features an earlier finish date, vibrant color, an 8 week response time, and a vigorous habit. Their J'Adore series is a new hybrid series which is 25% more vigorous than Princettia® hybrids and can be found in 5 colors: 'Soft Pink', 'Pink', 'Hot Pink', 'Dark Pink', and 'White Pearl'.

Suntory Flowers introduced 'Princettia® Queen Pink' for 2021. It has a larger habit than the compact Princettia® series and has vivid pink bracts.

This is a relatively short list of new cultivars that were available for 2021. The development and testing interval for poinsettias is longer than it is for many other groups of plants. Sports arise but not that frequently, and thorough evaluations must occur prior to introducing any new cultivars.

Wrap It Up

By Rosie Lerner, Purdue Consumer Horticulture, Purdue University

A sad thought occurred to me the other day while I was doing some holiday errands. I watched in horror as shoppers steered their carts full of holiday gift plants through gusty winds and miserably cold temperatures only to put these frigid plant victims into icy cold automobiles. I wondered how many of these plants would even make it to their intended recipients? And how long would they last if they did make it that far?

Plants make great gifts, but only if the plant has a chance to be enjoyed by the recipient! During cold weather even the healthiest plant can be damaged during delivery. Cold and wind exposure for as short a time as it takes to walk to your car can damage some plants.

If you make your purchase from a florist or other supplier, be sure the salesperson wraps your purchase in floral wrapping paper to protect it from cold temperatures and the wind. Get the plant from the store to your car as quickly as

possible. Preheat the car beforehand to prevent further chilling injury.

Plants left in an unheated car can be injured or killed quickly, so drop the plants off at home before running other errands. If the plant must be in cold air for any length of time, insulate it by placing it in a box with several layers of newspaper bundled around the tops as well as around the plant’s container.

Packing plants in boxes with newspaper also will help protect them from tipping over. Besides breaking stems and leaves, tipping often causes soil to spill from the pot, breaking roots along the way.

At home, get the plants back to room temperature as soon as possible, and remove the wrap for good air circulation. Keep plants protected from both warm and cold drafts. Place the plants away from exterior doorways and heating vents. Most plants, particularly those in flower, prefer a moderately cool location, such as 60 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and a little cooler at night.

Bright light also is important for most plants. Light will be brightest near a window, but keep leaves from direct contact with cold window glass. Leaves in direct contact with cold panes can be injured, and the water vapor they transpire may condense on the glass to form ice. The plant’s leaves then may freeze to the glass.

Check the soil for dryness, as plants that have been on display for a bit may be in need of watering immediately. Water thoroughly enough to allow some excess water to come through the drainage holes at the bottom.

Giving your gift plants a bit of tender care is a small investment in many years of enjoyment.

Wrap up poinsettias for transport (Photo by Roberto Lopez/Purdue University)

The Pleasures of Indoor Gardening

By Sue Pezzolla, Cornell Cooperative Extension Albany County

Winter has a habit of being very long in the Northeast, so having a few plants indoors can bridge the gap between the seasons, especially for the gardener. The term “house plant” is a misnomer as most houseplants are tropical foliage plants that grow outside in warmer climates but readily adapt to life indoors as long as their caretakers know what it takes to make them happy. Check out the light exposure where you want to have a plant and if in doubt, choose something that will tolerate low light levels. An eastern (morning sun) exposure is ideal for many plants. Things get complicated when people want to use plants decoratively which often means placing them in a corner or away from the window.

water less frequently but just as thoroughly. The old rule of thumb is that you cannot water a plant too much when it needs water, BUT you can water a plant too frequently resulting in root rot from overwatering. Err on the side of caution and let most plants dry out a bit—this may take a week or ten days in the winter. If the plant is not too big, lift up the pot to see if it is heavy or light. If it is light then it needs water, so water very well until the water comes out of the drainage holes. Cactus would be the exception to this method as they have very specific watering needs and the soil is sandy and always heavy. Cactus make good plants for new indoor gardeners who are busy and forget to water. They are not good choices for those who like to nurture…

http://extension.missouri.edu

If you are new to indoor gardening, stick to easy going plant choices such as Pothos, Philodendron, or snake plants. If you need a plant with some size for a dim area then look for the cast iron plant, Aspidistra elatior. A favorite of the Victorians, this humble plant can survive very low light and cool temperatures. The Chinese evergreen, Aglaonema, is another good low light choice and it will tolerate very dry air. Assess your environment as well as the light exposure to fine tune the right plant for the location. Try to purchase plants on a temperate day but if the temperature is close to freezing then insist that your new plant be wrapped for protection. Wrapping plants is not done automatically at many stores today so the consumer needs to be wary. Careful wrapping is crucial at holiday time, especially when purchasing poinsettias as they are extremely intolerant of cold and the damage will begin to show within a few hours after exposure. It would be wise to warm up the car if it is very cold as even that dip in temperature can affect a wrapped poinsettia.

Many of the indoor flowering plants offer color and interest when the weather is dreary. African violets, Streptocarpus, and Kalanchoe are a few plants that are easy to find and to grow. Be sure to read the plant tags to see what each plant prefers before making your decision. It is easy to fall in love with a blooming beauty but be sure that you can meet its needs before committing to the relationship. Remember that plants respond to light and when the days are short, many are resting, so do not force them by fertilizing. October through March provide only water (no fertilizer) and

An interesting and different indoor plant is the Oxalis, or wood sorrel, which resembles a giant clover. Common at St. Patrick’s Day is the green oxalis which is sold as a “shamrock” plant for those wanting the “luck ‘o the Irish.” This oxalis flowers for a long period of time with many small white blooms. The purple oxalis (Oxalis regnellii) is a favorite at Valentine’s Day and it is often sold as the little “Love Plant.” A real charmer with purple heart shaped leaves and delicate white blooms, it is native to South America. Both oxalis grow from small rhizomes and when the plant needs dividing the task is as simple as separating out several rhizomes and replanting.

http://extension.missouri.edu

With the holidays close at hand, consider an environmentally friendly gift of a plant. Besides the seasonal star, the Poinsettia, take a look at the amaryllis and the Christmas cactus. It is hard to beat the drama of the giant amaryllis bulb as it bursts forth with one or more tall stalks, each having three to five large trumpet shaped blooms of various colors. A special gift would be to pot up three or more of these beauties together for an unbelievable display. Expect to pay in the range of six to 15 dollars per bulb depending on the size and cultivar. Kits are common at holiday time for those who might enjoy the whole planting/ growing experience themselves. Thanksgiving and Christmas cactus both flower when the days are short. These are sold as potted plants or in hanging baskets, all budded up and ready to bloom for several weeks. The fun and the challenge lies in growing them and having them flower each year. For more detailed care instructions for any of these indoor plants, contact your local Cornell University Cooperative Extension. Happy “indoor” gardening!

Hosting a Food Drive

Authored by H. Lester Schonberger, Senior Research Associate, Department of Food Science and Technology, Virginia Tech; Renee Boyer, Professor and Extension Specialist, Department of Food Science and Technology, Virginia Tech

they would like you to collect for them. The organization

needs may change over time. It is generally recommended to collect shelf stable, non perishable foods (Morello, 2020). Another option might be to accept money or grocery store gift cards so the organization can buy food as they need it (Thoelke, 2021). Other items that might be needed include non food items like personal toiletries, cleaning supplies, and pet care products.

If you schedule your food drive over multiple days, collect the food at the end of each day to inspect it. Discard any damaged, leaking, or opened packages. Store the food somewhere secure and keep it elevated at least six inches off of the ground to keep out unwanted pests.

In 2020, over 38 million people in the United States lived in households which experienced food insecurity (Coleman Jensen et al., 2021). One part of being food insecure is being unable to access safe, nutritious, culturally appropriate foods to satisfy hunger.

Hosting a food drive can secure food for distribution through regional or local hunger relief organizations, like food pantries and meal providers. This is one way to support the people in your community who are experiencing hunger and food insecurity. You could do this at school, at work, around your neighborhood, or another place that makes sense to you.

Here are some best practices for getting started and delivering food to those in need.

Getting Started

This is something you can do on your own, and you may consider working on this as part of a team. For example, if you are doing this in your neighborhood you might ask for someone on each block to help make a plan together.

It is important for you to identify where you will send the food. This will also be helpful as you advertise the food drive so donors know where the food is going.

Be sure to advertise your food drive so the people donating will have enough time to gather what they will donate and to bring it to you. You will need to tell people what you will collect and where/when to drop off donations. You may choose to have a one day food drive, or host it over a week or longer. You might have only one collection location, multiple, or pick up from people willing to donate. There is no one right way to get started.

What Should We Collect?

You should ask the organization if there are specific foods

The foods you collect will likely have a date on them (e.g., sell by, use by, etc.). In some cases, that date may have already passed. With few exceptions, these dates represent the quality of a food and do not communicate safety. Check with your local organization for their policy on accepting past date foods.

You may receive donations that the organization did not say they wanted. You can follow up with the organization to ask if they would like these items anyway. We also recommend you count how much of various items you have collected so you can provide an inventory list to the organization when you drop them off. This can help them to sort and store your donation.

Transporting

the Food

Discuss the best way to get the food from you to the organization when setting up the food drive. Some organizations may come and pick up the food. If you take the food to them, we recommend you do this in a clean vehicle.

Dropping Off the Food

Ask for the best time to drop off your food so they know when to expect you. It is best for an employee or volunteer to be there so they can properly sort and store your food. Sometimes, there may not be anyone available to accept your donation. If they allow you to drop off your food when no one is there, we only recommend doing this when absolutely necessary. Leave the food in a way so it is not taken or otherwise disturbed by wildlife.

Wrapping-Up

It can be a good practice to report back to the people who donated food as part of this food drive to let them know that the food arrived safely. This can include a final count of how much food was collected/dropped off. With permission, take pictures to include in this follow up as well.

Hosting Holiday Meals on a Budget

By Nichole Huff, Ph.D., CFLE, Assistant Extension Professor Family Finance and Resource Management, Kentucky Cooperative Extension

thing yourself. Ask everyone to sign up to bring something. Assigning side dishes, desserts, and drinks, for example, is one way to split the costs and stress of hosting a holiday meal. It gives others a chance to purchase or share special recipes while distributing the responsibility.

Simplify sides. Vegetable based dishes, such as sweet potato or green bean casseroles, are common around the holidays. While these dishes are tasty, they require several ingredients that can increase meal prices. Consider simplifying side dishes by serving vegetables "on their own" rather than in a fancy recipe. This cuts both costs and calories.

If you've ever hosted a holiday gathering, you know there is a lot to consider: Who will be invited? When will they arrive? What will be cooked? and How much will it cost? With inflation driving up the costs of goods and services, the rising prices of groceries might be on the minds of many people who plan to host an event this holiday season. Holiday meals can get pricey, especially when serving a large crowd. As you prepare for this year's festivities, there are several strategies you can use to lower costs while maintaining holiday cheer.

Plan ahead. First, gather your recipes and make a list of the ingredients you will need. Then shop your pantry and freezer, noting what you already have. Identify only the items you need to buy. When you shop, buy store brand items when possible. These usually come with a lower price tag. Planning early also allows you to take advantage of sales and comparison shop.

Shop intentionally. Store mailers, websites, mobile apps, and social media pages can help you shop wisely. Use these tools to compare deals and prices between brands and stores. If the stores you choose provide online ordering, consider buying groceries through pickup. Ordering online can help you avoid impulse buys. It also helps you easily compare prices and nutritional information and keep an eye on your overall total. Whether you shop online or in store, use coupons and customer loyalty programs to maximize deals. If you're shopping in the store, keep a running tally of your total as you add items to the cart. Prioritizing purchases helps us stick to a budget.

Delegate dishes. If you're hosting a holiday gathering, suggest an organized "potluck" instead of trying to do every-

Traditional twists. There is no rule that you must serve turkey on Thanksgiving, for example. Instead, think about creative alternatives that could become new traditions Choose meals that best fit your budget and the needs of your guests. For instance, pasta dishes can feed a crowd. You can prepare them ahead of time, they require few side dishes (just a big healthy salad), and you can change them to fit dietary needs. Ask your guests for creative suggestions (such as baked potato bars, themed dinners, etc.) and recruit their help when it's time to cook.

Gather early. Suggest hosting your holiday meal earlier in the day. Breakfast, brunch, and lunch options often come with fewer expectations for side dishes, drinks, and desserts. In addition to lowering costs, an earlier meal may free up time later in the day to attend multiple gatherings or add in a fun, low cost activity like a friendly game of football, a board game, movie, or craft.

As you consider budgeting for your holiday festivities, remember that changes don't have to be permanent. Budgets, needs, and wants change from year to year your holiday plans can too.

You 'll find, where'er you roam, That marble floors and gilded walls Can never make a home. But every house where Love abides, And Friendship is a guest, Is surely home, and home sweet home: For there the heart can rest.

~Henry Van Dyke, "A Home Song"

U.S. Food and Drug Administration for treatment of generalized anxiety disorder in children ages 7 and up. In addition, many medical providers prescribe off label medications (those that have been approved by the FDA for other purposes) to treat children in this age group with anxiety disorders.

“This is a time of intense change and uncertainty,” said Janis Whitlock, emerita research scientist at the BCTR whose work focuses on adolescent mental health. “Everybody is feeling it, but our young people are especially impacted. Noticing heightened anxiety early and responding in supportive ways is imperative.”

Should we screen all youth for suicide? The task force is also considering the evidence on screening young people for suicide, but did not find enough data to support a screening recommendation for all youth.

There is ample evidence that suicide is on the rise among U.S. teens. In a 2021 survey, almost 20% of teens said they had considered suicide, and 9% said they attempted suicide. More young people are also showing up in emergency rooms for suicide attempts. Compared to 2019, emergency room visits for suicide attempts in 2021 increased by 51% for adolescent girls; attempts increased by 4% for boys.

The task force did recommend that children and teens at high risk for suicide receive screening, and reiterated a previous recommendation for screening major depressive disorder during primary care visits for youth ages 12 to 18 years.

“We need to keep a close eye on teen mental health trends,” Whitlock said. “Teens need adult attention and support now more than ever.”

The take home message: To address the mental health crisis facing American youth, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommended all youth ages 8 and up receive screening for anxiety. This is an important step to getting young people the treatment they need to cope with the challenges presented by modern society and the COVID 19 pandemic.

Source: https://evidencebasedliving.human.cornell.edu/

When darkness gathers round the soul, Deep melancholy black as night, Ev'n then Hope whispers thro' the gloom, Fear not, for it will yet be light.

~David Thomson (1806–1870), "Hope"

Strengthen Family Bonds During the Holidays

Holidays are typically the one time of year that families from near and far gather for celebrations. Spending time together is a way that families of all ages can build relationships and create lasting memories.

Strong families make their relationships a priority and often engage in activities to build their relationships. Time spent together helps to create a feeling of family and builds resiliency in children.

There are numerous ways to strengthen your family relations, and many of these activities are not expensive to do.

• Have a “no phone/technology rule” during dinner or other family activities, so that family members are encouraged to talk, share and interact with one another. Make it a game and see who can go the longest without being on their phone!

• Have a family game night. Choose a game that is fun and includes everyone in the activity.

• Watch a special family movie with popcorn and other snacks to make it a special night.

• Shop the after Christmas sales together and see who can get the best deal for the least amount of money.

• Cook together! Baking or preparing special foods or treats are a great way to instill cooking skills in youth. Young children can wash vegetables, set the table or frost cookies.

• Make time for each child individually to build a sense of belonging.

• Have grandparents share stories of the past to help connect their values and beliefs with today.

• Share or start a family tradition. Words of appreciation and a heartfelt “thank you” can go a long way in showing your love and support for one another.

No matter what activity your family engages in, it will benefit your family to create lasting holiday memories.

Source: K State Research and Extension, Johnson County

Science has proven … Or, Has It?

By Dan Carusone, 4 H Natural Resources Coordinator, CCE Warren County

You don’t have to look too far to find a headline claiming that science has proven “[insert desired outcome here]”. The problem with these claims is that the vast majority are simply wrong. Oh, the outcomes themselves may (or may not) be factually true; but, “science” has not proven anything. Now, before you jump to the wrong conclusion and brand me a “science denier”, read on and allow me to explain my view point.

I think it is fair to say that most of us have heard of the acronym STEM (which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Science and engineering are both processes, and technology and math are tools that often help in those processes (and of course, technology is also a product of those processes).

One of my jobs is to facilitate STEM based learning with 4 H youth. Whatever else we do for programming, we always start by exploring what science is (and what it isn’t). I start with the simple fact that science is nothing more or less than “The scientific method of inquiry (or investigation)”. This method starts with some problem to solve or question to answer. A hypothesis is then proposed; and it is usually an attempt to explain/characterize the problem to be solved. Next, a prediction is made which is usually worded something like “if I subject _______ to a specific set of circumstances, then the outcome will be __________”. Then an experiment is designed to test the prediction. The experiment is conducted and all observations are made and recorded. These recorded observations are the data (aka the results). The next step is to try and make sense of the data by making inferences or educated best guesses at what the data are indicating. Then, the inferences become the questions which are tested in a whole new experiment. If you think this sounds tedious and ongoing, you are correct; and that is how science has to be.

Most of the above sounds pretty straight forward and seemingly, hard to deviate from. The problems come, however, when people tend to conflate inferences with results. They say things like “our experiments have shown [desired outcome]” when in fact [desired outcome] is simply the inference that they want to explain the data with. The statement would be ok if it said “we think that the results mean [desired outcome] but, a lot more testing is

needed before we can safely say that”. That said, I’m not sure that I have ever actually seen those words in a headline. Furthermore, such a statement does not fit the hurried expectations of today’s world. And, that is the down side of science; it does not lend itself well to being rushed.

Learning to differentiate inferences from observations might be the most important focus for today’s budding science enthusiasts. Certainly, an experiment needs to be set up in a way as to be replicable by other scientists (an absolute must for results to be considered valid) but, knowing that the data are the results and that any guesses as to what the data mean are merely the starting points for future investigations, is the crucial dividing line between sensationalized hype and the actual science that is so needed.

This, of course leads to the last quandary: When viewed for what it is, the scientific method of inquiry may not be very appealing to many of the young people whom we would hope to be tomorrow’s scientists. But, is this really a problem, or, does it simple bear testimony to the fact that scientific investigation is not for everyone?

Be hesitant in accepting the claims of those who speak in the name of science; one must determine first whether that science is indeed the master, or merely the tool of self interest, self aggrandisement, or political agenda.

~Dr. Idel Dreimer, lumpenbangenpiano.com

Family Budget Coaching Program Now Available for Families and Individuals in Warren County

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Warren County is now offering a free, confidential Family Budget Coaching Program to community residents. The one on one sessions are available to individuals and families who want to improve their financial literacy, set goals, create a savings plan, reduce debt and get a better handle on finances. The trained coaches will offer sessions either via Zoom or in person in Glens Falls, Warrensburg and Johnsburg.

Since 1914, Cornell Cooperative Extension has responded to the needs of New York residents enabling people to improve their lives and communities through partnerships that put experience and research-based knowledge to work.

For more information on this program, please contact Roxanne Westcott at rmw38@cornell.edu or (518) 668 4881.

How Can My Pet Better My Health?

Owning a pet may be beneficial to your overall health in the long run. Pets act as companions and may keep us comforted in troubling times. They may also help you stay in shape or get back into shape by increasing your activity level. Through these lifestyle changes owning a pet may also help decrease your risk for certain types of diseases and disorders related to your cardiovascular health and blood pressure, as well as helping to manage the risks and side effects associated with diabetes.

Cardiovascular Health

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Primary risk factors for cardiovascular disease include lack of physical activity, being overweight (Body Mass Index, BMI, 25.0 to 30) or obese (BMI of 30 or higher), unhealthy diet, smoking status, high blood pressure, blood glucose, and elevated total cholesterol. Prevention programs attempt to manage the severity of these risks and work with patients to manage those factors that already impact their health. However, despite prevention efforts, over 60% of American adults are considered overweight or obese, and over 50% do not perform the recommended levels of physical activity. While treatment tends to include medications and lifestyle interventions, a new mechanism for managing cardiovascular health is under investigation: the influence of pet ownership. The American Heart Association (AHA) has found associations between pet ownership and the following risk factors for cardiovascular problems:

● Lowered blood pressure.

● Improved recovery time from stress.

● Decreased risk of stroke and heart attack.

● Increased physical activity.

● Improvements in weight loss.

Blood Pressure

The AHA published a study in 2013 which indicated an association between pet ownership and lower blood pressure. Individuals who owned pets had significantly lower systolic blood pressure than individuals who did not own pets. Systolic blood pressure occurs when your heart beats and pushes blood through your body, which creates pressure on blood vessels. Similarly, systolic blood pressure was better in individuals after adopting dogs than before adoption. Those who owned pets had significantly lower resting heart rates, and these individuals experienced smaller increases in heart rate and blood pressure in response to stress.

Another study carried out by Joel David Wright and his colleagues in 2007 found that the risk of high blood pressure

was lower for pet owners than non pet owners across all ages. The study also concluded that individuals who owned a dog had lower systolic blood pressure than those who never owned a pet.

In 2019, the Mayo Clinic published a study that pet owners had higher cardiovascular health scores than non owners, with higher scores indicating a lower risk for cardiovascular disease. Therefore, owning a pet may be associated with better cardiovascular health, as it lowers the risk for cardiovascular disease. Better cardiovascular functioning, as a result, may also improve recovery time from stress, which could reduce an individual’s risk for cardiovascular disease in the long run. According to this study, pets offer companionship and social support, which may also act as a mechanism for lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Physical Activity

Pet ownership may also act as a tool for increasing exercise in pet owners. The AHA found that dogs may positively influence the level of human physical activity: dog owners in the study engaged in significantly more physical activity

and were 54% more likely to obtain recommended amounts.

Likewise, Pamela J. Schreiner’s study in Current Cardiovascular Risk Reports found that dog owners were more likely to engage in moderate physical activity such as walking. However, according to Dr. Krishnankutty Sudhir of Stanford University Medical Center, this mechanism may be limited to dog owners, with other pets having less influence on the owner’s physical activity.

This relationship may be partly due to an increase in behavioral intention associated with dog ownership meaning that owning a dog positively affects the owner’s cognitive beliefs about exercise, especially moderate exercise like walking. Pets, dogs specifically, may also act as sources of motivation and social support for walking, making it easier for their owners to start and continue to exercise. If considered a companion by their owners, any pet may similarly offer encouragement and motivation to their owners and reduce perceived barriers to physical activity.

Increased physical activity helps support a healthy weight and a lower BMI. According to the AHA, individuals who adopted dogs also had a lower incidence of obesity; these individuals also met the recommended amount of physical activity. However, individuals who did not own dogs had a 60% higher risk of being overweight than those who regularly walked their dogs. The AHA also noted that individuals who owned dogs were more likely to remain involved in their weight loss program; this is likely because of the companion animal’s added emotional support.

Prediabetes and Diabetes Research on the impact of pet ownership on a person’s risk of prediabetes and diabetes is limited. However, owning a pet may offer social support, making it easier to maintain a healthy lifestyle or implement lifestyle modifications. Similarly, owning a pet may also be a way to increase activity, which is essential for managing prediabetes and diabetes. In 2015, ADW Diabetes noted that individuals with diabetes are encouraged to exercise regularly, with a recommended exercise goal of 30 minutes daily. Walking your dog is a great way to fit exercise into your daily routine. In addition to other exercise routines, this daily walk may also benefit the long term management of weight and insulin.

In 2006, the National Institute of Health (NIH) cited that it may benefit people with diabetes to own dogs. Individuals with diabetes are at an increased risk for cardiovascular complications; owning pets may modulate the relationship between these cardiovascular complications in individuals with diabetes. The findings in this study indicate that adults who suffered heart attacks and owned dogs may be more likely to be alive a year later than those who did not have dogs. Another study published in 2012 by Naoka Aiba and colleagues found that pet owners had higher parasympathetic nervous system stimulation and lowered sympathetic nervous system activity than individuals who did not own pets. These findings suggest that owning a pet may counteract the adverse effects of diabetes on nervous system activity.

Prediabetes and diabetes are also associated with a higher BMI, lack of physical activity, and higher blood pressure. Pet ownership may help manage the impact of these complications, thus helping to manage the adverse side effects or risks associated with prediabetes and diabetes. However, it is important to recognize that keeping a daily, manageable routine is key to any health management strategy; prediabetes and diabetes are no exception. While helping keep your pet safe, healthy, and happy, is important, it’s also necessary to do all those things for yourself. Building routines with your pets, like walking your dog daily or cleaning your pet’s cage, can help you build other habits that may help manage your prediabetes or diabetes. This may include daily physical activity or better eating habits.

To summarize, your pet may act as a source of comfort in times of stress and offer companionship and support you may not receive from other people. Whether it be a dog, a cat, a goat, or a fish, your pet creates a sense of belonging and appreciation that may benefit your overall health. Our stress management may improve because seeing pets can trigger a relaxation response. Likewise, you may better maintain physical activity and weight by owning a dog due to daily walks and exercise. Creating a daily routine with your pet may also create stability within your life and improve your overall well being while decreasing your stress response. Keeping up with something other than yourself creates a sense of responsibility, which may impact strategies you use in being responsible for your health. Owning a pet offers social support, which can influence your reaction to adverse situations that make managing your health a challenge. Through this social support system, owning a pet also can help lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular functioning, increase activity levels, decrease weight, and manage prediabetes and diabetes.

Source: Clemson Cooperative Extension

Cornell Cooperative Extension

377 Schroon River Road

Warrensburg, NY 12885 RETURN

IF THERE IS A CHECK IN THIS BOX , THIS IS THE LAST ISSUE OF THE WARREN COUNTY CONNECTION YOU WILL BE RECEIVING. To renew your subscription clip the form below and send to Cornell Cooperative Extension of Warren County.

Warren County Connection

THANK YOU INTERNATIONAL PAPER!!

"Paper for this newsletter was donated by International Paper, proudly produced at the Ticonderoga, New York Mill from trees harvested in working Adirondack forests that are managed responsibly in accordance with the principles of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI)." “International Paper is proud to join almost 60 manufacturers and importers supporting the Paper & Packaging How Life Unfolds™ campaign.”

“Cornell University Cooperative Extension of Warren County provides equal program and employment opportunities.”

“The information given herein is supplied with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by Cornell Cooperative Extension is implied.”

The Cornell Cooperative Extension educational system enables people to improve their lives and communities through partnerships that put experience and research knowledge to work.

"Cornell Cooperative Extension actively supports equal educational and employment opportunities. No person shall be denied admission to any educational program or activity, or be denied employment on the basis of any legally prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, color, religion, political beliefs, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital or family status, veteran status, or disability. Cornell Cooperative Extension is committed to the maintenance of affirmative action programs that will assure the continuation of such equality of opportunity."

Just $5.00 per year will give you one full year subscription to the “Warren County Connection,” mail this coupon to: Cornell Cooperative Extension ☺ Be sure to include your fee of $5.00 to cover the cost of mailing. Name______________________ Address____________________

To get this publication FREE e mail als77@cornell.edu and you will be added to our E Edition.

We’re on the Web! http://counties.cce.cornell.edu/warren/ & Facebook - Look for CCE Warren