Reaching Out Report - September 2020

Reaching Out Report & Course Catalog September 2020 * Vol. 13 Issue 9

“Rainbow over Ash Grove� taken by Lisa Clinton. To submit a cover photo from somewhere in Greene County, please email the photo and your contract information to David Burton at burtond@missouri.edu,

Monthly Newsletter & Course Catalog of the Greene County Extension Council Tel: (417) 881-8909 | Email: burtond@missouri.edu | Online extension.missouri.edu/greene

County Extension Council Greene County Extension Council Greg Boehne Chairman Jason Whitesell Vice-chair Morgan Ash Secretary

COUNCIL MEETING NOTICE Pursuant to the Missouri Sunshine Law: Notice is given: Greene County Extension Council will conduct a public meeting star ting at noon, Monday, Aug. 31, online.

Zoom Meeting Online: https://umsystem.zoom.us/j/355711943 Or dial in: +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago). Meeting ID: 355 711 943 Noon —

Call Meeting to Order

Lisa Bakerink Treasurer

Roll Call — Secretary (Establish a Quorum)

Harold Bengsch County Commission

Consent Agenda Items — Meeting minutes (on next page). Financials & bills are provided to council in a separate email for approval.

Tammy Lowrey Farm Bureau

Staff Reports  Staff highlights and Reaching Out Report

Jordan Miller MFA Samuel Snider City of Willard

Joseph Hoffman City of Springfield Vacant 4-H Youth member Members at large Tony Ahart Missy Hayward Tyler Gunlock Scott Smith Chad Courtney Karen Dowdy Chris Schulze Rick Stenberg Alex Greiwe Larry Adams Ray Meyer Eric Sutton Mike Lofaro Tiger Ambassador

Old Business /Committee Reports  Council Mini-Grant Proposal New Business for discussion  Review of and action on submitted Mini-Grants (copies of proposal available upon request)  Liability Insurance for Council (proposal sent)  Council nominations (no vote until November) Committee Reports  None PENDING: Any and all other matter s that come befor e the extension council CLOSED SESSION (if needed): Agenda includes a possible vote to close par t of this meeting pursuant to Section 610.021 to discuss issues related to “individually identifiable personnel records.”

Adjourn

FUTURE COUNCIL MEETINGS Next meeting: Monday, Sept. 28 October meeting: Monday, Oct. 26 Council receives proposals and financials by mail or email and those are available to the public on request.

MU Extension is an equal opportunity/ access/affirmative action/ pro-disabled and veteran employer.

County Extension Council minutes MINUTES OF THE UNIVERSITY EXTENSION COUNCIL OF GREENE COUNTY

There was no Council meeting in July.

Date: Monday, J une 29, 2020 Place: Via Zoom Attendees: Lar r y Adams, Tony Ahart, Morgan Ash, Lisa Bakerink, Harold Bengsch, Greg Boehne, Karen Dowdy, Alex Greiwe, Tyler Gunlock, Brandon Hebbert, Joseph Hoffman, Ray Meyer, Chris Schultz, Rick Stenberg, Eric Sutton and Jason Whitesell.

The meeting was called to order at 12:02 pm, by Council Chair, Greg Boehne, who welcomed those in attendance, and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. Secretary Morgan Ash called roll and a quorum was present.

Consent Agenda: A motion was made by Harold Bengsch and was seconded by Lisa Bakerink, to approve the May meeting minutes, and May Treasurer’s report.

Motion to approve passed by unanimous vote.

A motion was made by Rick Stenberg and was seconded by Jason Whitesell, to approve the bills and checks to be paid for the month.

Motion to approve passed by unanimous vote.

Staff Reports: Kelly McGowan has been participating in statewide programs and townhalls. The statewide pollinators class is wrapping up and more localized classes will start soon. Kelsa Ferguson has two Taking Care of You classes are wrapping up with Amber Allen.

A grant has been applied for and there has been a lot of pressure testing on canning equipment.

Tai Chi and chronic disease classes are coming soon. Amber Allen has one more Taking Care of You class. A webinar and balance class is coming soon. Myra Dickensheet and Sherri Hull have been teaching Kids In the Kitchen class in Lawrence and in Barry Counties. Commercial Street farmer’s market and Life 360 events to educate and answer questions. At this point it is uncertain what will happen with in person classes at SPS when the school year starts.

David Burton met with 4-H and the Juvenile

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Justice program. Special curriculum has been requested from Karla Deaver. Twenty-One Qualities of a Leader, an Engaged Neighbor class and statewide neighbor leadership academy begin in August.

Old Business: Resource Development Plan: Weekly meetings on grant applications and possible submissions are taking place. There are five applications underway.

Copier: The new copier is up and running.

Campus funds have been used to purchase it. It is a $100 per month less expense.

New Business: Park Board MOU: There will hopefully be a resolution soon, although there is nothing formal yet. Discussions are occurring.

Committee Reports: Budget Committee: The most in-depth audit performed in years. Suggestions have been made for improvement. The Master Naturalists and Master Gardeners cannot have their own EIN due to an IRS 2019 law that will require a personal SSN. Oversight procedure has been recommended.

A motion was made by Morgan Ash and was seconded by Joseph Hoffman, to accept the audit report as written. Motion to approve passed by unanimous vote.

Personnel Committee: The office manager resigned and an office management plan without a staff position is being crafted. An MOU for bookkeeping with Christian County is being reached and may be complete by August.

There is no July meeting. The August meeting will be held on Monday, August 31st at noon.

Jason Whitesell moved to adjourn the meeting at 12:29 pm and Joseph Hoffman seconded the motion. The idea passed unanimously.

Respectfully submitted by Morgan Ash, council secretary

Page 3

Council Nominations engagement specialist in community economic development for University of Missouri Extension. “In Greene County we need dedicated council members willing to help market extension locally and raise the funds needed to make community educational programs possible.”

Counties in southwest Every county in Missouri “Serving on a county Missouri are accepting has an Extension Council made nominations for the 2020 extension council can up of elected (and appointed) public election of County members who represent the be fun. It is also a Extension Council members. great way to represent broad educational needs and Names of nominees can be backgrounds of people in that your community, submitted in October and county. Council candidates serve your county, November for review by must be at least 18 years old and help create eduexisting county council and reside in the district they cational opportunities members. represent.

In Greene County, we for your neighbors,” Missouri statutes create are particularly looking for County Extension Councils to said David Burton.

Mizzou graduates to serve work with MU Extension on the extension council. specialists. Council members Extension and Engagement is a key part of assist in planning and carrying out MU the University of Missouri’s unique mission.

Extension programs, providing local Extension Greene County MU Extension has an governance and representing the diversity of informational brochure about the the county’s requirements of serving on an extension changing Thanks to our 2020 council on the Greene County. Simply email population.

Donors to Greene David Burton at burtond@missouri.edu to Most County Extension request a PDF copy be sent to you. This counties in brochure also describes duties of the council. southwest Cyril and Geraldine Brown The nomination form can be accessed Missouri hold Stephen and Sally Taylor online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ council William Hosman councilnomination. elections the John and Gail Hurley Self-nomination to the council is third week of David and Stacey Burton accepted or a candidate can contact the local January. Each Randy and Lisa Bakerink MU Extension center. A council member council Dan Faflak will follow up with you and secure your election is held Carolyn S. Green permission for placement on the extension in accordance Bobby and Ronda McCarty council ballot. with state law Tom and Sharon DeWitt The Greene County Extension Council (Chapter Fred and LaQuita Hall meets on the last Monday of the month at 262.550James Garton noon inside the Springfield Botanical 262.620 R.S. Lamont & Virginia Nelson Center.

Mo. 1969).

Virginia Snyder “Serving on a county extension council Sally McCune can be fun. It is also a great way to represent Catherine Banks your community, serve your county, and Greg and Tara Boehne help create educational opportunities for your neighbors,” said David Burton, county

Service-Minded Residents, Mizzou Alumni Needed as Candidates for Extension Council in Greene County

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 4

County Engagement & Community Development Specialist LEADERSHIP MOMENTS MOTIVATION — The whole idea of motivation is a trap. Forget motivation. Just do it. Exercise, lose weight, test your blood sugar, or whatever. Do it without motivation and then guess what? After you start doing the thing, that is when the motivation comes and makes it easy for you to keep on doing it.

Motivation is like love and happiness. It is a by-product. When you are actively engaged in doing something, it sneaks up and zaps you when you least expect it. As Harvard psychologist, Jerome Bruner said, "You're more likely to act yourself into feeling than feel yourself into action."

GENEROSITY — Generosity has nothing to do with your income and everything to do with how you think. For leaders, part of the focus should be on adding value to others.

Wake each day with a goal of adding value.

If you live a generous lifestyle, you don't keep score. You give to give not to earn points. Remember the old saying: generosity begets generosity. A leader knows to do your giving while you are living so you are knowing where it is going.

COMMITMENT — Are you Interested or Committed? People who are afraid to commit to anything drift through life. Those who make commitments and honor them gain favor and a good reputation, accomplish their goals, and reap the rewards. If you are interested you will do what is convenient, if you are committed you will do whatever it takes. If you are interested you will believe your excuses about why you cannot achieve the goal and focus on those excuses. If you are committed, you will begin to let go of your excuses. If you are committed you will spend your time figuring out how you can achieve your goals. If you are committed, you will focus on why you must instead of why you cannot. When you are committed, you have ownership in the outcome. With commitment, I know it is possible.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

David Burton

County Engagement Specialist burtond@missouri.edu Direct Tel: 874-2954 Started: 2001

Responsibilities: Leader ship development, neighboring, heritage tourism, media relations, and works with council to fund and administer local programs.

CARES Committee Work I am working on the Greene County CARES Committee. We meet two or three times a week right now. The Medical/Health Subcommittee I am on has nearly distributed all of the $8 million made available to us. In total, Greene County has over $33 million to distribute following the advice of the CARES Committee.

Salute to Century Farms Although our dinner event will not be happening this year, I have become a statewide group that is working out some ideas to create a unique statewide program to honor and celebrate these Century Farms. Greene County has one farm to recognize this year and I will be looking for a sponsor to underwrite their recognition.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS Underway now online: Build Your Boar d Training Online (I am teaching the sessions on resource development, recruitment and parliamentary procedure).

Begins Aug. 24: Neighbor hood Leader ship Academy (this 10-session program includes an Ozarks Region group with 15 enrollees).

Begins Sept. 1: 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader. (this will launch statewide and be available for regular and ongoing access) Coming Later in 2020: Becoming an Engaged Neighbor and Creating Quality Oral Histories

Page 5

MIZZOU Leaders in Greene County Kurt Williams Springfield, Mo. Area Operations Manager for PHI Air Medical Group Email: Kurt.williams1@att.net Mizzou connection: 2012-2014 Executive MBA What is the greatest lesson you have learned?

It’s never all about you. Leadership is about helping other people do and be their best.

What is something you are learning now?

Flexibility is the key to success.

Adversity not only makes us stronger but smarter.

How has failure (big or small) shaped your life?

Failure forces us to have long conversations with ourselves. The decision to get back up after a fall is what makes your success.

Who do you know that I should know?

Barry Morrow. High school teacher and coach. Developer of young men.

Now retired from teaching and currently guiding fisherman on Truman Lake.

What have you read that I should read?

“One Thing” by Gary Keller.

What have you done that I should do?

Get out of your comfort zone and learn a new skill. I recently obtained my real estate license to learn a new business and interact with new people.

MU alumni wanting to submit a profile should contact David Burton at burtond@missouri.edu

This is an ongoing series by the Greene County MU Extension office to highlight graduates of the University of Missouri (Mizzou) who are leading in the communities of Greene County.

Greene County MU Extension offers community focused leadership programs in person and online.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 6

Business Spotlight MU Extension’s SBDC Helped Vision Clinic Springfield Survive ‘COVID Chaos’ as an Essential Small Business Furloughing family is not something Dr. Steve Rice ever thought he would have to do.

Then along came the new coronavirus.

Rice is a managing partner and CEO of Vision Clinic (myvisionclinic.com(opens in new window)), an independent private optometry practice established in Springfield in 1967 and now boasting five locations in southwest Missouri.

After graduating with honors from the University of Missouri– St. Louis School of Optometry in 1987, Rice was unable to find a private practice opportunity that had growth potential. So, he expanded his search.

In 1989, Rice became a Vision Clinic's 12 doctors serve southwest Missouri in five clinics. Back partner in Vision Clinic where, he row, from left: Dr. Kory Scullawl, Dr. Darren Plank, Dr. Doug Jordan, said, being part of the community Dr. Stephen Rice, Dr. Brad Lewis, Dr. Kevin Rice, Dr. Sandy Rice. is a big part of their DNA. Front row, from left: Dr. Katie Galbraith, Dr. Emily Edwards, Dr. Their partnership with the Mitzi Lewis, Dr. Emily Thomas. Not pictured: Dr. Stephanie Rice.

Springfield Cardinals is one example of Vision Clinic's of Vision Clinic's 12 doctors. community involvement. Vision Clinic has been The few employees who were not furloughed partners with Cardinals since they arrived in triaged the numerous phone calls that were coming Springfield in 2005. Unfortunately, the into the clinic and handled the medical eye Springfield Cardinals Yadier Molina problems that were referred to Vision Clinic bobbleheads, which were to be the Vision Clinic through their partnering with local hospitals and giveaway at a game this year, will have to be urgent care clinics. stashed away until a safer time.

"When all the COVID chaos … began, there In the midst of a pandemic, bobbleheads can was an awful lot of misinformation" Rice said. wait, as can, according to the Centers for Disease During that time, Rice and colleagues at Vision Control and Prevention, routine eye exams and Source, a national network of private practice vision checks. optometrists of which he is the Missouri "The CDC wouldn't allow us to do administrator, were communicating, trying to make preventative or routine primary care," Rice said. sure they were doing best practices and staying as And there is not enough urgent care for the eyes engaged and informed as possible. "But there was to keep five offices open, he said. just so much confusion," Rice said.

Across its five locations, Vision Clinic has The confusion extended to government 85 employees, 79 of whom had to be furloughed programs designed to help businesses survive for about six weeks during the state of Missouri's decreased income or full closure due to COVID-19. stay-at-home order amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Among those furloughed were Rice's son, daughter-in-law and daughter, who are three Continued on next page

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 7

Business Spotlight Continued from previous page Rice looked into those programs immediately. The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) "didn't have their act together," and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program "raised questions about what you could and couldn't do in regards to the combination of the two," Rice said.

Amid the chaos, the local chamber provided some information that led Rice to contact the Missouri Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Missouri State University (MSU).

Enter Chrystal Irons, director of the Missouri SBDC at MSU. "In a cloud of uncertainty and anxiety," Rice said, Irons "was a voice of confidence and calm" and some of his fears were allayed.

"After talking to her, I felt confident that the information she was giving me was accurate" and "if she didn't know the answer, she was going to find out," Rice said. "And she did. I had a question, and she got back with me."

When Rice first contacted the Missouri SBDC in late March, Vision Clinic had given their employees three extra days of paid time off and had not laid anyone off. But Rice knew Vision Clinic could not sustain that state of affairs for too long.

"Their business is built on volume," Irons said, "and because they could only handle emergency care, there was not enough volume to sustain."

"We talked in depth about the SBA EIDL program," Irons said.

Rice was waiting to apply because he wanted to see what other programs might become available, but "I encouraged him to go ahead and start the application process," Irons said. She assured Rice that Vision Clinic would not have to take the funds if a new program became available in the meantime that made more sense for them to pursue.

Rice and Irons were in touch often over the next week as programs aimed at helping small businesses survive the COVID-19 shutdowns evolved.

Two days after his initial contact with the Missouri SBDC, Rice called

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Irons to discuss EIDL and the Payroll Protection Program legislation that had just passed. Irons explained the ways the funds from each program could be used but admitted that her office was still awaiting clarification on the guidelines. She shared that guidance with Rice as she received it.

As April's end-of-month payroll neared and Vision Clinic geared up to reopen within the following two weeks, Rice reconnected with Irons.

He needed to know how forgiveness of a PPP loan was going to be calculated — an answer Chrystal couldn't give him until a couple of weeks later.

Plus, he wanted to clarify unemployment rules.

Luckily, he never had to test those rules.

Between working with lenders and vendors to manage cash flow and working with the Missouri SBDC to attain EIDL and PPP funds to bridge the gap, Vision Clinic was able to survive its six-week closure — and to bring back all of its 79 furloughed employees.

What they came back to was "a new normal based on keeping everyone healthy," Rice said.

"The way we do business is definitely altered.”

Since they reopened, Vision Clinic has been busy. "Part of it is because a lot people aren't working, so they have time, and there was a pentup demand" Rice said. "We're booked out for a little while."

For now, Rice; his son, daughter and daughterin-law; and the entire Vision Clinic family are back to work tending to the eye health of the people of southwest Missouri — and adjusting to the "new normal," as are we all.

Page 8

Horticulture Specialist Horticulture August 2020 Overview Educate 8-5-20 – MU Extension Horticulture IPM Teleconference 8-5-20 – MU Extension Horticulture Town Hall 8-5-20 – Florida Master Gardener Program Interview – Hammerhead Worm 8-5-20 – Fair Grove Farmers Market Presentation – Fall Vegetable Gardening 8-6-10 – KOLR 10 Midday News – Fall Gardening 8-11-20 – Master Gardeners of Greene County August Chapter Meeting Presentation ‘New Invasive Species’ (62 in attendance) 8-12-20 – MU Extension Horticulture IPM Teleconference 8-12-20 – MU Extension Horticulture Town Hall (71 in attendance) 8-13-20 – KOLR 10 Midday News – Sunflowers 8-18-20 – Herb Society Presentation – ‘Weed Identification’ 8-19-20 – MU Extension Horticulture IPM Teleconference 8-5-20 – MU Extension Horticulture Town Hall 8-19-20 – Millsap Twilight Farm Walk 8-24-20 – Christian County Master Gardeners August Chapter and Educational Meeting 8-26-20 – MU Extension Horticulture IPM Teleconference 8-26-20 – MU Extension Horticulture Town Hall 8-27-20 – KOLR 10 Midday News 8-29-20 – Christian County Headliner Article Create 8-7-20 – Elderberry Harvest and Post-Harvest Handling Video 8-12-20 – Garlic Data Collection at MSU 8-21-20 – Garlic Data Collection at MSU Connect 8-3-20 – Greene County Extension Staff Meeting 8-3-20 – Master Gardeners of Greene County Board Meeting 8-4-20 – Commercial Horticulture Newsletter Planning Meeting 8-4-20 – Seymour C-Highway Produce Auction Site Visit 8-6-20 – Christian County Council Meeting 8-10-20 – Greene County Staff Meeting 8-10-20 – Great Plains Growers Conference Planning Committee Meeting

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Kelly McGowan Horticulture Specialist mcgowank@missouri.edu Direct Tel: 874-2955 Started: 2012

Responsibilities: Locally coor dinates the Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists chapters as well as horticulture educational events for the public.

8-17-20 – Greene County Extension Staff Meeting 8-17-20 – Great Plains Growers Conference Planning Meeting 8-17-20 – Master Naturalist Board Meeting 8-19-20 – Commercial Horticulture Newsletter Planning Meeting 8-19-20 – MU Extension Southwest Region Faculty Update Meeting 8-19-20 – UMEA (University of Missouri Extension Association) Board Meeting 8-21-20 – Soil and Water Conservation District Regional Meeting 8-21-20 – Strike Force Grant Meeting 8-26-20 – Winter Vegetable Production Conference Planning Meeting 8-31-20 – Master Gardeners of Greene County Board Meeting Program Highlights The Master Gardeners of Greene County are normally a very active group with something going on almost every day. They are also very resilient and have found ways to stay active during COVID. These include: -The gardening hotline remains open. Most volunteers work from home checking emails and phone messages. Some come into the Botanical Center.

-The soil test program now being handled by the Master Gardeners has been successful. Members Barbara Ingalsbe and Joan Offerle oversee this every Thursday between 1-4 pm.

-The board has been meeting via Zoom.

-The general membership had it’s first meeting since the quarantine on 8-11 via Zoom. 62 members were in attendance.

-The weekly email communication called ‘Chapter News’ continues to go out.

-Work still continues to maintain both the Water Wise Garden and the Nat Greene Demo Garden (at the Botanical Center).

Page 9

Master Gardeners

Master Gardener Duo Donates Over 1200 Pounds of Produce to Local Food Pantries SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – For Greene County Master Gardeners Maryfrances DiGirolamo and James Hilburn, gardening has become a way to give back to their community, doing “something for the good of the world.” They use their University of Missouri Extension Master Gardener training to oversee a vegetable demonstrations garden at the Nathaniel Greene-Close Memorial Parks inside the Springfield Botanical Gardens.

“They donate all the produce they grow to local food pantries,” said Kelly McGowan, coordinator of Master Gardeners of Greene County. “Our group of volunteers who work there take time to speak with visitors and answer questions too, so it is a great educational tool for how people can grow their own food. That is important in a big urban area like Springfield.”

Last year, Greene County Master Gardeners donated more than 1,800 pounds of produce to local food pantries. As of Aug. 4, Hilburn and DiGirolamo have raised 1,250 pounds of produce for Well of Life Food Pantry. The two are still “growing” strong. Hilburn and DiGirolamo grow gardens at their respective homes, donating that produce to local pantries as well.

“Being able to donate food to the food pantries is one of the drives that keeps Maryfrances and I going,” Hilburn said.

“We know that the food we turn out is going somewhere where it’s needed.”

Indeed, DiGirolamo knows firsthand the produce she drops off three times a week Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

goes somewhere it's needed. When she's not volunteering with Master Gardeners of Greene County, DiGirolamo helps out at Well of Life, making lunches and gathering boxes of various food items for the less fortunate of Springfield.

As chair of the vegetable garden, DiGirolamo puts together weekly tasks the pair must complete to keep the garden in top shape.

Responsibilities include planting, watering, removing weeds (or “plant bandits,” as DiGirolamo describes them), harvesting, cleaning produce, weighing produce, recording statistics in their garden journal, and packaging produce to deliver to Well of Life.

“We've got the Kennebec and Pontiac potatoes, three kinds of carrots, white onions, red onions, green beans, sweet peas, okra, turnips, mustard, kale, purple turnips, yellow squash, zucchini, radishes, tomatoes, eggplant, cucumbers, arugula, lettuce, Romaine, beets, pole beans, snap beans, Jubilee watermelon, parsley, hot pepper, and then sweet peppers,” Hilburn said.

But that’s not all. Add cabbage, spinach and herbs to the list, DiGirolamo said.

Continued to next page

Page 10

Briefs New Council Funded Smoothie Bike Being Put to Use by Nutrition Educators The Greene County Extension Council recently funded the purchase of a smoothie bike for the county nutrition program using donated gift funds. That bike is assembled and being put to use at various school sites in and around the county to each about good nutrition while having fund and burning a few calories. Shown here is Nutrition Program Associate Myra Dickensheet working with a student in Mille

Continued / Master Gardener Dou

McGowan, who is also a horticulture specialist for MU Extension, said volunteers have been managing the vegetable demonstration garden for more than 30 years.

“It was one of the first gardens inside the botanical gardens way back when it got started,” McGowan explained. “The vegetable demonstration garden was something our Master Gardeners wanted to do to show people how they can grow their own food.”

DiGirolamo and Hilburn oversee more than 10,000 square feet at Nathaniel GreeneClose Memorial Parks. And while it may be a bit of work to keep up with that much square footage, they agree it's a rewarding use of their time in retirement.

Both Hilburn and DiGirolamo previously worked in the medical field, and they understand the mental and physical benefits gardening can offer volunteers and visitors.

Hilburn was a doctor in public health and DiGirolamo worked in diagnostic cytopathology, specializing in virology.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

“Gardening is outdoor therapy at its best,” Hilburn said. “Between the birds and the vivid colors in the garden, the guests that come to the park walk through happier sorts of people. And our volunteers are like that.

We are working hard, but we are laughing as we pass by each other. And it's a neat thing.”

DiGirolamo has noticed gardening can also provide individuals with a sense of accomplishment and security during uncertain times.

“I believe the global pandemic seems to have led to an increased interest in gardening across the country,” DiGirolamo said. “By talking to various visitors in the vegetable demonstration garden, I sincerely feel they discover the universal joys of working with their hands and seeing the results of their work grow and thrive.”

For more information on how you can become involved in the Master Gardener Program, visit mg.missouri.edu. A virtual version of the Fall 2020 Master Gardener program begins in August. Registration deadline for the fall online course is Aug. 16.

Page 11

For answers to your ag questions ...

MU Extension offers agriculture town halls online weekly for farmers, gardeners University of Missouri Extension is offering weekly online town hall meetings led by agronomy, livestock and horticulture specialists.

“MU Extension has is a trusted and necessary resource to help Missourians get food on the table and gardens in the backyard,” says Lee Miller, coordinator of MU’s Integrated Pest Management program.

State and regional extension specialists are hosting the weekly town hall question-andanswer sessions.

Weekly times and topics  Home horticulture: Wednesdays, 11 a.m.-noon.  Forages and livestock: Thur sdays, noon-1 p.m.  Field crops: Fr idays, 7-8 a.m.

The sessions offer easy access and will be held using the Zoom teleconferencing system.

Advance registration is required to receive email with the Zoom link and instructions.

Register and submit questions online at ipm.missouri.edu/TownHalls

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 13

Coming 2021. Leadercast: Four Sessions, Nine Speakers

Greene County will host LEADERCAST in 2021. Be watching for details on all four sessions and all nine speakers that we will showcase.

Nutrition Activities for August, 2020 Educate/Programs Cooking Matters at the Store Virtual Grocery store tours Chronic Disease Self-Management virtual classes Diabetes Self-Management Virtual Classes Helping Lindsey with Stay Strong, Stay Healthy Classes Pressure Gauge Checks on canners

Create/Professional Development/Trainings Boosting Immunity Articles Facebook posts Create Healthy Lifestyle Change Curriculum CDC Diabetes Prevention Program training

Connect/Engagement/Meetings Cox Monett Planning Committee Diabetes Prevention Program Planning Greene County Council Meetings MSU Dietetic Intern coordination

Position Change Announcement I wanted to reach out to let you know that I have recently been offered and accepted a new position within MU Extension. I will be the new Community Health Field Specialist headquartered in Monett, MO beginning on September 1st. I have truly enjoyed my first year and half with Extension working with the Greene County Council and all the work that I have done in this community. I am especially grateful for all of you making me feel welcome and helping me find new opportunities to provide programming in Greene County.

I am very excited for my new position, it is granted funded and I will be working from the Cox Monett hospital. In the first year of the grant I will be doing diabetes prevention education in the community, something I am truly passionate about.

Thank you all again for your support! I have enjoyed getting to know all of you and working with you to help our community!

Kelsa Ferguson Nutrition and Health Field Specialist University of Missouri Extension – Greene County 2400 S. Scenic Ave, Springfield, Mo. 65807 Office telephone: (417) 881-8909 Email: kelsaferguson@missouri.edu

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Kelsa Ferguson Nutrition and Health Field Specialist Phone: 417-881-8909 kelsaferguson@missouri.edu

Diabetes SelfManagement Program The Diabetes SelfManagement program is a six week course to help people with diabetes, those trying to prevent diabetes, and the family and care-takers of people with diabetes how to better manage this disease.

Topics include how to deal with fatigue, payer, stress, emotional problems, communication techniques, mindfulness, meal planning, exercise, medication, doctors, as well as how to set weekly goals with action plans.

Diabetes SelfManagement meets once a week for two hours and is free to its participants. The curriculum is written by Stanford University and is taught nationwide.

Funding for the course is provided through grants and the Regional Arthritis Centers.

Page 17

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 18

Human Development The Awe and Wonder of Early Brain Development We all know the looks of awe and wonder when babies and toddlers are learning something new such as walking, trying a new food, or exploring the world around them. Children are born ready to develop their brain and learn skills to use throughout their life. From birth children's develop brain through their everyday experiences.

Research has shown a child's brain produces more than a million neural connections each second between birth and age three. The part of the brain that is used during early development is also responsible for storing information throughout our life.

Early brain development is laying down the neural foundation for lifelong brain development. The relationships, experiences, and environments in the early years have lasting impact on child’s brain development.

Brain development is a lifelong process however, nurturing early year brain development is very important for later health

Amber Allen

Human Development amallen@missouri.edu Direct Tel: 874-2958 Started: October 2019

Responsibilities: Impr oving families and senior adults with “Boost Your Brain and Memory,” “Focus on Kids” and Green Dot violence prevention and more.

and development. Exposure to stress and trauma can have long-term adverse effects on the child’s brain. Understanding their needs and responding accordingly helps protect children’s brains from stress.

Adults can support healthy brain growth by speaking to, playing with, and caring for children. Early childhood brain development is strongly influenced by the child’s experiences with other people and the world. From birth to age 5, a child’s brain develops more than at any other time in life.

Experiences in early life both positive and negative help shape how a child’s brain develops.

This time is the best opportunity for a child’s brain to develop the connections they need to be healthy and successful adult in the future.

Day/Date

Time

Program

Registration

Tuesday September 1st

1:30 pm3:30 pm

Registration Coming Soon

Wednesday September 2nd

10 am11 am

Thursday September 8th

6:00 pm7:00 pm

Child Care Training: Staff Retention through Organizational Climate. This wor kshop addr esses ways to impr ove the climate of your child care program as a strategy for retaining staff.

We will cover four broad topics: commitment, team building, communication, and appreciation and discuss how these aspects of organizational climate create better director-staff relationships.

10 Warning Signs -Alzheimer’s Association Alzheimer's and other dementias cause memory, thinking and behavior problems that interfere with daily living. Join us to learn how to recognize common signs of the disease; how to approach someone about memory concerns; the importance of early detection and benefits of a diagnosis; possible tests and assessments for the diagnostic process, and Alzheimer's Association resources.

Effective Communication Strategies-Alzheimer’s Association Join us to explore how communication takes place when someone has Alzheimer’s, learn to decode the verbal and behavioral messages delivered by someone with dementia, and identify strategies to help you connect and communicate at each stage of the disease.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

https:// extension2.missouri.edu/ events/10-warningsigns-alzheimer-sassociation-zoomsession https:// extension2.missouri.edu/ events/effectivecommunicationstrategies-alzheimer -s-association-zoom -session-

Page 19

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 20

Monthly Focus: 4-H Youth

Parent Writes: 4-H Families Don’t “Just� Show, They Show Up and Make a Difference This year has been very different because of COVID19 and all that we have needed to adjust.

Few opportunities for our kids to showcase their work happened in the usual way. But, during the Ozark Empire Fair, we had a full 4-H exhibit area in the E-Plex and livestock are being shown. The following week, the 4- H and FFA livestock shows continued at Missouri State Fair, along with exhibits in the 4-H building.

In my mind, there is still much to celebrate.

Our 4-H families pulled together and helped each other through this unprecedented time.

I see examples of this every day. I am sharing thoughts here from Kelly Valentine of Valentine Ranch on why she wants her children to be involved in 4-H. Yesterday, during the Pee Wee rabbit show the judge asked Syla why she was in 4-H. Syla is 5 and this is her first year as a Clover Kid. She responded with "because Mom wants me too".

At first I was a little embarrassed by her response and then it hit me like a ton of bricks; yes, she's right! I want her to experience 4-H like I did as a kid and like her older siblings have. In the years ahead she will learn about unlimited projects that peak her interest. She will have successes, failures, wins, losses, heartbreaks & experiences that will last a lifetime. I want her to be confident with herself and her projects & be aware that she is not the only person in this world; she is part of a community.

Some may think that 4-H is just for the kids.

I may step on some toes here but I'm gonna say what others only think to themselves or mutter under their breath. 4-H is for families...parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts & uncles.

Yesterday, a couple of parents told me they are just the drivers & there to pay entry fees. I call BS! They were there for their kids and other peoples kids. They gave advice and answered questions, they were helpful & kind. Much more than just a driver & walking bank.

A good 4-H family doesn't just parent their child, they take in others as well. They spend time teaching/training/encouraging kids. They

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Karla Deaver

4-H Youth specialist HQ: Lawrence County Tel: (417) 466-3102 deaverk@missouri.edu

sometimes haul other peoples kids & livestock.

They become substitute parents when a child's family is pulled in other directions for another child or activity.

They may not realize it but their kids are watching. When a kid sees their parents helping others, the majority of the time that kid wants to help others. That kid becomes the one that takes a younger kid under their wing, they may clip someone's animal & take the time to explain why they are doing it a certain way, they may just be a friend...and then it becomes a snowball. I've watched it time & time again.

I remember years ago when Chels & Gus were showing calves & young Rowdee was bored out of his mind & looking for trouble. Steve Young grabbed him by the hand & said let's go get ice cream at the foodstand. Steve didn't have to do that & probably doesn't even remember it, but it made an impression on me that day. We had a few minutes to concentrate on our big kids & Rowdee was thrilled to get away & have a treat.

I remember another year when Bill Triplett asked if we had a grooming chute for our calves.

We said no. He pointed to his & said that thing isn't coming home with us, our kids are done, take it with you. After our Bigs were done with that chute, we donated it & another one to a family just getting started.

I've witnessed my oldest walk out of the ring on sale day with tears streaming down her cheeks & other parents tearing up too.

Haley Ballanger, I will never forget you walking your calf into the sale ring that first year & promptly turning around & walking back out...Dana walked back into that ring with you & you both cried your way through the calf selling, several of us wiped tears that day.

I could give so many examples, they are memories forever engraved in my mind & heart. 4H families don't just show, they show up! When they are tired, when their kids are tired, when they've worked all day & showed all day and when they have to get up early & do it all again. That's what they do. Thank you to all the families that show up & make a difference.

Page 21

Workforce Development Workforce Navigator Series Labor and Workforce is launching the new Workforce Navigator Series. The new series focuses on strategic planning and connecting you to resources, training and data.

The Workforce Navigator Series connects you to information and resources that you need now. Employers must reinvent the workplace and stay up-to-date on the latest information. The Workforce Navigator webinar series will help businesses and communities attract, retain, engage, and grow a productive and healthy workforce. Industry and labor experts, businesses, and guest speakers help you find the workforce resources, training, and data necessary to help make your community, business, and workforce grow and thrive. Together we can drive Missouri towards a more vibrant future.

Registration for this and other classes can be done online at extension.missouri.edu.

Group Health Plan and COBRA Administration Tips and Tools for Busy Employers Labor and Workforce Continuing Education Series: Join the US Department of Labor's (US DOL) Kathy Robinson, JD, as she anchors the continuing education series. Kathy and the DOL brings years of legal experience and applied knowledge to each of their presentations.

August 19th - September 24th, 2020 11 AM - 12 PM No Cost Continuing Education Credits will soon be available at the point of registration.

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Amy Patillo

Workforce Development patilloa@missouri.edu Direct Tel: 874-2956 Started: November 2011

Responsibilities: Statewide coor dination of online and face-to-face educational programs and projects designed to grow Missouri’s workforce.

Using Publicly Available Data to Conduct a Workforce Analysis Does your community or business have the employees it needs to thrive and compete? Do you want to use free data to plan for future growth and success? If so, then join the upcoming webinar to learn about free and relevant data that can be used to strategically invest in your community, business, and workforce. Register on the extension website.

August 20th 2:00-3:00 PM No Cost

Upcoming Classes.

September 03- Fiduciary Duties for Group Health plans September 10- Fiduciary Duties for Retirement Plans September 17- What to Expect from an Employee Benefits Security Administration Investigation?

September 23- COVID-19 Relief Provided to Employers and Employees regarding COBRA and Group Health Plans September 24- Voluntary Fiduciary Correction Programs for Group Health Plans and Retirement Plans

Page 22

We are sold out of printed books.

However, you can order books online at mappingsolutionsgis.com.

Printed and digital books and maps available from vendor. Proceeds still benefit Greene County MU Extension.

Donating to Greene County Extension is as Easy As: 1. Donate online at extension.missouri.edu/greene by mail or in person.

2. Stay connected with

Greene County Extension on social media, by email and/ or in service as a volunteer.

3. Enjoy making a difference in the lives of 45,000 county residents annually.

Helping Greene County Extension Do More, Reach More, Be More!

University of Missouri Extension in Greene County

Located inside the Botanical Center at 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65807 Tel: (417) 881-8909 | Email: greeneco@missouri.edu | Online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 23

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu

Page 24

Greene County “Reaching Out” Report

Last Updated August 18, 2020

MU Extension Staff Serving Greene County Sherri Hull Nutrition Associate Joined 2008

M. Dickensheet Nutrition Associate Joined 2018

1845 S. National, Ste. 100, Springfield, Mo. Tel: (417) 865-0707

Myrna Stark FNEP Program Manager

Jay Chism, Regional Director, email: chismj@missouri.edu

Terri Fossett

Program director Joined 2000

Sarah Grubaugh,

Assistant, email: GrubaughS@missouri.edu

Family Nutrition Education Program

2160 W. Chesterfield Blvd. F200, Springfield, Tel: 417-886-2059

Karla Deaver

4-H Youth specialist HQ: Lawrence County Tel: (417) 466-3102 deaverk@missouri.edu

Tim Schnakenberg

Southwest Region Directors Office

Mo

Andy McCorkill

Patrick Byers

Agronomy specialist HQ: Stone County Tel: (417) 357-6812 schnakenbergc@missouri.edu

Commercial Horticulture HQ: Webster County Tel: (417) 859-2044 byerspl@missouri.edu

Reagan Bluel

Kyle Whittaker

Dairy Specialist HQ: Barry County Tel: (417) 847-3161 BluelRJ@missouri.edu

Sarah Havens

Natural Resources specialist HQ: Laclede County Tel: (573) 458-6260 havenss@missouri.edu

Missouri Procurement Technical Assistance Center

Livestock specialist HQ: Laclede County Tel: (417) 532-7126 mccorkilla@missouri.edu

At Missouri State 405 N Jefferson Springfield, MO 417-837-2612 waldoaj@missouri .edu

Ag and Environment HQ: Webster County Tel: (417) 859-2044

kyle.whittaker@missouri.edu

Dr. Pam Duitsman

Community Development HQ: Christian County Tel: (417) 581-3558 duitsmanp@missouri.edu

Allen Waldo

Contact:  Chrystal Irons  Lance Coffman  Sandra Smart Irons

Smart

Coffman

Robert W. Plaster Free Enterprise Center, 405 N. Jefferson Ave., Springfield | 417-837-2617 | https://sbtdc.missouristate.edu/

Online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene