Growing Asparagus | Preventing Concussions | Plan for Winter Expert Articles and Advice from the Research and Knowledge of West Virginia State University Extension Service
WINTER
2 012-2 013
Movie Night! Beating the Wintertime Blues with indoor family fun
Follow the LEED
Lessen your carbon footprint with green-building standards
Extension Service
O U T L O O K
From the President
Welcome to winter, West Virginia style! I am pleased to
introduce this edition of Extension Matters, West Virginia State
VOLUME VII, ISSUE I
Previous issues online at: grdi.wvstateu.edu
University’s magazine that is written with you, our neighbors, in mind. This was my first autumn in West Virginia, and the amazing fall colors here in the Mountain State made me pause and appreciate the absolute splendor of our natural environment. Sustaining this beauty all around us is so important, and inside this edition you will find some information on how you can help by lessening your carbon footprint with some simple green-building techniques and standards. This issue is also filled with great tips to help prepare us for what we know winter will bring. You will learn that it’s not too late to plant trees or prepare your family and your home for freezing weather—and if you get snowed in, pull out your Extension Matters for some fun family activities to beat the winter blues and ward off any cabin fever. If you and your kids are winter sports fans, like me, you’ll want to check out the article on preventing concussions in youth sports. If sports aren’t on the winter schedule for your young ones, you can also find helpful information on selecting quality after-
Orlando F. McMeans, Ph.D. Vice President for Research & Public Service and GRDI Dean and Director
William Woodrum
Assoc. Dean and Assoc. Director WVSU Extension Service
Matthew Browning
Director of Communications; Editor WVSU Gus R. Douglass Institute
Rob Russo
Communications Specialist; Designer WVSU Gus R. Douglass Institute
school programs. I hope you will enjoy this edition of Extension Matters as much as I did. I wish each of you a warm and wonderful winter season.
President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D. West Virginia State University
Extension Matters is published by West Virginia State University Extension Service, a division of The Gus R. Douglass Land-Grant Institute.
To request an edition of Extension Matters or to be added to our mailing list, please contact the editor at extension@wvstateu.edu
WEST VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION DOES NOT DISCRIMINATE ON THE BASIS OF RACE, COLOR, AGE, RELIGION, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY, SEX, MARITAL STATUS, DISABILITY, OR STATUS AS A U.S. VETERAN.
2
E X T E N S I O N M AT T E R S | W I N T E R 2 0 12 - 2 0 13
Learn more about this favorite side dish or try a new recipe: Asparagus Gilled Cheese, anyone? PAGE 8
Lessen your carbon footprint with green-building standards.
Identifying and Preventing Concussions in Youth Sports.
Concussion Discussion
Follow the LEED
06
16
Winterize Yourself
Indoor Family Fun
Planning for winter weather.
Beat the Wintertime Blues.
10
WINTER
14
2012-2013
04
Contents
Asparagus takes the crown
18
Planned Planting
Upcoming Events
How to properly plant trees.
See what’s in store from your WVSU Extension Service.
12
After-School Thoughts Quality after-school programs for kids.
Extension Matters on TV! Library Television Network
Southern Channel 17 in Logan/Mingo
counties the third Tuesday of each month @ 3:30 p.m.
(Channel 17 for Suddenlink subscribers) We're also in Nicholas County Wednesdays @ 11:30 a.m., 5:30 p.m., 11:30 p.m. Check local listings for air dates and times or Thursdays @ 5:30 a.m. & Saturdays @ 5:30 p.m. watch it online at www.grdi.wvstateu.edu
G R D I .W V S TAT E U . E D U
W I N T E R 2 0 12 - 2 0 13 | E X T E N S I O N M AT T E R S
3
E C O N O M I C
D E V E L O P M E N T
Follow the LEED
Lessen your carbon footprint with green building standards Stephanie Johnson, Director, West Side Main Street director@westsidemainstreet.org
States Green Building Council (USGBC) and the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI). Take a drive along
In 2000, the USGBC produced the Leadership in
the west side of Charleston,
Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating
and you’ll notice the renovation of
systems, an independent, third-party verification
many formerly vacant buildings. These buildings are now becoming home to many
This rating system provides a framework
thriving businesses and organizations, such as
for building design and construction, offering
the Alzheimer’s Association, Black Diamond Girl
four levels of green building achievement. From
Scouts and Good News Mountaineer Garage. Of
most basic to high performing, the levels are
course, restoring a former warehouse or historic
Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum. In conjunction
building is no easy task, as many of these buildings
with these certifications, the GBCI launched a
have inoperable heating and cooling systems,
professional credential program in which people
insufficient insulation, inadequate lighting and
capable of passing a test in their preferred area of
environmental health hazards. With many of these
study become accredited and are able to participate
buildings comprising thousands of square feet, it
and assist in the design and construction of LEED-
is important to consider the most efficient way to
certified buildings.
keep operating costs low. Conventional buildings
A LEED-certified building is not just about bricks
tend to have high operating costs, use unnecessary
and mortar. Instead, it takes a team of professionals
waste and undermine the health of inhabitants.
using an integrated approach collaborating to
So how can we design a building that uses fewer
create the most efficient building that excels in
materials, has lower heating and cooling costs,
addressing the seven LEED areas: sustainable sites,
and offers a healthy environment for employees to
water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials
work? The answer to this question is LEED.
and resources, indoor environmental quality,
Conventional building is becoming a thing of the past; a new style of environmentally
4
for buildings, homes and communities.
innovation in design, and regional priority (U.S. Green Building Council, 2012).
friendly construction has moved to the forefront
Designing LEED buildings is not just a job
of commercial and residential design. This
for for-profit businesses. In fact, West Side Main
paradigm shift has given birth to the United
Street, a nonprofit organization and program
E X T E N S I O N M AT T E R S | W I N T E R 2 0 12 - 2 0 13
G R D I .W V S TAT E U . E D U
of WVSU Extension Service dedicated to the
There are actually many small things that
revitalization of Charleston’s west side, is now
can make a big impact, and here are just a few:
working to acquire and renovate property with
.
• Always select compact fluorescent lights over incandescent lighting, as compact
LEED standards in mind. The organization recently founded the West
fluorescents burn longer and use less energy.
Side Development Corporation and is looking to
• When painting the interior or exterior of your
acquire and renovate the former Staats Hospital
building, always use paint with low volatile
on Washington Street West. Restoring the Staats
organic compounds (VOCs). Low-VOC paint
building to meet LEED standards could bring
has less impact on the environment and is
in more funding opportunities for the project,
safer to breathe.
reduce operating costs and provide hundreds of
• When replacing an old toilet or installing
employees with a healthy working environment.
a new one, pay attention to the amount of
“West Side Main Street will always refer to LEED
gallons per flush. Some toilets use up to 3.6
standards for restoration or new construction,”
gallons with each flush! You can purchase
says Josie Counts, board president for West Side
dual-flush toilets that use as little as 1 gallon
Main Street. “Keep your eye open for exciting,
per flush. Also look for low-flow fixtures.
environmentally friendly projects happening on
• Always
consider
where
products
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
U.S. Green Building Council. (2012). LEED. Retrieved October 16, 2012, from https://new. usgbc.org/leed.
are
manufactured, such as hardwood flooring
the West Side.” So, what are the benefits of the process? A
and
decorative
accessories.
Look
for
LEED-certified building can reduce energy usage
products manufactured within 500 miles
by 24-50 percent, reduce CO2 emissions by 33-39
of your project. Buying local reduces the
percent, reduce water usage by 40 percent and
transportation associated with delivery,
reduce solid waste by 70 percent. These reductions
decreasing the amount of fuel necessary
can significantly reduce operational costs, create
to transport the product and ultimately
a healthier place for employees to work and
reducing carbon emissions.
alleviate the impact on the environment. Incorporating
REFERENCES
LEED
standards
• It is important to evaluate the existing into
insulation in your home or office. Up to
your own practices doesn’t have to be an
one-third of your home’s heat can be lost
intimidating task. You can improve the quality
through the roof. Adequate insulation is most
of your existing commercial and residential
important in the attic because heat rises.
space without major renovations.
When installing or replacing windows look for products with a high R-value to reduce the amount of heat loss. These recommendations are only a small portion of the ways to reduce your carbon footprint, but it is a good start in the right direction. To learn more green building practices and examples of LEED buildings near you, visit the USGBC website at www.usgbc.org. If interested in becoming accredited, visit the GBCI website at www.gbci.org.
G R D I .W V S TAT E U . E D U
W I N T E R 2 0 12 - 2 0 13 | E X T E N S I O N M AT T E R S
5
A D U L T S
&
F A M I L I E S
Winterize Yourself! Planning for winter weather
Many people think that when a disaster strikes the emergency management system, police or National Guard will be there to rescue them, if needed. They will. But some disasters overwhelm the local response system, extending the time it takes for help to arrive. You should be prepared to care for your family
family communication plan and a shelter in place
and yourself for at least 72 hours after a disaster.
plan, as well as the action steps you will take
Estimates show that about 480 people die and
when disasters are eminent.
another 2,880 are injured in U.S. disasters annually.
Get a Kit.
In addition, thousands lose their livelihoods and jobs due to disasters.
Think of everything you might need if you
Even though deaths and injuries due to disasters
shelter at home for 72 hours. The list of items
have been on the decline in the United States,
doesn’t need to be extensive, but plan to have
there’s still room for improvement. And with just
those items handy. Consider a smaller kit that you
a few simple steps you may be able to save yourself
can leave in your office or car or take with you in
and your family when a disaster strikes.
case officials ask you to evacuate the area.
Prepared by Jenny Fertig, Program Leader, Community & Economic Development, fertigan@wvstateu.edu, for the Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN).
It simply means taking
A suggested plan and kit check-off sheet are
the time and steps
on the following page. There is also additional
to
yourself
information available from sites such as the
for the most likely
WV Department of Homeland Security and
disasters that could
Emergency Management at www.dhsem.wv.gov,
affect you. It doesn’t
the West Virginia offices of the American Red
mean,
Cross
prepare
“I’ll
ignore
at
www.americanredcrosswv.org,
and
it, nothing will happen to me!” We had winter
WVSU Extension Service through our partnership
weather strike early this season when Hurricane
with the national Extension Disaster Education
Sandy resulted in heavy snowfall in West Virginia.
Network (EDEN) at www.EDEN.lsu.edu.
Were you ready? If not, don’t make the same
Mother Nature will continue to rear her
mistake again.
sometimes-ugly head as winter progresses. Don’t
Make a Plan.
be left out in the cold, so to speak, if disaster strikes. Be ready.
Plan in advance what you will do for the most
likely emergencies. Your plan should include a
6
E X T E N S I O N M AT T E R S | W I N T E R 2 0 12 - 2 0 13
G R D I .W V S TAT E U . E D U
Preparing Your Disaster Supplies Kit
Three-day supply of non-perishable food Three-day supply of water (one gallon of water per person, per day) Portable, battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries Flashlight and extra batteries First aid kit and manual Sanitation and hygiene items (moist towelettes and toilet paper) Matches and waterproof container Whistle Extra clothing (think “warm” in case you live in a cold climate) Kitchen accessories and cooking utensils, including a can opener Photocopies of credit and identification cards Cash and coins Special needs items, such as prescription medications, eye glasses, contact lens solutions, and hearing aid batteries • Items for infants, such as formula, diapers, bottles, and pacifiers • Other items to meet your unique family needs
• • • • • • • • • • • • •
The following items are recommended for inclusion in your basic disaster supplies kit:
Basic Disaster Supplies Kit
W I N T E R 2 0 12 - 2 0 13 | E X T E N S I O N M AT T E R S
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (202) 7205964 (voice or TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
The EDEN National Preparedness Month materials were developed with funding from the Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture under CSREES/USDA Agreement No. 2004-37620-14644. Any opinions or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
www.EDEN.lsu.edu
• Place packaged food in metal, glass or rigid containers to avoid insect and rodent damage. • Rotate and use food and water every six to 12 months.
Storing Food
Make sure you have food and water in the kit, as well as comfortable walking shoes in case an evacuation requires walking long distances.
This kit should be in one container, and ready to “grab and go” in case you are evacuated from your workplace.
Work
Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.
Your disaster supplies kit should contain essential food, water, and supplies for at least three days.
Home (Basic Disaster Supplies Kit)
Kit Locations
A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items that members of a household may need in the event of a disaster.
G R D I .W V S TAT E U . E D U
7
A G R I C U L T U R E
&
N A T U R A L
R E S O U R C E S
Asparagus takes the crown.
By Scott C. Byars, Program Leader Agriculture & Natural Resources sbyars@wvstateu.edu
How to grow asparagus in your own home garden
Is asparagus a favorite side dish of yours?
It is estimated that a bed of 25 mature plants will
Or have you ever had a grilled cheese and
produce about 10 pounds of asparagus per year.
asparagus sandwich? My family loves to add
Asparagus needs phosphorus, which is usually
the vegetable into our meals, but we live in
abundant in composted manure. Try planting the
the country and have few acres to grow our
crowns in a trench about four inches deep and 10
own asparagus. Therefore, we have to travel
inches wide in aged manure. Arrange the crowns
to the local farmers market or grocery store if
in the bottom, about 15 inches apart. If you do not
we want to incorporate a little more green into
have the luxury of deep compost, try adding a two-
the dinner menu. But the fact is, even if you
inch layer of compost to your soil before planting to
live in a suburban setting, you can grow a few
get your plants off to a great start.
crowns of asparagus in your own backyard. Here’s how.
8
Do not harvest the asparagus during the planting year. Spears will be produced from
The first thing with growing anything is
expanded buds on the crown. As the spears
choosing the correct site. For asparagus, that’s
elongate and reach a height of about eight to
full-sun and well-drained. Plant asparagus
nine inches, the tips will open. The spear will
crowns (dormant roots of one-year-old plants)
become woody to support the small branches
in spring at about the same time you would
that become ferns.
plant potatoes, but don’t rush to plant them
The ferns produce food for the plant and then
if your soil is still cold (Pleasant, 2011). In our
move it down to the crown for next year’s spear
region, we have a wider selection of varieties
production. Asparagus is very drought-tolerant
to choose from, including ‘Jersey Giant,’ ‘Jersey
and can usually grow without supplemental
Knight’ and ‘Purple Passion.’ These are hybrids,
watering, because it seeks moisture deep in the soil.
with improved disease-resistance that produce
However, if rainfall is insufficient when planting or
extremely well in our state.
afterwards, it is beneficial to irrigate the crowns.
E X T E N S I O N M AT T E R S | W I N T E R 2 0 12 - 2 0 13
G R D I .W V S TAT E U . E D U
Otherwise the plants will become stressed and
nine-inch spears might be harvested every two to
vigorous growth will be impeded (Cantaluppi, n.d.).
four days. As air temperatures increase, harvesting
Harvest asparagus using a heavy pair of scissors,
frequencies will increase to once or twice per day,
cutting spears between seven to nine inches. There
harvesting five- to seven-inch spears before the tips
is no need to cut asparagus below the soil with a
start to fern out and lose quality.
knife. This may injure other buds on the crown that
The second year after planting, the length of
will send up new spears. The small stub that is left
harvest can increase to about four to six weeks.
in the soil after cutting dries up and disintegrates.
The third year after planting and thereafter,
A new spear does not come up at the same spot,
harvesting can continue for six to eight weeks.
but comes up from another bud that enlarges on
Since the length of harvest season will vary from
another part of the crown.
year to year depending on air temperature, stop
The year after planting, asparagus can be harvested several times throughout a three-week shows there is no need to wait two years after
as “ferning out,” fiber begins to develop at the
planting before harvesting. In fact, harvesting
base of the spears, causing them to become tough.
the year after planting will stimulate more bud
The diameter of the spear has no bearing on its
production on the crown and provide greater yields
toughness. When harvesting, the asparagus patch
in future years, as compared with waiting two
should be picked clean, never allowing any spears to
years before harvesting.
fern out, as this gives asparagus beetles an excellent
this, growth of asparagus is dependent on air temperature. Early in the season, seven- to
G R D I .W V S TAT E U . E D U
Cantaluppi, C. (n.d.) Growing asparagus in the home garden. Ohio State University Extension. Pleasant, B. (2011). Growing Asparagus: Learn how to plant, grow and harvest your own superior spears of asparagus.
becomes small (less then 3/8 inch). As the tips of the spears start to loosen, known
the soil temperature reaches 50 degrees F. After
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
the harvest when the diameter of 3/4 of the spears
period, depending on air temperatures. Research
Asparagus spears will start to emerge when
REFERENCES
site to lay their eggs. With harvest complete, you can enjoy your own homegrown asparagus at each meal! That grilled cheese suggestion? Give it a try. You won’t be sorry.
W I N T E R 2 0 12 - 2 0 13 | E X T E N S I O N M AT T E R S
9
A G R I C U L T U R E
&
N A T U R A L
R E S O U R C E S
t n a l p y l r e p o r p to
Adding trees to your landscape can make a huge difference in the overall look of your home. But, before you go planting beautiful trees at random, you must first choose the correct location for a tree and ensure you are selecting the correct tree species for that location. While this is an added step to a seemingly easy task, it can save time, energy and money for you down the road. Suppose for a moment that you live in an area that tends
How
PLANNED
to stay wet for days or even weeks after a rain event. This area is probably not the best suited for many species of trees; however, there are some trees that can thrive in a constantly wet area, and even help to keep the area dry. The ability to locate these problem areas and working either around them or with them can keep your landscape looking great. Some of the major issues to keep in mind when you are designing your landscape are the amount of sunlight received, if it is a wet or windy location, how close to your home you will be planting, and whether or not you have any overhead transmission lines that may become an issue. Addressing these potential issues is the first step in creating a beautiful landscape. If your landscape is in an area which receives full-sun (over 6-8 hours per day) you will want to plant a shade-intolerant species like black cherry, willow, crabapple or most other softfruit-bearing trees. However, if you are located in a mostly shaded
by Brad Cochran Extension Associate bcochran2@wvstateu.edu
area, consider dogwood, maple, magnolia or spruce, just to name
10
E X T E N S I O N M AT T E R S | W I N T E R 2 0 12 - 2 0 13
G R D I .W V S TAT E U . E D U
PLANTING
trees in your
a few. If you are in an area of high wind, you may be more inclined to go with a smaller tree, like a holly, or a bigger and stronger tree, like an oak or an
landsca pe
elm. You would want to steer clear of something like Bradford Pear, Kwanzan Cherry, or many of the other ornamentals available to you (Gilman, 1997). Wet areas are perfect homes for species like willow and bald cypress but poor locations for any of the fruit-bearing trees like cherry and crabapple (Gilman, 1997). If you are going to be planting near your home, avoid water-loving trees like willow and silver maple, because they have a tendency to grow toward the foundation of your home. There is also the potential for damage to your home during heavy winds. If you are in an area with lots of overhead power lines, plant species that will stay at less than 30 feet tall, like Bradford pear, dogwood, arbovite or Japanese maple (AVTreeFam, n.d.). Full-size trees will eventually grow into those power lines and cause major problems years down the road. By taking into consideration these potential issues, you can save yourself time, money and headaches down the road with some simple and proper planning.
REFERENCES
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
AVTreeFarm. (n.d.). Trees Under Power Lines. In AVTreeFarm. Retrieved October 29, 2012, from http://www.avtreefarm.com/files/power-lines.htm. Gilman, Edward F. (1997) Trees for Urban and Suburban Landscapes. Albany, NY. Delmar Publishers.
G R D I .W V S TAT E U . E D U
W I N T E R 2 0 12 - 2 0 13 | E X T E N S I O N M AT T E R S
11
Y O U T H
D E V E L O P M E N T
After-School Not an afterthought
Choosing quality after-school programming for your children Kelli Batch, 4-H Youth Development Program Leader, kjackso2@wvstateu.edu
Many working adults are faced with these questions everyday: What do I do with my children after school? Where can they go that is affordable
12
1) Location to the school – Does your child’s school provide transportation to the program, or will you be transporting the child from school to the program?
and safe? Some parents and/or guardians choose
2) Cost – Some programs are grant-funded and
to allow their kids to stay home alone, if they are
charge little to no fee for their services. However,
mature enough to handle the responsibility. But for
there are other programs that use the weekly or
those parents who do not have the option of home
monthly fees for program supplies and personnel
care, there are many factors to consider when
costs. If there is a charge involved, find out what
making such a decision. After-school activities and
those fees cover, such as field trips, and how often
programs could have a major impact on a child’s
the fee must be paid. Some programs also charge
life, so making an informed decision may be more
for late pickup. Ask what the organization’s policy
important than you originally thought.
is on late payments and late pickups. There may be
So, before placing your child in an after-school
scholarships available for those who need assistance
program, take into consideration some of the
with paying the fee, so always check before you
following factors:
decide that the fee is beyond your means.
E X T E N S I O N M AT T E R S | W I N T E R 2 0 12 - 2 0 13
G R D I .W V S TAT E U . E D U
3) Hours of operation – Is the program site
• High-quality
learning
environments
and
curriculum
open for operation on days that school dismisses
• Applied child/youth observation and assessment
early, snow days, holidays? Some programs choose
• Interactions with children and youth
to operate only certain days of the week or times of
• Youth engagement
year. There are programs that may open according
• Mutual respect for cultural diversity
to the school calendar. If you live in an area that
• Relationships with family, school and the
includes both year-round and traditional school calendars, make sure you are aware of which calendar the program follows. Furthermore, be sure
community • Program planning and development
the program starts at a time that is in sync with the
6) Safe and clean atmosphere – Once
school’s schedule and closes in time for you to make
you’ve established that the staff is properly screened
the trip there from work.
and trained, you will also want to make sure that the
It can also be advantageous to seek an after-school
facility is secure and located in a safe area.
program that also functions as a summer program.
You may want to check the crime statistics in the
Research has shown that summer programs prove
neighborhood from the past 1-2 years. Look around
to be beneficial to youth. The Afterschool Alliance
the building for signs encouraging proper hand
reported that knowledge gained during the school
washing, safe food handling, and proper emergency
year is less likely to be lost if youth attend summer
policies and procedures. Simply observing the overall
programs. Additionally, summer programs may even
cleanliness of the rooms, kitchen and bathrooms can
help improve students’ grades the following year
give you a general idea of the level of maintenance the
(Afterschool Advocate, 2008).
building receives. Lastly, ask the director about their policy on
4) Quality of staff – Ask the program director
classroom observation. Most centers will gladly
about the paid and volunteer staff at the facility. You
accept volunteers or allow parents to come in to
may want to know what experiences they’ve had
observe, as long as they do not cause a distraction.
working with children and what certifications have
Take note as to whether the children are engaged in
been obtained, such as CPR and first aid. Background
a more structured or “free-spirited” environment.
checks should be conducted on all staff working in the
It’s important to know if your child is engaged in
building. Proper training pertaining to the content
activities that foster proper development skills or if
delivered to the youth is also necessary.
they are simply attending a program that is there to
REFERENCES
ensure they are safe and secure during after-school
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
5) Quality of program/activities – When looking for high-impact programming, try to look for
hours. Either way, only you can decide exactly what type of services you desire for your child.
some of the content areas as outlined by the research reported in the National AfterSchool Association
As you can see, there are many things to consider
(2011). Programs and activities during after-school
when choosing an after-school program. But, keep in
hours should display:
mind that the suggestions provided are not placed in
• Knowledge
of
child/youth
development
G R D I .W V S TAT E U . E D U
growth
and
order of importance. You must decide what factors are of the most importance to your family.
Afterschool Advocate. (2008). Summer Learning Programs Boost Student Success. Volume 9, Issue 7. Afterschool Alliance. National AfterSchool Association. (2011). Core Knowledge and Competencies for Afterschool and Youth Development Professionals. Adopted September 22, 2011.
W I N T E R 2 0 12 - 2 0 13 | E X T E N S I O N M AT T E R S
13
H E A L T H
&
N U T R I T I O N
Discussion oncussion Identifying and Preventing Concussions in Youth Sports
In recent years, concussions have become a hot topic. There has been great debate about the possible link to concussions and the early deaths of some former athletes. Two of these athletes were former Chicago Bears player Dave Duerson and WWE professional wrestler Chris Benoit. Duerson died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the chest. Before his death, he sent a text message to his family requesting that his brain be donated to Boston University to be studied for damage. Duerson suffered at least 10 concussions during his NFL career and started to notice changes in his behavior in the years before his death, according to his family. Further inspection revealed brain damage and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative neurological condition associated with repeat concussions. It has symptoms similar to those of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Chris Benoit, over a three day period, killed his wife and son before he hanged himself. Tests conducted on Benoit’s brain showed that the damage to his brain resembled that of an 85-year-old Alzheimer’s patient. He was reported to have had an advanced form of dementia, similar to the brains of four retired NFL players who had suffered multiple concussions. As awareness of the dangers of concussions increased, emergency room visits have also increased for school-age athletes with concussions. From 1997 to 2007, emergency room visits for sports-related concussions in youth ages 14 to 19 went from 7,000 to nearly 22,000. Visits for youth age 8 to 13 went from 3,800 By Paul Henderson Extension Agent 4-H Youth Development henderpm@wvstateu.edu
14
E X T E N S I O N M AT T E R S | W I N T E R 2 0 12 - 2 0 13
to 8,000 (Pediatrics, 2010). While some may see these statistics as alarming, it shows that more parents and students are aware of the dangers of concussions and are seeking treatment.
G R D I .W V S TAT E U . E D U
Symptoms of a Concussion
absorb impact. Make sure it’s properly-fitted, snug
The following symptoms are from the Centers for
but not too snug. You also need to play with proper
Disease Control’s new Heads Up campaign (CDC,
form. Recent rule changes in high-contact sports like
2012).
football and hockey have helped minimize head-to-
Signs Observed by Parents or Guardians
head contact and prevented players diagnosed with
If your child has experienced a bump or blow to the head during a game or practice, look for any of the following signs and symptoms of a concussion: • Appears dazed or stunned • Is confused about assignment or position • Forgets an instruction • Is unsure of game, score or opponent • Moves clumsily • Answers questions slowly
a concussion from returning to a game. Use proper tackling or checking form—with your head up. “I hope athletes realize that you’re not a hero if you knock somebody out,” Nowinski says to Andy Haley, content director of Stack Media. “It’s about winning the game, scoring the most points and walking away healthy” (Stack.com, 2011).
What Should You Do If You Think Your Child Has A Concussion • Seek medical attention right away. A health
• Loses consciousness (even briefly)
care professional will be able to decide how
• Shows behavior or personality changes
serious the concussion is and when it is safe for
• Can’t recall events prior to hit or fall
your child to return to sports.
• Can’t recall events after hit or fall
Symptoms Reported by Athlete • Headache or “pressure” in head • Nausea or vomiting • Balance problems or dizziness • Double or blurry vision • Sensitivity to light • Sensitivity to noise •
Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy or groggy
• Concentration or memory problems • Confusion • Does not “feel right”
Preventing Concussions Chris Nowinski, president of Sports Legacy Institute,
• Keep your child out of play. Concussions take time to heal. Don’t let your child return to play until a health care professional says it’s okay. Children who return to play too soon – while the brain is still healing – risk a greater chance of having a second concussion. Second or later concussions can be very serious. They can cause permanent brain damage, affecting your child for a lifetime. • Tell your child’s coach about any recent concussion. Coaches should know if your child had a recent concussion in ANY sport. Your child’s coach may not know about a concussion your child received in another sport or activity unless you tell the coach.
believes that two important ways to prevent concus-
Concussions are serious and can be dangerous
sions are wearing a properly fitted helmet and play-
to the health and well-being of your child. It is im-
ing with proper form. Nowinski says that wearing a
portant to be educated about concussions and their
helmet is (pardon the pun) a “no-brainer,” the obvious
effects. Sharing this information with coaches and
first step to preventing a concussion. A good helmet
parents could decrease the risk of serious long-term
provides a protective barrier for your skull and helps
effects from these brain injuries.
G R D I .W V S TAT E U . E D U
REFERENCES ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
CDC. (2012). Heads Up: Concussion in Youth Sports. Retrieved September 27, 2012, from www.cdc.gov/ ConcussionInYouthSports Stack.com. (2011). Four Ways to Prevent Concussions. Retrieved September 27, 2012, from http://www.stack. com/2011/10/01/four-waysto-prevent-concussions/ Pediatrics. (2010). Emergency Department Visits for Concussion in Young Child Athletes. (2010). Retrieved September 27, 2012, from http://pediatrics. aappublications.org/ content/126/3/e550. abstract
W I N T E R 2 0 12 - 2 0 13 | E X T E N S I O N M AT T E R S
15
A D U L T S
&
By Rob Russo Communications Specialist rrusso1@wvstateu.edu
F A M I L I E S
Indoor Family Fun:
Beating the Wintertime Blues It seems that for everyone under the age of 20, winter is a highly anticipated time of year.
love “secret schooling” in our home. That’s what we call it when the kids think they are playing but really they are learning a great lesson about
Once the weather turns cold the thought of
history, science, mathematics or reading. Reading
gifts, decorations, ski trips, snow and school
simple but interesting facts can be a fun way to
cancellations are all too exciting.
open up dialogue and intrigue our kids’ minds.
For those who have somehow lost that twinkle in their eyes (or perhaps have been bitten by Jack
We’ve recently read about the largest snowflake on record and the world’s tallest snowman.
Frost too many years in a row), the winter season
Mid-morning is a great time to prepare for
is full of traffic delays, freezing weather, lost
a post-nap treat. Here is a great recipe for a
tans and high-stress shopping trips. However, a
Snowman Pizza that is a hit with the kids! Oh,
little change in perspective could be all it takes
and while our kids don’t have any trouble eating
to make the winter season a lot more fun. Here
pizza, we find they tend to eat (or at least try)
are a few ideas for a sample snow day.
more food if they have a hand in making it.
A great way to beat the winter blues is to start the day with a great breakfast and a game. We
BASIC PIZZA DOUGH REFERENCES ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
http://www.aaaheatingac. com/interesting-winterfacts/ http://animals. howstuffworks.com/ animal-facts/arctic-animalpictures.htm
Makes: 2 large pizzas, 3 medium pizzas Ingredients: - 4 c. bread flour
- 1 envelope instant yeast - 2 1/4 tsp. - 1 1/2 tsp. salt - 2 TBSP olive oil - 1 3/4 c. water, very warm
Directions: 1. Preheat the oven to 500 degrees. 2. Add the flour, salt and yeast to the mixer and start it on low, using the dough hook. http://www.momtastic. com/parenting/ 3. Add the oil. features/174805-10-family4. Add the warm, almost hot water. friendly-winter-movies 5. Let the mixer run for a couple of minutes while the dough comes E X T E N S I O N M A T T E together. R S | W IThen N T E turn R 2 the 0 1 2mixer - 2 0 1up 3 to http://deliacreates. blogspot.com/2011/01/ snowman-pizza-anddough-recipe.html
16
medium or medium-low and let it knead the dough for 8-10 minutes. We like to see how fast we can clean up the counters and dishes, put ingredients away and prep the pans during this time. 6. Prep your pans: Spray them with spray oil. Optional: lightly dust them with corn meal. 7. Stop the mixer and let it rest for a few minutes. Transfer it to an oiled bowl and let it rise for about an hour, until doubled. Punch it down and divide it into 2 to 3 even balls, depending on how many pizzas you want to make and how big you want them. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes more at room temperature. Then roll out the dough and proceed with making your pizzas. 8. Roll out the dough and place it
on your prepared pans. We use a rolling pin and just stretch it with our hands. Use a little bit of flour as needed. This will keep the dough from sticking to the counter and your hands. 9. Add your sauce, cheese and toppings. 10. Bake on a cookie sheet at 500 degrees for 10-15 G R D Iminutes. .W V S TAT E U . E D U
After everyone is all rested up, it’s a great time to choose a favorite movie and build an igloo in the living room. Don’t worry, this doesn’t involve puddles of melting snow. Our kids always love making tents with blankets and chairs. Only this time, we use white sheets and blankets draped over the chairs. Allow the kids to choose a movie (our family loves White Christmas with Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye but you may choose your favorite from our suggested list) and bring a flashlight to simulate a winter glow. Enjoy the snowman pizza — and a little popcorn, perhaps — while everyone watches the featured film. It’s a great way to end a day and snuggle up as a family.
WINTER ANIMAL FACTS
WINTER FAMILY MOVIES Ice Age: Continental Drift Frosty the Snowman March of the Penguins Ice Princess The Mighty Ducks Snow Day
Walruses are protected from the cold by a thick layer of fat called blubber and by thick, wrinkled, almost hairless skin. Arctic foxes have the largest litter size of any fox — normally 6 to 12 young, sometimes as many as 20. Moose shed their antlers each winter; new ones are grown in the spring and reach their full growth by late summer. Polar bears’ whiteness, ferocity and sheer size make them icons of purity and power. They can weigh up to 1,600 pounds. G R D I .W V S TAT E U . E D U
W I N T E R 2 0 12 - 2 0 13 | E X T E N S I O N M AT T E R S
17
Would like to volunteer to work with youth in the
WVSU 4-H program ... Even just once a month? We have a place or a program to fit your schedule. Tell us you are interested and we’ll make it happen!
If you know a kid who is interested in Filmmaking... WVSU 4-H has started a
Young Filmmakers
Club at the Economic Development Center on the West Side of Charleston. The first meeting was held in December and will continue every second Monday of the month.
The 4-H Aerospace and Robotics Club at the WVSU
Aerospace Education Laboratory on campus was held Thursday, January 17, 2013. Future events will happen soon. Open to all youth and FREE. If you know a child that likes building stuff, taking stuff apart, robots, flying stuff, remote control cars, science — anything cool — make sure you sign them up. E-mail extension@wvstateu.edu for more information on these events or other happenings of the WVSU 4-H program.
We know you. You wake up at night thinking about that book, that script, that game, that composition, that movie, that documentary, that business idea that allows you to embrace your inner creative. If you could only figure out how to make a living doing it. Yeah. We know you. We’re right there with you.
Workshops planned for 2013 include:
The Creators Program is a series of short community workshops focused on key skills and knowledge essential to “creating” for mass media and art. Attendees will be given a Certificate of Participation after each workshop.
• SCREEN AND GRAPHIC NOVEL WRITING 101- 2 Day Workshop Feb. 1 & 2, 2013
• Get It Published! Seminar February 16, 2013
• And more
All workships are held at the WVSU Economic Development Center unless otherwise noted. Browse
http://www.digiso.org for more details and latest events. WVSU Economic Development Center 1506 Kanawha Blvd. W. Charleston, WV 25302 (304) 720-1401
The Gus R. Douglass Land-Grant Institute 106 Ferrell Hall P O Box 1000 Institute, WV 25112-1000
Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PA I D Institute, WV 25112 Permit No. 1
Address Service Requested
WVSU Extension Service provides expert solutions in areas such as gardening, the environment, family, food, youth development, business and community.
changing lives
E X T E N D I N G
K N O W L E D G E
Contact your Extension experts or find us online at wvstateu.edu/extension (304) 204-4305 • extension@wvstateu.edu